Canyonlands Research Station
The CRS in Moab, UT is home to one of the world’s most advanced and accomplished biological soil crusts laboratories. This research team is in wide demand in many parts of the world to advise on how to protect and restore delicate arid soil ecosystems from trampling and other impacts. Other researchers at this research station study the ecology of amphibians, aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates, and reptiles, as well as how abiotic factors (soils, climate) influence biotic communities. Personnel at this station are also deeply involved with helping the Department of Interior land managing agencies design and implement long-term monitoring programs on their lands.
The CRS consists of staff and programs formerly associated with three units of the National Park System -- Arches, Canyonlands, and Natural Bridges National Parks.
The station, located in Moab, Utah, merged with the USGS Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center (FRESC) in 1997 and became a part of the SBSC in October 2002.
The station has close ties with Brigham Young University, Denver University, Colorado State University, University of Colorado (Boulder), and Oregon State University. CRS is also closely associated with the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management offices in Moab.
Focus of Research
- Exotic plant invasion in western rangelands
- Soil susceptibility to land erosion
- Cryptobiotic soil crusts
- Impact of fires on invasive annual grasses
- Amphibian decline
- Biological cycles of vernal and ephemeral pools
- Contact Information:
-
Center Director: Jayne Belnap
Email: jayne_belnap@usgs.gov
Phone: 435.719.2331
- Address:
- U.S. Geological Survey,
Canyonlands Research Station
2290 SW Resource Blvd
Moab, UT 84532
- Visitor Information:
- Moab Information site: Travel guide and local information
- Official City of Moab site: General City Information
