MSU: From Amazon to NG support

STARKVILLE, Miss. - A Mississippi State University researcher is part of a historic scientific consortium presenting findings on the Amazon River Basin at the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) n Glasgow, Scotland. Assistant Professor Sandra B. Correa in the College of Forest Resources’ Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture, is part of the Science Panel for the Amazon (SPA), a group of over 200 prominent scientists who created a comprehensive report addressing climate adaptation and mitigation in the Amazon. The report was launched at an in-person event at the summit on Nov. 12. The ‘Amazon Assessment Report’ is a “powerful tool to guide the path to sustainability,” said Correa, who is also a scientist with MSU’s Forest and Wildlife Research Center. “We are at a historic crossroad,” she said. “Our actions today will impact millions of animals and plants and the livelihoods of indigenous and riverine peoples who are feeling the signs that our planet is changing despite their isolation.” The SPA panel developed a scientific assessment of the state of the Amazon Basin. Correa co-authored two of the 34 chapters of the comprehensive report calling for immediate action to control and halt deforestation by 2030, restore aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems and promote a sustainable bio-economy guided by science, technology, innovation and local knowledge.  Correa who is from Colombia in South America, one of the eight countries within the Amazon biome. Andy Kouba, wildlife, fisheries and aquaculture professor and department head, said Correa’s involvement in is an example of how MSU researchers are leading conservation efforts globally. (Source: MSU 11/12/21) MSU scientist’s work in Amazon River Basin featured at UN Climate Change Conference | Mississippi State University (msstate.edu) 

Patriot Award

STARKVILLE, Miss.-Two Mississippi State University faculty members were each honored on Veterans’ Day with the Defense Department’s Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriot Award. Andy Kouba, professor and head of the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture, and Chad Dacus, Extension instructor and director of the Wildlife Services National Training Academy, were recognized with the awards for their support of National Guardsmen. Scott Edwards, an Extension instructor and guardsman, nominated both. Edwards thanked both men for facilitating a professional environment where he can balance professional responsibility and commitment to the country. During his time at MSU, Edwards has been deployed overseas and attends training monthly. He noted that both supervisors have supported, encouraged and intentionally worked with him during times he has had to be away. (Source: MSU 11/12/21) Patriot Award presented to MSU’s Kouba, Dacus | Mississippi State University (msstate.edu)