Research Support Facilities at the Adirondack Ecological Center

250万公顷的阿迪朗达克山脉构成了一个对生态研究具有巨大价值的生态系统。该地区的面积、生态群落的丰富多样性以及对人类发展的不同寻常的保护，为研究自然系统和人类对这些系统的影响提供了一个荒野特征。认识到这一潜力，1981年，纽约州立大学环境科学与林业学院开始升级现有的野外站，为生态研究提供一个最先进的基地。保障设施、大型历史数据库计算机化、长期生态综合监测组织等方面取得重大进展。在过去的五年中，通过阿迪朗达克生态中心进行的研究项目已经从20个增加到79个，其中包括17个国内和国际研究。目前有111名科学家和研究生参与研究（其中24名科学家来自外部机构）。由于缺乏足够的现代住房/研究支助设施，这种加速增长现在受到限制。该中心正在开发一个现代化的住房设施，将其容量从37个铺位扩大到97个。目前最需要的是自助餐厅式的用餐设施，包括厨房、卫生间和淋浴设施。这个项目将为该设施提供部分资金。

The 2.5 million hectare Adirondack Mountains constitute an ecosystem of enormous value to ecological research. The size of the area, rich diversity of ecological communities, and unusual protection from human development provide a region of wilderness character that allows investigation of natural systems and man's impact upon these systems. Recognizing this potential, in 1981 the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry began to upgrade an existing field station to provide a state-of-the-art base for ecological research. Major improvements were made in support facilities, in computerization of a large historical database, and in organization of a comprehensive long term ecological monitoring program. In the past five years, the research conducted through the Adirondack Ecological Center has grown from 20 to 79 projects, including 17 national and international studies. Currently there are 111 scientists and graduate students involved in research (24 of the scientists from outside institutions). This accelerated growth is now limited by the lack of adequate modern housing/research support facilities. The Center is developing a modern housing facility to expand its capacity from 37 bunk spaces to 97. The greatest need at the present time is a cafeteria-style dining facility, complete with kitchen, restrooms and shower facilities. This project will provide partial funding for that facility.