The Rocky Mountain Research Station (RMRS) is one of five regional units that make up the United States Forest Service Research and Development organization — the most extensive natural resources research organization in the world. The station headquarters are located in Fort Collins, Colorado. Research is structured within eight science program areas. The Station employs over 400 permanent full-time employees, including roughly 100 research scientists.
The station is dedicated to advancing the understanding and sustainable management of the nation's forests and grasslands through cutting-edge scientific research.[1] [2] With a focus on improving ecosystem health, resilience, and the utilization of natural resources, the RMRS plays a crucial role in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, natural disturbances, and human impact on the environment.[3]
One of the key areas of research at the RMRS is the study of wildfire and resilient landscapes. Through the development of new tools and detailed analyses, the station aims to enhance the ability to predict, prevent, and manage wildfires, ultimately contributing to the creation of more resilient landscapes. In addition, the RMRS conducts interdisciplinary research to increase understanding of Great Basin ecosystems and develop approaches to restore and sustain ecosystem services in the face of rapid ecological change.[4]
The station's work extends to the study of climate and its impact on forest and grassland ecosystems. By investigating the structural and functional relationships between past and present climate, natural disturbance regimes, and anthropogenic history, the RMRS seeks to provide valuable insights into the complex interactions that shape these environments.[5]
In addition, the RMRS is actively involved in identifying threats to properly functioning environments in grassland, shrubland, and desert ecosystems.[6] The RMRS collaborates with various research facilities and institutions to conduct national and international cutting-edge work in wildland fire research.[7] [8] [9] The Fire, Fuel, and Smoke Science Program, managed by the RMRS, conducting research that informs fire management practices and contributes to the understanding of fire, fuel, and smoke dynamics in natural environments.