Partnerships are critical to facilitate effective interdisciplinary research projects that demonstrate chemical, biological, and sociological interconnectivity. Here, we describe synergistic partnerships between undergraduate students and faculty from local and regional universities, informal science educators, non-governmental organizations, and government agencies working to advance conservation and sustainable development along the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley (LMAV). Often overlooked, both the natural and cultural resources along the LMAV are true national treasures. The Mississippi River drains over 40% of the continental United States and is a vital migratory route for large numbers of endangered or threatened birds, fishes, and mammals. The River is also a critical navigation corridor and the backbone of commerce in the central U.S. Despite the River's economic importance, the communities along the LMAV rank among the most impoverished in the country. Quality of life indicators are consistently low, yet the region is notable for its artistic creativity. It is crucial to connect science students and faculty living in and around this beleaguered region to the social and ecological challenges it faces. The case studies we present here each involve a partnership that carries out research contributing to civic engagement. Outcomes from these efforts include: (i) an environmental education seminar series, (ii) two new general education science and society course modules, (iii) a report to the U.S. Congress, (iv) a report on the value of nature tourism for fostering economic development and natural resource conservation in the LMAV, and (v) two undergraduate water quality research projects focusing on the chemical and biological quality of two major river systems and one urban lake.  In addition to the community engagement and conservation benefits, the experiences we document here also reveal the educational values of faculty-led undergraduate student research on real-world local and regional problems.

Value of partnerships for engaging undergraduate students and faculty in research with civic and ecological benefits for the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley

248th National Meeting (2014)

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