Hauling field gear up Gothic Mountain…
This project investigates how rapid climate change is reshaping the mountain landscapes of the Upper Gunnison Basin. By combining advanced technology with traditional fieldwork, the research aims to track these environmental shifts in great detail. Using drones and sensors placed in forest gaps, the team will create 3D maps of temperature and humidity to better understand how trees manage water loss. Additionally, the project will build a sustainable network of weather stations to ensure a reliable, long-term record of local climate and snow conditions, preserving crucial historical data. The team will also continue vital ongoing monitoring efforts. This includes generating "Flower Forecasts" to predict wildflower blooms—verified by community "Flower Blitz" events —and using aerial imagery paired with tree-ring analysis to monitor forest health. All collected data feeds into the RMBL Spatial Data Platform, a digital atlas that provides detailed environmental maps to scientists and the public, helping us understand the resilience of these fragile high-altitude ecosystems.