NSF Long-term Ecological Research sites

NSF Long-term Ecological Research (LTER) sites are dedicated areas where scientists study ecosystems over long periods, often spanning decades. Funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), these sites aim to understand complex ecological processes and how environments change over time due to natural events and human activities. Researchers collect data on various factors like climate, species interactions, and nutrient cycling. This ongoing research helps inform conservation efforts, policy decisions, and our understanding of ecological resilience, ultimately contributing to a better grasp of how ecosystems function and adapt in a changing world.