Ph.D. Defense: Forecasting landscape change to support multi-generational Tribal climate adaptation planning

Join us for the public dissertation defense presentation of Geospatial Analytics Ph.D. student Christina Perella: Forecasting landscape change to support multi-generational Tribal climate adaptation planning. The Southern Blue Ridge Ecoregion (SBRE) is a biodiversity hub, climate resilience corridor, and amenity-rich region undergoing rapid change. Working collaboratively with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, this dissertation takes a social-ecological approach to climate adaptation planning for the SBRE that centers Tribal priorities through (1) a decision tree for data sharing agreement types in Tribal research collaborations, (2) an examination of the role and choice of spatial boundaries in social-ecological systems research, and (3) forecasts of future development to highlight conservation needs and opportunities. Overall, this dissertation contributes to the growing efforts of climate adaptation planning and coproduction among academic institutions, federal agencies, and Tribal Nations, and offers insights into the intersecting pressures of land use and climate change in a biodiverse landscape.

The presentation will take place in person in Jordan 5103 as well as online (Zoom).