A researcher examines Penstemon harringtonii during field research in Eagle, Colo.

RESEARCH & CONSERVATION

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By its very nature, research on plants and fungi transforms understanding, ever advancing our relationship with the natural world. Research and Conservation at the Gardens fulfills many critical roles: documenting and protecting our region’s fl ora through our two herbaria, rare plant seed collection and demographic monitoring, invasive species and restoration research – and, in 2009, the addition of the Conservation Genetics program, supported by the Gladys Cheesman Evans Endowment. With this and other new programs, publications, two endowments and significant grant funding, as well as the addition of staff (nine total, including three Ph.D. and five MS-level scientists), research at the Gardens is growing and transforming. Through this transformation, we in turn help to transform our region into a place where floral diversity is valued and protected.

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