**USGS Friday's Findings - September 13th, 2024**

**Title:** Restoration of Dry and Degraded Lands
**Date:** September 13, 2024, at 2:00-2:30 pm Eastern / 11:00 am-12:00 pm Pacific
**Speaker:** Seth Munson, Research Ecologist, USGS Southwest Biological Science Center

As environmental concerns intensify, the restoration of dry and degraded lands has become a critical area of research. On Friday, September 13, 2024, the US Geological Survey (USGS) will host an enlightening session as part of its Friday’s Findings series. This talk, led by Seth Munson, a research ecologist from the USGS Southwest Biological Science Center, will delve into the pressing issue of land degradation and methodologies for effective restoration.

Degraded lands often arise from a combination of natural phenomena and human activities, including deforestation, overgrazing, and climate change. These activities lead to the loss of vegetation cover, soil erosion, and a decline in land productivity, compromising ecosystems and local communities. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach encompassing scientific research, innovative restoration techniques, and sustainable land management practices.

Seth Munson has dedicated a significant part of his career to understanding and mitigating these challenges. His work involves investigating the resilience of dryland ecosystems and developing strategies to rehabilitate areas that have suffered severe degradation. During the session, Munson will share insights from his extensive research, including case studies and practical applications of restoration techniques.

Attendees will learn about the latest advancements in restoration science, including the use of native plants to stabilize soils, innovative irrigation methods to support vegetation recovery, and strategies to enhance biodiversity. Munson will also discuss how climate models and remote sensing technology are being utilized to identify and prioritize areas for restoration efforts.

Effective land restoration not only enhances environmental health but also provides socio-economic benefits. Rehabilitated lands can support agriculture, improve water retention, and sustain wildlife habitats, thereby contributing to community well-being and resilience against climate extremes.

The event will provide an opportunity for scientists, land managers, and the general public to engage with Munson's groundbreaking work and to consider how these strategies can be applied to other regions facing similar challenges. By disseminating this knowledge, the USGS hopes to foster a collaborative approach to land restoration that can be adapted and implemented worldwide.

Join us for this informative session to explore how scientific innovation and collaborative efforts are paving the way for the restoration of dry and degraded lands. Mighty repairs begin with miniature steps, and this event is a step towards a more sustainable future.

Remember to mark your calendars for September 13, 2024, from 2:00-2:30 pm Eastern / 11:00 am-12:00 pm Pacific. Let’s take this opportunity to learn, discuss, and contribute to the vital work of land restoration.