Western National Parks Association Announces Recipients of 2024 Research Grants
TUCSON, Ariz., March 12, 2024—Western National Parks Association (WNPA) has funded six research projects in national parks for 2024, supporting the researchers’ invaluable contributions to advancing the understanding of the diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage within national parks.
“Data-informed decision-making and documentation of the history of and changes to our parks are critical to the conservation,management and enjoyment of these treasures,” said John Koprowski, WNPA board director, WNPA research committee chair, and dean and professor at Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources at the University of Wyoming. “A glance at the diversity of awarded projects provides a sense of excitement about our future in our western national parks”
Aztec Ruins National Monument
Researching Indigenous Identity
Michelle I. Turner will be exploring the significance of black pottery at Aztec Ruins National Monument and its relation to Chacoan identity, memory, and power. Turner’s research will illuminate the cultural significance of pottery in ancient civilizations.
Bandelier National Monument
Researching Ecological Balance
Megan Swan, part of the National Park Service’s (NPS) Southern Colorado Plateau Inventory and Monitoring Network, will study the effects of treatment, climate change, and disturbances on vegetation in Piñon Juniper Woodlands in Bandelier National Monument. Swan’s research will provide critical insights into preserving the ecological balance of this important ecosystem.
Big Thicket National Preserve
Researching Ancestry, History, and Traditions
Dr. Andrew S. Veech, from the Intermountain Archaeology Program of the NPS, will be uncovering ancestral Atakapa lifeways in Big Thicket National Preserve. Dr. Veech’s exploration promises to shed light on the rich history and traditions of this unique region.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Researching Geology and the Environment
Dr. Matthew Covington of the University of Arkansas will be investigating the variability in radon and carbon dioxide concentrations within Carlsbad Cavern. Dr. Covington’s research will enhance our understanding of the unique geology and environmental factors at play within this Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
Coronado National Memorial
Researching Biodiversity in the Borderlands
Melanie Culver, from the University of Arizona and United States Geological Survey (USGS), will lead the monitoring of biodiversity in borderlands using eDNA techniques. Culver’s work will provide crucial insights into maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems along our borderlands in Coronado National Memorial.
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
Researching Ecosystem Health
Lauren M. Weidner, a dedicated researcher from Arizona State University, will be utilizing insects to assess ecosystem health at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Weidner’s innovative approach highlights the importance of understanding the intricate relationships within our natural ecosystems.
For more information about research funded by Western National Parks Association and the organization’s commitment to preserving and protecting our national parks, visit wnpa.org/wnpa-research/.
About WNPA
WNPA helps make the national park experience possible for everyone. As a nonprofit education partner of the NPS, WNPA supports parks across the West, developing products, services, and programs that enhance the visitor experience, understanding, and appreciation of national parks. Since 1938 WNPA has worked to connect new generations to parks in meaningful ways, all with one simple goal: create advocates who want to preserve and protect these special places for everyone, for all time. Learn more about the organization and career opportunities at www.wnpa.org.
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