News & Events

Dr. Barbara Clucas and Ryan Matilton (Wildlife masters graduate) have received a grant through the Research and Creative Projects for Equity and Justice (RCPEJ) program. The project will investigate bat diversity and activity along the Klamath River following recent dam removals, contributing to understanding how these changes affect biodiversity. The research will provide important post-dam removal ecological data while also engaging local high school students participating through Humboldt Indian Education Programs. 

The Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center has received continued funding to enhance aquatic programs and safety education. This annual award provides funding for scholarships, equipment, staff training, program support, and participation in National Safe Boating Week. The funding helps sustain boating safety education and recreational programming while supporting community engagement at the Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center.

Funding comes from the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Division of Boating and Waterways.

Drs. Darren Ward, Allison Bronson, and Matthew Hurst have received funding to study how copper from fungicides used in lily bulb farming near the Smith River may run off into waterways and affect salmon and other aquatic species. The project will examine whether dissolved copper affects salmon sensory function, behavior, and tissue health through water quality monitoring, laboratory toxicity testing, and fish behavior studies. Findings will help improve tools used to predict pollution impacts and support the protection of salmon habitat in one of California’s most ecologically important salmon habitats. Funding comes from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation.

Dr. Pascal Biwole has received funding through the Research and Creative Projects for Equity and Justice (RCPEJ) program to study cooling needs in the Hoopa Valley. Through surveys and building energy audits, the project will identify the needs for building and HVAC upgrades to support cooling, and explore strategies to reduce energy costs during extreme summer heat. The work will also identify pathways for future funding to support infrastructure improvements.

Dr. Alana Chin received a grant from the National Geographic Society to study whether restoring redwood forests can increase their carbon storage. Coast redwoods are among the most powerful carbon-storing trees on Earth, thanks to their dense, carbon-rich heartwood - the inner core of the tree. This naturally protective wood prolongs tree longevity and keeps carbon locked away long after the tree falls. The project will examine whether restoration thinning can encourage greater heartwood formation and long-term carbon storage, helping inform forest management strategies that strengthen climate resilience. With this award, Dr. Chin has been named a National Geographic Explorer.