Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

Understanding Ecosystems for a Sustainable Future

As a public health precaution, the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) is extending the cancelation or postponement of all public events, programs and gatherings until at least the end of the summer. The SERC campus remains temporarily closed to the public, including buildings, trails and other parts of the campus. Due to the rapidly changing nature of the situation, we are not announcing a reopening date at this time and will provide updates on our website.

Staff Profile

Gary Peresta

Environmental Engineer

Research Labs

Biogeochemistry

perestag@si.edu

Phone

410-736-8121

Biography

Gary has been working in global change/CO₂ effects on the environment since 1985. Trained as an Ag Engineer, he worked with Peace Corp Jamaica and the USDA before coming to SERC in 1990, when he joined the CO₂ group under plant physiologist Bert Drake. He has been working with the Biogeochemistry Lab continuing research on the effects of global change on the marsh ecosystem. He also does regular station manager stints at the Smithsonian lab in Belize. He plays bass and other instruments in many musical projects. He enjoys travel, especially when it can be combined with music and/or science!