Cooperative Agreement for CESU-affiliated Partner with Desert Southwest Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is offering a funding opportunity to a CESU partner for research on multi-scale remote sensing of spectral and structural traits of biological soil crusts. The Western Geographic Science Center (WGSC) has a CESU requirement for work to be performed by a remote sensing specialist to contribute research to a USGS project titled “Biological soil crust ecology and function from space” This project is made up of a multi-disciplinary biocrust remote sensing research team that leverages USGS expertise in biocrusts, remote sensing, dryland ecology, and biogeochemistry to significantly advance dryland and remote sensing science. The objective of the project is to explore the use of multiple cutting-edge remote sensing data sets and techniques in order to assess plant, biological soil crust, and mineral soil under varied conditions. Will integrate measurements from field-based and aerial sensors (terrestrial lidar, hand-held and aerial thermal and hyperspectral) with hyperspectral and multispectral satellite data to map functional and structural traits and life history strategies across the landscape, enabling first-time insights into novel aspects of dryland ecosystem functioning. The team is looking for a CESU partner to help complete tasks essential to the success of the project.