G-L-O-R-I-A

By Bernadette Kuhn, CNHP botanist

CNHP biologists, along with partners from the National Parks Service, are preparing to establish long term, high elevation monitoring sites in Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Parks.  This research is part of the GLORIA project, the GLobal Observation Research Iniative in Alpine environments for the comparative study of climate change impacts on alpine biodiversity.  Data from the project will be used to examine climate-induced changes of vegetation cover, species composition, and species migration.  In 2006, CNHP botanists were instrumental in establishing the first of four GLORIA sites in Colorado, near Lake City.  

Photo by Rick McNeill, used with permission. 

Alpine poppy (Papaver kluanensis), growing at 13,300 feet, Weston Peak, CO. The purpose of the GLORIA project is to assess risks of biodiversity losses and the vulnerability of alpine ecosystems under climate change pressure. How will this species respond? 

Field work begins in June 2011. CNHP is looking for qualified field botanists to assist with the project.  Field crews will set up long-term plots on summits above treeline, then record plot vegetation data using GLORIA protocols.  To apply for a position on our field crew, check the CNHP website for postings. For more details on the GLORIA project, visit their website.