Holden Arboretum to host Phys-Fest 2

Researchers will take their work to new heights this month as Phys-Fest 2 comes to the Holden Arboretum July 15-19.

Phys-Fest focuses on promoting collaboration, interaction and networking among plant eco-physiologists. It was created by Jesse Nippert, an associate professor of biology at Kansas State University, and funded by the National Science Foundation.

The first Phys-Fest conference was held in 2016 at Kansas State University’s Konza Prairie Biological Station.

Holden Forests & Gardens’ mission as a research institution and as a training site for up-and-coming scientists made it a strong candidate for hosting Phys-Fest 2, said Cait Anastis, a spokeswoman for Holden Forests & Gardens.

The five-day conference will be attended by 40 young scientists representing more than 20 universities from across the country, including Texas A&M, Michigan State, University of Wisconsin, Idaho State, Colorado State, Arizona State, Cleveland State, Kent State, Kansas State and the University of Pennsylvania.

While at the Arboretum, scientists will study the water and energy exchange within vertical gradients of the forest canopy while promoting collaborations among plant eco-physiologists. They will also be learning to effectively communicate the results of their research to the public using traditional and social media.

During part of the event — July 16-18 — the Murch Canopy Walk and the Kalberer Emergent Tower will be closed to the general public, allowing the scientists to learn new techniques as they gather data on the forest canopy.

“Visitors will have the opportunity to see some of the data collection taking place and learn more about the research,” Anastis said.

Holden Forests & Gardens’ research program conducts nationally recognized research in plant and environmental sciences with the goal of improving the fundamental understanding of the function and dynamics of native forests, and how they respond to environmental change.

Its properties include the Arboretum in Kirtland and the Cleveland Botanical Garden in Cleveland’s University Circle cultural district. Along with environmental research, the organization provides urban greening and forestry initiatives and educational programs at its two campuses.

For more information, visit holdenfg.org.

SUBMITTED This image is from the first Phys-Fest, held in Kansas in 2016. The research event draws young scientists from across the country and will be held at Holden Arboretum this month.