Category: News

By Tyjaha Steele

Amanda Hurst, an Augusta University alum and acting Community Engagement Specialist at the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (SREL), recently returned to her alma mater as a guest speaker in Dr. Robert Cromer’s Wetlands class. During her visit, Hurst led a discussion on the ecological importance of wetlands, emphasizing their role in supporting biodiversity, regulating water flow, and serving as critical habitats for different species. She also touched on the real-world challenges these ecosystems face, from habitat loss to climate stressors, offering students a broader perspective on the relevance of wetland conservation.

“I really enjoyed having the opportunity to return to Augusta University and connect with students who are now sitting in the same spot that I once was,” said Hurst. “The energy and curiosity they bring as they immerse themselves into the fieldwork shows they’re building a genuine understanding of why these habitats matter.”

The class later joined Hurst and a team of SREL outreach professionals for a field experience at Dry Bay, one of the lab’s wetland research sites. Upon arrival, students were given a safety briefing and a short history of the area by Dr. Kurt Buhlmann, who helped set the stage for the day’s hands-on activities. The class was then divided into smaller groups, each led by SREL staff with specialized expertise: Linda Lee guided the plant and soil group, Katrina Ford introduced students to regional bird species, and Sean Poppy covered amphibians and fish. Hurst oversaw the reptile-focused group and assisted wherever needed. The students actively observed wildlife and collected data about the environment around them.

“When students are able to move from the classroom and into the environment, where they can step into the shoes of an ecologist, taking samples, recording data, seeing plants and animals in their natural environment, they are able to go beyond the textbook,” states Ford, Assistant Director for Outreach and Education at SREL. “From former students, I often hear how experiences like these impacted their final career choice.” 

Throughout the experience, students were able to directly apply classroom concepts in a research-rich environment. Turtles collected during the session were safely returned to SREL’s herpetology lab for ongoing research. For many, this trip not only reinforced their understanding of wetland systems, but also introduced them to the kinds of careers and fieldwork opportunities available in environmental science. 

Thanks to the coordination of Amanda Hurst, Dr. Cromer, and the SREL outreach team, the visit offered a blend of instruction, exploration, and collaboration. Opportunities like this strengthen the connection between students and the natural world, while showcasing the valuable role of field-based education in preparing the next generation of conservationists.

The 2025 Palmetto Alligator Research and Management Symposium (PARMS) was hosted at the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory’s Conference Center, where researchers, wildlife managers, and students gathered to share current work in alligator and crocodilian research. The two-day event featured presentations on movement ecology, environmental stress, microplastic ingestion, and more, culminating in a keynote by Dr. Steven Platt, who reflected on over four decades of crocodilian conservation around the world.

The symposium was coordinated in part by SREL’s own Dr. Ben Parrott, whose efforts helped ensure a smooth and engaging experience for all attendees. With a packed schedule of talks, poster sessions, and discussions, PARMS 2025 created an inviting space for collaboration, learning, and future research planning in the field of herpetology.

The Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (SREL) recently came together for its annual Volunteer Day, a tradition that celebrates environmental stewardship, collaboration, and community spirit. This year’s Eco-Litter Cleanup centered around clearing out old, unusable enclosures near Rainbow Bay, opening up the space to benefit native wildlife in the area. Armed with shovels, gloves, and plenty of determination, lab volunteers worked side by side to remove metal flashing and other materials that no longer served a purpose. It was a tough job, but the momentum never wavered thanks to the collective effort. Events like these reflect SREL’s ongoing commitment to hands-on conservation and habitat restoration. By dedicating time and resources to projects like this, the lab continues to protect critical environments and support the long-term health of wildlife across the Savannah River Site and beyond.

By Tyjaha Steele

Invasive species, also known as non-native species, can pose a significant and costly threat to agriculture and native wildlife. These introduced animals and plants are disruptive due to no natural predators, allowing them to spread aggressively, displace native species, disrupt food webs, spread disease, and alter habitats in ways that are difficult, if not impossible, to reverse. Their presence and rapid expansion require active management to prevent further destruction. 

Numerous invasive species have established themselves throughout the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). For instance, the Cuban tree frog preys on native frogs, lizards, and snakes, impacting the entire food chain as it competes with native species for resources. Brown marmorated stink bugs, native to Asia, serve as severe agricultural pests by consuming vegetables and fruit. Nandina domestica, also known as heavenly bamboo, produces toxic berries for birds and outcompetes through crowding with native plants. However, few species cause as much destruction as feral pigs. 

Wild pigs are among the most destructive invasive species in North America. Their rapid reproduction and adaptability allow them to thrive in nearly any environment, making them difficult to control. They root through forests, wetlands, and farmland, destroying crops, eroding soil, and competing with native species for food. They also carry diseases that threaten livestock, wildlife, and even humans. As their populations grow, the economic and environmental damage escalates. 

At the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Jim Beasley, professor at SREL,  is leading efforts to develop science-based solutions for managing invasive species, with a particular focus on wild pigs. His research examines how these species move through and adapt to changing landscapes, using field studies and laboratory techniques to track their behavior, population growth, and ecological impact. His work on wild pigs evaluates factors such as trapping methods, habitat conditions, and food availability to help landowners and wildlife managers determine the most effective strategies for controlling pig populations and reducing their impact. 

Managing invasive species requires ongoing research efforts to slow their spread and reduce their impact. As the challenges posed by these species continue to escalate, proactive measures are necessary to prevent invasive species from expanding their range and causing irreparable damage.