Science-Art-Community Collaborations
The Environmental Institute develops collaborative solutions to critical environmental challenges facing society. Transdisciplinary teams of faculty, students, and external partners link innovative research with action on issues of AI and environment, energy and instructor, and coastal resilience. The EI integrates the natural and social sciences, with public policy, business, law, engineering, architecture, and data science.
The Virginia Coast Long-Term Ecological Research (VCR/LTER) project’s research activities focus on the mosaic of transitions and steady-state systems that comprise the barrier-island/lagoon/mainland landscape of the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Primary study sites are located on Hog Island, Parramore Island and mainland marshes near Nassawadox VA.
The VCR/LTER is administered through the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Virginia. Researchers from many other institutions participate in research. These include Boston University, East Carolina University, Old Dominion University, Utah State University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia Institute of Marine Science and the Nature Conservancy. The VCR/LTER is supported by National Science Foundation grants BSR-8702333-06, DEB-9211772, DEB-9411974, DEB-0080381, DEB-0621014, DEB-1237733, DEB-1832221 and DEB-2425178, and is part of the U.S. Long-term Ecological Research Network.
Residents of the Eastern Shore are facing increasing challenges from rising tides, stronger storms, and shifting environmental conditions. These changes are leading to more flooding, septic system backups, and salt intrusion into soil and water. This website provides information on what is happening, why, and resources available to help you live more securely.
Alongside the Hub, ESVA residents and experts from the University of Virginia and Old Dominion University are developing the interactive Livability Tool, an app designed to help local decision-makers understand which communities are most affected by these environmental changes and better plan for the future. While the Tool is designed for planners and officials, the Hub is here to connect all Eastern Shore residents with knowledge and solutions.
