Dr. Chris Tonra
Chair, Wilma H. Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetland Research Park
Associate Professor, SENR, Avian Wildlife Ecology
I am an avian ecologist that primarily studies the annual cycles and habitat ecology of migratory birds. Over the past 20 years, I have conducted research in a multitude of systems such as mangroves, riparian forest, and the Lake Erie marshes. Since I arrived at OSU in 2014, I have been teaching, conducting research, and participating in outreach at the Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetlands Research Park. This unique facility has both a history and enormous potential in advancing our understanding of emergent wetlands, rivers, bottomland forest, and associate habitats, particularly in an urban context. Our research informs stewardship of these ecosystems and our educational and outreach missions will engage multiple generations of the public and future scientists and land managers. Together with our Leadership Committee I am thrilled at the opportunity to lead this one of kind facility in furthering our mission. Please come visit us to learn more!
Krystal Pocock
Research and Outreach Coordinator, ORWRP
I am an aquatic ecologist who received my B.S. and M.S. from the School of Environment and Natural Resources at The Ohio State University. My research has focused on the influence of nutrients in freshwater streams, macroinvertebrate diversity indices, and behavioral differences between native and non-native species. Having worked out of the Heffner Wetland Research and Education building conducting research and teaching since 2016, I am thrilled to shift my focus towards reinventing our research and outreach program. Situated on 52-acres, the Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetland Research Park is the perfect setting for environmental education and outreach activities. The variety of wetland types, habitats, and nearby Olentangy River offer the opportunity for community members, school groups, agencies, OSU students, and more to gain hands-on experience learning about wetlands, wildlife, and freshwater ecology. The facility also provides countless opportunities for research that will engage the community and inform future wetland research and management. Please contact us to schedule a tour and learn about YOUR Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetland Research Park!
Emma Robinson
Outreach Intern
Shelby Myers
Outreach Intern