She received Masters degrees in Forestry and in Conservation Biology from the University of Wisconsin and a PhD in Forest Ecosystem Analysis from the University of Washington. Her research focuses in three primary areas: 1) effects of large-scale disturbance on vegetation, 2) efficacy and ecological impacts of ecological restoration, and 3) conceptual basis for ecological restoration. In addition, Dr. Nelson works to increase awareness about the knowledge and training needed to improve the quality of restoration practice. Cheryl Ulrich