https://www.uwlax.edu/news/posts/Campus ConnectionPosts tagged with 'Sustainability':2024-03-26T10:21:17.333Zhttps://www.uwlax.edu/news/posts/going-above-and-beyond-2/Going above and beyond2024-03-18T09:02:28.623Z2024-03-22T10:43:00ZKjerstin Langhttps://uwlax.edu/profile/klang/klang@uwlax.edu
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<p class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">10:43 a.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Friday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>March</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>22</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2024</span></p>
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<figcaption>Niti Mishra is geographic information scientist who specializes in applications of drones for environmental monitoring. He is the 2024 Prairie Springs Environmental Leadership Award winner. </figcaption>
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<h3 class="tagline">Prairie Springs Environmental Leadership Award-winning professor leads drone research in the Driftless </h3>
<p>High above the wetlands and prairies of the Coulee Region, drones soar, meticulously mapping invasive plant species and monitoring changes in the river system's evolution. Below, <a data-mce-href="/profile/nmishra/" href="/profile/nmishra/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Associate Professor Niti Mishra</a> and his team of undergraduate students carefully maneuver these robots, gathering environmental data destined for local conservation organizations.&nbsp;</p><p>So the story has gone for the last decade since the geography professor started working on campus. &nbsp;</p><p>Mishra has mentored 12 students, providing data for countless environmental causes. Their efforts were recognized in 2019 when Mishra's team received the prestigious "Conservation Project of the Year" award from the La Crosse County Conservation Alliance for their innovative use of drone imagery in detecting invasive aquatic plants.&nbsp;</p><p>Now, Mishra receives UWL’s <a data-mce-href="/sustainability/prairie-springs-excellence-award/" href="/sustainability/prairie-springs-excellence-award/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Prairie Springs Environmental Leadership Award</a>. This honor, bestowed annually upon one student and one faculty member, celebrates individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to environmental action within the community, inspiring others to follow suit. &nbsp;</p><p>“The judges were impressed by the impact that Niti’s work has had on environmental issues locally and across the globe,” says Andrew Ericson, UWL Sustainability Program Manager. “Niti also stood out for his exemplary commitment to engaging students in research. One judge called these student research opportunities ‘life-changing’ for the students.”&nbsp;</p><p>Through collaborations with entities such as the Mississippi Valley Conservancy, Brice Prairie Conservation Association, US Fish &amp; Wildlife Service, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, students have gained invaluable firsthand experience. Experiential learning and research-based education enhances student quality of learning while preparing them for professional careers, says Mishra. Many of his mentees have secured internships and full-time positions in federal, state, and private sectors, while others have pursued advanced degrees in fields ranging from geography to biology and archaeology.&nbsp;</p><p>“By involving undergraduate students in my research and partnering with local conservation organizations, I have been able to not only motivate students to work on real world environmental monitoring and management issues, but also provide a platform to these organizations to connect with UWL and better serve communities,” says Mishra.&nbsp;</p><p>Mishra's latest research, funded by the US Fish &amp; Wildlife Service, focuses on preserving vital trout habitats in the driftless area. By integrating field data with drone and satellite imagery, Mishra's team has identified misclassified warmwater streams in Northern Iowa, potentially safeguarding up to 150 kilometers of streams as coldwater habitats. These findings will inform recommendations by the Iowa DNR, enhancing the protection and conservation of coldwater ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>
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<h3>Monitoring climate change impacts abroad </h3>
<div class="video"><figure><div class="video-container"><iframe data-src="https://youtu.be/xA_hnPZnpGY?si=z5BpuA1YnucLd_rn" loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xA_hnPZnpGY?rel=0" title="Niti Mishra takes his students abroad to Nepal’s Himalayas where they investigate the impact of changing climate patterns on treeline vegetation and glaciers. " allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen></iframe></div><figcaption aria-hidden="true">Niti Mishra takes his students abroad to Nepal’s Himalayas where they investigate the impact of changing climate patterns on treeline vegetation and glaciers. </figcaption></figure></div>
<p>When he is not working on environmental conservation in the driftless area, Mishra takes his students abroad to Nepal’s Himalayas where they investigate the impact of changing climate patterns on treeline vegetation and glaciers. So far six students have traveled with him to Nepal, and he has plans to grow that number. He recently developed a faculty-led study abroad program, “Adventure, Sustainability &amp; Ecological Issues in Nepal,” where he will be leading with <a data-mce-href="https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/8f6e90809ae146d7b47629c4dd21c802" href="https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/8f6e90809ae146d7b47629c4dd21c802" target="_blank" rel="noopener">12 students in summer 2024</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>“Involving students is fulfilling as I get to witness development in their critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills,” says Mishra. “Whether we are in the GIS lab <a data-mce-href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-4292/15/18/4445" href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-4292/15/18/4445" target="_blank" rel="noopener">analyzing satellite imagery for detecting trout habitat</a> or collecting drone <a data-mce-href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-glaciology/article/quantifying-heterogeneous-monsoonal-melt-on-a-debriscovered-glacier-in-nepal-himalaya-using-repeat-uncrewed-aerial-system-uas-photogrammetry/31E7677639974B2029B3D208D35B8874" href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-glaciology/article/quantifying-heterogeneous-monsoonal-melt-on-a-debriscovered-glacier-in-nepal-himalaya-using-repeat-uncrewed-aerial-system-uas-photogrammetry/31E7677639974B2029B3D208D35B8874" target="_blank" rel="noopener">imagery on a glacier in Nepal</a> or the <a data-mce-href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-4292/15/3/734" href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-4292/15/3/734" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">wetlands of the Mississippi</a>, students’ enthusiasm and curiosity brings fresh perspectives prompts me to see the research from new angles.”&nbsp;</p><p>Participation in Mishra's initiatives equips students with cutting-edge techniques for data collection and analysis, exposes them to diverse cultures, and allows them to contribute to peer-reviewed research publications.&nbsp;</p>
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<h3>Developing an eye for the environmental causes </h3>
<div class="video"><figure><div class="video-container"><iframe data-src="https://youtu.be/WB6eX5Zje5Q?si=w_dYo8Yl48YoRjWc" loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WB6eX5Zje5Q?rel=0" title="Monitoring Himalayan Glacier using Unmanned Aerial System photogrammetry" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen></iframe></div><figcaption aria-hidden="true">Monitoring Himalayan Glacier using Unmanned Aerial System photogrammetry</figcaption></figure></div>
<p>Growing up in India, Mishra witnessed firsthand environmental challenges faced by developing countries. Subsequent experiences in Southern Africa, Nepal, Thailand, and the mid-western US, enabled him to see that while the nature and scale of environmental problems may vary, they ultimately impact the well-being of people and ecosystems worldwide. &nbsp;</p><p>“Marginalized communities often bear the brunt of environmental degradation and lack access to resources and opportunities,” he says. “Sustainability is a shared endeavor that requires collective action at local, national, and global levels.”&nbsp;</p><p>Mishra hopes by engaging students in research and improving environmental literacy among this younger generation, he is helping to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.&nbsp;</p><p>He recently introduced a new course "Environmental Applications of Drones," empowering students to devise environmental projects within the driftless area. Supported by Dean's Distinguished Fellowships and undergraduate research and creativity grants, these projects represent a fusion of academic rigor and practical conservation efforts.&nbsp;</p><p>“I feel grateful for the partnerships and collaborations that have enabled me to positively impact the environment. This award reflects the support and collaboration within the UWL and with the community,” says Mishra. “There is still much work to be done and it inspires me to remain committed to exploring new avenues and innovating ideas and projects that brings UWL, local/state agencies and the community together.”&nbsp;</p><h4>About the award&nbsp;</h4><p>Recipients are selected by the Prairie Springs Endowment Fund Advisory Subcommittee, which considers the impact, scope and sustainability of each candidate’s accomplishments. Each winner receives $1,000.&nbsp;</p><p>The awards are funded through the endowment fund created by Prairie Springs: The Paul Fleckenstein Trust. The fund also supports undergraduate student research, CSH Dean’s Distinguished Fellowships and internship opportunities that focus on environmental education, conservation and wildlife habitat protection.&nbsp;</p>
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<img loading="lazy" src="/contentassets/d2492d337f8a4841b98d59100cb0f8ab/2024-uwl-prairie-springs-environmental-leadership-award-winner-niti-mishra-22-1.jpg/Medium" alt="Niti Mishra is geographic information scientist who specializes in applications of drones for environmental monitoring. He is the 2024 Prairie Springs Environmental Leadership Award winner. " />
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<span class="title">Going above and beyond</span>
<span class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">10:43 a.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Friday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>March</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>22</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2024</span></span>
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Prairie Springs Environmental Leadership Award-winning professor leads drone research in the Driftless
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</span>https://www.uwlax.edu/news/posts/sustaining-impact/Sustaining impact2024-03-26T10:21:17.333Z2024-03-21T12:00:00ZChloe Harthttps://uwlax.edu/profile/chart/chart@uwlax.edu
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<p class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">noon</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Thursday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>March</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>21</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2024</span></p>
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<figcaption>Pollard’s dedication and contributions surrounding sustainability earned them the 2024 Prairie Springs Student Excellence Award.</figcaption>
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<h3 class="tagline">Blythe Pollard receives Prairie Springs Student Excellence Award</h3>
<p><span class="TextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0">Blythe Pollard, a senior </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0">major</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0">ing </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0">in </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0">psychology with a minor in sustainability and environmental studies, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0">is driven </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0">to share their passion for the environment with those around them.</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0">Pollard’s</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0">dedication and contributions earned</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0">them</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0">the</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0">202</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0">4</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW44650063 BCX0"> Prairie Springs Student Excellence Award.</span></span></p><p><span class="EOP SCXW44650063 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}"><span class="TextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0">Established to honor the legacy of trustee Paul Fleckenstein, the </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0">Prairie</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0"> Springs Student Excellence Award </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0">aims</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0"> to inspire and support UWL</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0"> students </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0">committed</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0"> to environmental education and conservation.</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0"> Recipients are recognized for their significant and sustainable impact in areas such as environmental studies, research, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0">education</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0"> and outreach.</span></span></span></p><p><span class="EOP SCXW44650063 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}"><span class="TextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">Pollard has </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">been deepl</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">y</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0"> involved with the La Crosse community’s sustainability efforts</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">. </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">Through</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0"> under</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">graduate research, co-chair</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">ing</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">the</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0"> Students for Sustainability</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0"> organization</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">, help</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">ing</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">establish</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0"> the Sustainability Community Collaborative,</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0"> producing educational videos</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">and volunteer</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">ing</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">with environmentally focused organizations</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">, Pollard has already </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0">made</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0"> a significant impact.</span></span></span></span></p><p><span class="EOP SCXW44650063 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}"><span class="TextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW53001619 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW53001619 BCX0">“I feel honored to be receiving this award,” Pollard says. “It feels uplifting to know that what I’ve been involved in at UWL has made an impact on the community, the campus</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW53001619 BCX0">and the envir</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW53001619 BCX0">onment</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW53001619 BCX0">.”</span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p><span class="EOP SCXW44650063 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}"><span class="TextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW53001619 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW53001619 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW228553475 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW228553475 BCX0">Their passion for sustainability traces back to their upbringing in rural Minnesota, where</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW228553475 BCX0"> Pollard</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW228553475 BCX0"> developed a connection with nature long before </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW228553475 BCX0">encountering</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW228553475 BCX0"> the term </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW228553475 BCX0">“</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW228553475 BCX0">sustainability.</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW228553475 BCX0">”</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p><p><span class="EOP SCXW44650063 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}"><span class="TextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW53001619 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW53001619 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW228553475 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW228553475 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">“I </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">don't</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0"> think I learned what sustainability was until I took </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">‘</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">I</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">ntro</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">duction</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0"> to </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">E</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">nvironmental </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">S</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">tudies</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">’</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0"> in college</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">,” Pollard says.</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">“</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">Sin</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">ce then,</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0">I have</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0"> learned that people have lots of unique meanings for sustainability. I think of sustainability as a framework to create a way of life that is supportive and inclusive of nature and those with marginalized identities.”</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span class="EOP SCXW44650063 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}"><span class="TextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW3723056 BCX0"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW123057496 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW53001619 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW53001619 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW228553475 BCX0" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW228553475 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW84849544 BCX0"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
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<img loading="lazy" src="/contentassets/d2492d337f8a4841b98d59100cb0f8ab/2024-uwl-prairie-springs-environmental-leadership-award-winner-blythe-pollard-9.jpg/Large" alt="" />
<figcaption>Pollard is involved in campus and community sustainability initiatives, helping to educate and involve all who are interested.</figcaption>
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<p><span data-contrast="auto">Out of their many contributions, Pollard takes particular pride in their work with Students for Sustainability at UWL.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span data-contrast="none">“It has certainly not been easy, but I think I have learned a lot from this experience,” they say. “In this organization, I have been a member, a dorm sustainability officer and now a co-chair. It has been inspiring to learn about everyone's passions within sustainability. We have worked together to create a space for community and connection that is really unique to the college experience.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:240,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto">As co-chair, Pollard brings environmental speakers to campus, teaches students how to become engaged in the community and facilitates student involvement in larger community projects. Their hand in creating the Sustainability Community Collaborative unites campus and community sustainability efforts.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto">“My work in helping to create the Sustainability Community Collaborative is the first step to enacting more organized and impactful sustainable efforts in the La Crosse community, as well as fulfilling the city’s climate action plan,” Pollard says.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto">The community collaborative, Pollard explains, will gather all interested groups from small environmental nonprofits to government agencies to support each other on large projects and share information to enhance environmental action in the La Crosse community.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span data-contrast="auto">Reflecting on the challenges ahead, Pollard emphasizes the importance of gender diversity and inclusivity within environmental spaces. They hope for a future where all voices are heard and valued in sustainability discourse.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span data-contrast="none">“All the projects and groups I have been a part of at UWL have helped me grow as a person,” Pollard says. “I appreciate all the opportunities others have given me to expand my knowledge and to be involved in what I am passionate about: connecting with the earth and environmental justice.”</span><span id="_mce_caret" data-mce-bogus="1" data-mce-type="format-caret"><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}"></span></span></p>
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<img loading="lazy" src="/contentassets/d2492d337f8a4841b98d59100cb0f8ab/2024-uwl-prairie-springs-environmental-leadership-award-winner-blythe-pollard-20.jpg/Medium" alt="Pollard’s dedication and contributions surrounding sustainability earned them the 2024 Prairie Springs Student Excellence Award." />
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<span class="section details">
<span class="title">Sustaining impact</span>
<span class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">noon</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Thursday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>March</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>21</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2024</span></span>
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Blythe Pollard receives Prairie Springs Student Excellence Award
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<span class="read">Read<span class="sr-only"> more about Sustaining impact</span></span>
</span>https://www.uwlax.edu/news/posts/reduce-reuse-reimagine/Reduce, reuse, reimagine2024-03-13T10:05:29.34Z2024-03-13T10:05:29.34ZChloe Harthttps://uwlax.edu/profile/chart/chart@uwlax.edu
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<p class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">10:05 a.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Wednesday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>March</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>13</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2024</span></p>
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<figcaption>The dumpster diversion program, a new partnership between UWL and Habitat for Humanity, will aid the city's Climate Action Plan goals and create learning opportunities for students.</figcaption>
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<h3 class="tagline">UWL partners with Habitat for Humanity for campus dumpster diversion program</h3>
<p><span data-contrast="none">As <a data-mce-href="/profile/ewhitney/" href="/profile/ewhitney/">Emily Whitney</a>, an associate professor of <a data-mce-href="/academics/public-health-and-community-health-education/" href="/academics/public-health-and-community-health-education/">public and community health education</a>,&nbsp;strolled through the Habitat for Humanity Restore in Onalaska, she got an idea.</span><span data-ccp-props="{">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span data-contrast="none">“I really wanted my Environmental Health students to learn more about the Restore and how their mission helps create sustainability through a circular economy — reusing and/or repurposing things rather than throwing things away,” Whitney says. “I also thought it would be great to collaborate on some type of project that would give students a chance to practice what they were learning.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{">&nbsp;</span><span data-ccp-props="{">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span data-contrast="none">Her light-bulb-moment led her to Amy Smith, the sustainability director for Habitat for Humanity, who suggested a dumpster diversion program collaboration. With the involvement of <a data-mce-href="/profile/aericson/" href="/profile/aericson/">Andrew Ericson</a>, UWL’s Sustainability Program director, <a data-mce-href="/profile/sbrown2/" href="/profile/sbrown2/" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Scott Brown</a>, the Physical Plant director and <a data-mce-href="/profile/lwalker/" href="/profile/lwalker/">Lisa Walker</a>, associate director for Facilities, the program began to take shape.</span><span data-ccp-props="{">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span data-contrast="none">“The collaboration and teamwork from Andrew, Scott, and Lisa have been vital to moving this project forward,” Whitney says. “It absolutely could not be done without them.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span data-contrast="none">Ericson says that the dumpster diversion program will launch at the beginning of May. Five storage containers, or “pods,” will be placed near campus dumpsters, acting as collection sites for large items to be donated. The pods will remain for about two weeks, coinciding with move-out, and will be transported to the Restore to be sorted.</span><span data-ccp-props="{">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span data-contrast="none">“UWL is part of the larger La Crosse community,” Whitney says, “and we should also be working with our neighbors as well as local organizations and businesses to care for and give back to our community.”</span></p><p><span data-contrast="none">Beyond its community impact, the dumpster diversion program offers valuable educational opportunities for students.</span></p>
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<img loading="lazy" src="/contentassets/d2492d337f8a4841b98d59100cb0f8ab/2023-public-health-17.jpg/Large" alt="" />
<figcaption>Whitney sees the program as an opportunity got hands-on education experiences.</figcaption>
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<p><span data-contrast="none">“This project has helped students in my Environmental Health class learn several skills such critical thinking, problem solving, communication, adaptability, social marketing and applying theory to program planning,” Whitney says. “The students specifically worked on developing social marketing materials with messages that aim to encourage students to participate in the dumpster diversion program. The theme for the dumpster diversion program is ‘reduce, reuse, reimagine.’”</span></p><p><span data-contrast="none">Whitney sees the program as an opportunity for hands-on education experiences.</span></p><p><span data-contrast="none">“This partnership helps students from across disciplines to connect and care for our campus and well as our larger community,” Whitney says. “The initiative provides opportunities for faculty to create service-learning projects for classes that help students interact with course materials in a different way, while also connecting them to the La Crosse community.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span data-contrast="none">The dumpster diversion program aligns with the City of La Crosse’s <a data-mce-href="https://www.lacrosseclimateactionplan.org/" href="https://www.lacrosseclimateactionplan.org/">Climate Action Plan</a>, specifically its goals related to waste management and community collaboration.</span></p><p><span data-contrast="none">“Moving forward, the hope is this program will be sustainable and implemented every year,” Whitney explains.&nbsp;“By doing so, we will help divert items that can be used from ending up in the landfill, creating a more robust circular economy while also allowing new students to be part of the stewardship of our campus and community.”</span><span id="_mce_caret" data-mce-bogus="1" data-mce-type="format-caret"><span data-ccp-props="{"></span></span></p>
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<img loading="lazy" src="/contentassets/d2492d337f8a4841b98d59100cb0f8ab/2020-uwl-corona-virus-covid19-02132.jpg/Medium" alt="The dumpster diversion program, a new partnership between UWL and Habitat for Humanity, will aid the city's Climate Action Plan goals and create learning opportunities for students." />
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<span class="section details">
<span class="title">Reduce, reuse, reimagine</span>
<span class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">10:05 a.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Wednesday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>March</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>13</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2024</span></span>
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UWL partners with Habitat for Humanity for campus dumpster diversion program
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<span class="read">Read<span class="sr-only"> more about Reduce, reuse, reimagine</span></span>
</span>https://www.uwlax.edu/news/posts/reimagine-new-years-resolutions/Reimagine New Year's resolutions2024-01-08T09:17:44.377Z2024-01-03T14:59:00ZKjerstin Langhttps://uwlax.edu/profile/klang/klang@uwlax.edu
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<p class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">2:59 p.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Wednesday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>Jan.</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>3</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2024</span></p>
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<img loading="lazy" src="/contentassets/d2492d337f8a4841b98d59100cb0f8ab/2022-uwl-riverside-fireworks-0119.jpg/Large" alt="" />
<figcaption>Fireworks during Riverfest at Riverside Park in La Crosse in 2022.</figcaption>
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<h3>Research insights from campus experts can supercharge 2024 goals </h3>
<p>If you’re making New Year’s resolutions for 2024, UW-La Crosse faculty and student research and innovation over the past year can provide the knowledge and inspiration to make those dreams reality. &nbsp;</p><p><strong>1. Want more self-care?</strong> UWL faculty members provide tips to <a data-mce-href="/currents/self-care-at-work/" href="/currents/self-care-at-work/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">integrate it into your workday</a>.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>2. Studying for classes but struggling to make the grade? </strong><a data-mce-href="/college-tips/the-best-study-strategies/?return=/news/posts/" href="/college-tips/the-best-study-strategies/?return=/news/posts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn how to learn</a> with help from UWL’s &nbsp;educational psychology expert.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>3. Taking up running? &nbsp;</strong>Read this story about a simple running cue you can use to <a data-mce-href="/currents/research-for-better-running/" href="/currents/research-for-better-running/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">have less impact on your joints</a>.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>4. Simply planning to exercise more?</strong> <a data-mce-href="/currents/stretching-cardiovascular-research/" href="/currents/stretching-cardiovascular-research/">Don’t forget to stretch</a>. A UWL study found that passive stretching before a workout can allow your blood vessels to be more resilient to the stress of exercise. &nbsp;</p><p><strong>5. Want to broaden your knowledge of history or art? </strong>&nbsp;Our faculty help explain topics from <a data-mce-href="/currents/latinos-in-wisconsin/" href="/currents/latinos-in-wisconsin/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Wisconsin Latino history</a> to <a data-mce-href="/currents/women-statues/" href="/currents/women-statues/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">women representations in public art</a> to <a data-mce-href="/news/posts/telling-forgotten-stories/" href="/news/posts/telling-forgotten-stories/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">international disability studies</a>. &nbsp;</p><p><strong>6. Looking for new ways to improve physical and mental health?</strong> <a data-mce-href="/currents/what-is-forest-bathing/" href="/currents/what-is-forest-bathing/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Try forest bathing</a>. It has been shown to lower blood pressure and a UWL faculty member’s research has shown the <a data-mce-href="/currents/health-benefits-of-forest-bathing-for-kids/" href="/currents/health-benefits-of-forest-bathing-for-kids/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">health benefits for children and teens</a>.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>7. Ready to elevate your projects? </strong>See how a UWL art student’s <a data-mce-href="/news/posts/bringing-emotion-to-life/" href="/news/posts/bringing-emotion-to-life/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">printmaking pieces are entering the national stage</a> and how another student’s research project inspired a more <a data-mce-href="/news/posts/sustainable-snow-solution/" href="/news/posts/sustainable-snow-solution/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sustainable solution for campus snow</a>.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>8. Eager to improve your resume?</strong> Consider a fellowship. Read about the transformational <a data-mce-href="/news/posts/foundation-fellow/" href="/news/posts/foundation-fellow/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">fellowship experience of UWL student Marlee Simpson</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><h3><strong>Need goal inspiration?</strong></h3><p>Maybe you haven’t set any goals yet for 2024, but you are ready to be inspired. Read how two UWL students <a data-mce-href="/news/posts/selling-smoothies-with-a-spark/" href="/news/posts/selling-smoothies-with-a-spark/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">turned an idea into a campus business</a>, how this <a data-mce-href="/news/posts/dedicating-a-degree/" href="/news/posts/dedicating-a-degree/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mother set on a journey to go to earn her four-year degree</a>, and how this UWL alumna’s experience with ADHD i<a data-mce-href="/news/posts/adhd-advocate/" href="/news/posts/adhd-advocate/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">nspired her mission to help college students</a>.&nbsp;</p>
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<img loading="lazy" src="/contentassets/d2492d337f8a4841b98d59100cb0f8ab/2022-uwl-riverside-fireworks-0119.jpg/Medium" alt="Fireworks during Riverfest at Riverside Park in La Crosse in 2022." />
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<span class="section details">
<span class="title">Reimagine New Year's resolutions</span>
<span class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">2:59 p.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Wednesday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>Jan.</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>3</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2024</span></span>
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Research insights from campus experts can supercharge 2024 goals 
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<span class="read">Read<span class="sr-only"> more about Reimagine New Year's resolutions</span></span>
</span>https://www.uwlax.edu/news/posts/from-struggling-student-to-sustainability-advocate/From struggling student to sustainability advocate2023-12-18T12:09:53.45Z2023-12-13T09:07:00ZKjerstin Langhttps://uwlax.edu/profile/klang/klang@uwlax.edu
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<p class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">9:07 a.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Wednesday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>Dec.</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>13</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2023</span></p>
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<figcaption>Grace Lopez Johnson, UWL director of sustainability for the UWL Student Association, shares her experience finding a sense of belonging through her sustainability role on campus during the Board of Regents meeting Dec. 8 in Madison. Lopez Johnson is a political science major with environmental studies and professional and technical writing minors.  </figcaption>
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<h3 class="tagline">Grace Lopez Johnson shares her inspiring journey to find a sense of belonging through sustainability leadership </h3>
<p>When Grace Lopez Johnson started classes at UW-La Crosse in 2020, the pandemic’s impact left her feeling alone and struggling in online classes. She even considered dropping out of college after her first semester. However, Lopez Johnson’s college outlook completely changed after a friend encouraged her to attend a <a data-mce-href="/sustainability/get-involved/student-organizations/" href="/sustainability/get-involved/student-organizations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Students for Sustainability </a>meeting during her second semester. At the meeting she learned of an open seat for a sustainability director as part of the <a data-mce-href="/student-association/" href="/student-association/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UWL Student Association</a> and decided to apply, fully expecting the position to go to someone with more experience.&nbsp;</p><p>“While I’ve always been interested in sustainability and protecting the Earth, but making a real change always felt so out of reach,” says Lopez Johnson. “I didn’t exactly know what this role would involve, but I knew this could be my opportunity to actually do something.”&nbsp;</p><p>Lopez Johnson was surprised when she was offered the position and sworn in as director only a week later. What resulted was a complete 180 in her sense of belonging on campus. For the first time in a long time, she felt like she was part of something greater than herself. And the result was creating change that made a difference for the UWL campus and the Earth such as:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Organizing Sweaters for Sustainability- a gently used warm clothing drive to collect items for the houseless population of La Crosse.</li><li>Hosting Earthapalooza- a campus event to celebrate Earth Day with various sustainable groups, music and vegan food.</li><li>Helping to expand composting efforts on campus</li><li>Working with groups such as Students for Sustainability on various projects such as eco-bricking and advocacy work</li><li>Being the chair of Green Advisory Committee, a student led sustainability committee focused on bringing different environmental groups on campus together to collaborate on events, ideas and green fund grants</li></ul><p>“I found that it was possible to tie my passion for policy work to environmentalism and that people could actually make a career out of it!” she says. “Helping other students feel inspired by sustainability has been my greatest accomplishment in my years of doing this, and I’ve found that few things connect people like the passion to protect our planet.”</p><p><br></p>
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<h3>Political science studies deepen knowledge</h3>
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<img loading="lazy" src="/contentassets/d2492d337f8a4841b98d59100cb0f8ab/grace-and-andrew-copy.jpg/Large" alt="" />
<figcaption>Grace Lopez Johnson, UWL director of sustainability for the UWL Student Association, with Andrew Ericson, UWL sustainability program manager, during the Dec. 8 Board of Regents meeting in Madison.</figcaption>
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<p>In <a data-mce-href="/academics/political-science/" href="/academics/political-science/">political science</a> classes Lopez Johnson was able to take her interest in environmental policy a step further. In one class she researched different environmental policies such as clean water access for minority groups and analyzed how public opinion influences energy sector policy adoption. In environmental literature classes she deepened her understanding of humans connection to nature, which led to an exploration of various sustainable writers and advocates.&nbsp;</p><p>Her involvement in sustainability also meant meeting amazing, passionate people on campus and expanding her worldview by being challenged and working through the difficult issues. Lopez Johnson will graduate in May 2024 and plans to eventually pursue a graduate degree in environmental policy.</p><p>Lopez Johnson shared her sustainability story with the UW-System Board of Regents on Friday, Dec. 8, in Madison as part of a session on sustainability.&nbsp;</p><p>“If I’ve learned anything from my time here, it’s that my voice, and all of ours, has power. It only takes one person to inspire a movement and become the change that once seemed impossible,” she said during the meeting. “Becoming involved in sustainability has not only kept me motivated to stay in school, but it has motivated me to keep fighting — to fight for myself, to fight for those who can’t, and to fight for a cleaner, healthier Earth, because it’s worth it.”</p><p><em>The UWL campus has many avenues to get involved in sustainability efforts as well as many achievements to celebrate. Learn more on the <a data-mce-href="/sustainability/" href="/sustainability/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UWL Sustainability website.</a>&nbsp;</em></p>
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<img loading="lazy" src="/contentassets/d2492d337f8a4841b98d59100cb0f8ab/grace-2.jpg/Medium" alt="Grace Lopez Johnson, UWL director of sustainability for the UWL Student Association, shares her experience finding a sense of belonging through her sustainability role on campus during the Board of Regents meeting Dec. 8 in Madison. Lopez Johnson is a political science major with environmental studies and professional and technical writing minors.  " />
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<span class="section details">
<span class="title">From struggling student to sustainability advocate</span>
<span class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">9:07 a.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Wednesday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>Dec.</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>13</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2023</span></span>
<span class="subhead">
<span>
Grace Lopez Johnson shares her inspiring journey to find a sense of belonging through sustainability leadership 
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<span class="read">Read<span class="sr-only"> more about From struggling student to sustainability advocate</span></span>
</span>https://www.uwlax.edu/news/posts/sustainable-snow-solution/Sustainable snow solution2023-12-11T10:27:43.213Z2023-11-28T16:15:00ZKjerstin Langhttps://uwlax.edu/profile/klang/klang@uwlax.edu
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<p class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">4:15 p.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Tuesday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>Nov.</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>28</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2023</span></p>
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<img loading="lazy" src="/contentassets/d2492d337f8a4841b98d59100cb0f8ab/brine-photo-2.jpg/Large" alt="" />
<figcaption>From left, Scott Brown, Andrew Ericson and Casey Christ with the new brine equipment.</figcaption>
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<h3 class="tagline">Student’s brine research ushers in a greener winter on campus</h3>
<p>A UW-La Crosse student’s research on brine has led to a more budget-friendly and earth-friendly snow removal solution for campus this winter.</p><p>Casey Christ, ’23, learned of the impact of salt contamination on aquatic life during a fall 2022 class project. In this Communication and Civic Engagement class, she also learned about using brine as an alternative to rock salt, one of UWL’s primary method for removing snow and ice in winter months. Switching to brine reduces the amount of salt that is needed on sidewalks, parking lots and roads, saving money and reducing water contamination from salt runoff. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“All my life I’ve grown up thinking salt was a normal and necessary part of midwestern winters. But the more I learned about the long list of issues its use creates, the more I knew something needed to change in La Crosse, and that I had to take this a step further than a class research project,” says Christ.</p><p>Although salt is a natural part of the environment, too much salt comes with an environmental cost. Salt applied to roads and sidewalks hangs around after the snow melts, leaching into lakes, rivers and groundwater. Over the years, these freshwater systems have become saltier, and that’s a problem for wildlife. It takes only one teaspoon of salt to pollute five gallons of water to a level this is toxic to native aquatic organisms.</p><p>“The Mississippi River and the marsh are home to hundreds of unique species that are harmed every winter we continue to overuse road salt, not to mention the havoc it wreaks on infrastructure and human health,” says Christ. “La Crosse County and the UWL campus use a lot of it. Through my extensive research I discovered the steps that other universities in Wisconsin had implemented to mitigate salt use, and I knew La Crosse needed to follow suit.”</p><p>Christ's research is just one example of research that emerges from the Communication Studies course, <a data-mce-href="https://catalog.uwlax.edu/undergraduate/coursedescriptions/cst/" href="https://catalog.uwlax.edu/undergraduate/coursedescriptions/cst/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">CST 211</a>, where students complete a civic engagement project. They are tasked with identifying a community problem, conducting extensive community research on the problem and developing a plan to address it. At the culmination of the semester, students present their plan to community stakeholders.</p>
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<h3>Campus embraces brine</h3>
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<img loading="lazy" src="/contentassets/d2492d337f8a4841b98d59100cb0f8ab/brine-photo-12.jpg/Large" alt="" />
<figcaption>From left, Andrew Ericson, Casey Christ and Scott Brown. UWL Facilities Management purchased two Hilltip Spray Strikers, which have GPS tracking that controls the rate that brine comes out. </figcaption>
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<p>Christ shared her findings about rock salt contamination with stakeholders on campus including UWL’s Sustainability Manager Andrew Ericson and Director of Facilities Management Scott Brown. The group looked into brine as a less-salty alternative. And, in the spring of 2023, UWL Facilities Management invested in new brine equipment.</p><p>“We have very driven students on this campus who are looking for ways to make a difference for their community and for the environment,” says Ericson. “It was so impressive to see how Casey championed this initiative that she cared about.”</p><p>Facilities management purchased two Hilltip Spray Strikers, which have GPS tracking that controls the rate that brine comes out, along with a 1,200-gallon storage tank where brine will be stored in bulk. Brine will be purchased from La Crosse County, an early adopter of brine.</p><p>“Facilities Management is always trying to improve the sustainability of our operations. Brine was a win both financially and environmentally,” says Brown. “We are looking forward to the challenges and opportunities of this new method of winter maintenance.” &nbsp;</p><p>Ericson says the initiative to bring brine to campus is an example of how sustainability, an important and long-term initiative at UWL, intersects with UWL’s strategic plan to provide transformational education and community engagement. &nbsp;</p><p>“We are always looking to improve sustainability efforts across the campus as UWL aims to be a leader in sustainability in our region,” says Ericson. “When it comes to sustainability, we can think of campus as a living lab to apply what’s taught in our classrooms. But sometimes we need a champion for those efforts, and we are very grateful that Casey stepped up.”</p>
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<h3>What is brine?</h3>
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<img loading="lazy" src="/contentassets/d2492d337f8a4841b98d59100cb0f8ab/brine-photo-3.jpg/Large" alt="" />
<figcaption>UWL Facilities Management purchased a 1,200-gallon storage tank where brine will be stored in bulk.</figcaption>
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<p>Brine is salty water that is used for snow removal. If you have ever seen faint white stripes on driving lanes, then you’ve seen brine in action. A 23.3% NaCl solution, brine works in the same way that rock salt does, but it has many added benefits.</p><h3>Why brine?</h3><ul><li>Reduces the amount of salt applied, which saves money and prevents water contamination. </li><li>Sticks to where it is placed and is not subject to being moved around like rock salt </li><li>Prevents snow/ice from adhering to the pavement surface if applied before a winter storm. This makes removal easier. </li><li>Works quicker than rock salt. Rock salt needs to become brine on the pavement surface, and then it will start working. Using brine from the start accelerates the process. &nbsp;</li></ul>
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<img loading="lazy" src="/contentassets/d2492d337f8a4841b98d59100cb0f8ab/brine-photo-2.jpg/Medium" alt="From left, Scott Brown, Andrew Ericson and Casey Christ with the new brine equipment." />
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<span class="section details">
<span class="title">Sustainable snow solution</span>
<span class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">4:15 p.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Tuesday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>Nov.</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>28</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2023</span></span>
<span class="subhead">
<span>
Student’s brine research ushers in a greener winter on campus
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<span class="read">Read<span class="sr-only"> more about Sustainable snow solution</span></span>
</span>https://www.uwlax.edu/news/posts/bridging-policy-and-people/Bridging policy and people2023-12-11T10:28:00.42Z2023-10-27T14:15:00ZKjerstin Langhttps://uwlax.edu/profile/klang/klang@uwlax.edu
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<p class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">2:15 p.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Friday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>Oct.</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>27</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2023</span></p>
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<figcaption>Members of the CTA taking a La Crosse Municipal Transit Utility bus to tour public transportation facilities, March 2023. Credit Susan Gaeddert.</figcaption>
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<h3 class="tagline">UWL-hosted community collaboration to learn about policy becomes statewide model  </h3>
<p>How we get from point A to point B in our community — walking, biking, taking public transit or our car — is a major part of our quality of life.</p><p>Yet many of the decisions about transportation are technical or bureaucratic, involving concepts like "Euclidean zoning” and "Level of Service” that are difficult to understand and make it hard for the public to participate in the conversation, explains UWL History Professor James Longhurst. &nbsp;</p><p>“While you may never have heard of terms like Euclidean zoning and LOS, they determine the design of almost every city in America,” says Longhurst. “They shape property values, housing costs and availability, and freedom of movement for almost everyone.”&nbsp;</p>
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<figcaption>UWL History Professor James Longhurst</figcaption>
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<p>This need for transportation knowledge is why Longhurst joined a statewide organization in bringing an “academy” to La Crosse with the goal of teaching citizens to engage in policy issues that are important for health, safety and quality of life. &nbsp;</p><p>Now this academy model for public engagement in health and transportation policy has been adopted in two other Wisconsin communities, Stevens Point and Beloit, and is spreading to other parts of the state, supported by <a data-mce-href="https://states.aarp.org/wisconsin/" href="https://states.aarp.org/wisconsin/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Wisconsin</a> and <a data-mce-href="https://1kfriends.org/" href="https://1kfriends.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">1000 Friends of Wisconsin</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>"Change happens locally with your councilperson,” said Sadie Kuhl, a member of the La Crosse community who joined the academy. “The class has given me the knowledge and a game plan to talk to my council members with actual solutions versus complaints.”&nbsp;</p>
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<h3>About the academy </h3>
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<figcaption>Members of the Community Transportation Academy on the UWL campus, April 2023 </figcaption>
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<p>La Crosse area citizens joined the Community Transportation Academy, a 10-week educational seminar, in spring 2023 with the goal of providing community members with skills and knowledge to advocate for safe and accessible transportation networks. Students learned about transportation plans and processes, engineering standards, interacted with local and national experts, took local tours and more. &nbsp;<br>“The weekly classes really opened my eyes to how local infrastructure can’t just be built in one day,” says Randi Serres Pueschner, a local small-business owner. “It takes immense consideration of all factors that affect community members. We as citizens can be advocates for the changes we need in our communities.”&nbsp;</p><p>Pueschner learned a lot about the decisions behind transportation design and the large amount of effort in every project. “This class has made me more compassionate to that fact and helped me prioritize learning more about my local community’s process,” says Pueschner.&nbsp;</p><p>Members of the public and UWL students were in the class side-by-side with local elected officials who wanted to understand the issue more, as well as staff members for local government. &nbsp;</p><p>“More and more communities in Wisconsin, in the U.S., and worldwide realize the importance of increasing safe and accessible alternate transportation options,” says Larry Sleznikow, a member of the La Crosse City Council who joined the academy. Sleznikow is also chair of the city's Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee and Committee for Citizens with Disabilities.&nbsp;</p><p>The academy, facilitated by <a data-mce-href="/academics/interdisciplinary/sustainability-and-environmental-studies/" href="/academics/interdisciplinary/sustainability-and-environmental-studies/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">UWL Sustainability &amp; Environmental Studies Program</a> and <a data-mce-href="/gel/" href="/gel/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UWL Graduate and Extended Learning</a>, was led by 1000 Friends of Wisconsin, a statewide organization specializing in land use planning, transportation policy, and advocacy. &nbsp;</p><p>“We are delighted with the results from the La Crosse Academy and eager to take the CTA to other parts of the state,” says Deb Nemeth, executive director of 1000 Friends of Wisconsin. “We were especially happy with the UW-La Crosse partnership.” &nbsp;</p><p>1000 Friends is currently in a partnership UW-Stevens Point and, in the spring, will be in Beloit and later in Kenosha and Racine.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p>
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<h3>UWL connection </h3>
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<figcaption>1000 Friends of Wisconsin community programs director Susan Gaeddert opens the first ever session of the Community Transportation Academy at UWL, February 2023. </figcaption>
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<p>Longhurst, historian of urban and environmental policy, helped to bring the academy to La Crosse and worked to make it a credit-bearing class for UW La Crosse students.</p><p>UW-La Crosse Graduate &amp; Extended Learning provided technical support for the online parts of the course, connected 1000 Friends to local speakers, field trips and more.&nbsp;</p><p>While programs like this exist in several other states, this was the first time such a class was offered to Wisconsin residents. The course helped bridge the gap between community advocates and transportation planning entities.&nbsp;</p><h3>Definitions: Expand your transportation policy knowledge &nbsp;</h3><p><strong>&nbsp;“Euclidean zoning”</strong> is the practice of dividing cities into areas that restrict the use of property, named after the village of Euclid, Ohio. That practice was affirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1926. &nbsp;</p><p><strong>“Level of Service” </strong>or LOS, is an engineering term that grades road intersections by how quickly motor vehicle traffic can move through them. &nbsp;</p>
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<span class="title">Bridging policy and people</span>
<span class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">2:15 p.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Friday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>Oct.</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>27</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2023</span></span>
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UWL-hosted community collaboration to learn about policy becomes statewide model  
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</span>https://www.uwlax.edu/news/posts/celebrate-car-free-week/Celebrate Car-Free Week2023-09-07T09:26:05.363Z2023-09-06T16:16:00ZKjerstin Langhttps://uwlax.edu/profile/klang/klang@uwlax.edu
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<p class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">4:16 p.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Wednesday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>Sept.</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>6</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2023</span></p>
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<figcaption>Car Free Week: the sustainable way to get around</figcaption>
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<h3 class="tagline">Join the UWL community in living car-free to the extent that you can Sept. 18-22 </h3>
<p>Plan some trips without four wheels and join an international movement to go car free. <a data-mce-href="https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/world-car-free-day-22-september-great-opportunity-reduce-air-pollution" href="https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/world-car-free-day-22-september-great-opportunity-reduce-air-pollution" target="_blank" rel="noopener">World Car Free Day</a> is celebrated Sept. 22. UWL faculty, staff and students are invited to go car free for the week of Sept. 18-22. &nbsp;</p><p>Going car free doesn’t have to mean giving up your car completely. Many experience barriers beyond their control when planning a car-free commute. Instead, consider your options every time you need to travel. Sometimes a walk, bike ride or bus trip would be just as efficient while also improving your health and the environment. Occasionally they are even faster!&nbsp;</p><p>“Since the creation of the personal automobile, the built environment has taken a beeline for car-centric design,” says Andrew Ericson, UWL <a data-mce-href="/sustainability/" href="/sustainability/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sustainability program</a> manager. “In the U.S., in particular, we have long invested and built an infrastructure system that pushes citizens to use personal vehicles. But internationally this model is not typical. It’s something we should stop to think about, and make sure we are choosing a method of transportation that makes the most sense for ourselves and the environment.”&nbsp;</p><p>While this is a week-long celebration, Ericson hopes that the UWL campus community continues to think about car free transportation beyond the end of the week. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>“The personal automobile is not going anywhere, anytime soon,” he says. “It has clear benefits. But should a personal automobile be a necessity for our daily lives?”&nbsp;</p>
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<h3>Car transportation and walking stats</h3>
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<figcaption>Find spots on the UW-La Crosse campus to lock up your bike.</figcaption>
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<ul><li>In 2021, <a href="https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/fast-facts-transportation-greenhouse-gas-emissions#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20Inventory%20of,U.S.%20GHG%20emissions%20in%202021" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/fast-facts-transportation-greenhouse-gas-emissions#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20Inventory%20of,U.S.%20GHG%20emissions%20in%202021" rel="noopener">29% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions</a> came from the transportation sector, with most of that coming from the use of personal automobiles, according to the Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks 1990–2021.</li><li>More than half of all trips in the U.S. are less than three miles in length and nearly 30% were less than a mile (<a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/vehicles/articles/fotw-1230-march-21-2022-more-half-all-daily-trips-were-less-three-miles-2021" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/vehicles/articles/fotw-1230-march-21-2022-more-half-all-daily-trips-were-less-three-miles-2021" rel="noopener">U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 2021</a>)&nbsp;</li><li>Walking enhances mood, reduces stress, improves self-esteem, and combats cognitive decline (American Behavioral Clinics, 2022)</li><li>Regular brisk walking improves cardiovascular health, strengthens bones and muscles, improves muscle endurance, increases energy levels, improves balance and coordination, and strengthens immune system (Mayo Clinic, 2021)</li><li>Regular brisk walking improves mood, cognition, memory, and sleep (Mayo Clinic, 2021)&nbsp;</li></ul>
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<h3>Join the Car-Free movement in a variety of ways </h3>
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<figcaption>Students rollerblading on campus.</figcaption>
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<ul><li>If you live far away from campus, consider connecting with colleagues who live nearby to carpool.&nbsp;</li><li>Can’t change the car commute to work? Consider changing a couple of short trips you make regularly – between stores in town, to a neighbor’s house or other trips that could just as well be made using a more sustainable transportation option.&nbsp;</li><li>Have you always thought about biking to campus but have never done it? This is your push.&nbsp;</li><li>Going to lunch downtown? Skip the car and hop on bus #4 that picks up on campus or take a Drift Cycle. &nbsp;</li><li>Are you already a savvy commuter? Push yourself to go without a car for all your trips for the week.&nbsp;</li><li>Not able to celebrate Car Free Week? Think about the barriers. Do you feel unsafe crossing a particular intersection? Does your route to work lack dedicated bike lanes to get you where you need to go? Do you have no reasonable alternative? These are all things that you could share with your local elected officials and they would also be a terrific way to celebrate Car Free Week.&nbsp;</li></ul>
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<h3>What is Car-Free Day? </h3>
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<figcaption>Students walk on the UW-La Crosse campus.</figcaption>
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<p>Car-Free day (or week in in the case of UWL), is an opportunity to think about how we get from place to place and try out alternatives. It is a day to live car free to the extent that you can.&nbsp;</p><p>An international event, cities, and even entire countries have celebrated, promoted and even mandated the use of alternative transportation methods. The day’s origins lie within various oil crises that occurred during the second half of the 20th century. Implementing car free days was a way to cut oil demand. The Car-Free movement picked up speed in the 90s, with various cities in Europe and North America trying out versions of a Car Free Day. In 2,000, Bogota, Colombia began Car-Free Days. In October of that year, they took a referendum vote on Car-Free Day, and now they celebrate yearly by banning vehicle use for one day a year, with few exceptions.&nbsp;</p>
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<span class="title">Celebrate Car-Free Week</span>
<span class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">4:16 p.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Wednesday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>Sept.</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>6</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2023</span></span>
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Join the UWL community in living car-free to the extent that you can Sept. 18-22 
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</span>https://www.uwlax.edu/news/posts/ground-bee-guru/Ground bee guru2023-05-30T08:54:11.03Z2023-05-30T08:54:11.03ZKjerstin Langhttps://uwlax.edu/profile/klang/klang@uwlax.edu
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<span class="title">Ground bee guru</span>
<span class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">8:54 a.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Tuesday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>May</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>30</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2023</span></span>
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The vast majority of bees are living underfoot and they're playing an important role in pollination
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</span>https://www.uwlax.edu/news/posts/growing-sustainable-agriculture/Growing sustainable agriculture2023-05-31T08:00:14.133Z2023-05-17T14:48:00ZKjerstin Langhttps://uwlax.edu/profile/klang/klang@uwlax.edu
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<p class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">2:48 p.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Wednesday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>May</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>17</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2023</span></p>
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<h3>WiSys-led partnership including UWL wins $1 million NSF grant to lead in sustainable ag</h3>
<p>A <a data-mce-href="https://www.wisys.org/" href="https://www.wisys.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WiSys</a>-led partnership has been awarded $999,911 from the <a data-mce-href="https://new.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/nsf-regional-innovation-engines-nsf-engines" href="https://new.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/nsf-regional-innovation-engines-nsf-engines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">U.S. National Science Foundation's (NSF) Regional Innovation Engines (“NSF Engines”) program</a> to make Wisconsin a global leader in sustainable agriculture. </p><p>Sustainable agriculture is farming practices aim to meet people's need for food and other goods today without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.</p><p>UW-La Crosse is part of the partnership, along with 29 other organizations from across Wisconsin.&nbsp;</p><p>The award, "NSF Engines Development Award: Advancing Sustainable Agriculture in Wisconsin," will allow these organizations to lay the groundwork to develop an ambitious, effective and credible 'regional innovation engine' that harnesses the region's talent and intellectual capital to make Wisconsin a global leader in sustainable agriculture.</p><p>Demonstrating that capability will allow this group to compete for additional NSF resources and long-term support, including a possible NSF Engines Type 2 award of up to $160 million over 10 years.</p><p>“This NSF Engine could be a key economic driver for Wisconsin,” said WiSys President Arjun Sanga. “Just as a public-private partnership turned Wisconsin into the ‘Dairy State’ in the last century, this potential engine’s public-private partnership could have a profound impact on the future of the state and the world.”<br></p><p>The WiSys-led Wisconsin partnership is among 44 unique teams, and one of two in Wisconsin, to receive one of the first-ever NSF Engines Development Awards, which aim to help partners collaborate to create economic, societal, and technological opportunities for their regions. The awardees span a broad range of states and regions, reaching geographic areas that have not fully benefited from the technology boom of the past decades.<br></p><p>"These NSF Engines Development Awards lay the foundation for emerging hubs of innovation and potential future NSF Engines," said NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan. "These awardees are part of the fabric of NSF's vision to create opportunities everywhere and enable innovation anywhere. They will build robust regional partnerships rooted in scientific and technological innovation in every part of our nation. Through these planning awards, NSF is seeding the future for in-place innovation in communities and to grow their regional economies through research and partnerships. This will unleash ideas, talent, pathways and resources to create vibrant innovation ecosystems all across our nation."<br></p><p>The WiSys-led partnership includes all 13 University of Wisconsin institutions, as well as a host of industry, nonprofit and government entities.</p><p><strong>Project partners include:</strong></p><ul><li>University of Wisconsin-La Crosse</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Foundation (The Rural Resiliency Project)</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Green Bay<br></li><li>University of Wisconsin-Madison</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Research Foundation</li><li>University of Wisconsin Oshkosh</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Parkside</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Platteville</li><li>University of Wisconsin-River Falls</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Stout</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Superior</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Whitewater</li><li>University of Wisconsin System Administration</li><li>Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation</li><li>Wisconsin Technology Council</li><li>WiSys</li></ul><p><br><strong>Other supporters of this project include:</strong></p><ul><li>Annie's Project</li><li>Brigantia Ventures</li><li>Farming for the Future Foundation (Food and Farm Exploration Center)&nbsp;</li><li>J.F. Brennan Company</li><li>Pablo Group</li><li>Small Business Development Center at University of Wisconsin-Superior</li><li>The Development Association</li><li>U.S. Geological Survey</li><li>Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Waste and Materials Management Program</li><li>Wisconsin Office of Sustainability and Clean Energy</li><li>Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation</li></ul><p>“With this NSF award, we have an opportunity to make Wisconsin a world-leader in sustainable agriculture,” said Sanga. “We must, however, continue to expand the engagement of all key stakeholders throughout the state and invest our time and resources in building a strong and inclusive partnership with a diversity of voices across the region. We’re thrilled to work with such a great, innovative group of partners. We’re excited to tie together the entire region in a meaningful way.”<br></p><p>Organizations interested in learning more about or contributing to these efforts are encouraged to reach out to the group at <a data-mce-href="https://www.venturehome.org/sustainableag" href="https://www.venturehome.org/sustainableag" target="_blank" rel="noopener">venturehome.org/sustainableag</a>.<br></p><h3><strong>Anticipated outcomes</strong><br></h3><p><strong>The partnership plans to:</strong><br></p><ul><li>Translate use-inspired research through inter-institutional and industry collaborations</li><li>Bolster entrepreneurial support and deliver initiatives through WiSys VentureHome®—a network of local&nbsp; innovation hubs.</li><li>Grow a skilled workforce through industry-focused coalitions and curriculum providers.</li><li>Support the launch of sustainability tech startups and products.</li><li>Attract investment capital from multiple sectors to fund audacious ideas in the field of sustainable agriculture.<br></li><li>nform policy recommendations that support sustainable practices.</li><li>Facilitate a technical and entrepreneurial skillset among underserved populations, across the demographics of gender, geography, race, and economic status.</li><li>Identify and prepare for future needs of the agricultural value chain, including workforce needs.<br></li></ul><h3><strong>Defining the challenge</strong><br></h3><p>The plan to tackle sustainable agriculture was based on the collaborative work of the Wisconsin Bicentennial Innovation Challenges project, spearheaded by the three technology transfer offices of the University of Wisconsin System: Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation, UW- Milwaukee Research Foundation and WiSys.</p><p>Through this formal collaboration, launched in 2019, project leaders set out to discover Wisconsin’s most significant challenges between now and the state’s 2048 bicentennial year. The group conducted interviews, brainstorming sessions and focus groups with more than 50 public and private stakeholders.</p><p>Through these efforts, sustainable agriculture and stewardship of natural resources emerged as a major challenge facing Wisconsin. This is also a topic of global significance and lies at the core of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.</p><h3>About the NSF Engines Program</h3><p>Launched by NSF's new Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships and authorized by the "CHIPS and Science Act of 2022," the NSF Engines program uniquely harnesses the nation's science and technology research and development enterprise and regional-level resources. NSF Engines aspire to catalyze robust partnerships to positively impact regional economies, accelerate technology development, address societal challenges, advance national competitiveness, and create local, high-wage jobs.<br>View a map of the NSF Engines Development Awards. More information can be found on the NSF Engines program website.</p><h3>About NSF</h3><p>NSF is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense..." NSF is vital because we support basic research and people to create knowledge that transforms the future.</p><h3>About WiSys</h3><p>WiSys is a nonprofit organization that works with faculty, staff, students, and alumni of the UW System to facilitate cutting-edge research programs, develop, and commercialize discoveries, and foster a spirit of innovative and entrepreneurial thinking across the state.<br></p>
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<span class="title">Growing sustainable agriculture</span>
<span class="date"><span class="label">Posted </span><span data-part="time">2:48 p.m.</span><span data-part="weekday"><span> </span>Wednesday</span><span data-part="month"><span>, </span>May</span><span data-part="day"><span> </span>17</span><span data-part="year"><span>, </span>2023</span></span>
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WiSys-led partnership including UWL wins $1 million NSF grant to lead in sustainable ag
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