Mianus Ecological Research Fund
Inspiring Tomorrow’s Conservation Leaders
Honor a legacy. Invest in future scientists. Protect the research that protects the Gorge. As Executive Director Rod Christie retires in May 2026 after 25 years of visionary leadership, we are launching a $500,000 Science Research Fund to ensure every future student has the same lifechanging opportunity he created.
”The beauty of the science research program is that it allows high school, undergraduate and graduate students to work together and with staff scientists. They learn from each other, share the rigors of research, and get an in-depth understanding of the thrills and challenges of being a working scientist.”
– Rod Christie, Executive Director 1998-2026
High school, undergraduate, and graduate students conduct ecology research with MRG scientists. Current projects include comparing deer census methods, resident and migratory owl distribution, survival and dispersal of hemlock woolly adelgid controls, hemlock genetics for resistance to pests, an invasive species burning project, salamander and fisher surveys, and the nationally renowned Gotham Coyote Project.
What makes us unique:
- Small cohorts enable extensive one-on-one mentorship throughout students’ multi-year experience
- High schoolers participate 2-3 years, conducting sophisticated research
- College students build skills for environmental science careers
- Graduate students mentor undergraduates and high schoolers
- Students publish papers, present at conferences, inform land management
Why Give Now?
The students we train today will shape conservation for the next 50 years. Their research informs land management, advances ecological understanding, and strengthens the health of our region. Your gift ensures this work continues—without interruption.
“Applying to the High School Mentorship Program at MRG was one of the best decisions of my life… I never thought I’d be the one doing field research, writing papers, and presenting data.” —Sydney Lonker, White Plains HS
Your Gift Will:
- Train high school, undergraduate, and graduate researchers
- Advance critical conservation science
- Sustain a nationally recognized mentorship model
- Honor Rod Christie’s legacy
Sponsorship Opportunities
- $100,000+ — Named Sponsorship
Single gift or multi-year pledge supporting students at all levels. - $10,000–$15,000 — Graduate Fellowship
Support 2-3 years of research. Graduate students also mentor younger students—multiplying your impact. - $5,000 — College Internship
Fund one student’s 10-week summer conducting conservation research. - $6,000 — High School Mentorship (3year program)
Support one student’s complete 3-year journey ($2,000/year or $6,000 upfront).
A gift of any size helps us say “yes” to talented students and pursue promising research opportunities.
Our Goal: $500,000
Your leadership gift ensures the next generation of scientists can learn, discover, and protect the natural world.