The Changing Nature of Cities: a New Urban Long-Term Ecological Research Program in the Twin Cities

Dr. Hobbie will describe the new Minneapolis St. Paul Metropolitan Area Urban Long Term Ecological Research program, in which researchers and community partners are working together to understand how climate change, pollution, invasive species, and habitat loss affect people, pollinators, forests, and water across the metropolitan area. The program asks, what is urban nature and how do people experience the benefits and burdens of nature differently across the Twin Cities? Ultimately, they aim to support decisions that improve environmental out­comes for all residents and to address racial and socio-economic disparities in environmental policies and practices. The project includes 30+ researchers, educators, and community organizers from the University of Minnesota, University of St. Thomas, US Forest Service, The Nature Conservancy, and Water Bar. Funding comes from a 6-year, $7.1 million, renewable grant from the Nation­al Science Foundation, which supports postdocs, students, and staff in research, education, and engagement.