Ithaca College

The fragmentation and destruction of habitat is a primary cause of decline in wildlife populations. When development or irresponsible resource extraction occurs, critical habitat is often unwittingly harmed, simply because no one realizes that the area affected is an important denning, feeding, wintering or travel area for one or more species. The isolation of wildlife populations within fragmented habitats severely compromises the long-term well-being of many species as healthy ecosystem functions, services and resiliency declines over time. Climate change is accelerating fragmentation and habitat disruption.  

Twenty years ago the outstanding naturalist, tracker and wildlife photographer Sue Morse began the Keeping Track® citizen monitoring initiative to target threatened species, habitats and regions – searching for and recording evidence of use by “focal species” over multiple years in an effort to systematically collect the information needed to make informed decisions about wildlife habitat stewardship. Adult and youth Keeping Track®  training programs inspire community volunteers and turn them into practitioners of a science-based field study methodology. Keeping Track® recognizes that more “boots on the ground” field research is essential if we are to successfully conserve an appropriate matrix of core and connective habitats.

Sue’s presentation will take place this Saturday evening, January 31st in Textor 101. Her talks are always excellent: information-packed, humorous and illustrated with her outstanding wildlife photography. Please join us for her engaging program!

Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations should contact Carol Hansen at chansen@ithaca.edu or (607) 274-1822. We ask that requests for accommodations be made as soon as possible.