Volume 7, Number 4,
May 1961:
The F.B. and Rena G. Ross
Natural History Reservation

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ABOUT THIS ISSUE

IN THIS ISSUE
- Introduction
- History of the Area
- Description of the Area
- Aerial Photograph
- Accumulation of Field Data
- Weather
- Conservation Practices
- Animals of the Reservation
- Nature Trail
- Cover Picture
- Ross Message

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This page was last modified:
February 24, 2008

This page was originally posted:
June 14, 2005

The F.B. and Rena G. Ross Natural History Reservation
by John Breukelman, Thomas A. Eddy and Emily L. Hartman

Figure 10

Accumulation of Field Data

The Reservation is divided into 10-acre grid sections, lettered and numbered according to the standard numbering system of townships. Steel posts mark the intersections of the grid lines. (Fig. 10) Data cards showing the grid sections drainages, and landmarks (Fig. 11) are used for field notes and sight records.

Over a period of years, the accumulated field data will provide an insight into such problems as ecological succession and its effect upon animal populations, the intersection of plants and animals in an undisturbed area, and the biotic responses to climatic change. Studies on natural grassland recovery as well as studies correlating soil factors with range sites and biotic associations will provide a basis for the interpretation of land conditions adjacent to the Reservation. Not all of the important studies are in themselves of such extended duration. Many of them can be completed in one or two years and thus serve as excellent research problems for advanced students. Plant and animal surveys are needed; as are life histories and animal behavioral studies.

Figure 11

In January, 1960, a small (7 x 13 feet) storage building was moved from the campus to serve as a temporary laboratory. It was equipped with electricity, a lab table, chairs, bookcase and shelves, field reference books, a microscope, and minimum collecting equipment. This building and contents were destroyed by fire in August, 1960. The sheet steel structure now serving as a temporary laboratory is somewhat larger and has a separate storage space for tools and equipment. Plans are underway for an approximately 35 x 100 classroom and laboratory building with teaching and research facilities. It is hoped that this building will be in actual construction before the end of 1961.