Articles tagged with Natural Resources
Researchers at Rothamsted Research and ICARDA developed a method to account for spatial trend in single crop field trials, improving accuracy on line performance estimates. The new approach can significantly enhance precision in estimating crop yield and characteristics.
A major new study on the impact of conservation efforts reveals that many vertebrate species are threatened, but seagrasses, which provide habitat for these animals, are experiencing significant loss. Researchers say pollution and coastal development are main drivers of biodiversity loss.
A case study from Washington State University explores how Urban Agriculture is used to help homeless and underprivileged youth. The CSA program, implemented in Seattle's South Park Neighborhood, provides a weekly box of produce while promoting social skills and employment.
University of Missouri researchers create a National Botanical Research Center to investigate the safety and efficacy of botanical dietary supplements, focusing on five key plants that may aid in preventing strokes, prostate cancer, and infectious diseases.
A growing number of people are traveling to Tornado Alley for an experience beyond thrills, seeking unique encounters with nature's power and beauty. Most tourists, mostly middle-aged and educated, spend $3,000-$5,000 on a one-to-two week tour with experienced storm chasers.
A collaboration between Iowa State University's Horticulture, Library, and English departments resulted in improved student outcomes. Students valued the input from faculty and enjoyed interacting with them at poster sessions.
A simple and inexpensive demonstration of soil water retention and field capacity helps students visualize and understand these concepts. The demonstration uses PVC rings, a trashcan, and a scale, illustrating the influence of soil texture, structure, and depth to the water table on soil water content.
The USDA Forest Service's More Kids in the Woods program provides week-long summer day camps focused on natural resources themes. The camps, supported by local partners, promote environmental awareness and stewardship among young people.
A new method for effective discussions involves a student facilitator who directs the discussion, rather than a leader controlling content. This approach encourages all participants to contribute, promoting equal participation and improving communication skills.
A new approach to teaching agriculture in the classroom uses case studies to motivate students and inspire changes in attitude. The study found that engaging students with real-world examples improved their understanding and presentation skills, but some felt that more time was needed for discussions and activities.
Scientists use repeat photography to study riparian areas, demonstrating the effectiveness of experiential learning in understanding spatial and temporal variability. Participants found that using photographs enhanced their understanding of these concepts, especially climate change impacts.
Researchers transformed an agricultural science course for Kú teachers to incorporate culturally relevant learning, improving teacher confidence and student satisfaction. The course built a community of practice among teachers, incorporating project-based learning and Hawaiian culture.
Researchers developed a pilot program to integrate hands-on learning activities into routine lab work for undergraduate students. The program increased participants' interest in sustainable agriculture and found that farm visits were most important in making lab work meaningful.
A study examines how public officials obtain information about debatable scientific issues, including agricultural biotechnology. Results show that Texas legislators relied more on the Cooperative Extension Service, while state FFA officers preferred online sources.
The project aims to establish academic pathways in geospatial technologies at three community colleges, providing employers with a skilled workforce. The web portal will serve as a repository for pathway models, curriculum, and resources, facilitating coordination and collaboration among faculty.
The University of Guam and Guam Navy have partnered to establish a conservation planting of the endangered fadang tree on Tinian, which has been threatened by exotic insect species. The project aims to create a safe haven for the species outside its natural range.
A Purdue University study found that animals can easily access runway areas, increasing the likelihood of plane strikes. The study suggests enclosing airport perimeters with partially buried fencing and frequent maintenance to deter wildlife.
A recent study reveals that Texas' farms, ranches, and forests are losing land, with 156 counties losing 2.1 million acres between 1997 and 2006, according to Dr. Neal Wilkins and American Farmland Trust.
A recent experiment studying the effects of ultraviolet radiation on liverwort asexual propagules found that students successfully formulated and tested hypotheses about UV impact. The study aims to understand how bryophytes develop protection mechanisms against UVR, which can inform crop resilience.
A collaborative research course taught at one university led to a global collaboration among faculty members from three universities, resulting in significant increases in communication skills and subject matter knowledge. Students reported improved understanding of how communication fits into collaborative problem-solving and anticipa...
A recent study in the Review of Agricultural Economics reveals that China's horticultural economy has contributed to poverty reduction among small and poor farmers. Despite the emergence of modern supply chains, ensuring food safety remains a challenge due to lack of contractual relationships and accountability.
A new calibration tool has been developed to help students and soil scientists accurately measure rupture resistance, a key factor in determining soil strength. The tool consists of four pressure calibration assemblies with varying pressures, allowing users to calibrate their thumb and forefinger for precise measurement.
The number of students studying soil science as a major is declining across the United States, according to Mary Collins' article published in the Journal of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Education. The decline affects not only students but also courses offered, quality of graduate students, and potential department mergers.
A new approach to teaching agriculture was developed to focus on social learning and sustainability. The method, which includes exercises that build awareness of individual and collective knowledge and knowing, helped students develop a broader capacity to approach sustainability challenges systemically and collectively.
The traditional method of discovering herbicides involves random searching of chemicals, resulting in most commercial products. New biotech information allows companies to create targeted weed killers. The American Society of Agronomy developed an interactive web lesson to teach students about the history and development of herbicides.
A college biology teacher found that by addressing student misbehavior directly, he was able to improve classroom attention and engagement. The study suggests that simply being direct with students can resolve problems and encourage cooperation.
A survey of college students revealed mixed opinions on the benefits and drawbacks of biotechnology in sustainable agriculture, with some supporting genetically modified crops and others expressing concerns over environmental and social impacts. The study suggests that educators should provide neutral exposure to both sustainable agric...
Educators use candy to teach soil microbial diversity, resulting in increased student assessment scores and retained concepts. Students base characterizations on physical appearance of candies, exploring ways microorganisms can be defined.
A discussion-based scenario was shared by Lori Unruh Snyder to teach critical thinking about food biotechnology. The exercise helped students understand the conflict between those affected and policymakers, as well as regional opinions impacting the world. By debating pros and cons of biotechnology globally, students enhanced their cri...
A recent University of Michigan study reveals that Mexican organic coffee bat populations are crucial in controlling insects that damage coffee crops. Using a new 'perch and wait' hunting technique, bats outperform birds by 84% in reducing insect density during the summer wet season.
A partnership between a professor and a librarian helps undergraduate students search for and validate online scientific literature. The tutorial teaches skills to sift through growing amounts of information, identifying valid peer-reviewed scientific research and experimentation.
Researchers Zeb Hogan and Sudeep Chandra document and protect massive freshwater fishes in Mekong Delta, critical to understanding and preservation of these species. The project highlights the global 'freshwater extinction crisis' affecting numerous species.
Research from the University of Michigan confirms environmental justice scholars' claims that hazardous waste facilities are concentrated in poor, minority neighborhoods. The study found demographic changes occurred before facility siting, contradicting the 'people came first' argument.
The ILTER network, with over 34 countries as members, will benefit from a joint management structure, ensuring sustainable support for environmental monitoring sites. Long-term data is crucial for understanding climate change, invasive species, and ecosystem health.
A Purdue University study found the Wabash River population of shovelnose sturgeon to be stable, but with concerns over low young fish numbers and potential for population decline. The research informs size and catch limits on the fish set to begin next summer.
Researchers found that mosquitoes of both sexes engage in complex mid-flight pre-mating duets, with each altering its flight tone in response to the other. This interaction serves as a mechanism for bringing together mosquitoes only of opposite sexes during pre-mating encounters.
The Idle-Free Quiet Zone Campaign, now in its fourth year, aims to reduce unnecessary idling in commercial vehicles. The 15-week campaign promotes techniques such as separate cab heaters and engine timers to minimize fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
The IODP Cascadia margins gas hydrates expedition is underway, exploring the presence of ice-like solids composed of water and natural gas on marine continental shelves. Media representatives are invited onboard the drillship in Victoria port on Oct. 31, 2005 for tours of the ship.
A new study in Gabon reveals that poverty alleviation efforts may inadvertently increase bushmeat consumption and threaten local wildlife populations. The research found that growth in poor families' income led to increased consumption of bushmeat, highlighting the need for holistic strategies that balance conservation with development.
The Brazilian state of Amazonas has announced the creation of six new protected areas, covering over 40% of its territory. These areas will help safeguard the region's rich biodiversity and support conservation initiatives.
Researchers Barany and Hammett found that forests and non-timber forest products are crucial for household coping strategies, offering low-cost alternatives to meet nutritional needs. Medicinal plants from these resources can treat conditions related to HIV/AIDS, making them a vital priority for conservation and management efforts.
The study reveals African Americans are more likely to make environmentally-friendly lifestyle choices and prioritize environmental issues. Despite this, they face poorer environmental conditions in their neighborhoods, sparking greater concern than their white counterparts.
A simple lab exercise introduces students to exploring catena soils, recognizing horizon changes, and associating auger holes with soil descriptions. The exercise helps students understand the impact of topography on soil properties and apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Human Biology found that women who reproduce later in life have a lower chance of having their descendants survive and thrive. In contrast, women who start families earlier tend to have more lineage success. The researchers used statistical models to analyze the impact of education, i...