MCLA Environmental Studies Professor Receives Switzer Environmental Fellowship
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| Elena Traister, Photo Courtesy of MCLA |
According to Traister, the fellowship will allow her to purchase equipment necessary to complete her current stream research projects, several of which have been or will be accomplished with the help of MCLA environmental studies students. This work includes an examination of factors that limit stream recovery following a large flood in New Hampshire on the Suncook River, acidification in nine small streams throughout the Czech Republic in Central Europe, and changes in disturbance frequency and substrate size in four streams in the Williamstown/Pownal area.
“I am also collaborating with the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game, the Hoosic River Watershed Association, and the Massachusetts Riverways program on monitoring the effects of two local dam removals – one on the North Branch of the Hoosic River in Clarksburg, and the other on Hoxie Brook in Adams,” Traister said. “In addition, this fellowship will involve me in a dialogue among leaders in conservation that will enhance my effectiveness as an environmental leader throughout my career.” The fellowship includes a $15,000 stipend and variety of long-term networking opportunities to support Traister’s work. She was selected for the fellowship in a competitive process. In New England, 10 recipients were chosen from a pool of 155 applicants.
The Switzer Foundation identifies and nurtures environmental leaders who have the ability and determination to make a significant impact, and supports initiatives that will have direct and measurable results to improve environmental quality. Its programs are dedicated to investing in individual leaders who will drive positive environmental change and to support projects that will have measurable positive results on environmental quality for natural and human communities. In addition, fellowship candidates pursuing academic careers are required to demonstrate their commitment to applied environmental problem solving beyond the classroom or college setting.
For more information, go to www.mcla.edu/envi
