Environmental Resources Center (ERC): Advancing Conservation, Research, and Community Engagement
The Environmental Resources Center (ERC) at Purdue University Fort Wayne is a leading Center of Excellence dedicated to the understanding and preservation of the region’s natural resources. It serves as a vital bridge connecting scientific research, student learning experiences, and community involvement. Through research initiatives, outreach events, and environmental education, the ERC promotes conservation awareness and encourages active stewardship of nature across the region.
In a world facing rapid environmental change, organizations like the ERC play a key role in helping communities develop sustainable relationships with the natural world. Let’s explore the ERC’s purpose, activities, leadership, events, and ways to get involved.
What Is the Environmental Resources Center (ERC)?
The Environmental Resources Center is a collaborative hub that focuses on scientific research, education, and public outreach related to the natural resources of Northeast Indiana. As part of Purdue University Fort Wayne, the ERC benefits from the expertise of faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate researchers who work together on a wide range of environmental projects.
Key Focus Areas:
- Ecology of plants and animals
- Habitat restoration and land stewardship
- Water and soil conservation
- Sustainable resource management
- Community education and environmental engagement
The ERC does not function as a land-owning or regulatory agency. Instead, it acts as a resourceful, research-driven guide that informs planning, decision-making, and conservation strategies across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Mission and Vision of the ERC
Mission
The mission of the Environmental Resources Center is:
“To promote the understanding and conservation of the natural resources of the region through scientific research, educational opportunities, and outreach.”
Vision
The ERC aims to:
- Provide unbiased environmental guidance
- Encourage collaboration among institutions, government, and community partners
- Grow research capacity and promote expertise in natural sciences
- Support student success through hands-on field and research experience
- Strengthen environmental awareness throughout the region
This vision reflects a commitment to both scientific integrity and community partnership, enabling meaningful impact.
Research and Academic Contributions
The ERC supports a variety of faculty and student-led research projects, including:
Habitat and Wildlife Studies
Research on reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals helps scientists better understand habitat needs, migration behaviors, and species survival strategies.
Wetland and River Conservation
Given Fort Wayne’s rivers and wetlands, ERC researchers study:
- Water quality
- Invasive species control
- Native plant restoration
Sustainable Land Management
Projects examine how agricultural, residential, and urban land use affects ecosystem health.
Example Research Question:
How can land development proceed while still preserving wildlife corridors and ecological balance?
The ERC provides science-backed answers to such questions, supporting responsible development and conservation.
Leadership and Team
Director: Dr. Bruce Kingsbury
- Professor of Biology
- Associate Dean of Arts and Sciences
- Specializes in reptile and amphibian ecology
- Founder of the ERC
- Dedicated to connecting research with community needs
Sustainability Coordinator: Samantha Theisen
- Background in Natural Resource Planning and Sustainable Energy
- Experienced in environmental projects such as:
- Brownfield redevelopment
- Water quality studies
- Community recreation planning
Faculty Council
The ERC’s Faculty Council works to expand research and outreach capacity, bringing together experts in natural resource studies.
Community Partnerships and Collaborators
The ERC actively collaborates with local organizations to improve conservation outcomes and support community learning:
| Partner Organization | Mission/Focus |
|---|---|
| St. Joseph River Watershed Initiative | Improve water quality through sustainable land practices |
| Little River Wetlands Project | Restore and protect wetlands while providing environmental education |
| Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo | Connect children with nature and inspire wildlife conservation |
| Information Analytics & Visualization Center | Support data visualization and research collaboration |
These partnerships strengthen conservation efforts beyond campus boundaries.
Visiting the ERC
The ERC is located near the St. Joseph River on the Purdue Fort Wayne campus. Visitor parking is available, including free public parking in Lot P11 during evenings and weekends. Temporary parking permits are available during weekday business hours.
Visitors can walk the grounds, attend events, and explore nature alongside knowledgeable faculty and staff.
ERC Events and Programs
The ERC hosts annual and seasonal events that inspire engagement, education, and collaboration.
World Wetlands Day
A celebration that raises awareness of the importance of wetlands in supporting biodiversity and water quality.
Conservation Conversation
A day-long networking and learning event connecting:
- Researchers
- Environmental organizations
- Students
- Local residents
Families4Nature Series (In Partnership with Community Organizations)
Programs include:
- Animal Investigator – Learn to identify wildlife by tracks and signs
- Helping Wildlife at Home – Create your own backyard habitat and receive native seeds
These events encourage hands-on learning and appreciation for local ecosystems.
Why the ERC Matters
The region's rich natural landscape—including rivers, wetlands, forests, and wildlife—faces pressures from development, pollution, and climate change. The ERC plays a key role by:
- Conducting ecological research
- Guiding conservation decisions
- Educating future environmental leaders
- Bringing the community together to protect nature
The ERC strengthens both environmental health and community identity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main goal of the ERC?
The ERC aims to promote environmental understanding and conservation through research, education, and outreach.
Can students get involved?
Yes! Students can participate in research projects, internships, volunteer activities, and event coordination.
Does the ERC manage land?
No. The ERC does not own or manage land but works with organizations that do.
Is the ERC open to the public?
Yes, especially during events and outreach programs. Guests may also request tours.
How can I stay informed?
Follow the ERC on Facebook or sign up for the “monthlyish” newsletter.
Conclusion
The Environmental Resources Center is more than a research facility — it is a gateway to environmental discovery, stewardship, and collaboration. By fostering partnerships, supporting student learning, and encouraging community engagement, the ERC strengthens the relationship between people and nature.
If you are passionate about conservation, environmental research, education, or ecological sustainability, the ERC welcomes your interest and participation. Together, we can continue to protect and celebrate the natural world that surrounds us.
