Partnership with NAU Grounds for Biocrust Landscaping Projects on Campus

This morning I met with members of the NAU Grounds department to collect mosses for biocrust cultivation and landscaping of the facilities here at NAU. One of the projects discussed is the installation of a moss green roof on the Pods of the ARD building. The idea behind a moss roof is to have waterless, maintenance free, vegetation that sequesters carbon and looks beautiful. We made a substantial collection today, which will be used in this project. Thanks to Michael, Matt, Bryan, and Tom of NAU grounds for their eagerness and creativity in developing novel and appropriate landscaping for the future of the Southwest!

Bowker Lab member, Michael Remke, recognized as ARCS Scholar

The Achievement Rewards for College Scientists (ARCS), Phoenix Chapter recently awarded Michael Remke a Scholar Award for displaying success and achievement thus far in his scientific career. The award includes a sum of money for no strings attached spending and an honorary dinner and reception.

The ARCS Foundation advances science and technology in the United States by providing financial awards to academically outstanding U.S. citizens studying to complete degrees in science, engineering and medical research.

It is ARCS Foundation's belief that support of STEM education is essential to US economic growth and technological competitiveness, and helps to ensure continued US leadership in global innovation, health and quality of life. 

Michael Remke's research (see link) investigates the role soil organisms play in restoring native plants and facilitating plant survival in novel environments. His research thus far suggests that restoring plants with soil organisms from the plant population's site of origin, or home team soil organisms, may be an effective tool to restore and preserve ecosystem services in the face of a changing and dynamic climate. These same methods appear to be effective in restoring sites impacted by exotic species invasion. As Michael continues his research, he hopes to find creative and economically viable ways to incorporate his findings into landscape level efforts. 

For more information on the Scholar Award, see the below link. 

https://www.arcsfoundation.org/about-arcs-scholars