News

National Science Foundation Infrastructure Grant

One of the primary challenges of running a field station is maintaining the infrastructure. We’ve recently gotten some help in that regard from two sources. The first is the BATSUB which recently built a new dorm for the use of their personnel when on maneuvers in the area. Researchers and students can use the building when it is not needed by BATSUB. 

The second big news is an infrastructure grant of US$150,000 to purchase vehicles, information technology equipment, and improve housing for long-term researchers. This grant was secured by Dr. Marcella Kelly and her colleagues at Virginia Tech, and purchases are being made spring and summer of 08. The list of upgrades includes:

· vehicles (two 4-wheel drive vehicles and two 4-wheel drive ATVs)

· information technology (computer lab, internet dish, networking,  weather station)

· solar panels

· 2 prefab cabins for long term accommodations

Last, but not least, thanks to the Merryman Bus Co. in Rustburg, Virginia, USA for donating a school bus that we hope to be able to use to transport student groups around the country.