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Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

Understanding Ecosystems for a Sustainable Future

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New Invasive Bryozoan Spotted in Alaskan Waters

With the help of local citizen scientists, biologists found a new invader in Alaska, the bryozoan Bugula neritina, and another not seen there in over a century. (Photo: Melissa Frey)
Invasive Plants Can Boost Blue Carbon Storage

Eradicate the invaders? It's complicated. A new study revealed some invasive plants can more than double ecosystems' ability to store "blue carbon."
Director's Letter: When Global Science Becomes Local

"SERC scientists work all over the globe, and many of their discoveries abroad can help us better understand and protect the Chesapeake." (Photo: Glenn McKinlay)
Wanted: Chinese Mitten Crabs

SERC biologists are asking boaters everywhere to keep their eyes peeled for an invasive species: the elusive Chinese mitten crab.
Making Sense of Climate Change

Get the truth on the science and history of climate change, in this 6-part lecture series hosted by SERC plant ecologist Bert Drake. Watch all six episodes online!

Discover Smithsonian science in your backyard!
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Monday through Saturday, 8:30am-4:30pm. Closed Sundays and federal holidays.

Featured Events

Stream Assessment and Restoration: A Case Study in Appalachian Surface Mining

Lecture

Stream Assessment and Restoration: A Case Study in Appalachian Surface Mining

Thursday, November 15, 2018 - 11:00am

Event Location
Schmidt Conference Center

Speaker: Dr. Matt Baker, University of Maryland, Baltimore County

Pre-registration Required
No

View Event Details

Lecture

Thu., Nov 15 - 11:00am

View calendar of events

Invasive Plants Can Boost Blue Carbon Storage
New Invasive Bryozoan in Alaskan Waters

Photo: Melissa Frey, Royal BC Museum
Biologists Track Cownose Rays to Florida and Back

Image Gallery

Leafy green rosette of downy rattlesnake plantain

Ecosystems on the Edge

seagrass

Shorelines Blog

crane

Upcoming Events

Thursday, Nov 15

Stream Assessment and Restoration: A Case Study in Appalachian Surface Mining

Lecture

Stream Assessment and Restoration: A Case Study in Appalachian Surface Mining

Thursday, November 15, 2018 - 11:00am

Event Location
Schmidt Conference Center

Speaker: Dr. Matt Baker, University of Maryland, Baltimore County

Pre-registration Required
No

View Event Details

11:00AM

SERC 50 Anniversary Icon

50 Years of Discovery

For half a century, SERC scientists have taken on environmental issues on Chesapeake Bay and around the world and uncovered new ways to protect the planet. Learn more about SERC’s history and discoveries.