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GPS Coordinates to the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest: 44.2030801, -122.3817716
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REGIONS > CENTRAL OREGON > CASCADE MOUNTAINS > WILLAMETTE NATIONAL FOREST
If you’re a researcher who wants to study the long-term health of Oregon’s forests, imagine having access to an outdoor laboratory of pristine wilderness, flowing rivers and undisturbed wildlife. This is exactly the purpose of the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest. Located in the Cascade Mountains approximately 60 miles (96.5 km) east of Eugene, this 16,000 acre parcel of land was set aside in 1948 to help support research of the state’s forests, riparian areas and watersheds. The insights gained from these studies are used to improve Oregon’s natural resource management efforts, while also educating the public about ecosystem science and conservation issues, including climate change. |
An Outdoor Lab Hidden in the Cascades
Because the entire forest is a research area, removing vegetation and wildlife is prohibited. This means certain recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, or even collecting mushrooms are not allowed at HJ Andrews. You can learn more about visiting the forest by clicking here.
Forest managers work in cooperation with the Oregon State University’s Oregon Season Tracker program. This citizen science opportunity allows you to help monitor local effects of climate change by recording changes in precipitation and phenology, or the study of how plants and animals are influenced by changes in season, climate and habitat.
The HJ Andrews Experimental Forest is surrounded by the 1.6 million acre Willamette National Forest, which provides additional outdoor opportunities for visitors.
Forest managers work in cooperation with the Oregon State University’s Oregon Season Tracker program. This citizen science opportunity allows you to help monitor local effects of climate change by recording changes in precipitation and phenology, or the study of how plants and animals are influenced by changes in season, climate and habitat.
The HJ Andrews Experimental Forest is surrounded by the 1.6 million acre Willamette National Forest, which provides additional outdoor opportunities for visitors.
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Tracking Climate Change with Oregon Season Tracker: Mark Schulze, Director of the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest, discusses why the experimental forest exists and how the research based there utilizes the citizen science efforts of Oregon Season Tracker.
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Forest Lab: Sarah Ward, a Master's Student with the Oregon State University, describes her work at the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest and how she's helping to track climate change by monitoring plant behavior.
For Researchers, Teachers... And You!
While the primary purpose of the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest may be research, it is open to the public regardless of whether you’re conducting a science project, going for a hike, or learning about Oregon’s diverse ecosystems.
Scientists, graduate students and undergrads can apply to use the site’s climate and watershed gauging stations, permanent vegetation plots, classrooms and conference halls. For K-12 educators and younger learners, a variety of free classroom resources, lesson plans and professional development opportunities are available. The forest also includes miles of hiking trails and camping facilities for those who want a longer or more immersive experience.
You can learn more about the forest facilities by clicking here.
Scientists, graduate students and undergrads can apply to use the site’s climate and watershed gauging stations, permanent vegetation plots, classrooms and conference halls. For K-12 educators and younger learners, a variety of free classroom resources, lesson plans and professional development opportunities are available. The forest also includes miles of hiking trails and camping facilities for those who want a longer or more immersive experience.
You can learn more about the forest facilities by clicking here.
Exploring the Surrounding Area:
Representative Species of the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest:
Suggested Activities for the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest:
