August 4, 2015

Table of Contents

RESEARCH

Coring Into Holocene Era Climate Data

Researchers from Carroll College and Montana State University study lake sediments and archaeological records to better understand climate change, fire history, and human land use in central Montana.

The History of Montana NSF EPSCoR, Part 2

A look at the people, partnerships, and investments that helped build Montana’s research enterprise, from biofilm engineering to optics and statewide collaboration.

Key topics include:

• The Future of Science in Rural America conference
• The rise of biofilm research at Montana State University
• Growth of Montana’s optics industry
• Expansion of statewide EPSCoR partnerships

PEOPLE, PARTNERS, AND EVENTS

EPSCoR and Institute on Ecosystems Team Holds Statewide All-Hands Meeting

Researchers, educators, and administrators gather in Missoula to share scientific advances, strengthen collaborations, and discuss future initiatives.

Richard Ready Joins Montana State University

Environmental economist Richard Ready brings expertise in ecosystem services, land-use change, and climate adaptation to MSU and the Institute on Ecosystems.

Researcher Testifies Before U.S. Senate on Fire Ecology

Sharon Hood shares findings on wildfire management, forest health, and bark beetle impacts with federal policymakers.

Institute on Ecosystems Research Featured in National Media

Recent coverage highlights Montana research on bark beetles, ecosystem services, energy development, and pollinator health.

Featured outlets include:

• National Geographic
• Mother Jones
• Science
• Mountains & Minds

EDUCATION AND OUTREACH

Helping the U.S. Visualize Greenhouse Gas Emission Reductions Online

An undergraduate researcher develops an interactive web application that allows users to explore pathways for reducing carbon emissions across all 48 contiguous states.

UTRAC Program Engages After-School Scientists

Researchers and educators use snow science, carbon cycle investigations, and hands-on STEM activities to engage Montana youth in scientific discovery.

STUDENT RESEARCH

Researching Museum Best Practices for Climate Change Education

Doctoral student Jennifer Woodcock-Medicine Horse explores how museums can inspire public engagement, sustainability, and climate action through storytelling, culture, and community partnerships.

Projects include:

• Research on climate communication in museums
• Indigenous and mainstream museum collaborations
• Smithsonian internship
• Documentary films on sustainability initiatives in tribal communities

UPCOMING EVENTS

• MSU Peaks & Potentials Camp (June 22–26, 2015)
• 24th National NSF EPSCoR Meeting (November 1–4, 2015)
• Institute on Ecosystems public events and programs