Transformation is a major bottleneck for genetic engineering and gene editing in forest tree species. This includes most genotypes of Populus and Eucalyptus, which are some of the world’s most widely-cultivated genera of plantation forest trees. To provide new tools for transformation, I tested the transcription factor-protein chimera consisting of...
The VISualization of Terrestrial and Aquatic Systems (VISTAS) software development project began with the proposition that visualization would increase the ability of scientists to explore and communicate their data, especially complex datasets that span multiple spatial and temporal scales. A case study of VISTAS articulates how and why scientists intend...
Due to public and regulatory restrictions, genetic containment technology is critical for research and development of transgenic trees in forestry. A multi-year field trial demonstrated that the RNAi-LFY construct successfully induces sexual sterility in 6K10 poplar (Populus alba) without visible effects on vegetative development. However, its limited number of replicates...
Environmental education programs seek to foster an appreciation for the natural world while introducing students to scientific thinking. Citizen science engages non-scientists in the systematic collection and analysis of data. The Betts Forest Landscape Ecology Lab combines both goals by inviting teachers in Corvallis, Oregon, and surrounding areas to participate...
Given the high probability of national and federal research laboratories continuing to sponsor science education partnerships between their staff and classroom science teachers and the dearth of research in this area, this study set out to delineate best practices associated with such partnerships for the purpose of increasing the effectiveness...
In February 1905 the Oregon State Academy of Sciences formed in
Portland to promote scientific research and diffusion of scientific
knowledge in Oregon. The founders also planned to assist in the
discovery and development of the state's natural resources. The
Academy was the first scientific society in Oregon with professional...
Soils and other resource programs in both public land management agencies and private industry are continually being adapted to the challenges of evolving knowledge and experience in the field of forestry. This dissertation explores new ways of thinking about and using soils information in forest planning and management, with a...
Collaboration between scientists and decision makers is a critical element in mobilizing science into action. Likewise, the United Nations defines collaboration between scientists and policymakers as a requisite component in the process of sustainable development. Despite the UN sustainability movement beginning in 1983, scientists may still be frustrated by their...
The FOCUS (Forest, Organisms, Creeks yoU Study) field trip program was developed to provide elementary students in Benton County, Oregon with a hands-on, environmental education experience at Beazell Memorial Forest. Students participated in activities dedicated to specific habitats and organisms found at Beazell that built upon their learning at school....
Data science is a rapidly growing industry permeating throughout every aspect of society. Everything collects data these days, and people use this data to find meaningful patterns leading to benefits ranging from more intuitive marketing to better cancer detection. However, increased data collection also leads to increased complexity, and data...