We have immediate access to the Chequamegon National Forest, which takes us to the barrens. It's a very well worn path. Smith is editing the proceedings. Smith says that the pine barrens are one of the most globally threatened ecosystems. The barrens are being converted to non-natural use from demand for lake front property, or for red pine plantations.
Northland is now a partner in the statewide effort called the savannas partnership.
We'll teach courses in Natural Resources in the barrens, and collect data for the course and the U.S. Forest Service to get a greater understanding of what's going on out there. For Northland, and for me, it's been a real plus to be on that committee. This year, Smith is teaching classes in biology, ecology, evolution, and wildlife ecology and management, as well as natural resources or herpetology in spring term. I've taken on a little too much, but I can't tell whether it's more than I want to do, or if I'll grow into it. I do love teaching, and I like getting students out into the field almost as much.