The Alton A. Lindsey Field Laboratory, named after the founder of the Reserve, provides a logistic base for effective use of the Reserve by Purdue researchers and classes, as well as by visiting ecologists and student groups. The Lindsey Lab houses collections and databases that have been accumulated over the decades, including computerized results of exhaustive tree censuses, conducted at decade intervals, which produce a unique window on forest dynamics that is fundamental to research at the Reserve and an invaluable teaching tool. Computers also hold a Geographical Information System using data from both early and recent mapping efforts, with digital aerial photographs of the area.
Students can experience first-hand the integration of field, laboratory and analytical techniques.
We are fortunate to be able to share this rare refuge for Indiana's natural heritage, where our understanding of ecosystems can develop alongside the ecological community.