Bucknell University’s green spaces are undergoing an innovative transformation, led by Professor Chris Martine, David Burpee Professor in Plant Genetics & Research, and the Biology Department Chair. Martine, a biodiversity scientist with a deep passion for plants, particularly in the fields of ecology and evolution of plant reproduction, is making efforts towards ecological restoration on campus. His work spans various regions, including Australia, northeastern America, and the Appalachian areas in northern America, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to Bucknell’s environmental initiatives.
During a recent lecture in the ENLS 103: Bucknell Greenway class, Martine shared insights into the importance of increasing plant diversity and the concept of vertical restoration. He emphasized that traditional lawn maintenance practices, such as frequent mowing, could be detrimental to tree health and biodiversity. Instead, Martine advocates for transforming lawns into more ecologically beneficial spaces, including food forests and areas with exotic plants, to enhance habitat restoration.
Martine’s approach to restoration raises essential questions about the goals and benchmarks of such projects. “When you are restoring, what are you restoring to? There’s this sort of assumption of empty, park-like land,” Martine observed. He underlines the importance of relying on natural historians and biologists to accurately recreate habitats that once thrived in these areas. This methodology not only supports plant life but also contributes to a broader ecological balance, supporting various animal species and the overall health of the environment.
Addressing concerns about Bucknell’s growth and its impact on the environment, Martine is optimistic. “Bucknell is a pretty big footprint campus for its low population already, so it’ll be fine with the population growth in the future and won’t affect the environment much,” he stated, highlighting the university’s commitment to sustainability and ecological responsibility.
Beyond his research and teaching, Martine has also engaged in science communication through his YouTube program “Plants Are Cool, Too!” The series aims to highlight the fascinating world of plants and their crucial role in our ecosystems, featuring episodes on topics such as the ecological impacts of the Australian fires and the importance of invasive species biology.
Here is the link to his YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@PlantsAreCoolToo
Professor Martine’s work at Bucknell and beyond represents a crucial intersection of science, education, and ecological stewardship.
Leave a Reply