Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

Understanding Ecosystems for a Sustainable Future

The Reed Education Center and Java Trail are closed to the public from Jan. 30 through Feb. 4 for maintenance. Public composting toilets and all other trails will be open during normal hours. The Woodlawn History Center is open Fri. & Sat. with extended hours from 10am-2pm!

Please do a health self-check before arriving, and stay home if feeling sick. Read Plan Your Visit for information on where to park, updated maps and hours, safety, and more.

Staff Profile

Gary Peresta

Environmental Engineer

perestag@si.edu

Phone

410-736-8121

Research Labs

Biogeochemistry

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!