Project Description: As the host university of the North Atlantic Coast Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (NAC CESU), the Recipient will support collaborative research, technical assistance, and educational activities that advance interdisciplinary problem-solving, knowledge development, and effective stewardship of natural and cultural public trust resources. In partnership with NPS staff, investigators from the Recipient will fulfill key CESU host university responsibilities identified by the CESU Council, including facilitating communication among existing and potential partners, coordinating the application process for new partners, organizing strategic and annual planning efforts, and maintaining the host-university–sponsored CESU website. These efforts uphold the public purpose of the NAC CESU by strengthening the administrative and coordination functions that enable the broader CESU Network to thrive nationwide. Through this work, the project will help foster meaningful engagement among federal agencies and nonfederal partners in collaborative science, education, and stewardship, leading to scientifically credible information, deeper understanding of resource management challenges, and the development of practical, usable knowledge. It will also enhance professional capacity building and expand educational opportunities for partners, students, and public-sector professionals, ultimately supporting informed decision-making for the conservation of natural and cultural heritage on public and private lands and waters. Additionally, CESU-supported projects provide hands-on, real-world experience for hundreds of students each year as they work alongside federal scientists, technical staff, and resource managers on pressing environmental and cultural resource issues.
Lead Principal Investigator: Elin Torell, University of Rhode Island
Partner Institution: University of Rhode Island
Federal Agency: National Park Service
Federal Agency Technical Contact: Dr. Brian Mitchell
Project Type: Research
Start Year: 2025
End Year: 2027
Initial Funding Amount: $25,000.00
Federal Grant Number: P25AC00389
Amendments
- Amendment Number: 01, Year: 2025, Amount: $22,500.00
Location: University of Rhode Island
State(s): Rhode Island
Rhode Island Counties: Washington
Products Associated with this Project:
- No products found.