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Charting the course in species conservation

Innovative approaches
addressing emerging
conservation issues.

Working together to change the world.

Tackling challenges to
preserve native ecosystems.

Collaborating and partnering
for a successful future.

Creating creative conservation strategies.

Basic and Applied Ecological Research

Discover the pioneering world of environmental research at the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (SREL), a division of the University of Georgia. Specializing in both basic and applied ecological studies, SREL stands at the forefront of examining diverse ecological levels, ranging from atoms to ecosystems.

Situated near Aiken, South Carolina, SREL operates on the Savannah River Site, a Department of Energy facility renowned as the first National Environmental Research Park (NERP) in the USA. The lab’s pivotal location fuels its extensive research, which encompasses local ecological inquiries and branches out to impactful regional and global environmental projects.

Boasting a robust portfolio, SREL has contributed over 3,800 peer-reviewed publications to the field of ecology, underlining its commitment to advancing knowledge in environmental research, radioecology, remediation, environmental stewardship, and environmental health. Join us in exploring the depths of ecological science at SREL, where research transcends boundaries and fosters a sustainable future.

News

Wild Pig Management and the Science Behind Trapping

Following the Flow: How water movement impacts ecosystems and contaminants in a riparian wetland

SREL Brings Attention to Nonnative Species in the CSRA for National Invasive Species Awareness Week

Seeking Stability: How soft-release can improve outcomes for captive turtles released into fragmented environments

Turning Trash Into Treasure: How scientists are using peanut shells and rice husks to clean up toxic mercury in our environment

Faculty Spotlight

Travis DeVault

Dr. Travis DeVault first came to SREL while completing his Ph.D. at Purdue University and returned in 2019. He now holds the title of Associate Director for Research and Senior Research Scientist. His work focuses on reducing human-wildlife conflicts, particularly animal-vehicle collisions.

“When I retire, I hope I can look back and conclude that my work made a difference both for transportation safety and for wildlife conservation,” he says.

For future scientists, his advice is simple: “If you’re a good communicator, both in writing and when speaking, you’ll be way ahead of the game. Also, make time to read the current research in your field. You need to understand what has been done before you so you can effectively build upon that.”