Pub Talk on Tideland Forests

Laura Brophy doing field work.

The next installment of the OSU Science on Tap series presents an opportunity to learn about the results of important research into Oregon’s estuarine wetlands.  Laura Brophy, director of the Estuary Technical Group within the Institute for Applied Ecology will speak on “Little-known forests of the tidelands:  Oregon’s magnificent tidal swamps, past and present,” on Tuesday, Feb. 18, at 6 p.m. at the Rogue Brewery’s South Beach station (2320 S.E. Marine Science Dr.) in Newport.  The talk, sponsored by the Oregon State University Science on Tap series, is free and open to the public.  Be aware that space is limited, and this is likely to be a popular talk, so early attendance is advised; doors open at 5:15.  Food and drink are available from the Rogue.

Brophy is a leading expert on Oregon’s estuarine wetlands, and has been conducting a study of these resources.  Many of us are aware that Oregon has lost much of its estuarine wetland habitat.  Few are probably aware that more than half of these wetlands weren’t marshes and mudflats but “tidal swamps,” and that 95% of this habitat is now gone.  Brophy will discuss this and many other revelations from her ongoing research on the history of Oregon’s estuarine wetlands.

Laura Brophy is a certified Professional Wetland Scientist with over 25 years of field experience in habitats ranging from Pacific Northwest coastal forests and estuaries to tropical rainforests and high desert. As owner and principal of Green Point Consulting and Director of the Estuary Technical Group at the Institute for Applied Ecology, she generates and distributes scientific data and guidance to assist restoration practitioners and policymakers.