Cary hosts forum on translational ecology

MILLBROOK — The Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies hosted more than 80 undergraduate and graduate students from around the country on Friday, July 7, offering a look at careers in the fields of science and ecology. 

The program was divided into three parts, with speakers who also talked individually to students about translational ecology and related fields. 

Josh Ginsberg, president of Cary Institute, welcomed the group. 

Jennifer Rubbo, manager for the Vassar Conservation and Environmental Engagement Cooperative, also spoke to the audience.

“Right now, the best part of my job is working with the community,” she said. 

Manna Jo Greene has been the Action Director of the Clearwater’s Environmental Sloop since 2000. She’s been a registered critical care nurse since 1976 and has been active in politics, serving as councilwoman for the Rosendale Town Board. She currently serves as an Ulster County legislator representing Rosendale and Marbletown. A life-long environmental professional and community activist, she spoke about the demands of her job.

“Keeping my finger on the pulse and the needs of the Hudson River” are important,” she  said, adding it’s important to “stick with it long enough, because there will be wins and losses.” 

New York State Assemblymember Didi Barrett (D-106) also spoke. She serves on many committees: tourism, agriculture, commerce/industry and environmental conservation among them. Concerned with the agricultural, historical, cultural and natural resources of the Hudson Valley, she noted their impact on job development and economic success. She also made mentioned the importance of legislation in protecting natural resources, mentioning the recent win over allowing the anchorage of barges for refueling in the Hudson River.

Speakers came from various backgrounds, explaining how their individual and varied careers led them to science, ecology and making the world a better place. 

Hamid Nourouzi spoke about research in Geo-science. He is an associate professor of the Department of Construction Management and Civil Engineering Technology at New York City College of Technology and is director of undergraduate research in the City University of New York (CUNY) system.

Donna Light, coordinator of a three-year science research program at Harmon Croton High School, where she’s taught since 1995, also spoke. 

“Why teach?” she was asked. “To make a difference; to help build a secure and sustainable future.”

James Prosesk is an artist, writer and naturalist. He said by combining talent and passion, one can have a successful career and a comfortable life.

Nava Tabak is acting director of science, climate and stewardship at Scenic Hudson, where she initiates and advises on promoting biodiversity conservation, ecological restoration and stewardship with climate resilience in the Hudson Valley.

Robert Wills coordinates Geographic Information Systems (GIS) at Dutchess County Department of Planning and the Departmental of Behavioral and Community Health. He said maps made with GIS “have the capability of breaking down barriers between stakeholders, and this has allowed shared information to help in the analysis of tick-borne illness, response to threats of bioterrorism and planning for healthy communities.”

Casey Tompkins, a certified ecologist and wetland scientist,  manages the natural resources program for utilities in Orange and Rockland counties. Conducting assessments on endangered species, habitats, rare species and formal wetland and stream delineations, he has done field work in mining, turtle population and the natural gas industry in many states across the country.   

Fred S. Lubow is the director of aquatic programs at Princeton Hydro, and is manager of the Exton, Pa., office.  Lauded for his expertise in aquatic ecosystems and watershed management strategies to reduce pollution in lakes and ponds, he has been an environmental consultant for more than 24 years.

Many students who attended the program are in  the Cary Institute’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program, now in its 30th year, with 13 students from across the country participating. Through the program, students work with a mentor scientist to delineate a research question and hypotheses, develop and implement a project, analyze data, give an oral presentation in a formal symposium and write a paper.  

Another group of students was a part of the CUNY HIRES program, which offers high school students an opportunity to work closely with scientists in the field and in labs collect and analyze data, and to provide New York City high school students real-world experience.  

Those who attended the July 7 forum at the Cary said they felt much more informed about possible careers in science and ecology by the end of the program — the intended goal of all present.