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For decades, the Mountain Research Station has been a stepping-off point for researchers studying plant and animal ecology, biogeochemistry, hydrology, geomorphology and atmospheric science. Much of that research takes place on rugged, nearby Niwot Ridge. Within that area lies every type of alpine and montane ecosystem that exists in the southern Rocky Mountains. That abundance has made Niwot Ridge a rare and important ‘living laboratory.’

INSTAAR and ENVS Postdoc Peyton Thomas not only does great science, she's an activist runner sponsored by Patagonia. Earlier this year, she and a group of volunteers organized Patagonia's first EARTH running event (Equitable Action Run Towards Health) to help a Mississippi community discuss and address impacts of the wood pellet industry on health and environmental justice.

A “Reverse Science Fair” in Northglenn is flipping the traditional format, challenging �鶹ӰԺ grad students and postdocs to present their research to high school student evaluators. Organizer Alex Rose is interviewed, with cameos by INSTAAR postdocs Kristýna Kantnerová and Edgart Flores.

INSTAAR's first storytelling night was a smashing success! A number of INSTAARs (in person and online) heard amazing stories at Sanitas Brewing Company on a Thursday evening in late October. Thanks to all the storytellers and attendees. And kudos to organizers Katie Rocci, Sylvia Michel, and Tina Geller.

A team of researchers that included several INSTAAR scientists received the prestigious Kirk Bryan Award from the Quaternary Geology & Geomorphology Division of the Geological Society of America (GSA). The prestigious award honors the authors of a recent paper that advances the science of geomorphology.

Diane McKnight has been an integral figure in the Long-Term Ecological Research Program for decades. She was instrumental in launching the McMurdo LTER, spearheaded restructuring network coordination, and served as Chair of the LTER Network Executive Board. She’s mentored dozens of students and developed too many projects to count. The LTER Network Office sat down with Diane to chat about her life in the Network and her dreams for the LTER moving forward.

INSTAAR is pleased to announce four George R. Aiken Graduate Fellowships for 2023. CU �鶹ӰԺ graduate students Mackensie Bowen, Allison Cook, Tim Higgins, and Millie Spencer received the awards, which come with funding to support their research over the next year.

CU �鶹ӰԺ has named Associate Professor of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences Nikki Lovenduski interim director of Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR) effective August 28.

INSTAAR's admin staff gathered in late July.  Their day began with a round of "two truths and a dare", storytelling, and lawn games like badminton. If you haven't heard Patti's story about finding a rattlesnake during a big outdoor concert this

Del Norte artist Jocelyn Catterson and INSTAAR/Geography prof Holly Barnard will lead a workshop "Water Art + Science" on Friday at Rio Grande Farm Park, on #groundwater in the San Luis Valley.