Here are some projects we've worked on over the years

Environmental Assessment

New River Gorge, West Virginia

Working with the National Park Service with support by local and regional advocacy groups, we conducted the largest cliff-side inventory and environmental assessment to date. Our research and recommendations are being used for long-term environmental monitoring and the development of recreational management plan. Find our research in the Journal of Applied Vegetation Science.

Resource Management

Massachusetts

In cooperation with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation and the rock climbing advocacy group the Western Mass Climber's Coalition, we provided guidance for land management strategies as the groups sought an understanding for recreational use and environmental stewardship at statewide cliff sites.

Research

Rumney, NH

Using methods of dendrochronology (tree-ring science), we have worked with the US Forest Service and the North American Dendroecology Fieldweek to study the longevity and climate response of old aged red pines (Pinus resinosa) atop cliffs in the White Mountains in New Hampshire. Our research identified cliff-dependent old growth populations and extended the known precipitation record by over three centuries.

OUTREACH

CLIFF ECOLOGY SPEAKER SERIES

We engage with public speaking events, such as the Cliff Ecology Speaker Series, a grassroots presentation for environmental groups, rock climbers and recreationists, and academic groups where we discuss cliffs and associated ecology, issues facing the landforms, and lessons that guide what we all can do to help preserve these unique environments. Bring a lecture to a venue near you: contact us here.

High angle work

KEYSTONE ARCHES, WESTFIELD RIVER, MA

We’ve worked in conjunction with the Friends of the Keystone Arches and the Wild & Scenic Westfield River Committee to preserve the integrity of the historic keystone railroad arches. Our work involves rappelling the bridges to perform regular maintenance and to remove vegetation,