We work with numerous university, state, federal, and nongovernmental organizations to research and develop solutions for critical environmental and natural resource issues. Our collaborations often focus on the ecosystems and challenges in Tucson and the Southwest, but our research has implications and applications for across the nation and world.
Biosphere 2
Biosphere 2, a science research facility in Oracle, Arizona, north of Tucson, provides a unique opportunity to study ecosystems under controlled conditions. Its mission includes serving as a center for research, outreach, teaching, and life-long learning about Earth and its future, as well as distilling issues related to Earth systems planning and management for use by policymakers, students, and the public. Learn more about Biosphere 2
Desert Southwest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit
The Desert Southwest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit is a network of federal, university, and nongovernmental agencies studying and managing natural and cultural resources across Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas. The Unit was formed in 2000 and is hosted by the School of Natural Resources and the Environment. It encompasses the Sonoran, Mohave, and Chihuahuan deserts and has been involved in more than 400 projects, with funding totaling more than $19 million. Learn more about the Desert Southwest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit
USGS Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit
The USGS Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit is a collaboration of the University of Arizona, the U.S. Geological Survey, the Arizona Game and Fish Department, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Wildlife Management Institute. Its scientists conduct research to help answer natural resource questions and provide information and consultation to state and federal agency partners and other interested groups. The research unit also helps educate graduate students who will become natural resource managers and scientists, and it provides continuing education for current professionals in the field. Learn more about the USGS Arizona Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit
USGS Southwest Biological Science Center
The USGS Southwest Biological Science Center collaborates with the School of Natural Resources and the Environment to gather and manage natural resource data and to provide information to land managers throughout the desert Southwest. Scientists and staff conduct research related to the ecology, conservation, and management of desert resources. In so doing, the station provides technical assistance to the National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, the Department of Defense, and other client agencies. Learn more about the USGS Southwest Biological Science Center
USGS Southwest Climate Adaptation Science Center
The USGS Southwest Climate Adaptation Science Center aims to provide federal, state, and local land managers access to the best science available on climate change and other major stressors to the nation’s natural and cultural resources. Research includes how future temperatures will impact streamflow in the Colorado River basin, how severe wildfires might contribute to forest loss, and how managers can plan for post-fire recovery. Learn more about the USGS Southwest Climate Adaptation Science Center
USA National Phenology Network
The USA National Phenology Network brings together scientists, government agencies, non-profit groups, educators, and students of all ages to monitor the impacts of climate change on plants and animals in the United States. Its vision is to provide data and information on the timing of seasonal events in plants and animals, or phenology, to ensure the well-being of humans, ecosystems, and natural resources. Learn more about the USA National Phenology Network