These include studies of the impact of storms on coastal environments, vegetation in marsh, lagoon and barrier island systems, evidence for climate change in ocean sediments, and isotopic studies related to hydrothermal vents. Researchers from many other institutions participate in research. These include Bucknell University, East Carolina University, Old Dominion University, Utah State University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia Institute of Marine Science and the Nature Conservancy. The monitoring and research priorities of the SWAS program have been concerned with factors that most directly affect the composition of stream waters. Among these are atmospheric deposition, insect infestation, and forest regeneration.
Research being carried out within GECP include the following projects.
Descriptions of these projects can be found by following the links to the program web pages. Research that focuses on the biology and ecology of species, habitats, communities, and even whole ecosystems within this matrix is supported. The Arboretum features over 1,000 different plant varieties and species representing 100 genera and 50 families. The Arboretum is open to the public every day from dawn to dusk. There is no charge for admission.