SREL Reprint #3167

Savannah River Ecology Laboratory: A Model for a Cooperative Partnership between a University and the Federal Government

Michael H. Smith, Eugene P. Odum, and Rebecca R. Sharitz

Savannah River Ecology Lab, University of Georgia, Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, USA

Abstract: Work has been conducted continuously on the SRS for nearly fifty years. Over 2,300 scientific papers, and nearly three dozen books have been published by the faculty and students of SREL. More than 200 theses and dissertations have been completed. As a result the biota and ecology of the SRS is well known, and the site has considerable value because of this knowledge base. These accomplishments were possible because of the continuous support by DOE or its predecessor organizations. The quality and diversity of SREL programs and those of UGA benefited enormously by this relationship with DOE. Numerous students and faculty from all fifty states have participated in the SREL programs bringing more credibility and innovation to them. The prior work has established a firm foundation for future projects to build upon and a basis for better interpretations of resulting data. The UGA has promoted SREL programs because of their value to the general research and educational programs of the university, their productive and award-winning record of accomplishment, and the synergisms with other university programs. SREL has benefited greatly from its academic ties within UGA, and UGA has benefited from the funding and recognition that SREL has brought to its programs.

SREL Reprint #3167

Smith, M. H., E. P. Odum, and R. R. Sharitz. 2001. Savannah River Ecology Laboratory: A Model for a Cooperative Partnership between a University and the Federal Government. pp. 95-127. In: G. W. and T. L. Barrett (Eds.). Holistic Science: the Evolution of the Georgia Institute of Ecology (1940-2000). Taylor and Francis, New York, NY.

This information was provided by the University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (srel.uga.edu).