This project will establish a collaborative ecological data analysis unit at oregon state university cascades campus

This Cooperative Agreement award from the National Park Service (CFDA 15.945 - Cooperative Research and Training Programs - Resources of the National Park System) provides $2,000,000.00 to Oregon State University to establish a collaborative ecological data analysis unit. The project will benefit the public by providing natural resource managers with enhanced understanding of ecological resilience through statistical analyses and ecological modeling. The work will make ecological knowledge more accessible to park managers, conservation researchers, policymakers, educators, students, and the general public via publications, data visualizations, and educational outreach. The award period runs from December 15, 2024 to June 15, 2029.

This project will benefit the public by providing managers with the best information possible to steward NPS parks and resources. Performing statistical analyses and developing ecological models will enhance our understanding of ecological resilience. This work will make ecological knowledge more accessible and inform park and other land managers, conservation researchers, and policy makers confronting these widespread threats to native biodiversity in NPS units and associated land management areas within common ecosystems. Papers and data visualizations developed from these will be accessible to teachers, students, and the general public via NPS websites and via targeted science communication outreach. Information gained from the project will be incorporated into educational products for the local public and park visitors, promoting greater public awareness and appreciation of national parks. Additionally, this project supports both the research and educational mission of oregon state university in ecological analysis and the cesu program s purpose to develop coordinated, cooperative research and training programs. This new cooperative science project will build capacity in ecological and data science and provide training to post-doctoral researchers, faculty, and students.