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She writes: “I am interested in the species diversity and composition of Santa Cruz crustose lichen communities, and in exploring novel methods of propagating local species of mycorrhizal fungi for the purpose of myco-restoration. I dream of conducting crustose lichen surveys in the coastal ecosystems and the urban surfaces of Santa Cruz. These surveys require the observation of spore size, type and number per ascus to diagnose the details of reproductive structures. With a microscope I could identify samples and create herbarium specimens for UCSC’s Museum of Natural History Collections.
“My other major pursuit is to develop the skills necessary to nourish and rejuvenate disturbed and decimated ecosystems. With the aid of a microscope, I will be able to inspect spores to ascertain species and observe the morphological characteristics of fungal spawn. Over time, I can use this knowledge to introduce appropriate mycorrhizal fungi to aid in the recovery of disturbed, poisoned and eroded habitats inbackyards and agricultural watersheds of Santa Cruz.”
The FFSC looks forward to having Alison speak to us about her many projects.
Marjorie Young and Phil Carpenter
Scholarship Committee