#wildbasinresearch

These graduate students were set out to find  the most successful and feasible method to estimate the deer population at Wild Basin. They tested three methods camera traps, driving surveys, and a drone to estimate deer population. The group observed more deer conducting driving surveys than any other method. Deer were also observed on the camera traps distributed  throughout Wild Basin. Unfortunately, many factors didn’t allow for the group to observe any deer using the drone. The hot weather didn’t allow the infrared camera to identify any deer. Other possible limiting factors consisted of the speed of the drone and the varying altitudes of Wild Basin. Further research would have to take into consideration these factors to optimize the observance of deer at Wild Basin.

Savannah WONDERING  if mulch can inhibit the growth of the Japanese privet?

This video footage was taken by an infrared camera mounted on a drone by a research team trying to determine the best method to estimate the population of white-tailed deer in Wild Basin.

I WONDER how our invasive species group conducts a biodiversity assessment before removing the Japanese privet!

Successful habitat restoration techniques are hard to determine. A group of graduate students seeking a Master’s of Sustainability & Environmental Management have been awarded the Hook Scholarship for 2016-17. St. Edward’s Hook Scholars Savannah, Eric, and Abigail are wondering the effectiveness of different habitat restoration techniques at Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve.  They are currently monitoring 8-12 relatively similar areas within the preserve to investigate which methods have been more effective to manage invasions of  non-native species over the long term. The research team is focusing on the removal of the Japanese privet. Their results will help restore habitats more effectively, whether it be manually removing invasive species or using native cedar mulch to deter invasive species.

This fall semester Dr.Concilio will lead and engage students from Population Ecology  (MSEM 6301)  in a long-term data collection analyzing forest structure and composition here at Wild Basin focusing on areas populated by ash trees (Fraxinus spp). Ash trees are extremely vulnerable and are projected to experience high mortality with the approaching emerald ash borer. Students are wondering how the Ash trees will be affected as well as other surrounding species. Population Ecology students will characterize the ecosystem pre-infestation. Student sampling will be taking place 2-3 times this fall semester to collect data on overstory composition on 5-6 sites. Students will obtain ecological research skills  and determine the best methods for sampling and collecting data. 

This fall semester Dr.Concilio will lead and engage students from Population Ecology  (MSEM 6301)  in a long-term data collection analyzing forest structure and composition here at Wild Basin focusing on areas populated by ash trees (Fraxinus spp). Ash trees are extremely vulnerable and are projected to experience high mortality with the approaching emerald ash borer. Population Ecology students will characterize the ecosystem pre-infestation. Student sampling will be taking place 2-3 times this fall semester to collect data on overstory composition on 5-6 sites. Students will obtain ecological research skills  and determine the best methods for sampling and collecting data.