At the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, our staff is focused on understanding how ecosystems work. Special attention is given to resources that humans depend on, with the goal of using science to guide management and policy. Research expertise includes forest health, freshwater ecology, invasive species, environmental chemistry, and disease ecology.

Work led by Dr. Gene. E. Likens resulted in the discovery of acid rain in the northeastern United States. Clean Air Act amendments based on this research have been instrumental in reducing atmospheric acid inputs. Forests are still recovering, and the problem is far from solved, but we made important strides in defining the issue for policy makers both locally and around the world.

As a result of our research, the Hudson River is one of the most scrutinized river systems in the world. For more than two decades, our scientists have been studying the impact of invasive species and human development on the way the river functions. This research involves careful long-term monitoring of aquatic food webs, invasive species, native animal populations, and nitrogen pollution.

Over the past decade, the Institute has taken a lead role in developing a program aimed at understanding urban ecosystems, one of Earth's fastest growing environments. Because cities concentrate people and resources, and they have the ability to impact adjacent areas, urban systems are an important management challenge. The Baltimore Ecosystem Study investigates the ecological, cultural, and economic forces that shape the environmental quality of urbanized areas.

The Institute is currently investigating how climate change will affect forest growth, freshwater resources, and human health. In the coming years, we will provide a comprehensive analysis of climate change impacts, with clear recommendations about what needs to be done about them.

Those interested in learning more are encouraged to visit our scientific staff's individual web pages by using the directory below.