Central Alaska Network Small-Mammal Monitoring Project
Denali National Park and Preserve
The National Park Service’s small-mammal, long-term monitoring program has been ongoing in Denali National Park and Preserve since 1992. The program is part of the Central Alaska Network’s vital signs program to assess ecosystem health in the Denali. For the last eight years, we have invited youth to assist with the small mammal project for a week in Denali to provide an opportunity for mentorship from experienced biologists.
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The students are trained in trapping, data collection and animal handling techniques prior to the field work. The youth also receive training in backcountry skills, backpacking, bear safety and leave-no-trace camping techniques. For many of the students, this is their first experience backpacking and camping outside of a camp ground. The project employs fundamental methods in the scientific process (laying out grids, collecting data, methodical sampling) and field work (camping on site, back packing, handling animals, backcountry techniques and bear safety), providing a good and safe foundation for developing students into field scientists.
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For more information on this program, contact: Melanie Flamme