”Don’t bust the crust” is a common expression out here in the high desert. By staying on trail and off the biological soil crust, you help protect this unexpected community of life.

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While many desert parks work hard to protect and preserve biological soil crust, it hasn’t always been this way. Research on crust is relatively new and is constantly unfolding. This research has largely been headed by Dr. Jane Belnap, the leading expert on soil crust.

Her decades of research with the National Park Service and the United States Geological Survey, have provided a greater depth of understanding for desert ecosystems and the unique soils that support them.

100 years ago, it wouldn’t have been possible for a female scientist to receive an advanced degree and become such an expert. Strides toward equal access and opportunity in scientific fields allows for a wider range of people to be involved in research and discoveries.

Increased representation in science (and all fields) creates greater opportunity for growth and progress. What impact do you hope to make on the world?
https://www.nps.gov/articles/seug-soil-crust.htm

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