If you are interested in learning how bird habitat can be improved in California, HMI's 2016 California Gathering will give you some important information. Elizabeth (Libby) Porzig coordinates the Rangeland Monitoring Network for Point Blue Conservation--a critical data gathering effort now taking place across California.
Libby is a native of California, where the diverse habitats, landscapes and wildlife inspired her to pursue a career in conservation. She received her bachelor’s degree from Stanford University and a PhD in ecology from UC Davis. She is now leading this conservation research data collection for Point Blue.
The Rangeland Monitoring Network: Measuring Ecological Function on California’s Rangelands
Libby's talk will focus on how California’s rangelands have significant environmental, economic, and cultural value and are threatened by urban development, conversion to other agricultural uses, and climate change. In light of these threats, there is a need for a better understanding of ecosystem processes on rangelands and how management decisions influence these processes on scales that are both ecologically and socially relevant. Point Blue Conservation Science’s Rangeland Monitoring Network is a coordinated effort to collect standardized data on birds, vegetation, and soils on rangelands throughout California. Point Blue works with partners, including private landowners, land trusts, state and federal agencies, and others, to measure bird and plant abundance and diversity and three soil dynamic properties (water infiltration, bulk density, and organic carbon). At this presentation Libby will present data from the first two years of monitoring on over 50 ranches in 17 counties in California. By collecting data on the scope and scale of variation in ecological function across rangelands and the relationship with management practices, rangeland management, restoration, and conservation has the opportunity to be advanced.
Come to HMI's California Gathering to get a better understanding of how California rangelands function and what management practices we can support to improve bird habitat.
will offer thought-provoking presentations and breakout sessions on various
interests. Local food security, land health, strengthening our communities and nourishing our bodies all included! We have something for everyone, so come learn from the experts! Many of our acclaimed speakers are celebrated throughout the world. Our special keynote speaker, “America’s Most Famous Farmer” himself,
, will be sure to inspire us all. We’ll also enjoy beautiful landscapes, farm-fresh food and be on the land with the animals.