Stanford University's Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve - June 2018

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Working closely for almost a year with the incredible scientists at Stanford University, we created a custom tree of life highlighting all the species of life present in the university’s 1,193 acre Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve. This natural laboratory provides insights into a unique ecosystem of geological and biotic diversity. The mission of Jasper Ridge is not only to be a refuge for native animals and plants, but also “to be a leader for innovation in research, education, and communication on natural systems, through providing an interdisciplinary, cross-cultural, and place-based training ground for effective Earth stewardship by our community and the next generations of global leaders.”

When the tree was finished, I had the opportunity to visit the preserve and the people I had come to know over email. Learn more about the wonderful people and critical work being done there at https://jrbp.stanford.edu .
Thank you to Dr. Liz Hadly, Dr. Tony Barnosky, and Dr. Nona Chiariello for the experience.

After many layout iterations to make certain the branch relationships and time positions were correct, the tree was sketched and then painted. Thoughout the tree branches, species such as flowering plants, birds, mammals, snakes and many others were added to reflect the preserve’s complete bio-diversity.

The tree and artwork were then used for the Annual Report, a poster, wall mural and cards.

Dr. Tony Barnosky, Executive Director, was kind enough to provide a walking tour of this beautiful preserve, which included the field (above left) where the research that coined the term coevolution was conducted in the 1960s.

It was great to meet Dr. Nona Chiariello in person, after emailing back and forth on species and details for months! She was so kind to take me to visit the California Academy of Sciences, where she is a fellow. Working with her was a privilege!

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Although the visit was brief, it felt emotional to leave, and I hope to visit again some day.

 
Mark Berlinger