VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1
TH E
L E A F L E T
NEWSLETTER DATE
Spring 2015 INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
SERVICE AND OUTREACH “ALL ABOUT PLANTS”
3
BES FACULTY PARTNER IN HBCU BIOLOGY NETWORK
5
STUDENTS IN CLASS ON THE WATER
6
BES CENTER OF EXCELLENCE RENEWAL
9
BES-CHINA REU
12
DR. BRUNO LEMKE VISITS BES
13
EXOTIC VEGETABLES FIELD DAY
13
SPECIAL POINTS OF INTEREST: Students Travel to China and Brazil Student Organizations Students participate in Internships and Co-Ops Faculty Awards and Recognitions BES Scholarship Recipients
DR. KEN WARD AND DR. RORY FRASER RETIRE FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES THANK YOU FOR 35 YEARS OF COMBINED SERVICE TO AAMU! Dr. Kenneth Elmer Ward (Ken to his colleagues and friends) is a native of Huntsville, Alabama. He attended Sparkman High School and graduated with a Bachelor’s and Master’s of Science degree in Biology (Ecology and Botany; minor in Chemistry) from the University of Alabama-Huntsville (UAH). He pursued his PhD at Mississippi State University (MSU) in Entomology with a minor in Statistics. Ken graduated with honors from UAH and earned Outstanding Graduate Student awards at both UAH and MSU. He received a postdoctoral fellowship with the USDA-ARS (Stoneville, MS) and pursued a
postdoctoral associate position with USDA-ARS (Gainesville, FL) prior to coming to Alabama A&M University (AAMU). He was a member of Beta Beta Beta Biological Society, Phi Kappa Phi and Sigma Xi. Ken has been an active member of the Society of American Foresters and the Entomological Society of America, where he has served in many capacities on several committees. As an avid birder and supporter of bird conservation, Ken is a member of the American Birding Association. He joined Alabama A&M University in September 1994 as an Assistant Professor and served as the forest protection specialist in the four-year profes-
Dr. Rory F. Fraser r eceived his Bachelor’s of Science degree from the University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, and went on to pursue a Master’s and PhD from Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA. He served approximately 5 years as a faculty member at West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV before joining the AAMU family as an Associate Professor in 2000. At AAMU, Dr. Fraser taught courses in Forest Economics, Environmental Economics, and Natural Resources Policy. As most of his former students can attest, Dr. Fraser maintained discipline in the classroom,
challenged students to think critically and produce high quality work, all while bringing out the very best in both undergraduate and graduate students.
Dr. Ken Ward retires from Alabama A&M
cont. Pg 7.
Dr. Fraser has made significant contributions to the advancement of AAMU’s mission in teaching, research and outreach/extension. During 2004 – 2005 he served as Director of the Center for Forest Ecosystems Assessment, Interim Director of the Center for Forestry and Ecology and Director of the USDA Center of Excellence in Forestry at AAMU. Dr. Fraser’s research interests include outreach to landowners, participation of cont. Pg 14.
Dr. Rory Fraser retires from Alabama A&M
THE LEAFLET
I
Page 2
THE CHAIR’S CORNER
am very excited to become part of the Alabama A&M Bulldogs family. I arrived in August from East Carolina University and I have not looked back. It has become very clear to me that our faculty are some of the hardest working and most dedicated professionals that I have seen. Their commitment to our students is unprecedented and I am motivated by their actions. As you are aware, our newly formed Department of Biological and
these departments has placed us in a very good position within the College of Agricultural Life and Natural Sciences at Alabama A&M. This year, we have one of the largest freshman classes entering our Department in many years, and the growth of our student body is unprecedented. We are in the midst of hiring several new faculty members and our offices and laboratories in Carter Hall and Carver Complex are slat-
conduct world-class research. We are excited about the commitment from our college and upper University administration to our mission. As you read this edition of our newsletter, you will see that our students and faculty members have been quite busy over this last
Environmental Sciences (BES) consist of two former departments: Biology, and Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences. The merger of
ed to undergo major renovations. the Department of Biological and The enhancement of our infra- Environmental Sciences. structure increases our capacity to train and teach students and to
year. Watch us now! We are on a mission to enhance our academic excellence and to make a difference in science and society. It is an exciting time for AAMU and
Dr. Anthony Overton Professor and Chair
BIOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE SCHOLARS @AAMU: DEMONSTRATING EXCELLENCE AND STRENGTHENING TRAINING IN
F
orecasted demographics suggest that the U.S.
needs to increase racial/ ethnic diversity in scientific professions because its economic viability depends on a diversified work-force. Diversity is rarely found among the ranks of science disciplines as most institutions produce few minority graduates. However, Alabama A&M University (AAMU) has been at the forefront of efforts to train minority students to assume leadership roles in environmental, biological and natural resource disciplines as evidenced in the College of Agricultural, Life, and Natural Sciences, which has over 90% AfricanAmerican student enrollment. The implementation of the BES Scholars Program at AAMU, provides scholarships and educa-
tional resources for 10 students majoring in environmental and natural resource sciences. This program strengthens the capacity and quality of programs in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences (BES) through intensive recruitment and retention efforts, the cultivation of academic competitiveness via rigorous curricula and extracurricular activities, and by providing experimental learning opportunities for BES Scholars through training in advanced and emerging instrumentation techniques performed in biological and environmental sciences. Our students receive multidisciplinary training through enhanced interactive environ-
mental curricula and applied research-based experiences which result in well-rounded students who are adequately trained and prepared for the environmental biology work force. This project is lead by Drs. Elica M. Moss, Irenus Tazisong, Monday Mbila and Florence Okafor. Funding: USDA-NIFA
BES Scholars @ AAMU: Kayla Lang-Biology Keana Smith-Environmental Science Shynna Dale-Environmental Science Kellon Banks-Environmental Science Savoris Ivy-Environmental Science Jasmine Jenkins-Biology DeMariah Koger-Environmental Science Alexis Smith-Environmental Science
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1
Page 3
BES FACULTY CONTRIBUTE TO AGROFORESTRY TRAINING AND EDUCATION IN SOUTHERN US Dr. Srinivasa Mentreddy and Dr. Colmore Christian served as resource persons at two recent Train -the-Trainers workshops held at Tuskegee University and in Raleigh, NC as part of a Southern SARE funded project. The focus of the October 18-19, 2014 Tuskegee workshop, which was coordinated by Dr. Uma Karki of Tuskegee University, was on educating trainers in Agroforestry Practice in the Southeastern Region. The Raleigh
workshop held during November 19-21, 2014 was coordinated by Dr. Joshua Idassi of North Carolina A&T University and focused on instructing female trainers in Agroforestry. The first workshop primarily targeted extension agents and outreach professionals. The NC workshop was designed to reach active female landowners/farmers, extension agents, and outreach profes-
sionals. During both workshops, Dr. Mentreddy presented on Forest Farming with emphasis on Forest Medicinal Plants, and Dr. Christian presented two lectures on Riparian Buffers and Ecosystem Services. Field visits and handson exercises helped to reinforce materials presented through classroom discussions at these workshops. Participants at the North Carolina & Tuskegee University workshops
SERVICE & OUTREACH “ALL ABOUT PLANTS” Dr. Ernst Cebert led a group of children from Jack and Jill of America on a tour of our departmental greenhouses and led hands-on activities. Kids ranged in age from 5 to 10 years old. They learned all about the various uses of the Canola and Aloe Vera Plants. The children also learned how a greenhouse operates and functions. Dr. Cebert showed them our hydroponics and fish garden-
ing exhibits. They quickly learned the difference between dirt (that stuff you find in the corner of your house) and soil, the natural material that nourishes plant growth and helps to sustain all forms of life. The children got their hands dirty during this event and planted their own garden pots with various special seeds.
“Start Dr. Cebert teaching future scientists
Here, Go Anywhere”
STUDENTS ATTEND NATIONAL FORESTRY CONVENTION IN UTAH
A
ndrew Lawhorn, President of the AAMU Forestry Club, won a travel award to attend this year’s annual convention of the Society of American Foresters in Salt Lake City for a week in early October as a diversity ambassador. Four other students and Dr. Stone accompanied
him to the national meeting which featured a quiz bowl (Andrew’s team made it to the semi-final’s this year!), scientific presentations, a trade show, summer job opportunities, and much more. Andrew was one of the four students that inter-
viewed and was hired by the USDA Forest Service during the trip. Participants also took time to explore the forests of nearby mountains and the State capitol during and after the convention.
Andrew Lawhorn and fellow classmates in Utah
THE LEAFLET
Page 4
STUDENT MILES WARD WINS $1,000 SCHOLARSHIP
M Miles Ward, Freshman Forestry Major
iles Ward is currently a freshman from Andalusia Alabama majoring in Forestry in the BES Department. He became interested in Forestry because of his aunt Deirdre Smith, who is an AAMU Forestry alum presently working with the US Forest Service. Miles participated in the summer forestry apprenticeship program hosted by Alabama A&M. He worked with faculty members and Ms. Steph-
anie Love of the USDA estimating the diversity of snakes, turtles, salamanders, and frogs at Wheeler Wildlife Refuge. He says, “This summer experience further convinced me that Forestry was the major for me.” Miles’ career goal is to work in forestry fire detail. Recently, Miles was selected to receive the Historically Black Colleges and Universi-
ties Scholarship from the National Organization of Professional Black Natural Resources Conservation Service Employees (NOPBNRCSE) in the amount of $1,000. Miles was recognized at the NOPBNRCSE 2014 Outreach & Ag Education Expo that was held December 6, 2014. The recognition took place during our Small Farmers Award Luncheon on Saturday, December 6th.
THE FORESTRY CLUB PARTICIPATES IN THE HOMECOMING PARADE The AAMU Student Chapter of the Society of American Foresters (aka., the Forestry Club) designed and built a float for the downtown parade for the 12th consecutive year. This year’s King and Queen, Cory and Latonya Tucker, participated in the coronation of Miss AAMU and presided over the Forestry Homecoming events including the parade (pictured), BBQ float-building party, and a tailgate alumni social during the game. The float featured the King and Queen on a decorated staircase with this year’s
WE OFFER FOUR UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS IN THE BES DEPARTMENT
theme, “Believe It!”, surrounded by a skirt of red cedar branches.
Biology Environmental Science Forestry Plant Biotechnology
DR. YONG WANG NAMED AMONG AMERICAN ORNITHOLOGISTS FELLOWS
D
r. Yong Wang was officially elected as a Fellow of the American Ornithologists' Union in September 2014 during the 32nd Stated Meeting at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado. At the time of elections, all nominees must be Elective Members of
the Union Fellows. Nominees are selected for eminence in ornithology. Fellows are able to nominate others for the status of Fellow or Elective Member, to hold any elective office in the AOU, and to attend the annual Fellows meeting and dinner, which are generally held on the first day of the AOU annual meeting.
Shynna Dale, Environmental Science Major
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1
Page 5
MENTREDDY RECEIVES TRAVEL AWARD Dr. Srinivasa Mentreddy received the National Education Association travel award from the HBCU Faculty Development Network to attend their 21st annual conference in Raleigh, North Carolina. The conference theme was Scholarly Teaching, Constructive Learning and Measurable Outcomes. Invited speakers presented topics on enhancing online pedagogy using online tools to teach at HBCUs, and integrating technology into our classrooms. Dr. Mentreddy will host a “Lunch and Learn� professional development session with the AAMU Education Association colleagues in 2015.
BES FACULTY PARTICIPATE IN THE ALABAMA BIOSCIENCES NETWORK The inaugural meeting of the HBCU-ALBN Network of Biologists and Life Scientists was held October 31, 2014 on the campus of Alabama State University in the New Life Sciences Building. The workshop brought together educators from Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the state of Alabama with the purpose of elucidating innovative strategies to make Biology and associated fields more relevant and interesting to 21st century
students. The founding members were given the opportunity to discuss challenges that were specific to their home institutions and ways in which the newly formed Network might be utilized to meet those challenges. In the afternoon session, guest speakers presented modern approaches to incorporate technology into the Biology classroom.
CHAMBERS HALL
Drs. Tyesha Farmer and Latasha Reese
THE LEAFLET
Page 6
BES STUDENTS TRAVEL TO BRAZIL “Building Global Engagements to Enhance Faculty and Students’ Professional Development and Career OpportuniƟes in Agriculture’s Challenge Areas”
Dr. Zachary Senwo and several undergraduate students from the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences along with students from Tuskegee University went on a journey to Brazil this summer to strengthen their global competence in food and agricultural sciences. They were introduced to South American culture and formed collaborative partnerships with institutions in Brazil. Students were on a mission to build and strengthen international relationships by embracing diversity and preparing themselves for a
culturally equal future in agriculture and related professions. They learned firsthand about technologies developed by the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation and adopted for Brazil’s agricultural production and food security. Students from the Alabama A&M Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences will be travelling back to Brazil during the summer of 2015. If you are interested in participating in this exciting program please contact Dr. Zachary Senwo (256) (Zachary.Senwo@aamu.edu)
Dr. Andrew Hugine and The First Lady travelled with BES students to Brazil
372-4216
BES–FISHERIES & WILDLIFE STUDENTS OUT ON THE WATER
S
tudents in fish and wildlife courses took the opportunity to sample fish in the Tennessee River, the Flint River, Paint Rock River, Aldridge Creek, and Brierfork Creek (on the WTARS property) this semester (pictures). Many species were captured, measured and (mostly) released including some large-mouth bass Electroshocking, seine
nets, and traditional angling were all used to capture fish. Additionally, students were able to measure water quality, benthic invertebrates, and mussels. Students that participated in the intensive “fish camp” were also able to observe a demonstration of an aquaculture-aquaponics system designed and built by Heather Howell and previous fisheries students at AAMU.
Are you an alumnus and want to give back to the BES Department? Call us at (256)3724214. We would love to hear from you and reconnect.
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1
Page 7
DR. KEN WARD RETIRES (CONT. FROM PG.1) Natural Resource Management, Forest Protection, Forest Pest Management and Insect Biology and Pest Management. He assisted in teaching Ecological Processes, Biometry, Forestry Field Techniques and Forest Recreation. He has skill and special expertise in tree identification, genetic and sibling analysis, scanning electron microscopy, Xray microanalysis, spectrophotometry, gas chromatography, and carabid beetle identification. In partnership with Auburn University (AU) and USDA-ARS (Stoneville, MS), Ken was involved in the development of biological control methods for large-scale management of imported fire ant (IFA) populations. Ken had a key role in the release of several phorid fly species (popularly called decapitating flies) and inoculation of the microsporidian parasite, Thelohania solenopsae, in north Alabama and western Mississippi for the control of imported fire ants. He served as a member of the eXtension Community of Practice for IFA, an integrated online go-to website for “all things IFA” and one of the model eXtension CoPs nationwide. Ken’s work on honey bees was initiated in response to a request by local beekeepers to evaluate the impact of honey bees on cotton production. In collaboration with USDAARS scientist, Dr. Robert Danka, his wife, Dr. Rufina Ward, and several Alabama beekeepers, Ken evaluated bee stocks for their resistance to Varroa mite, one of the most destructive pests of honey bees. Ken’s leadership in the initiation and development of the forestry program and its subsequent accreditation by SAF and SACS is widely recognized by his peers. With SAF accreditation in 2003, AAMU’s Forestry program is strengthened and its place on the national map secured. Subsequently, Ken successfully led the Forestry, Ecology and Wildlife Program’s (FEWP) efforts in the 10year extension of SAF accreditation. As FEWP coordinator, Ken’s other major contribution, which stands second only to achieving SAF accreditation, is his leadership and pioneering efforts in the establishment of the
McIntire-Stennis (MS) cooperative research program at AAMU. As the first MS Technical Administrator, he assisted the Dean in negotiating the largest state reallocation of the McIntire-Stennis Grant. Beyond this, his responsibilities included identifying matching funds, developing, reviewing and reporting on proposals, facilitating research projects and coordinating with the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. He also successfully implemented, administered, coordinated and enhanced the Center of Excellence (COE) program which serves as the focal point of FEWP. As COE program coordinator, he helped in strengthening AAMU’s relationships with the USDA-FS Southern Research Station, Alabama Forestry Commission, USDA-FS Alabama National Forests, Birmingham Water Works Board, and The Nature Conservancy, and supported the establishment of the FireDawgs program, which offers hands-on training in prescribed burning and wildland firefighting. After 20 years of service as a faculty member at AAMU, including serving as the Coordinator of the Forestry, Ecology and Wildlife Program for the last seven years, Ken was honored by the USDA Forest Service at the Center of Excellence in Forestry meeting in Asheville, NC this past summer. During Homecoming week, several forestry alumni organized a special program in recognition of his contributions toward their professional and personal development. Stephanie Love, Ben Battle, Reginald Randolph, Julian Bergin and others spoke to a large crowd in the ARC auditorium during this special brunch to pay tribute to Ken for his contributions to the program. Faculty and staff honored him with gifts to encourage his hobbies in music, guitar playing, and birding. Ken also immensely enjoys reading and his library includes an eclectic collection of books and magazines on history, music, sports, biography, birds, gardening, and naturizing. Though retired, Ken plans to remain in Huntsville and actively teach as an adjunct professor at AAMU.
Did you know that we are now offering a new Degree program in Plant Biotechnology?
STUDENTS’ CORNER Page 8
THE LEAFLET
URBANA UNIVERSITY TRANSFER STUDENT FEELS AT HOME HERE IN BES
D
arnell Dunson, originally from Dayton Ohio, is a transfer student from Urbana University. Darnell was attracted to Alabama A&M because the University ranked seventh in placing African-American scientists into the workforce. He was also attracted to the environmental science program, as few HBCUs offer this major. Darnell prefers Alabama A&M over Urbana University because “Alabama A&M offers more opportunities to go out and explore. It offers many more internship and scholarship opportunities than Urbana University”. Darnell feels that AAMU faculty and staff work for and with the students to help them achieve their goals and he has developed a close working relationship with faculty and staff here. He says that at his former University, he did not have ample interaction with his instructors, even though the school was much smaller. Darnell aspires to one day work for the United States Department of Agriculture. Currently, he works part-time processing different types of soil samples with Dr. Dedrick Davis, a soil physicist in the BES Department. According to Darnell, “Working closely with research faculty is what I enjoy most about A&M”.
STUDENT VICTORIA WOMACK INTERNS WITH USDA
V
ictoria Womack, a junior Biology Pre-Professional and Animal Science Bio-health major, spent her summer as an intern at the USDA Diagnostic Virology Laboratory in Ames, Iowa. She worked closely with researchers and studied the effect of different extraction methods on PCR amplification of Bluetongue Virus (BTV) and Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (EHDV). This internship was sponsored through the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund. Victoria states “it was a wonderful experience that opened my eyes to a different career path in the field of Veterinary Medicine”. She has now gained skills and exposure that will be useful throughout her career. Victoria’s mentor was impressed by her ability and laboratory acumen and subsequently offered her the opportunity to return next summer and possibly work full time after graduation.
STUDENTS: ARE YOU INTERESTED IN WORKING IN ANY OF THE MANY LABS IN OUR DEPARTMENT???? CONTACT YOUR ADVISOR FOR AVAILABLE OPPORTUNITIES.
Q & A with Environmental Health Science Student, Antoinette Fowlkes Comment on some of your success in the BES program. I am a native of Birmingham, AL currently pursuing a B.S degree in Environmental Science with a concentration in Environmental Health. I have maintained a 3.6 GPA and received recognition from the President’s List, Dean’s List, Honor Roll and numerous other academic recognitions. I stay involved on campus through community service and campus involvement. I recently served as President of the Environmental Science Club, Parliamentarian of the Honors Program, and Historian of the AAMU Student Ambassadors. I have had the opportunity to represent Alabama A&M University and the Biological and Environmental Science Department as a summer research student at Nanjing Forestry University. I presented my research at the College of Undergraduate Research in Washington D.C. Recently, I took advantage of a two term environmental co-op opportunity with Toyota Manufacturing of Alabama where I served for eight months.
How has the BES Department helped you in your academic pursuits? The BES department has helped me by giving me the opportunity to shine as a student leader amongst my peers. This department has challenged me to take every opportunity head on and give it my best no matter the situation. The BES department has helped to prepare me for a career in Environmental Science by ensuring that I have had the proper academic training and professional exposure. What are some of the benefits of environmental science/ environmental health careers? The benefits of having an environmental science/ environmental health career are that you have the opportunity to solve the problems endangering the earth and its inhabitants. You conduct research; interpret findings and present information to appropriate agencies. You have the opportunity to travel across the world and do field work while interacting with people of various cultures, races, and ethnicities. What are your career goals? My career goals are to graduate Alabama A&M University and pursue a Master’s degree in Environmental Health and Safety. Upon receiving my master’s degree I would like to travel the world creating and implementing environmental sustainability projects that help to improve the lives of many.
Page 9
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1
AAMU US-EPA CENTER OF EXCELLENCE FOR WATERSHED MANAGEMENT SEEKS 5-YEAR RENEWAL
T
he US-EPA Center of Excellence in Watershed Management (CoEWM) at Alabama A&M University’s (AAMU) Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences is applying for a five year renewal to continue providing research, education, and public outreach in watershed management to northern Alabama and beyond. In 2009, Alabama A&M University was recognized by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) as the first HBCU to become a designated Center of Excellence for Watershed Management. This is the fifth designated CoEWM in the southeast and the second for the state of Alabama. AAMU’s CoEWM seeks to be the primary resource and leader to help local communities identify and solve watershed based problems with scientifically valid and sustainable solutions. The CoEWM utilizes a diverse group of water resources experts that provide superior research, planning, and educational outreach to all stakeholders. The CoEWM provides a unique, high quality hands-on educational experience for students of all ages and backgrounds in all aspects of watershed management. Current research areas include: watershed management, hydrology, water quality (including nutrient, pesticide, and bacterial tracking), stream biological assessments, and freshwater fisheries. Our pro-
Students survey for freshwater fish with a backpack electroshocker. jects support integrative research teams composed of high school interns, undergraduate and graduate students, and trained faculty and staff representing Biology, Wildlife, Environmental Sciences, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Engineering fields. We are able to survey a variety of aquatic environments from tiny springs and wetlands, to boating on the Tennessee River. Our outreach includes classroom based instruction, hands-on field training, and our interactive watershed model, the Stream Trailer. Complimenting and enriching our research environment is the newly created Geospatial Research and Education Center (GREC). GREC is funded through a USDA-NIFA Capacity Building Grant (Award Number: 2013-38821-21130). Through this Center, we will continue our tradition of teaching, research, and outreach in the areas of GIS, GPS, remote sensing, and Expert Systems. GREC utilizes these technologies to focus on developing edu-
The Stream Trailer is incredibly popular at public fairs and exhibits.
cational applications and research to improve natural resource management and training the next generation of scientists and managers. This will be accomplished by integrating high-tech computer facilities with expertise of the faculty and staff to evaluate complex Ms. Stephanie Whitaker, former Enviproblems and provide ronmental Science graduate student solutions for more effective studied hydrology of the Flint River natural resource Watershed under the guidance of Dr. Wubishet Tadesse. management and teaching strategies. The Center will also serve as a multidisciplinary center supporting spatial education research, and outreach activities related to the utilization of spatial and non-spatial digital data and tools for manipulation and for the analysis and storage of these data sets to provide users with tools to manage natural and cultural features of the environment. Dr. Ken Ward– BES Farm Day 2014
Page 10
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1
ALUMNI CORNER DR. TERRELL S. GIBBS, PH.D., P.E.
D
r. Terrell Gibbs, a native of Huntsville, AL, attended James Oliver Johnson High School where he graduated in the top 10 percent of his class. Upon graduating from high school, Dr. Gibbs attended Alabama A&M University on scholarship where he majored in Environmental Science in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences (formerly Plant and Soil Science). After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science in 1997, Dr. Gibbs enrolled at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) to pursue a Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering. While at UAH, Dr. Gibbs was awarded the Alabama Space Grant Consortium Fellowship. After earning his MSE degree in 2001, Dr. Gibbs went on to work for private industry for 10 years. In 2008, he earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Management (formerly Applied Management and Decision Sciences) from Walden University. In 2009, Dr. Gibbs obtained his current position as Deputy Director of the Rockdale County Department of Water Resources in Conyers, GA where he is responsible for the management and day-to-day operations of the water supply, water treatment, wastewater collections, wastewater treatment, and engineering groups. Dr. Gibbs is a registered professional engineer in both the State of Georgia and State of Alabama and is a member of Omega Psi Phi, fraternity, Inc. (Alabama A&M - Nu Epsilon Chapter), American Water Works Association, Georgia Association of Water Professionals, National Society of Black Engineers, and the American Society of Civil Engineers, Dr. Gibbs credits a large degree of his success to the tutelage he received at Alabama A&M University, specifically within BES. “The nurturing and family environment along with the expectation of greatness and success fostered by BES faculty members (such as Dr. MacArthur Floyd, Dr. Chandra Reddy, Dr. William Belisle, Dr. Oscar Montgomery, Dr. Zachary Senwo, and Dr. Charles Taylor) help to create in me a spiritual toughness to engage and conquer the numerous social and political obstacles a person of color faces when ascending the academic and professional ranks. Some institutions consider themselves a capstone or pinnacle to one’s academic pursuits. A capstone does not exist without first a cornerstone being placed by which all other stones and appurtenances are supported to include the capstone. Alabama A&M University is that cornerstone. “
RECRUITING ACTIVITIES The BES Faculty and Staff participated in several recruitment events held on campus and across the state of Alabama in a vigorous effort to recruit the best and brightest students to our Department this year. Recruiting events included:
Presidential Bus Tour (throughout the state of Alabama)
AAMU High School Senior Day
Thomasville College and Career Expo
Perry County Recruitment Fair
White Creek-High School-TN
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1
Page 11
BES STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS Beta Kappa Chi Faculty Advisor: Mr. Wiley Henderson wiley.henderson@aamu.edu Biology Club Faculty Advisor: Dr. Sampson Hopkinson sampson.hopkins@aamu.edu Environmental Science Club President: Leslie Munroe
BES-Student on High School Senior Day
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Elica M. Moss elica.moss@aamu.edu FireDawgs Faculty Advisor: Daryl Lawson daryllawson1958@gmail.com Forestry Club
STUDENTS
President: Andrew Lawhorn alawhorn@bulldogs.aamu.edu
Please
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Kozma Naka, kozma.naka@aamu.edu
Consider
National Society for Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences President: Victoria Womack vwomack3@bulldogs.aamu.edu Faculty Advisor: Dr. Colmore Christian
Joining One of our Student Organizations
colmore.christian@aamu.edu MAPS Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students Faculty Advisor: Dr. Florence Okafor florence.okafor@aamu.edu Pre-Professional Club Faculty Advisors: Dr. Jeanette Jones jeanette.jones@aamu.edu Dr. Tyesha Farmer tyesha.farmer@aamu.edu AAMU Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society President: Andrew Cantrell, andrew.cantrell@aamu.edu Faculty Advisor: Dr. William Stone william.stone@aamu.edu
2013 REU Participants and Mentors visiting the northern Jiangsu Province, including the poplar tree plantation and industry base at Shiyang County
BES STUDENTS TRAVEL TO CHINA BES Department Hosts a National Science Foundation REU Site In China: Ecological and Environmental Research in Urbanized Landscape Drs. Yong Wang & Elica M. Moss
T
he partnership between Alabama A&M University (AAMU) and Nanjing Forestry University (NFU) led to the development of a three-year Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program in China, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) in 2011. The primary goal of the NSF REU program is to provide research experiences to undergraduate students who plan to pursue an advanced degree in the sciences. Over 50% of the student participants in the China-REU program are underserved mi2014 REU Participants and Mentors in front of a statue on the norities with limited research experi- campus of Nanjing Forestry University. ence. In the summer of 2012, twelve students from six different institutions across the USA dexterity through the immersion in Chinese culture. and five faculty/staff members participated in this pro- Research topics included the following: Impact of Angram. In the second funding year (summer 2013), thir- thropogenic Disturbance on the Avian Communities of teen students and six faculty/staff participated in the Nanjing, China; Comparison of Nitrification in Poplar program. In the final funding year (summer of 2014), and Metasequoia Plantations; Urbanizing in Nanjing, eight undergraduate students from seven different China from 1995-2011; Bat Foraging and Insect Cominstitutions across the U.S. (including AAMU), three munities in Three Habitat Types in Nanjing, China; AAMU graduate students, and eight faculty/staff par- Adsorption Behavior of Black Carbon in Urban Forest ticipated in the REUG (Research Experiences for Un- and Traffic District Soils toward Heavy Metal Ions dergraduates and Graduates) program. Altogether, the (Cu, Zn); and Occurrence of Typical Antibiotics in China-REU program has hosted 33 undergraduate stu- Huai River and Hongze Lake, Eastern China. dents, seven graduate students, and 19 faculty memThe establishment of a Confucius Institute on the cambers. pus of AAMU further underscores the strength of our This research training experience provided the students partnership with NFU. The Institute is scheduled to with much needed hands-on exposure to the environ- roll out in Spring 2015. The first Chinese language and mental sciences and fostered the development of spe- cultural classes were offered Fall 2014. In addition, cialized skills that will make them more competitive in AAMU is hosting the first NFU exchange students today’s job market, thereby increasing the diversity of during the 2014-2015 academic year. A dual degree the STEM workforce. The students participated in opportunity for AAMU students to study 1-2 semesters relevant urban ecology research and gained cultural at NFU is also currently underway.
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1
Page 13
INTERNATIONAL RESEARCHER DR. BRUNO LEMKE PARTICIPATES IN BES SEMINAR SERIES
Dr. Bruno Lemke launched the 2014-2015 BES departmental seminar series on October 15th with an excellent presentation on heat stress in rural workplaces. Dr. Lemke is an international researcher based in New Zealand with a multidisciplinary team whose research focus integrates human physiological response with broader scale environmental concerns, an approach very relevant to our Departmental objective combining biology and environmental
sciences. In his presentation, Dr. Lemke discussed several mechanisms that can lead to heat stress in workers, particularly workers in rural settings in contrast to other vulnerable groups such as the elderly. He reviewed the use of heat indexes to highlight the individual and regional health and productivity cost of heat stress on rural workers now and in the future. The US and Southern Asia
were used as examples in the development of meaningful heat stress information for current and future issues relating to health, productivity and economic output. More information about his research can be found at www.climatechip.org. Dr. Bruno Lemke is the father of BES faculty member Dr. Dawn Lemke.
Dr. Bruno Lemke, Professor at Australian National University and Sri Ramachandra University
MEDICINAL PLANTS AND EXOTIC VEGETABLES FIELD DAY 2014
BES Department
“Development of Ethnic Vegetable Crops as Niche Market Cash Crops to Sustain Small Farms in Alabama”
the Rise:
Student Enrollment on Student Enrollment has risen 12% since
The 10th Annual Field Day was held on August 16, 2014 to showcase medicinal herbs and exotic vegetable crops at the Alabama A&M University Winfred Thomas Agricultural Research Station, Hazelgreen, AL. Dr. Rao Mentreddy hosted the event. The Medicinal Plants Research Program was initiated in 2005 with funding from the USDA-Evans Allen Program. Specialty vegetable crops were planted in demonstration plots with additional funding from the Alabama Agriculture Land Grant Alliance, an initiative to promote collaborative research among Alabama A&M University, Tuskegee University and Auburn
2012. Graduate
University. Jointly sponsored by Alabama A&M University and North Alabama Food Policy Council and Food Bank of North Alabama, the annual field days are hosted in August of each year and generally attract 75 to 90 individuals. The participants are comprised of farmers, gardeners, extension service professionals and community members. As a result of funding from the USDA-Specialty Crops Block Grant program administered by the Alabama State Department of Agriculture and Industry, specialty crops such as Hispanic, Chinese, and Indian
Student Enrollment has risen an unprecedented 63%
vegetable crops, are now heavily promoted.
sine 2012. Current Enrollment: 496Undergradaute
Cooking demonstrations were held to educate attendees on how to utilize these new exotic crops. Due to popular demand, in 2014, Ms. Phyllis Light, a practicing certified herbalist, was invited to speak about various common medicinal active plants for the treatment of different ailments and to demonstrate the preparation of tinctures, balms, and salves.
106-Graduate
THE LEAFLET
Page 14
DR RORY FRASER RETIRES (CONT. FROM PG.1) community-based forestry. Dr. Fraser is highly respected by his colleagues and peers as an excellent scientist, motivator, team-leader, visionary, and outspoken professional. These qualities were all the more evident when, as Project Investigator (PI), he coordinated the efforts of a multidisciplinary, interdepartmental team of faculty members and researchers to secure AAMU’s successful bid for a $5,000,000 NSF-CREST grant in 2005. In his capacity as Faculty Senate President (2009-2011), Dr. Fraser was very vocal and vigilant in defense of faculty rights, interests, and issues. He fought tirelessly for the benefit of all faculty members on the A&M campus. As Faculty Senate President and an official non-voting member of AAMU’s Board of Trustees, Dr. Fraser secured official office
space for the Faculty Senate and served on the search committee for the 11th President of the University. Dr. Fraser’s decided to retire in the summer of 2014 and his departure has left a great void in the Forestry, Ecology and Wildlife Program (FEWP), Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences (BES), as well as the College of Agricultural, Life and Natural Sciences (CALNS). Faculty and staff of FEWP, BES and CALNS extend best wishes to Dr. Fraser and his family during his retirement. Many of us will undoubtedly continue to privately call on him to share his wisdom, insights and expertise.
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1
GIVE TO THE DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
A
Page 15
Contact Us Dr. Anthony Overton-Department Chair
lums of Alabama A&M University can show their support of the BES Department through donations. Your contributions help provide many of the resources needed to afford our students an exceptional education experience at Alabama A&M.
Dr. Florence Okafor-Biology Program Coordinator
Each donation made to the BES Department:
Dr .William Stone-Forestry Program Coordinator
Ensures that the legacy of excellence passes on to the next generation Provides students with opportunities to develop and hone skills that will make them successful and competitive Invests in programs that make a huge difference in the educational experience of our students Enhances the prestige and notoriety of the Department and the University
Call 256-372-4214 for more details.
Dr. Tadesse Wubishet-Environmental Science Program Coordinator
Administrative Support Ms. Martha Palmer, Ms. Penny Stone, Ms. Petura McCaa-Burke, Ms. Kimi Sangalang Ms. Rachelle Eggenburger Address:
Alabama A&M University Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences Carver Complex-Thomas Wing P.O. Box 1208 Normal, AL 35762 Tele 256-372-4214 Fax 256-372-4264
“The Leaflet” Editors: Dr. Elica Moss, Dr. Anthony Overton, Mrs. Faith Smith, & Dr. Tyesha Farmer
Newsletter History: ”The Leaflet” was named in 2015 by Ms. Antoinette Fowlkes who won the BES “Name the Newsletter” contest. Ms. Fowlkes is a senior Environmental Sciences major from Birmingham, Alabama.
Contributors: Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences Faculty, Staff, & Students
2014 BES PUBLICATIONS Cantrell, A., L. Lei, Y. Wang, Z. W. Zhang, and J. Q. Li. 2014. Ectoparasites and other invertebrates in the nests of the Hair-crested Drongo (Dicrurus hottentottus). Chinese Birds 4314-318. Cantrell, Andrew; Lei Lv; Zhengwang Zhang; Yong Wang; and Jianqiang Li. 2014. Ectoparasites and other invertebrates in the nests of the Hair-crested Drongo (Dicrurus hottentottus). Chinese Birds 4(4): 31-318. Chen X, Wu, S. 2014. Examining the patterns of animal-vehicle accidents in Alabama. Human-Wildlife Interactions 8: 235-244. Chen X. 2014. A Case Study of Monitoring Emission from CO2 Enhanced Oil Recovery by Remote Sensing Data. Energy and Environmental Research 4: 33-42. Choi, C., X. Gan, N. Hua, Yong Wang, Z. Ma (2014). The habitat use and home range analysis of Dunlin (Calidris alpina) in Chongming Dongtan, China and their conservation implications. Wetlands. 34 255. Choi, C., X. Gan, N. Hua, Y. Wang, Z. Ma. 2014. The habitat use and home range analysis of Dunlin (Calidris alpina) in Chongming Dongtan, China and their conservation implications. Wetlands 34: 255-266. Choi, Chiyeung; Xiaojing Gan; Ning Hua; Yong Wang; and Zhijun Ma. 2014. The habitat use and home range analysis of Dunlin (Calidris alpine) in Chongming Dongtan, China and their conservation implications. Wetlands 34(2): 255-266. Clark, Stacy L. S.E. Schlarbaum, Callie Jo Schweitzer (2014). Graded Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra) Seedlings Have Better Growth Five Years After Planting in a Shelterwood Harvest. In: Holley, G.; Haywood, D., Connor, K. eds. 201X. Proceedings, 17th Biennial Southern Silvicultural Conference; 2013 March 5-7, 2013; Shreveport, LA. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. SRS-GTR. Conner, Padraic T., Yong Wang, Callie Jo Schweitzer (2014). Influence of Three Management Prescriptions to Above-Ground Carbon and Subsequent Impacts to Herpetofauna and Small Mammal Habitat and Populations in an Upland Hardwood Forest on the Cumberland Plateau. In: Holley, G.; Haywood, D., Connor, K. eds. 2013. Proceedings, 17th Biennial Southern Silvicultural Conference; 2013 March 5-7, 2013; Shreveport, LA. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-156. Cowden, M., Justin Hart, Callie Jo Schweitzer (2014). Effects of intermediate-scale wind disturbance on forest composition, structure, and succession with implication for natural disturbance-based management. Forest Ecology and Management. Dey, Daniel C., Callie Jo Schweitzer (2014). Considering Fire Damage to Hardwoods in Sustaining Oak Forests Using Prescribed Burning. In: Holley, G.; Haywood, D., Connor, K. eds. 201X. Proceedings, 17th Biennial Southern Silvicultural Conference; 2013 March 5-7, 2013; Shreveport, LA. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-#. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research. SRSGTR. Dey, Daniel C., Callie Jo Schweitzer (2014). Restoration for the Future: Endpoints, Targets, and Indicators of Progress and Success. Journal of Sustainable Forestry. 33. Garner, K. 2014. Simple Easy and Inexpensive Ways to Go Green. UNP- 2081. November. George, P. L., T. D. Ranatunga, S. S. Reddy, and G. C. Sharma. 2014. A comparative analysis of mineral elements in the mycelia and the fruiting bodies of shiitake mushrooms. American Journal of Food Technology, 9: 360-369. He, Z., ZN Senwo, H Zou, IA Tazisong, DA Martens. 2014. Amino acids and sugars in poultry litter, litter-amended pasture soil and grass shoots. Pedosphere. 24(2): 178-185. Herbert, Berneece; and Colmore Christian. 2014. Regional tourism at the cross-roads: perspectives of Caribbean Tourism Organization’s stakeholders. Journal of Sustainable Development 7 (1): 17-32. DOI: 10.5539/jsd.v7n1p17 Isikhuemhen, OS., NA Mikiashivili, ZN Senwo, E Ohimain. 2014. Biodegradation and sugar release from Canola plant biomass by selected white rot fungi. Adv. in Biol. Chemistry, 4:395-406. Jackson, J. and E. Moss. 2014. The Effects of Forest Management Practices on the Community Structure of Chemolithotropic Bacteria in the Bankhead National Forest. CSA/ASA/SSSA Annual Meeting, Long Beach, California. Legaspi, J., D. Amalin, R. Ward and B. Legaspi. 2014. Trichogramma spp. as biological control agents in the Philippines: History and current practice. In Augmentative Biological Control Using Trichogramma spp.: Current Status and Perspectives. S. B. Vinson, S. Greenberg, T.X. Liu and L. F. Volsciuc (eds.). Northwest A&F University Press, China Books (In press). Li, J., Y. Liu, Y. Wang, Z. Zhang. 2014. Extra-pair paternity in two sympatric Aegithalos tits: patterns and implications. Journal of Ornithology 155: 83-90. Li, Jianqiang, Lei Lv, Chang Gao, Zhengwang Zhang, Yong Wang. 2014. Do parents and helpers discriminate between related and unrelated nestlings in the cooperative breeding Silver-throated Tit? Ethology. 120(2): 159-168. Li, Jianqiang, Y. Liu, Yong Wang, Zhengwang Zhang (2014). Extra-pair paternity in two sympatric Aegithalos tits: patterns and implications. Journal of Ornithology. 155 83. Mojica-Howell, M., CHRISTIAN, C. S., and R. Fraser. (2014). Attitudes and Perceptions on Potential Development of Nature-based Enterprises among Landowners in Alabama's Black Belt. Journal of Sustainable Development, 7(6):182-194. DOI: 10.5539/jsd.v7n6p182; URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.5539/jsd.v7n6p182.
Obeng, E., E. Cebert, R. Ward, L. Nyochembeng, D. Mays, H. Singh and B. Sigh. 2014. Insect incidence and damage on pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) under different nitrogen regimes. Florida Entomologist (In press; December issue). P. L. George, T. D. Ranatunga, S. S. Reddy, and G. C. Sharma. 2014. A comparative analysis of mineral elements in the mycelia and the fruiting bodies of shiitake mushrooms. American Journal of Food Technology, 9: 360-369. Pinchot, C.C., S.E. Schlarbaum, Stacy L. Clark, Callie Jo Schweitzer, A.M. Saxton (2014). Impact of silvicultural treatment on chestnut seedling growth and survival. Acta Horticulturae. Ranatunga, T. D., K. N. Bhat, and R. W. Taylor. 2014. Forms of Extractable Fe and Al in Forest Soils Subjected to Prescribed Burning and Thinning Treatments. CSA/ASA/SSSA Annual Meeting, Long Beach, California. Ranatunga, T. D., K. N. Bhat, C.P. Schulthess, and R. W. Taylor. 2014. Factors Affecting Copper Sorption in Soil. CSA/ASA/SSSA Annual Meeting, Long beach, California. Schweitzer, Callie Jo, Daniel C. Dey (2014). The Conundrum of Creating Understory Light Conditions Conducive to Promoting Oak Regeneration: Midstory Herbicide Treatment Versus Prescribed Fire. In: Holley, G.; Haywood, D., Connor, K. eds. 201X. Proceedings, 17th Biennial Southern Silvicultural Conference; 2013 March 5-7, 2013; Shreveport, LA. Gen. Tech. Rep. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research. GTR-SRS. Schweitzer, Callie Jo, Dawn Lemke, Yong Wang, Wubishet Tadesse (2014). Assessing How Forest Management Influences Biomass Changes in the Bankhead National Forest, Alabama. In: Holley, G.; Haywood, D., Connor, K. eds. 201X. Proceedings, 17th Biennial Southern Silvicultural Conference; 2013 March 5-7, 2013; Shreveport, LA. Gen.Tech. Rep. SRS-#. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research. SRS-GTR. Schweitzer, Callie Jo, K.W. Gottschalk, Stacy L. Clark, J. Stringer, R. Sitzlar (2014). Daniel Boone National Forest Kentucky: Progressive Partnerships Benefit Sustaining Forests. Journal of Forestry. Senwo, Z. 2014. Agricultural advances: An organic revolution. www.researchmedia.eu International Innovation. Issue 135:68-70. Spencer, R. and K. Golson-Garner. 2014. Livestock Medicines: Responsible Storage and Disposal. UNP-2071. ACES. September. Steven, D. de, Callie Jo Schweitzer, S.C. Hughes, J.A. Stanturf (2014). Reforesting Agricultural Lands in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley: Effects on Silvicultural Methods on Understory Plant Diversity. In: Holley, G.; Haywood, D., Connor, K. eds. 201X. Proceedings, 17th Biennial Southern Silvicultural Conference; 2013 March 5-7, 2013; Shreveport, LA. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. SRS-GTR. Stringer, Brandie K., Yong Wang, Callie Jo Schweitzer (2014). Forest CanopyManipulation and Breeding Bird Responses: Treatment-and Temporal-Dependent Patterns. In: Holley, G.; Haywood, D., Connor, K. eds. 201X. Proceedings, 17th Biennial Southern Silvicultural Conference; 2013 March 5-7, 2013; Shreveport, LA. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. SRS GTR. Sutton, W., H. A. Czech, Y. Wang, and C. J. Schweitzer 2014. New records of amphibians and reptiles from Alabama, USA. Herpetological Review 45(2): 293-294. Sutton, William B.; Yong Wang; Callie J. Schweitzer; and David A. Steen. 2014. Lizard microhabitat and microclimate relationships in southeastern pine-hardwood forests managed with prescribed burning and thinning. Forest Science 60(1): 180-190. ISSN: 0015-749X Tazisong, I.A., Z. N. Senwo, B. J. Cade-Menun, and Z. He. 2014. Phosphorus forms and mineralization potentials of Alabama upland cotton production soils amended with poultry litter. pp. 191 – 209. In Z. He and H. Zhang (eds.). Applied Manure and Nutrient Chemistry for Sustainable Agriculture and Environment. Springer publisher Tazisong, I.A., Z.N. Senwo, and Z. He. 2014. Elemental composition and functional groups in light organic matter fraction, humic and fulvic acids of Decatur Silt Loams under a long term cropping system study. (In press). Wang, Y., and G. M. Zheng. 2014. Editorial: Avian Research. Journal of Avian Research. 5:1. http://www.avianres.com/content/5/1/1 Wang, Yong; and Guangmei Zheng. 2014. Editorial for the new journal: A vian Research. Avian Research (formerly Chinese Birds) 5:1. doi:10.1186/s40657-014-0001-y Weber, T., Justin Hart, Callie Jo Schweitzer, Daniel Dey (2014). Influence of gap-scale disturbance on development and succession in a Cumberland Plateau Quercus-Pinus forest (submitted April 28). Forest Ecology and Management. Wen, L., H. He, Y. Wang, J. Gorimar, and M. Liu. 2014. Potential effects of climate change on the Chinese Bulbul (Pycnontus sinensis) in China. Biologia 69(11): 1625-1630. White, S.D., Justin L. Hart, Callie Jo Schweitzer (2014). Woody regeneration in a southern Appalachian Quercus stand following wind damage and salvage logging (submitted April 2014). Journal of Sustainable Forestry. Zak, J.C., Luben Dimov, Callie Jo Schweitzer (2014). Initial ground vegetation response to prescribed burning and thinning on the Southern Cumberland Plateau (submitted Oct 29). Southeast Naturalist Journal. 2014 BES FUNDING Cultivating 21st Century Workforce Diversity in Agricultural and Natural Resource Conservation Cultivating 21st Century Workforce Diversity in Agricultural and Natural Resource Conservation. Bolden-Tiller, Zachary Senwo, Elica M. Moss et al. (Tuskegee University and Alabama A&M University). USDA-NIFA