BLM-NM Tree-Ring Studies in New Mexico (Challenge Cost Share) Cooperative Ecosystems Studies Unit (CESU)

This financial assistance opportunity is being issued under a Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) program. CESUâ¿¿s Are partnerships that provide research, technical assistance and education. The proposed work would build on data gathered to date to include the BLM-managed lands in New Mexico and the broader Southwest. The first project focuses on El Malpais NCA, but other projects for other areas are anticipated. The recipient will conduct field work as a continuation of previous efforts in northern New Mexico. The first phase of the current project will emphasize dendroarchaeological and dendrochronological/climatological studies in El Malpais NCA. If funding is available in subsequent years, additional sessions could be undertaken, and may expand to other areas on BLM-managed lands within the greater study area. Student-involved analyses of tree ring samples and other environmental and archaeological and historical data would provide real-world research opportunities for students, as well as contribute to a robust and more comprehensive understanding of historical ecology and human use of the environment