Research >> Introduction
Since 1931 the Duke Forest has provided research opportunities for Duke University faculty and students in the fields of forestry, botany, zoology and environmental science. Today the Forest is also utilized by local universities and schools - plus many other universities and organizations nationwide - to study natural resource and environmental science issues. These uses include both short-term and long-term research projects which span such diverse topics as plant ecology, invertebrate zoology, forest economics and global climate change.
During the 1930s and 40s, Duke scientists such as Drs. Korstian, Coile, Oosting and Billings pioneered research in the fields of forestry and ecology with their work in Duke Forest. These early researchers were meticulous record keepers who permanently marked their sample areas. Data from their inventories and permanent sample plots continue to provide a long-term scientific record that illustrates changes in the forest ecosystem. The availability of this comprehensive database, along with the Duke Forest collection of maps and silvicultural records, have established the Forest as an ideal site for long-term ecological research.
Duke Forest researchers continue to make important contributions to the natural sciences. Funding for research projects in the Forest currently totals over $3 million annually.
See the menu items to the left for more information on research conducted on the Duke Forest.
