NORTHERN NEW MEXICO CLIMATE CHANGE PROJECT

• Sponsoring Institution: National Institute of Food and Agriculture
• Project Status: COMPLETE
• Funding Source: OTHER GRANTS
• Reporting Frequency: Annual
• Accession No.: 1003701
• Grant No.: 2014-38422-22086
• Cumulative Award Amt.: $1,000,000.00
• Proposal No.: 2015-04882
• Project Start Date: Sep 1, 2014
• Project End Date: Aug 31, 2019
• Grant Year: 2017
• Program Code: [NJ]- Hispanic Serving Institutions Education Grants Program

Project Director
Zanetell, B.

Recipient Organization
UNIV OF NEW MEXICO
(N/A)
ALBUQUERQUE,NM 87131

Performing Department
Taos Education Center

Non Technical Summary
At the frontline of climate change challenges in the Southwest region are Natural Resource Management agencies that are losing employees to turnover and retirement. Even though demand for skilled employees exists, the pool of qualified applicants - especially Hispanics and other underrepresented minorities - remains small. The project attempts to address this suite of educational and environmental challenges through the creation of the Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps. We aim to build a pipeline from Taos High School to the University of New Mexico-Taos to New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU) that recruits and prepares our graduates for USDA "mission critical occupations" related to climate change. In addition to traditional academic coursework needed to complete B.S. and M.S. degrees in Forestry at NMHU, we will use experiential learning to engage High School through Masters students in field research, job training/internships with federal agencies, and community climate conservation projects. The ultimate goal of of the project is to 1) increase the availability of skilled graduates from Hispanic-serving institutions with a deep understanding of climate change challenges to Northern New Mexico and 2) increase minority representation in Natural Resources Management agencies.

Animal Health Component

100%

Research Effort Categories

Basic

0%

Applied

100%

Developmental

0%

Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)	Subject of Investigation (SOI)	Field of Science (FOS)	Percent
123	0430	1070	100%

Knowledge Area
123 - Management and Sustainability of Forest Resources;

Subject Of Investigation
0430 - Climate;

Field Of Science
1070 - Ecology;

Keywords

climate change

conservation

natural resources

Goals / Objectives
The goal of the Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps (NNMCCC) is for UNM-Taos and NMHU to collaborate with each other and with Taos High School and NRM agencies to recruit and retain underrepresented students and provide them with the occupational competencies to be competitive for NRM careers. The focus is on building a pipeline between Taos high School, UNM-Taos and NMHU that recruits, retains, and supports Hispanic and other underrepresented students to progress toward and ultimately earn B.S. degrees in Forestry and gain practical NRM experience along the way. The project also supports ten (10) NMHU M.S. students that are doing research on regional climate change effects.Objectives. The following performance-based objectives are designed to meet the NNMCCC goal and address the USDA Priority Need Area of Climate Change. They incorporate the Educational Strategies of student Recruitment and Retention and of Experiential Learning. All of the NNMCCC project objectives are intended to contribute to the achievement of the HSI Education Grant Objective to "support the activities of Hispanic-serving institutions to enhance educational equity for underrepresented groups." The scope of project work is divided into three categories (see below). For each, alignment with HSI grant objectives is noted and specific performance-based objectives are listed.1. Strategic Partnership Program & Experiential LearningThe Strategic Partnership Program bolsters collaboration between the two HSIs, Taos High School, NRM agencies and the Taos community at large. Experiential education opportunities are provided that require collaboration and are mutually beneficial to all parties involved. This aligns with the HSI Education Grants Program objective to "facilitate cooperative initiatives between two or more Hispanic-Serving Institutions or between HSIs and units of State government or the private sector" to improve teaching programs. Performance-based objectives include:-After participation in the project, HSIs will have increased the number of mutually beneficial partnerships with regional natural resources management agencies.-After participation in the project, students will be able to articulate the effects of climate change on Northern New Mexico.-After participation in the project, students will be able to conduct field research and communicate results related to climate change.2. Recruitment and RetentionRecruitment and retention is a key aspect of the proposed project. It aligns with the HSI Education Grants Program objective to "recruit, retain, and support undergraduate and graduate students from underrepresented groups." Performance-based objectives include:-After participation in the project, students will be able to complete their degree in a timely manner: Associate of Science in 2 years, B.S. in Forestry in 4 years, or M.S. in Natural Resources Management in 2 years.-After participation in the project, students who earn their B.S. in Forestry or their M.S. in Natural Resources Management will qualify for placement in USDA Mission Critical Occupations.3. Academic and Career AdvancementStudent academic and career advancement relates to the HSI Education Grant Program objective to recruit, retain and support students "in order to prepare them for careers related to the food, agricultural, and natural resources systems of the United States." Performance-based objectives include:-After participation in the project, students will be able to formulate an academic pathway to a career as a scientist in natural resources management.-After participation in the project, students who intern with natural resources management agencies and/or who attend state/national conferences will be able to identify members of their professional network.

Project Methods
The Educational Strategies - i.e. methods - of the proposed project include in order of emphasis: 1) Student Recruitment and Retention and 2) Student Experiential Learning. Student Recruitment and Retention: Recruitment begins at Taos High School (THS) with the goal of increased enrollment at UNM-Taos in STEAM courses required for transfer to the B.S. in Forestry degree at NMHU. Project recruitment activities include: classroom visits to THS to promote the project, an annual trip to visit the NMHU Forestry program and campus, and opportunities for THS students to assist USDA biologists with field work related to climate change. To increase retention of UNM-Taos students participating in the project through completion of their Associate of Science Degrees and transfer to the NMHU Forestry program, project activities include: hiring supplemental instruction leaders as tutors, hiring adjunct faculty to teach required STEAM courses for transfer, and hiring a project coordinator who will provide academic advising. In addition, 30 project participants at UNM-Taos and NMHU will receive generous academic stipends of between $2,000 - $2,500/semester. The intent of this stipend is to reduce the need for participants to hold outside jobs so that they may focus on achieving their academic/career goals. The goal is for project participants to earn a total of 14 Associate of Science, 10 B.S. in Forestry, and 10 M.S. in NRM degrees (See Table 1).Related to recruitment and retention is academic and career advancement. Project activities in this area include: academic/career workshops on topics such as How to Apply to USA Jobs, biannual Climate Change Chowdowns (dinner and a panel discussion) for THS and UNM-Taos students and their families to learn about climate change and career pathways for NRM professionals, and participant travel to state/national conferences.Student Experiential Learning: The second significant educational strategy used by the proposed project is to provide substantive experiential learning opportunities to NNMCCC undergrads that build occupational competencies in NRM. All undergraduate project participants will be awarded summer internship stipends in the amount of $3000 for each summer they are involved with the project. Internships will be with regional NRM offices including: USDA USFS Carson National Forest, USDA USFS Pecos/Las Vegas Ranger District, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Taos Office, and DOI Bureau of Land Management Taos Field Office. Multiple summers of paid internships will enable students to gain practical skills as well as exposure to different land management agencies. In addition, students may elect to spend their summer interning as research assistants to project-sponsored M.S. students conducting thesis research related to climate change. Incorporating climate change related field biology into existing Biology courses at UNM-Taos is another experiential education activity of the project. To this end, Advisory Board members and biologists with the USDA USFS Region 3 Forest Health Office are providing input to the design of student-led climate change research on stream ecosystems and declining aspen forests. Lastly, a yearly Community Climate Conservation project will occur that brings students and the public together with NRM agency personnel to achieve a large, labor-intensive enterprise such as stream bank fortification to prevent soil erosion after wildfires. Evaluation:An independent, external evaluation for the NNMCCC project will be conducted by Dr. Tania Schusler, faculty at the Institute of Environmental Sustainability at Loyola University Chicago, and by Ms. Tina Phillips, M.S., Program Evaluation Associate at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY. As the primary evaluator, Dr. Schusler will conduct site visits, develop evaluation instruments, analyze assessment data, and write evaluation reports. As the evaluation consultant, Ms. Philips will provide input to evaluation instruments, data analysis, and evaluation reports.Annual site visits will be conducted that 1) provide initial familiarity with project personnel, students, and institutional capacities and goals, 2) inform development of evaluation instruments, and 3) enable data collection. A preliminary evaluation report will be provided after Year 2 with suggestions to improve outcomes by Year 4. A summative evaluation report will be provided after Year 4.A mixed-methods strategy will be employed for assessing the proposed project. Observation, interviews, and focus groups will be conducted to collect qualitative data. Quantitative assessment will be informed by surveys and a comparison of baseline versus outcome data. Evaluation instruments will be given to project participants including students, faculty, and Federal NRM agency employees. Evaluation will be designed to measure project success as measured by achievement of the "Outputs," "Knowledge" and "Actions" listed in the Logic Model. A written report to the project director will summarize project outcomes and impacts on improving Hispanic recruitment, retention, and education in STEAM degrees and careers.In addition, the project director and co-director agree to actively participate in and fund a meta-evaluation of the USDA HSI Education Grants Program.

Progress 09/01/14 to 08/31/19

Outputs
Target Audience:The primary target audience included students at UNM-Taos and New Mexico Highlands University who are from populations underrepresented in the natural resource management field. Secondary audiences included other faculty, staff, and students at these institutions; high school students; natural resource agency staff; and community members in the northern New Mexico region. Additionally, through a journal article submitted to Science Education, we sought to sharethe program model withother colleges and universities that can adapt it to their own contexts toincrease the persistence ofunderrepresented minority students in STEAM fields. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Student training and professional development occurred through internships, career events, professional conferences, mentorship, and advising. Through experiential learning in courses, research, and intensive internships or seasonal employment with natural resources management agencies, students gained career-relevant knowledge, skills, and experience; benefitted fromthementorship of scientists and natural resources managers; and developed their professional networks. Undergraduates gained training by participating in 52 intensive summer internships with natural resource management agencies and other organizations, including the U.S. Forest Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Bureau of Land Management, Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, Los Alamos National Laboratory, New Mexico State Forestry Division, New Mexico State University John T. Harrington Forestry Research Center, Amigos Bravos, Purple Martin Conservation Association, Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory, and Taos Land Trust. Experiential learning promoted students' career discernment, preparedness, and professional network-building. The CCC also offered specific workshops to foster students' resume development, interviewing skills, and abilities to navigate federal hiring processes, plus supported students to attend professional conferences and federal hiring events. CCC students participated in 68 training opportunities by attending 20 career development workshops or events related to academic planning, transferring, career readiness, resumes, cover letters, job searching, interview skills, creating an USAJobs profile, Pathways positions, and federal hiring. Students experienced another 52 professional development opportunities by attending 23 state or national scientific conferences, such as the Society of American Foresters. In addition, 13 students presented posters reporting their thesis research or other experiences in the CCC at 42 local, state, or national conferences. Advising and mentoring from faculty and staff also contributed to students' professional development. Onevaluation surveys, studentsrated advising asbeing of high quality andan important support helping them reach their academic goals. Three CCC faculty participated in 20 professional development opportunities, including conferences and trainings related to agriculture, forestry, energy, science education, educator best practices, and USDA NIFA HSI Education Grants Program Directors Annual Meetings. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Outreach conducted on 66 occasions involved presentations, exhibits, classroom visits, or special events and reached 127 K-12 teachers, 1,495 K-12 students, and 363 college students. These events benefitted teachers, K-12 students, and undergraduates, who learned about academic pathways leading to career opportunities in natural resources management. Outreach extended beyond schools to local communities of northern New Mexico through presentations or exhibits at 15 community events, plus multiple stories in local newspapers, radio spots, videos, a website, and the CCC newsletter. Online news spotlights by the USDA and Cornell University reached national audiences. Through community events and media outreach, results of the CCC were communicated to over 350,000 people. The article "Building STEM Pathways for Underrepresented Students to Natural Resources Careers: The Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps" was submitted for peer review at Science Education. Itreports onthe CCC conceptual framework, implementation, and impacts from the perspectives of students, faculty, staff, and natural resources agency partners. It recommends strategies for supporting underrepresented minority students to achieve science degrees and careers. Dissemination to higher education audiences, who can adapt the CCC program model to their own contexts, also occurred through a peer-reviewed article published in the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Journal and several conference presentations. Highlights included CCC students presenting at a USDA NIFA sponsored meeting of Hispanic Serving Institutions, and the program PI, Dr. Brooke Zanetell, reporting results internationally at the 5th Annual Energy, Sustainability, and Climate Change Conference in Greece as well as universities in Cyprus and the Netherlands. Note: This final report lists the publications and other products created during Year 5. Those produced during Years 1 through 4were reported inearlier annual progress reports. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? The Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps (CCC) provided 45 undergraduate and graduate students (71% Hispanic and/or Native American, 44% first generation, 42% female) with academic and career pathways that promoted students' scientific knowledge and skills, professional networks, scientific degree achievement, and employment in natural resources management. The CCC demonstrates the important role of community colleges in meeting scientific workforce demands. Many programs that aim to increase underrepresented students' participation in scientific fields occur at majority white institutions with existing scientific capacity. The CCC, on the other hand, built the capacity of a 2-year, Hispanic Serving Institution to offer scientific education and career preparation through strategic partnerships and experiential learning, recruitment and retention, and academic and career advancement. 1. Strategic Partnership Program & Experiential Learning The CCC facilitated cooperative initiatives between two Hispanic-Serving Institutions, the University of New Mexico-Taos and New Mexico Highlands University, and over 20 partner organizations in federal or state government, K-12 education, and the private sector to improve teaching programs through experiential learning. The CCC created numerous field trips and research experiences within courses, two place-based courses at UNM-Taos (New Mexico Ecology, Water Resources), and 52 intensive summer internships for students at natural resources management agencies (see Training). Internships typically ran 8 weeks for 250 hours per week with students participating in activities like monitoring wildlife populations, water quality testing, managing forests for fire resilience, invasive species removal, soil conservation, and public communication. Students identified these hands-on, field experiences -- what one referred to as "having the classroom in the natural world" -- as most valuable to their learning. Internships and research experiences ranked high in evaluation surveys as supporting students' progress towards their academic and career goals. Students reported that internships with natural resources agencies not only increased their scientific knowledge and skills, but also helped them discern career paths, build professional networks, and gain confidence. Agency personnel reported that internships offered students a "leg up" in competing for full-time jobs. 2. Recruitment and Retention The CCC recruited, retained, and supported 45 students to develop occupational competencies expected by natural resources agencies. At the funding period's end, CCC students completed or were progressing towards 28 A.S., 17 B.S., and 10 M.S. degrees. CCC students achieved 22 A.S., 6 B.S., and 7 M.S. degrees, and another 6 progressed towards the A.S., 11 towards the B.S., and 3 towards the M.S. 82% who entered the CCC at the 2-year institution, UNM-Taos, completed or were progressing towards the A.S. degree, and 86% who achieved the A.S. degree transferred to NMHU. 100% of the CCC's graduate students completed or were progressing toward the M.S. degree. Recruitment occurred through personal outreach; presentations at high school science classes, area youth groups, and community events; and materials like flyers, posters, news articles, radio spots, and videos. Critical to recruitment and retention were financial stipends that enabled students to devote time and attention to school during the academic year and participate in internships, math tutoring, or thesis research during the summer. Many students would not have been able to pursue higher education without this financial support. An 8-week Math Camp offered during summers prepared undergraduates for the challenging math and science coursework required to achieve scientific degrees. Ongoing math tutoring further supported their academic success. Experiential learning through internships, research experiences, and field trips inspired students to persist in their studies as they experienced first-hand the types of natural resources careers possible with a scientific degree. Also important to retention were clear transfer pathways from the 2- to 4-year institution, high quality academic advising, career development opportunities, and a peer cohort model providing students with a social support network. 3. Academic and Career Advancement CCC graduates had 100% job placement. Of 7 achieving B.S. degrees, 1 moved into a M.S. program and 6 into full-time employment, 5 with natural resources agencies. Of 7 earning M.S. degrees, all obtained employment in natural resources or related fields in the public or private sector. The CCC prepared students for natural resources management careers by providing experiential learning, academic transfer pathways to scientific degrees, high quality advising, and career development opportunities. To meet growing student interest catalyzed by the CCC, the UNM-Taos created a 16-credit hour Natural Resources track open to all students within its Associates of Pre-science degree. The development of 7 articulation agreements between UNM-Taos and NMHU ensured that courses completed at the 2-year school advanced students' progress towards USDA-relevant degrees at the 4-year school. Personalized advising also contributed to a sense of "being on track" reported by students, who rated the high quality of advising and having an academic plan as strongly supporting them towards their academic goals. Field trips from UNM-Taos to NMHU involving campus tours and meetings with faculty and staff also supported students transitioning from the 2- to 4-year institution. Students from underrepresented groups often lack the career capital that makes profession-related information available to others. Thus, the CCC offered career development workshops; for instance, UNM-Taos and the Carson National Forest co-hosted a hiring fair to guide students in creating a USAJobs profile and applying for coveted "Pathways" positions that lead to full-time employment upon graduation. Students also attended federal hiring events and professional conferences (see Training). As a student reflected, "The CCC organization hooked us up with so many different professionals on different pathways that I never would have met outside of the organization. I can see why people can get a job. There's so much networking and experience." On average, students maintained or slightly increased their GPAs despite taking challenging math and science courses. They reported gaining career-relevant knowledge (e.g., species identification, fire ecology, climate change) and skills (e.g., orienteering, testing water quality, public speaking). Students also reported non-cognitive gains, including developing the self-knowledge "that I can do this." The CCC provided academic and career pathways for some who loved science prior to participating but did not know how to pursue a scientific career and for others who came to perceive themselves as scientists because of the CCC. As a student shared, "Now that I'm in this program, I look back and realize I've been doing science. Science was in my past experiences. I grew food. I didn't know I was doing science. I thought I was eating. Now I look at my garden in a whole new way. Now I am a scientist."

Publications

• Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: Yekkeh, Behnaz (2018). Gallinas River discharge and its relationship to tree canopy cover in the upper Gallinas watershed, New Mexico, 1939 to 2014. Masters Thesis. New Mexico Highlands University, Las Vegas, NM.
• Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: Brown, Eric (2019). Assessing the genetic landscape of the boreal toad within a Southern Rocky Mountain watershed. Masters Thesis. New Mexico Highlands University, Las Vegas, NM.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2019 Citation: Schusler, T. M. & Zanetell, B. A. Building STEM pathways for underrepresented students to natural resources careers: The Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps. Submitted August, 2019 to Science Education.

Progress 09/01/17 to 08/31/18

Outputs
Target Audience:The primary target audience included students at UNM-Taos and New Mexico Highlands University who are from populations underrepresented in the natural resource management field. Secondary audiences included other faculty, staff, and students at these institutions; high school students; natural resource agency staff; and community members in the northern New Mexico region. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES PROVIDED STUDENTS: Students participated in myriad professional development activities, including those organized by the NNM-CCC as well as local, regional, and national events. Internships and Assistantships A.S. students River Otter Reintroduction Project Assistant, Amigos Bravos Communications Assistant, UNM-Taos Math Coach, UNM-Taos Aquatic Resources Assistant, Bureau of Land Management Taos Field Office Recreation Assistant, Bureau of Land Management Taos Field Office 4 Wildlife Biological Technician's Assistants, USFS Carson National Forest Supervisor's Office 2 Wildlife Biology and Recreation Assistants, USFS Carson National Forest, Questa District Office Forest Restoration Assistant, John T. Harrington Forestry Research Center Forest Restoration Assistant, New Mexico State Forestry Division B.S. students Biology Field Assistant, NMHU M.S. students 2 Teaching Assistants, NMHU GIS Specialist, NMHU Student Ambassador, Natural Resources Career Track, NMHU Academic or Career/Hiring Events 10 students attended NMHU Mini-Orientation for UNM-Taos preparing to transfer, Friday, November 10, 2017. 11 students attended US Forest Service Hiring Event for Continuing and Recently Graduated Students, Albuquerque, NM, November 15, 2017. 9 students attended The Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps & UNM-Taos Poster Session on the Ecology of Taos County: Enos Garcia Elementary School, Taos High School, and UNM-Taos Klauer Campus. December 7, 2017. 1 student attended Expedition Ecuador: Field Tropical Ecology 2018, New Mexico Highlands University, Las Vegas, NM, February 21, 2018. 10 students attended NNM-CCC Summer Internship Hiring Fair, UNM-Taos, February 22, 2018. 3 students attended NRCT Annual Retreat, USDA Natural Resource Career Tracks Program, Ghost Ranch, Abiquiu, NM, March 2-5, 2018. 11 students presented at Water Resources Poster Session for the public, Rio Grande Hall, UNM-Taos Campus, May 8, 2018. National Conferences 10 students attended Society of American Foresters National Convention, Albuquerque, NM, Nov 15-18, 2017. Students also attended conferences at which they presented as reported under Products. Local and Regional Events 1 student attended Wolf Creek Riparian and Wetland Restoration Project sponsored by Hermit's Peak Watershed Alliance at Fort Union Ranch, NM, October 14, 2017. 1 student attended Panel Discussion: Water Issues and Opportunities sponsored by Natural Resource Management Department, NMHU and Hermit's Peak Watershed Alliance in Las Vegas, NM, February 22, 2018. 1 student attended Restoring Wetland Habitat sponsored by Hermit's Peak Watershed Alliance held near Montezuma, NM in March, 2018. 2 students attended Society of American Foresters New Mexico Chapter Field Day on Natural Resource Management Issues in Northern New Mexico, hosted by Taos BLM Field Office, April 13, 2018. 1 student attended Water is Life in New Mexico sponsored by NM Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources, NM Museum of Natural History and Science, Healy Foundation in Albuquerque, NM, April 26, 2018. TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROVIDED FACULTY: Dr. Craig Conley Society of American Foresters National Convention, Albuquerque, NM, Nov 15-18, 2017. Quivira Conference 2017, Ranching and Farming at the Radical Center, Albuquerque, NM, November 15-17, 2017. Member of teaching team for 2018 Forest Service Coordinated Response Protocol and Learning Review 4-day training course held in Tucson, AZ, March 26-29. The course trains Forest Service upper management in response protocols to major incidents e.g., wildland fire fatalities. Dr. Brooke Zanetell Society of American Foresters National Convention, Albuquerque, NM, Nov 15-18, 2017 USDA NIFA Program Directors Meeting, Washington, DC, Mar, 2018. 5th Annual Energy, Sustainability, and Climate Change Conference, Mykonos, Greece, June 4-6, 2018. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Conference presentations (detailed under "Products") included, among others, students sharing their experiences in the NNM-CCC with other HSIs during the Program Directors meeting held March, 2018 in Washington, DC. Dr. Brooke Zanetell also disseminated results internationally during presentations at the 5th Annual Energy, Sustainability, and Climate Change held in Mykonos, Greece and at universities in Cyprus and the Netherlands. K-12, undergraduate, NHMU, and community outreach reached over 46 teachers, 426 elementary or high school students, 127 undergraduate students, 2,455 community members directly through presentations and the NNM-CCC newsletter, and 220,000 community members indirectly through local newspapers and radio stations. K-12 Outreach: Outreach by NNM-CCC staff and students in 14 distinct events reached over 46 teachers and 426 students from high schools and one elementary school in Taos, Las Vegas, Vista Grande, Questa, and Española. Undergraduate Outreach: NNM-CCC staff and students presented at 9 events, including student orientation, classroom visits, exhibit booths, a panel discussion, and a poster session, reaching at least 127 undergraduates. Graduate students in the NNM-CCC revived the NMHU Conservation Club, which involves students beyond the NNM-CCC. Community Outreach Presentations by NNM-CCC staff and students reached over 1,955 people: Citizens' Climate Lobby Statewide "Climate Education Conference" for Taos Area, Oct. 28, 2017 "Wild Music: Songs and Sounds of Nature" at New Mexico Natural History Museum, Nov. 3, 2017 Taos Ski Valley Job Fair, Feb. 9-10, 2018 Luna Community College Annual Seed Exchange, Apr. 14, 2018 NNM-CCC student speaker at UNM-Taos Commencement Ceremony, May 11, 2018 The NNM-CCC newsletter was distributed widely via print, email, and website, reaching approximately 500 individuals. Local media outreach occurred in outlets with a combined audience of 220,000 The fall 2017 incoming NNM-CCC cohort was featured by The Taos News with distribution of 20,000 Cultural Energy Radio Show, December 5, 2017, 90.1 FM Student produced radio ads ran on 7 local radio stations with listening audiences of 200,000 What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?In Year 5 (with a no-cost extension), we will maintain all aspects of the program that have been developed and implemented in Years 1-4. Due to increased applications to join the NNM-CCC, all eligible students will enter the newly formed Natural Resources track within the Associate of Pre-Science degree at UNM-Taos, and a subset will be accepted into the full, grant-funded NNM-CCC program. We also will focus on identifying resources for sustaining the program into the future.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? The NNM-CCC educated and trained underrepresented students with the occupational competencies to be competitive in natural resources management careers through strategic partnerships between educational institutions and natural resources agencies; student recruitment and retention; and academic and career advancement as detailed below. OBJECTIVE 1: STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP AND EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING 26 mutually beneficial partnerships between HSI's, natural resources agencies, and others resulted in student internships, experiential field trips, student research opportunities, and student recruitment. Observed impacts were the broadening of students' perspectives, knowledge, and networks in science and natural resources management. Highlights included: 19 strategic partnerships continued with USDA agencies, other federal agencies, state agencies, colleges/universities, high schools, municipal entities, non-profit organizations, and a for-profit company. 7 new partnerships were developed. These included 3 non-profits (Amigos Bravos, Questa Economic Development Fund, Taos Land Trust), 1 state agency (New Mexico Department of Game and Fish), 1 USDA agency (Carson National Forest Questa District Office), and 2 university centers (New Mexico State John T. Harrington Forestry Research Center, New Mexico State Forestry Division Cimarron District). Partnerships continued to expand within organizations, increasing the number of professionals in specific agencies who are involved in internships, recruitment, etc. 18 internships or other experiential opportunities (e.g., GIS assistant to faculty) occurred with USDA agencies, other federal agencies, state agencies, non-profits, and universities. Students repeatedly report that internships are critical to developing their knowledge, skills, and competencies in natural resources management; building a professional network; and gaining valuable mentorship. New experiential learning opportunities were incorporated into the UNM-Taos curriculum and well-received by students, who report that they learn best through hands-on, applied activities. Two new experiential learning courses were offered: New Mexico Ecology and Water Resources. In the former, students collected and analyzed data to develop presentations about New Mexico biomes. The latter included multiple field trips and guest instructors focused on specific, local water resource issues. A seminar course was substantially revised to involve a 5-day field component examining energy production. OBJECTIVE 2: RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION The program continued to have high retention in Year 4 (overall program retention rates: 96% A.S., 91% B.S., 100% M.S.), and expanded recruitment efforts led to a substantial increase in the number of program applicants. Observed impacts of recruitment and retention activities are manifest in the achievements of these students, who demonstrate determination to complete their degrees and excitement about future careers in natural resources management. Highlights included: Outreach Coordinator continued to galvanize community awareness and student recruitment into the Natural Resources track at UNM-Taos. A video, radio ads, and posters profiling CCC student successes placed in new community settings expanded audiences reached. This resulted in 32 inquiries about the CCC and 17 applications for 10 available positions. The Math Camp debuted in Year 3 continued in Year 4, with new supplementary curricula developed. Math Camp during the summer helps students to get over the math "hump" by completing remedial math coursework, which enables them to take the gateway math class in the fall. Math Camp also includes field trips to visit Agency personnel, which shows students the kinds of jobs they can have if they persist in their math and science studies. Math Camp and individualized math tutoring were critical to student recruitment and retention. Internships, which provide experiential learning and highly valuable career development, continued to be crucial to student retention. 18 internships or similar experiential opportunties occurred with USDA agencies, other federal agencies, state agencies, non-profits, and universities. Retention was positively impacted by high quality advising from faculty and advising staff. A field trip to NMHU organized for the cohort of UNM-Taos students transferring there familiarized students with NMHU faculty and staff and assisted with logistical matters like course enrollment and housing. Students reported that the peer support they receive through the program's cohort model helped them to progress towards their academic goals. Retention was positively impacted by financial stipends awarded students. Many students would not be able to complete the program without financial support. Academic stipends (typically $2,000/semester) provided to 13 students pursuing a A.S. in Pre-science at UNM-Taos, 3 students pursuing a B.S. at NMHU, and 6 students pursuing a M.S. at NMHU. Stipends for internships or field research (typically $3,000) provided to 9 A.S. students and 3 M.S. students Summer Math Camp stipends ($500-1,100) provided to 8 A.S. students. Stipends enable students who would otherwise need to work to attend. OBJECTIVE 3: ACADEMIC AND CAREER ADVANCEMENT Academic and career advancement was achieved through articulation agreements, curriculum development, advising, hiring events and internships, and job placement. Highlights included: 7 articulation agreements signed between UNM-Taos and NMHU streamline students' ability to transfer from the UNM-Taos with an Associate Degree of Pre-Science into one of the following degrees at NMHU: B.S. Environmental Geology (Water Resources Concentration), B.S. Environmental Geology (Geology Concentration), B.S. Environmental Geology (Environmental Geology Concentration), B.S. Forestry (Forest Management Concentration), B.S. Forestry (Wildland Fire Concentration), B.S. Biology, B.A. Conservation Management A new Natural Resources track within the Associate of Pre-Science degree at UNM-Taos was designed to prepare students for transfer to NMHU to complete a B.S. in Forestry, Biology, or Geology or a B.A. in Conservation Management. Two new, highly experiential courses developed at UNM-Taos in New Mexico Ecology and Water Resources expanded the Natural Resources curriculum. High quality academic advising and a cohort transfer visit from UNM-Taos to NMHU helped students stay on track in their academic planning. A hiring event with NNM-CCC students and internship hosts from 7 agencies or other organizations allowed internship supervisors and students to interact and identify the most suitable matches for summer internship openings. It also promoted professional development for students, who prepared resumes and participated in interviews with agency representatives. 11 students participated in a Forest Service Hiring Fair at the Society of American Foresters National Convention held in Albuquerque, NM, November 2017 The impacts of activities supporting students in their academic and career advancement are evident in students' completion of degrees and continuation into higher degree programs or employment with USDA agencies. 4 students completed A.S. degrees in May 2018 5 students will transfer from UNM-Taos into B.S. degree programs at NMHU in August, 2018 1 student completed B.S. degree in May 2018 and entered a permanent pathways position with the U.S. Forest Service 3 students are anticipated to complete M.S. degrees in August 2018

Publications

• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: Brown, E. and Corey-Rivas, S. (2017). Tracking an Emergent Pathogen in Boreal Toads across a Southern Rocky Mountain Watershed. 5th Annual New Mexico Academy of Science Research Symposium Program, Albuquerque, NM, November 4, 2017.
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: Corey-Rivas, S. and Brown, E. (2018). The Boreal Toad Immune-Gene Landscape of Central CO. 2018 Southern Rocky Mountain Boreal Toad Conservation Team Meeting, Colorado Springs, CO. March 5-6, 2018.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: Eirich, Daisy. (2018). The Student Experience in the Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps, USDA NIFA Program Directors Meeting, Washington, DC, March 20, 2018.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: Gonzalez, N. (2017) Invasive bullfrogs may not be that bad after all: Paine Effect and the Invasion Paradox. EPSCOR conference, Albuquerque, NM, October, 14, 2017.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: Marquez, Adrianna. (2018). The Student Experience in the Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps, USDA NIFA Program Directors Meeting, Washington, DC,March 20, 2018.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: Suazo, Randy. (2018). The Student Experience in the Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps, USDA NIFA Program Directors Meeting, Washington, DC, March 20, 2018.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: Vigil, Miguel. (2018). The Student Experience in the Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps, USDA NIFA Program Directors Meeting, Washington, DC, March 20, 2018.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: Zanetell, B. (2018). The Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps: Objectives, Outcomes, & Lessons Learnt, USDA NIFA Program Directors Meeting, Washington, DC, March 20, 2018.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: Zanetell, B.A. (2018). EmPOWERment: Addressing Climate Change through Community Solar and Community College Education, 5th Annual Energy, Sustainability, and Climate Change Conference, Mykonos, Greece, June 4-6, 2018.

Progress 09/01/16 to 08/31/17

Outputs
Target Audience:The primary target audience included students at UNM-Taos and New Mexico Highlands University who are from populations underrepresented in the natural resource management field. Secondary audiences included other faculty, staff, and students at these institutions; high school students; natural resource agency staff; and community members in the northern New Mexico region. Changes/Problems:Students' math readiness was a substantial barrier to program recruitment and retention. To address this, we increased math support for students. This included developing a new Summer Math Camp during which students at UNM-Taos complete remedial math courses so that they are adequately prepared for gateway courses in the fall semester. The Math Camp includes field trips to visit personnel at natural reosurces management agencies. This provides incentive for students to focus on developing their math skills as they come to understand the importance of math to careers in natural resources management. This additional math support will be continued in Year 4. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES PROVIDED STUDENTS: Professional Development Workshops 3 undergraduates participated in Math Anxiety Workshop, UNM-Taos, September 7 or 13, 2016 (TRIO Support Services, USDOE) 1 undergraduate participated in Cover Letter & Resume & Interviewing Tips, UNM-Taos, February 8, 2017 (TRIO Support Services, USDOE) 5 undergraduates participated in Resume for Federal Job Applications, UNM-Taos, February 22, 2017 (TRIO Support Services, USDOE) 4 undergraduates and 1 graduate student participated in Workforce Diversity and Career Opportunities within the USDA, February 16-18, 2017 (USDA HSI Principal Investigators Meeting - Student Track and Pathways Hiring Event) 2 undergraduates participated in Professional Development course at NMHU Conference Attendance 1 undergraduate attended Society of American Foresters National Convention, November 2-6,2016, Madison, WI 1 graduate student attended NRCT 2017 Principal Investigators Meeting, Albuquerque, NM 1 graduate student attended (1) HAR-CeSER 2017 Conference, 'High Altitude Restoration Science & Practice', Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, March 7-9, 2017 and (2)61st Annual New Mexico Water Conference, 'Where Does All the Water GO?' Western New Mexico University, Silver City, NM October 5-7, 2016 3 graduate students and 1 undergraduate presented 11 oral or poster presentations at conferences as listed under "Products" Internships and Other Experiential Learning 10 UNM-Taos students completed Climate Change Seminar, UNM-Taos, May 15-19 10 UNM-Taos students who particpated in the summer 2017 math remediation program also attended 8 field trips to join federal agency scientists in the field to learn about their jobs and create an incentive for working hard in the math camp. These field days are detailed under Educational Aids and Curricula in "Other Products." 11 undergraduates placed in summer 2017 internships with land management agencies: 6 at USFS Carson National Forest Supervisor's Office, Taos, NM; 3 at BLM Taos, NM Field Office; 1 at Sunset Crater National Park in Flagstaff, AZ; and 1 at Purple Martin Conservation Association in Erie, PA TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROVIDED FACULTY: Edward Martinez Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) 30th Annual Conference, October 8-10, 2016, San Antonio, TX. Workforce Diversity and Career Opportunities within the USDA, February 16-18, 2017 (USDA HSI Principal Investigators Meeting - Student Track and Pathways Hiring Event) Brooke Zanetell UNM Mentoring Institute 9th Annual Conference, October 25-28, 2016, Albuquerque, NM. Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) 30th Annual Conference, October 8-10, 2016, San Antonio, TX. Workforce Diversity and Career Opportunities within the USDA, February 16-18, 2017 (USDA HSI Principal Investigators Meeting - Student Track and Pathways Hiring Event) Training on how to use DNA technology and equipment in teaching undergraduate biology, by Dr. Mario Izaguierre-Sierra (Northern New Mexico College) at UNM-Taos, April 26, 2017. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?In addition to conference presentations and publications detailed under "Products," K-12, UNM-Taos, and community outreach included 28 distinct events reaching approximately 995 individuals. 15 outreach visits to high schools and youth programs informing them about the NNM-CCC and careers in natural resources agencies reached 17 teachers and 392 high school students: Recruitment visit to Questa High School attended by 1 teacher and 20 students. Outreach visit to Rocky Mountain Youth Corps attended by 100 youth. Outreach at Taos High School Career Day & Orchard Planting attended by 10 teachers and 50 students. 12 outreach visits made to Taos High School classrooms reaching 6 teachers and 222 students. Outreach and recruitment efforts at 9 events on the UNM-Taos campus reached 96 students: Tabling at UNM-Taos CAMP Career Internship Fair, Klauer Campus, Feb 10, 2017 reached 4 students. Outreach at Math Anxiety Workshop, UNM-Taos, September 7 or 13, 2016 (TRIO Support Services, USDOE) reached approximately 20 students. Outreach at Cover Letter, Resume & Interviewing Tips, UNM-Taos, February 8, 2017 (TRIO Support Services, USDOE) reached 2 students. 6 outreach visits made to UNM-Taos classrooms reached approximately 70 students. Outreach and community engagement at 5 events reached approximately 490 local community members: Brooke Zanetell, Presentation on CCC and opportunities for community members to the Taos Milagro Rotary Club (50 attendees) Barb Wiard, Table at Questa Earth Day, Questa, NM (35 attendees) Jasmine Romero, Presentation at the B-Day celebration for the creation of the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument, Taos Mesa Brewing, Taos, NM, March 2017, attended by Senator Tom Udall and many other community leaders (200 attendees) Jasmine Romero, Presentation at Pecha Kucha youth event, Taos Community Auditorium, May 2017 (125 attendees) Outreach at Taos High School Career Day & Orchard Planting, April 2017 (80 attendees) 1,269 people read the USDA NIFA impact spotlight featuring the CCC program: https://nifa.usda.gov/announcement/university-new-mexico-taos-develops-next-generation-climate-change-scientists What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?In Year 4, we intend to maintain all aspects of the program that have been developed and implemented in Years 1-3 with continued emphasis on recruitment and providing remedial math education to expand the pool of students eligible to participate in the program.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? The NNM-CCC educated and trained underrepresented students with the occupational competencies to be competitive in natural resource management careers through strategic partnerships between educational institutions and natural resources agencies; student recruitment and retention; and academic and career advancement. Its cumulative success through Year 3 includes: 24 partnerships developed with natural resources management agencies, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and businesses; 7 participants placed in full-time employment (4 with USFS, 1 with forestry consulting company, 1 with biotechnology company, 1 with private school) and 2 participants placed in seasonal employment (1 with USFS, 1 with BLM); 18 students' degree completion (3 M.S., 4 B.S. Forestry, 1 B.S. Geology, 12 Associate of Pre-Science); 9 students' transfer from community college at UNM-Taos to B.S. degree programs at NMHU; and 16 undergraduate students' completion of 24 summer internships. In year 3, applications to join the program increased substantially over prior years. Year 3 results are detailed below. OBJECTIVE 1: STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP AND EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING Mutually beneficial partnerships between HSI's and natural resources agencies continued and expanded in Year 3. Highlights included: Strategic partnerships continued with 5 USDA agencies, 2 other federal agencies, 1 national laboratory (Los Alamos), and 1 state agency. Partnerships continued with 3 colleges/universities, 1 high school, 2 municipal entities, 2 non-profits, and 1 for-profit company. New partnerships were developed with 3 area high schools, 3 non-profits, and 1 municipal board. Partnerships continued to expand within organizations so that the number of professionals in specific agencies who are involved in internships, recruitment, etc. increased. Partnerships resulted in student internships, experiential learning, student research opportunities, and student recruitment. Observed impacts were the broadening of students' perspectives, knowledge, and networks in science and natural resources management. OBJECTIVE 2: RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION The program had high retention in Year 3 and recruitment of new participants increased substantially. Year 3 student participants benefitting from the program included 10 Undeclared students at UNM-Taos (math/science camp), 6 Associate Degree of Pre-Science students at UNM-Taos, 8 Bachelor of Science Geology or Forestry students at NMHU, and 7 Masters Degree students in Natural Science, Biology or Water Resources at NMHU. Highlights included: Outreach Coordinator and Communications Specialist hired to galvanize community awareness and student recruitment into the natural resources career track. Major outreach campaign began in April 2017 resulting in over 20 students who applied for 10 positions available in the Fall 2017 NNM-CCC cohort. Expanded program to include students who need math remediation. Debuted new Math Camp in summer 2017 to get students over the math "hump" by completing remedial math coursework so that students can take gateway math class in the fall. Math Camp includes field trips to visit Agency personnel and show students the kinds of jobs they can have if they persist in their math and science studies. Math Camp has proven to be a valuable recruitment tool. Increased the number of internship placements within natural resources agencies. 11 undergraduates placed in internships at 4 agencies/organizations: 1 at Sunset Crater National Park, Flagstaff, AZ; 3 at BLM Taos Field Office; 1 at Purple Martin Conservation Association, Erie, PA; 6 at USFS Carson National Forest Supervisor's Office Taos, NM. Retention has been positively impacted by financial stipends awarded students and individualized math tutoring. Academic stipends (typically $2,000/semester) provided to 6 students pursuing a A.S. in Pre-science at UNM-Taos, 6 students pursuing a B.S. at NMHU, and 6 students pursuing a M.S. at NMHU. Summer stipends for internships or field research (typically $3,000) provided to 8 A.S. students, 2 B.S. students, and 2 M.S. students. Summer Math Camp stipends ($1,000) provided to at least 7 A.S. students. Stipends enable students who would otherwise need to work to attend. Observed impacts of recruitment and retention activities are manifest in the achievements of these students, who demonstrate determination to complete their degrees and excitement about future careers in natural resources management. OBJECTIVE 3: ACADEMIC AND CAREER ADVANCEMENT Academic and career advancement is achieved through advising, articulation agreements, summer internships (see above), and job placement. Highlights included: A UNM-Taos Academic and Transfer Advisor was assigned by the Dean of Instruction to the project to streamline degree completion and transfer to NMHU. Draft articulation agreements between UNM-Taos and NMHU for bachelor degrees in Forestry, Biology, and Geology are near formalization. Summer internship opportunities continued to expand as the number of scientists at partner agencies who want to host a summer intern increased. 6 B.S. students received academic tutoring in 149 visits to NMHU tutoring center and 145 supplemental instruction sessions. 5 M.S. students received academic tutoring in 36 visitis to NMHU tutoring center and 15 supplemental instructions sessions. 3 masters students gained employment upon completion of their theses (1 as a biotech scientist at a private company, 1 as a science teacher at a grades 7-12 private school, and 1 with the USFS Santa Fe National Forests). 4 students in the program's Year 1 cohort completed their bachelor's degrees in May 2017; 2 are employed by the USFS and 2 will continue at NMHU in graduate studies. Several participating students attended the USDA NIFA / NRCS conference in Albuquerque, February 2017, where they were groomed for securing federal jobs.

Publications

• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2016 Citation: Zanetell, B.A. (2016) Climate Change and Higher Education: Preparing the Next Generation of Natural Resource Managers. 9th Annual Mentoring Conference, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, October 26, 2016.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2017 Citation: Zanetell, B.A. 2017. How to Get a Job in Natural Resources: Education, Experience, and Climate Change Literacy. Poster. USDA NIFA 20th Annual Program Directors Meeting and Natural Resources Conservation Service Conference on Workforce Diversity and Career Opportunities within the USDA. Albuquerque, NM, 16-18 February 2017.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2017 Citation: Yekkeh, B., Martinez, E. A., Biggs, J. R., Zebrowski, J. P.& Dappen, P. R. (2017, April). Relationship between Tree Canopy Cover and Discharge in Upper Gallinas Watershed, NM, 1939  2015. Poster session presented at The 15th Annual NMHU Student Day for Research and Creative Work, Las Vegas, NM
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2017 Citation: Yekkeh, B., Martinez, E. A., Biggs, J. R., Zebrowski, J. P.& Dappen, P. R. (2017, April). Relationship between Tree Canopy Cover and Discharge in Upper Gallinas Watershed, NM, 1939  2015. Poster session presented at New Mexico Geological Society Annual Spring Meeting, Socorro, NM
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2017 Citation: Yekkeh, B., Martinez, E. A., Biggs, J. R., Zebrowski, J. P.& Dappen, P. R. (2017, March). Relationship between Tree Canopy Cover and Discharge in Upper Gallinas Watershed, NM, 1939  2015. Poster session presented at HAR-CeSER 2017 Conference, High Altitude Restoration Science & Practice, Fort Collins, Colorado
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2017 Citation: Yekkeh, B., Martinez, E. A., Biggs, J. R., Zebrowski, J. P.& Dappen, P. R. (2016, October). Relationship between Tree Canopy Cover and Discharge in Upper Gallinas Watershed, NM, 1939  2015. Poster session presented at 61st Annual New Mexico Water Conference, Where Does All the Water GO?, Silver City, NM
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2017 Citation: Brown, Eric. (2017) "Assessing Barriers to Dispersal of the Boreal Toad within a Southern Rocky Mountain Watershed". 15th Annual NMHU Student Day for Research and Creative Work. New Mexico Highlands University.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2016 Citation: Brown, Eric. (2016) "A late Campanian euselachian assemblage from the Upper Campanian Bearpaw Formation of southern Alberta, Canada". Poster presented at the Penn State Behrend-Sigma Xi Undergraduate Research and Creative Accomplishment Conference, Erie, PA.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2016 Citation: Brown, Eric. (2016) "A late Campanian euselachian assemblage from the Upper Campanian Bearpaw Formation of southern Alberta, Canada". Poster presented at the Canadian Society of Vertebrate Palaeontology 4th Annual Meeting, Mississauga, ON.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2017 Citation: Eliza Montoya."Assessing Aquatic Habitat Quality in Restored Arroyos at Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge". 2017 Principal Investigators Meeting. 16 February 2017. The Sheraton Uptown Hotel, Albuquerque, NM. Poster Presentation.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2017 Citation: Eliza Montoya. "Assessing Aquatic Habitat Quality in Restored Arroyos at Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge". NMHU Student Research Day. 21 April 2017. New Mexico Highlands University. Las Vegas, NM. Poster Presentation.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2017 Citation: Eirich, Daisy. (2017) "Impacts of Climate Change on riparian ecosytems, a USDA PROEPL internship, ARMAS in Education -NMHU" 15th Annual NMHU Student Day for Research and Creative Work. New Mexico Highlands University.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2017 Citation: Eliza Montoya."Assessing Aquatic Habitat Quality in Restored Arroyos at Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge." Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography Aquatic Sciences Meeting, Honolulu, HI, February 26- March 3, 2017.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Accepted Year Published: 2017 Citation: Cook, T., Brown, E., Ralrick, P., and Konishi, T. (in press). A late Campanian Euselachian Assemblage from the Bearpaw Formation of Alberta, Canada: Some Notable Range Extensions. Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2016 Citation: Zanetell, B. A. 2016. Mentoring for Minority Success in STEM and Natural Resource Management. Proceedings of Univ. of New Mexico Mentoring Institute Journal 9: 654-662.

Progress 09/01/15 to 08/31/16

Outputs
Target Audience:The primary target audience included students at UNM-Taos and New Mexico Highlands University who are from populations underrepresented in the natural resource management field. Secondary audiences included other faculty, staff, and students at these institutions; high school students; natural resource agency staff; and community members in the northern New Mexico region. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Student training and professional development were achieved through: 1) internships and mentoring, 2) professional development and training events, and 3) attendance at state and national conferences/meetings. INTERNSHIPS AND MENTORING 4 undergraduates trained through internships with USFS Carson National Forest Supervisor's Office (Taos, NM) and Bureau of Land Management Taos Field Office 1 undergraduate trained as research assistant to scientists conducting climate change research at Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (Gothic, CO) 2 undergraduates awarded NM Alliance for Minority Participation (NM AMP) Transfer scholarships ($1,000 each) to transfer from UNM-Taos to NMHU 4 undergraduates participated in peer mentoring via UNM-Taos NNM-CCC study group supporting student success in STEAM courses 4 undergraduates participated in peer mentoring via the NMHU ARMAS Center (Achieving in Research, Math and Science Center) supporting student success in STEAM courses 5 M.S. students received training through one-on-one mentoring with faculty at NMHU PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TRAINING EVENTS attended by NNM-CCC undergraduates at UNM-Taos: Transfer Guidance Workshop, UNM-Taos, April 2016, covering the application process, financial aid, housing, degree requirements, course registration, and key contacts ATTENDANCE AT STATE AND NATIONAL CONFERENCES/MEETINGS 4 M.S. students and 2 undergraduates gained professional development by participating in scientific conferences including: Society of American Foresters; New Mexico Academy of Science and New Mexico Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research Joint Annual Meeting and Symposium; New Mexico Alliance for Minority Participation Annual Undergraduate Student Research Conference; and New Mexico Highlands University Research Day. FACULTY TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Dr. Martinez participated in year-long training: Peer Coaching for Engagement Project to increase student engagement in the classroom hosted by ARMAS and delivered by Escala Educational Services, NMHU Campus August 2014 through May 2015. Dr. Zanetell attended USDA HSI Education Grants Program Directors Meeting at the USDA Offices in Washington, DC, National Science Foundation, Arlington, VA, and Agricultural Research Center in Beltsville, MD, December 7-9, 2016. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Outreach activities took three forms: (1) events designed to increase awareness of academic pathways into careers in the natural resources management field, (2) presentations designed to increase public understanding of climate change and its impacts in northern New Mexico, and (3) a newspaper article in the Taos News. Events about academic pathways to natural resource careers included: Outreach Visits to 4 Taos High School Science Classrooms (80 attendees); Outreach Visits to 4 UNM-Taos STEM courses (60 attendees); and Outreach Visit to Rocky Mountain Youth Corps Team Leader Meeting (25 attendees). These events benefitted high school and undergraduate students, as well as faculty and staff, who learned about academic pathways leading to career opportunities in natural resource management. To increase awareness of climate change, NNM-CCC undergraduates collaboratively designed a climate change presentation and gave it at UNM-Taos and the Rocky Mountain Youth Corps. These presentations benefitted university staff and faculty as well as staff and students doing natural resources work by providing scientifically accurate information about climate change and its impacts in northern New Mexico. The Taos News article increased public awareness of the NNM-CCC program. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?In Year 3, we intend to maintain all aspects of the program that have been developed and implemented in Years 1-2. In Year 3, there will be increased emphasis on marketing of and recruitment into the natural resource management track at UNM-Taos and NMHU.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Climate change impacts (e.g., drought, pest infestations, tree mortality, reductions in water quality and quantity, wildfires) are increasingly evident throughout the Southwestern U.S., including New Mexico. Natural Resource Management (NRM) agencies are at the frontline of climate change challenges in the region. Yet, agencies are losing employees to turnover and retirement, while the pool of qualified STEAM applicants, especially Hispanics and other minorities, remains small. At the same time, Hispanic and other minority youth often lack educational opportunity and career planning, particularly in STEAM fields. The Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps (NNM-CCC), a 4-year, collaborative project led by the University of New Mexico-Taos (UNM-Taos) and New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU), addresses these environmental and educational challenges. The NNM-CCC's goal is to educate and train underrepresented students with the occupational competencies to be competitive in natural resource management careers through strategic partnerships between educational institutions and natural resource agencies; student recruitment and retention; and academic and career advancement. In Year 2 of this four-year project, results included: 5 students' job placement (4 with USFS, 1 with BLM); 11 students' degree completion (1 M.S., 1 B.S. Forestry, 9 Associate of Pre-Science); 9 students' transfer from community college to NMHU to earn B.S. in Forestry or Environmental Geology; 14 students' successful completion of summer internships with federal agencies or university researchers; and increased awareness among Taos County residents of natural resource management careers and climate change. OBJECTIVE 1: STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP AND EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING Strategic partnerships continued with 5 USDA agencies, 2 other federal agencies, 1 national laboratory (Los Alamos), 1 state agency, and others. USDA agencies included: USFS Carson National Forest (Taos), USFS Santa Fe National Forest (Pecos-Las Vegas Ranger District), USFS Southwestern Region Forest Health Office (Albuquerque), Valles Caldera National Preserve (Jemez Springs), NRCS Taos Field Office. Department of Interior agencies included: BLM Taos Field Office, USFWS Northern New Mexico National Wildlife Refuge Complex (Las Vegas). A new partnership was developed with NM Department of Environment Surface Water Quality Bureau. Partnerships continued with 3 colleges/universities, 2 municipal entities, 2 non-profits, and one for-profit company. Partnerships resulted in internships, experiential learning, and research opportunities for students. Observed impacts were the broadening of student perspectives, knowledge, and networks in science and natural resources management. Partnerships with NMHU M.S. students conducting research (funded by this grant) at Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge: US Fish and Wildlife Service, Northern New Mexico National Wildlife Refuge Complex, Las Vegas, NM Denver Zoo Conservation Biology Department, Denver, CO Partnerships with undergraduates at NMHU and UNM-Taos receiving grant funds for summer internships: US Forest Service Carson National Forest Supervisor's Office, Taos, NM Bureau of Land Management Taos Field Office, Taos, NM Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory, Gothic, CO New Mexico Department of Environment Surface Water Quality Bureau, Santa Fe, NM Partnerships resulting in experiential education curricula for undergraduates: Northern New Mexico College Department of Biology, Espanola, NM New Mexico Highlands University Department of Natural Resources and Department of Biology, Las Vegas, NM Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, Taos, NM Upward Bound Program, University of New Mexico CAMP College Assistance Migrant Program, UNM-Taos Objective 2: RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION Twelve students continued in the project from Year 1. Four of these transferred from UNM-Taos into the B.S. Forestry program at NMHU while others progressed towards their Associates in Pre-Science. Two students left the program: 1 to pursue a STEM degree in medicine at UNM-Albuquerque; another for employment as wildland firefighter. The program had 85% retention from Year 1 to Year 2. New students recruited and accepted into the program were 4 additional A.S. students and 1 M.S. student. Observed impacts of recruitment and retention activities are manifest in the achievements of these students, who demonstrate determination to complete their degrees and excitement about their future careers. Students' success in the program has increased its recognition and built momentum toward establishing an academic/career track in natural resources management at UNM-Taos. Recruitment Activities Outreach to prospective students by UNM-Taos STEAM faculty and Taos High School teachers Targeted recruitment via email and advisors to 200 UNM-Taos students earning Associate of Pre-Science Targeted recruitment via email to 100 UNM-Taos students who have taken MATH 121 Networking with other federally-funded programs at UNM-Taos that aim to increase STEM achievement 4 visits to science classes at Taos High School reaching 80 students, 4 teachers 1 visit to Rocky Mountain Youth Corps reaching 20 students, 5 staff 1 Taos News article Retention Activities Financial Support Academic Stipends ($2,000 - $2,500/semester) to 17 undergraduate or graduate students Summer Internship Stipends ($3,000) to 4 undergraduates without another internship or seasonal employment Summer Research Stipend ($3,000) to 1 graduate student In-kind support to 4 graduate students in analyzing, writing and defending thesis research Tutoring UNM-Taos Math Coach tutored NNM-CCC students ~160 hours At UNM-Taos, NNM-CCC study group met for ~32 hours At UNM-Taos, a NNM-CCC student provided math tutoring ~160 hours At UNM-Taos, Center for Academic Success and Achievement provided STEAM tutors and academic support At NMHU, Achieving in Research, Mathematics, and Science Center provided STEAM tutors and academic support Objective 3: ACADEMIC AND CAREER ADVANCEMENT Academic and career advancement is achieved through advising, articulation agreements, summer internships (see objective 1), and job placement. Advising Dr. Zanetell advised 15 NNM-CCC students (A.S. & B.S.) ~140 hours Dr. Martinez advised 15 NNM-CCC students (B.S. and M.S.) ~46 hours New Student Program Advisor advised current and prospective students plus UNM-Taos advising staff about program requirements ~32 hours 5 graduate students advised other students ~75 hours UNM-Taos Transfer Advisor advised NNM-CCC students ~10 hours Articulation Agreements: 7 articulation agreements drafted in Year 1 began being formatted to institutional specifications and vetted by faculty and administrators. In Year 3, this process is expected to culminate in formalized articulation agreements for 7 NMHU degrees: 5 B.S. (Forestry with Forest Management or Wildland Fire Concentration; Environmental Geology with Water Resources or Environmental Geology Concentration; Biology with Wildlife Management Minor), 2 B.A. (Biology with Wildlife Management Minor; Conservation Management) Job Placement: One student employed full-time with USFS District Office in Peñasco, NM. One student awarded Pathway Position in Year 1 transitioned to full-time at USFS North Park District in Walden, CO after earning B.S. Forestry. One student seasonally employed as Park Ranger with BLM Taos Field Office. One student continued in an Indefinite Pathways Position at USFS office in La Jara, CO.

Publications

• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Zanetell, B.A. 2015. Mentoring About Climate Change: A Two-Way Street. North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Journal 59(1): 97.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2016 Citation: Montoya, Eliza and Edward Martinez. (2016). Assessing Aquatic Habitat Quality in Restored Arroyos at Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge. Oral presentation at the Society of Freshwater Science Annual Meeting, Sacremento, CA, USA.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Vialpando, CJ. (2015). The Effects the Invasive Bullfrog has on the Demographics of Garter Snakes in Northern New Mexico. EPSCOR (New Mexico's Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research) Annual Meeting, Albuquerque, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Vialpando, CJ. (2015). The Effects the Invasive Bullfrog has on the Demographics of Garter Snakes in Northern New Mexico. Colorado Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, Longmont, CO.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Vialpando, C. I. and Rivas, J. A. (2015). The Efficacy of using Artificial Cover Objects at Capturing Amphibians and Reptiles in Riparian Areas of Northern New Mexico. Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles, Lawrence,KS.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Torres, M., Montoya, E. and E. A. Martinez (2015). Assessing Water Quality in Arroyo Restoration at Rio Mora National Wildlife Reserve. New Mexico Alliance for Minority Participation (NM AMP) Annual Undergraduate Student Research Conference, October 1-3, 2015, Las Cruces, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Zanetell, B.A. (2015). The Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps. Poster at the USDA-NIFA New Program Directors Meeting, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Beltsville, MD.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2016 Citation: Zanetell, B.A. (2016). Climate Change and Higher Education: Preparing the Next Generation of Natural Resource Managers. University of Alaska in Juneau and USFS Juneau Forestry Sciences Lab, June 27, 2016.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2016 Citation: Zanetell, B.A. (2016). Climate Change and Higher Education: Preparing the Next Generation of Natural Resource Managers. National Park Service Sitka National Hisotric Park, June 27, 2016.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2016 Citation: Roybal, R. and C. Vigil. Climate Change: Heating Up the Earth One Molecule at a Time. UNM-Taos Klauer Campus, May 18, 2016.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2016 Citation: Roybal, R. and C. Vigil. The Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps. Rocky Mountain Youth Corps Headquarters, Taos, NM, July 5, 2016.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2016 Citation: McBride, Lisa and Corey-Rivas, Sarah. (Spring 2016). Meta population Structure of a Garter Snake Species in the Mora River Watershed. New Mexico Highlands University Student Research Day, Las Vegas, NM.
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2016 Citation: Staff. New Internships for UNM-Taos. The Taos News, 21 April 2016: A4.
• Type: Book Chapters Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Martinez, E.A., B. Thapa, and D. Williams. 2015. The Potential Contribution of arsenic to the Gallinas River by the Montezuma Hot Springs. New Mexico Geological Society Fall Field Conference Guidebook pp. 50-52.
• Type: Book Chapters Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Martinez, E.A. and B.E. Eyong. 2015. Trace metal concentrations in sediments and benthic macroinvertebrates collected in the Gallinas River. New Mexico Geological Society Fall Field Conference Guidebook pp. 122-124.
• Type: Book Chapters Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Martinez, E.A. and M. Meneakis. 2015. The impacts of climate change on the Gallinas River watershed. New Mexico Geological Society Fall Field Conference Guidebook pp. 125-126.
• Type: Book Chapters Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Martinez, J, D. Williams and E.A. Martinez. 2015. The accumulation of copper sulfate in sediment and water resulting from algaecide treatments in Peterson Reservoir, Las Vegas. New Mexico Geological Society Fall Field Conference Guidebook pp. 126-128.
• Type: Book Chapters Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Shu-Nyamboli, C., J. Lowry, and E.A. Martinez. 2015. Determination of selected heavy metal concentrations and distribution in the Gallinas River using macrophytes. New Mexico Geological Society Fall Field Conference Guidebook pp. 134-136.
• Type: Book Chapters Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Petronis, M., J. Lindline, and E.A. Martinez. 2015. Late Pleistocene to Holocene paleoclimate of the Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge and adjacent Great Plains. New Mexico Geological Society Fall Field Conference Guidebook pp. 136-138.
• Type: Book Chapters Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Petronis, M., J. Lindline, and E.A. Martinez. 2015. The ancestral Gallinas River fluvial terrace east of Las Vegas, at the Melton Ranch gravel pit. New Mexico Geological Society Fall Field Conference Guidebook pp. 138-139.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Garcia L., C. West, E. Sandoval, E.A. Martinez. 2015. Las Conchas Fire Short Term Impacts on Aquatic Macroinvertabrate Community Structure in the San Antonio Creek, Jemez Mountains, NM. USDA Forest Service Proceedings RMRS-P-336.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Martinez, E.A., S. Brown, R. McNeill, J. Zebrowski, E. Duran, A. Lavadie, L. Garcia. 2015. A Synthesis of The Las Conchas Fire: How Does it Compare? USDA Forest Service Proceedings RMRS-P-341.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Brown, S., E.A. Martinez, J.P. Zebrowski. 2015. The Las Conchas Fire, New Mexico, in Historical Context. USDA Forest Service Proceedings RMRS-P-329.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Elyssa Duran, Anita Lavadie, Sara Brown, Joseph Zebrowski, Edward Martinez. 2015. Soil Characteristics Across Burn Severity in the Las Conchas Fire. USDA Forest Service Proceedings RMRS-P-331.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Lavadie, A., S. Brown, J.P. Zebrowski, E.A. Martinez. 2015. Hydrologic Impacts of Burn Severity on Nutrient Concentrations in Surface Water, Jemez Mountains, NM. USDA Forest Service Proceedings RMRS-P-340.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Molly Wright, M., J. Saiz, S. Salinas, S. Brown, S. Corey-Rivas, E. Martinez, R. McNeill, J. Rivas. 2015. The Impacts of Wildfire on Amphibian Populations in Northern New Mexico and Southern Colorado. USDA Forest Service Proceedings RMRS-P-344.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: McNeill, R., S. Brown, E. Martinez. 2015. Vegetation Response to the Las Conchas Fire, 2011. USDA Forest Service Proceedings RMRS-P-342.

Progress 09/01/14 to 08/31/15

Outputs
Target Audience:The primary target audience included students at UNM-Taos and New Mexico Highlands University who are from populations underrepresented in the natural resource management field. Secondary audiences included other faculty, staff, and students at these institutions; high school students; natural resource agency staff; and community members in the northern New Mexico region. Changes/Problems:Grant implementation was delayed due to USDA funds not being released to UNM-Taos until December 2014 and funds to New Mexico Highlands University not being released via subaward until March, 2015. The delay was due to complications in meeting the protocols required by all three institutions involved (USDA, UNM, NMHU). Program activities -- especially with respect to student recruitment and retention, experiential learning opportunities, and strategic partnership building -- are well on track; however, some activities, such as evaluation, are behind the originally proposed schedule. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?STUDENT TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Student training and professional development were achieved through: 1) internships and mentoring, 2) professional development and training events, and 3) attendance at state and national conferences/meetings. Internships and Mentoring: -7 undergraduates gained training through internships with the following natural resource management agencies and organizations including: USFS Region 3 Forest Health Protection Office, Albuquerque, NM; USFS Carson National Forest Supervisor's Office, Taos, NM; USFWS Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge, and Los Alamos National Laboratories Climate Change Research Group, Los Alamos, NM. -4 NMHU Masters students gained training as supervisors of undergraduate research assistants to their climate change related thesis research in cooperation with NMHU, USFWS Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge, and the Denver Zoo. -2 undergraduates gained training as research assistants to graduate students conducting climate change related thesis research. -8 undergraduates participated in peer mentoring via the UNM-Taos NNM-CCC study group supporting student success in STEAM courses. -2 undergraduates participated in peer mentoring via the NMHU ARMAS Center (Achieving in Research, Math and Science Center) to support student success in STEAM courses. -4 M.S. students gained training development through one-on-one mentoring with faculty at New Mexico Highlands University. Professional Development Training Events Attended by NNM-CCC undergrads at UNM-Taos: -Career Readiness Event for Graduating Students, Santa Fe Community College, February 6, 2015. Small group sessions on resumes, elevator speeches, networking, mock interviews and soft skills panel. Attended by Reps from 25 Northern NM companies & organizations including LANL, Sandia, Intel and US Forest Service. 2 NNM-CCC students attended. -8-week Professional Readiness Course, UNM-Taos, Fall Semester 2014, Spring Semester 2015. Focus areas: resumes/cover letters, scholarship opps and applications, job search, interview skills, soft skills, and degree plan. 2 NNM-CCC students attended. -UNM-Taos College and Career Expo, April 15, 2015. Focus areas: academic/career tracks, scholarships, and opportunities. 4 NNM-CCC students attended. -Interview Workshop in Preparation for US Forest Service Hiring Event, UNM-Taos, April 21, 2015. Focus areas: resumes, cover letters, introductions and interview skills.3 NNM-CCC students attended. Attendance at State and National Conferences/Meetings: 4 M.S. students gained professional development through participation in national and state scientific conferences including: Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) Conference; The Emerging Researchers National Conference in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics; Joint Meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists; Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles Meeting; New Mexico Academy of Science and New Mexico Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research Joint Annual Meeting and Symposium; New MexicoBioInformatics, Science and Technology (NMBIST) Symposium; New Mexico Highlands University Research Day; and the University of New Mexico -Taos and New Mexico Highlands University Science Expo. FACULTY TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Dr. Edward Martinez provided coaching for the Student Engagement New Mexico Highlands University Faculty Development Project Fall 2014 and Spring 2015. Dr. Edward Martinez attended two professional development conferences: Agricultural Science Education Conference hosted by Florida International University, Coconut Grove, FL, Nov. 18-21, 2014; Association of Hispanic Serving Institution Educators HSI/Title V Best Practices Conference, San Antonio, TX, Mar. 8-11, 2015. Dr. Edward Martinez participated in a year-long professional development with Escala Educational Services incorporating best practices in teaching into his courses from Fall 2014 and Spring 2015. Dr. Brooke Zanetell attended three professional development conferences: Agricultural Science Education Conference hosted by Florida International University, Coconut Grove, FL, Nov. 18-21, 2014; Association of Hispanic Serving Institution Educators HSI/Title V Best Practices Conference, San Antonio, TX, Mar. 8-11, 2015; and National Association of Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Annual Conference, Athens, GA, June 16-20, 2015. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Outreach activities took three forms: (1) events designed to increase awareness of academic pathways into careers in the natural resources management field, (2) presentations designed to increase public understanding of climate change and its impacts in northern New Mexico, and (3) a newspaper article in the Taos News. For the first activity, the following events occurred: UNM-Taos and NMHU Science Expo at UNM-Taos Klauer Campus (50 attendees); Outreach Visits to 4 Taos High School Science Classrooms (80 attendees). These events benefitted high school and undergraduate students, as well as faculty and staff, who learned more about academic pathways leading to career opportunities in natural resource management. For the second activity, undergraduates in the NNM-CCC collaboratively developed a presentation about climate change and gave presentations at the following professional or community organizations: USFS Carson National Forest Supervisor's Office, Taos Soil and Water Conservation District, USFWS Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge, USFS Region 3 Forest Health Protection Office, Los Alamos National Laboratories Climate Change Research Group, and the Boys and Girls Club of Albuquerque. These presentations benefitted agency personnel and community members by providing scientifically accurate information about climate change and its impacts in northern New Mexico. Lastly, the recently published article "UNM-Taos Cultivates Climate Change Scientists" on p. A4 of the August 3 edition of The Taos News can be seen at http://www.taosnews.com/news/article_1c55e5d0-36f1-11e5-9b82-33f7be831f37.html. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Climate change impacts - including drought, pest infestations, tree mortality, reductions in water quality and quantity, and wildfires - are increasingly evident throughout the Southwestern U.S., including New Mexico. Natural Resource Management (NRM) agencies are at the frontline of climate change challenges in the region. Yet, agencies are losing employees to turnover and retirement, while the pool of qualified STEAM applicants - especially Hispanics and other minorities - remains small. At the same time, Hispanic and other minority youth often lack educational opportunity and career planning, particularly in STEAM fields. The Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps (NNM-CCC), a 4-year, collaborative project led by the University of New Mexico-Taos (UNM-Taos) and New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU), has been designed to address these environmental and educational challenges. The goal of the NNM-CCC is to educate and train underrepresented students with the occupational competencies to be competitive in natural resource management careers through strategic partnerships between educational institutions and natural resource agencies; student recruitment and retention; and academic and career advancement. In the first year of this four-year project, the program has achieved outstanding results. These include: job placement with the US Forest Service for 3 participating students, transfer from a community college to NMHU by 6 students to earn a B.S. in Forestry or Environmental Geology, successful completion of summer internships with federal agencies or as research assistants by 10 students, and more awareness among Taos County residents of natural resource management academic/career pathways and of climate change. OBJECTIVE 1: STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP AND EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING Strategic partnerships were developed with 5 USDA agencies and 2 other federal agencies. USDA agencies include: USFS Carson National Forest (Taos), USFS Santa Fe National Forest (Pecos-Las Vegas Ranger District), USFS Southwestern Region Forest Health Office (Albuquerque), Valles Caldera National Preserve (Jemez Springs), and NRCS Taos Field Office. Department of Interior agencies include: BLM Taos Field Office, USFWS Northern New Mexico National Wildlife Refuge Complex (Las Vegas). In addition, partnerships were formed with 1 national laboratory, 3 colleges/universities, 2 entities governed by municipalities, 2 non-profits, and one for-profit company. These partnerships resulted in internships, experiential learning, and research opportunities for students. The observed impacts are a broadening of student perspectives, knowledge, and networks in science and natural resources management. Partnerships with NMHU Masters students in research at Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge, Mora, NM, include: USFWS, Northern New Mexico National Wildlife Refuge Complex, Las Vegas, NM Denver Zoo Conservation Biology Dept, Denver, CO Partnerships with undergrads at NMHU and UNM-Taos in summer internships include: USFS Region 3 Forest Health Protection Office, Albuquerque, NM USFS Carson National Forest Supervisor's Office, Taos, NM Taos SWCD, Taos, NM USFWS, Northern New Mexico National Wildlife Refuge Complex, Las Vegas, NM Los Alamos National Laboratories Climate Change Research Group, Los Alamos, NM Partnerships supporting experiential education for participating undergrads include: USDA Valles Caldera National Preserve USGS Jemez Mountain Field Station, Bandalier National Monument, Los Alamos, NM Department of Natural Resources, Taos Pueblo (Native American Tribe), Taos, NM New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, Albuquerque, NM University of New Mexico Museum of Southwest Biology, Albuquerque, NM Northern New Mexico College Department of Biology, Espanola, NM New Mexico Highlands University Dept. of Natural Resources and Dept. of Biology, Las Vegas, NM Kit Carson Electric Cooperative, Taos, NM Renewable Taos, Taos, NM PPC Solar, Taos, NM Objective 2: RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION The project recruited 8 A.S. students, 2 B.S. students, and 4 M.S. students into the NNM-CCC with 100% retention. Of these students, 93% are Hispanic, 64% are first-generation college students, and 15% are female. The observed impacts of recruitment and retention activities are manifest in the achievements of the first year cohort of students who demonstrate the determination necessary to complete their bachelor's/masters degrees and excitement about their future careers. The success of the first year cohort is causing the program to gain recognition and momentum toward achieving the goal of establishing an academic/career track in natural resources management at UNM-Taos. Recruitment Activities Pre- and post-award meetings with Science Teachers at Taos High School Outreach to prospective students by STEAM faculty at UNM-Taos and Taos High School Teachers Networking with other federally-funded programs at UNM-Taos that aim to increase STEM achievement 4 visits to science classes at Taos High School (reached 80 students) 1 newspaper article in the Taos News Retention Activities Financial Support: Academic Stipends of $2,000 - $2,500 / semester paid to all participating graduate and undergraduate students (14 total) Summer Internship Stipends of $3,000 were paid to participating undergraduates (7 total) Summer Masters Thesis Research Stipends of $3,000 were paid to participating masters students (4 total) Tutoring: At UNM-Taos, NNM-CCC study group met for estimated 24 hours. At UNM-Taos, 475 hours of one-on-one STEAM tutoring available, of which 100 hours used directly by project participants. Staff at UNM-Taos Center for Academic Success and Achievement (CASA) and UNM-Taos Accelerate Coordinator tutored an estimated 20 hours. Dr. Edward Martinez tutored 6 students (B.S. and M.S.) for estimated 20 hours. At NMHU, 5 students tutored other students for estimated 40 hours total. Objective 3: ACADEMIC AND CAREER ADVANCEMENT The objective of academic and career advancement is being achieved through advising, draft articulation agreements, summer internships (described under objective 1), and job placement. Advising: Dr. Brooke Zanetell advised 10 current students and 5 incoming Fall 2015 students (A.S. & B.S.) for estimated 100 hours. Dr. Edward Martinez advised 10 current and incoming (Fall 2015) students (B.S. and M.S.) for estimated 25 hours. 5 NMHU students advised other students for estimated 45 hours total. Staff at UNM-Taos Center for Academic Success and Achievement and UNM-Taos Accelerate Coordinator advised for estimated 100 hours. Draft Articulation Agreements: 7 draft articulation agreements were the outcomes of meetings between the Program Director, NMHU Registrar, and NMHU STEAM faculty. These provide a clear academic pathway for students transferring from UNM-Taos into NRM-related fields of study at NMHU. In Year 2 of the grant, progress will be made toward formalizing the agreements between the two institutions. Draft articulation agreements now exist for the following degrees at NMHU: B.S. Forestry, Forest Management Concentration B.S. Forestry, Wildland Fire Concentration B.S. Environmental Geology, Water Resources Concentration B.S. Environmental Geology, Environmental Geology Concentration B.S. Biology, with Wildlife Management Minor B.A. Biology, with Wildlife Management Minor B.A. Conservation Management Job Placement: 1 participant gained full-time employment with the USFS District Office in Questa, CO. 2 other participants selected for federally funded Indefinite Pathways Positions, which provide paid summer employment and guaranteed full-time position upon graduation, with USFS offices in Laramie, WY and La Jara, CO.

Publications

• Type: Journal Articles Status: Under Review Year Published: 2015 Citation: Martinez, E. A. and E. Ratzlaff. (In Review). Comparing Effects of a STEM-Student Support Center and Supplemental Instruction on Academic Success and Retention of STEM Students at a Four-Year, Open-Enrollment Hispanic-Serving Institution. Journal of Science Education and Technology.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Under Review Year Published: 2015 Citation: Lavadie, A., S. Brown, J. Zebrowiski, and E. A. Martinez. (In Review). Hydrological impacts of burn severity on nutrient concentrations in stormwater and soils, Jemez Mountains, NM. International Journal of Wildland Fire.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2014 Citation: McBride, L. M. and Corey-Rivas, S. (2014). Metapopulation Structure of Two Sympatric Garter Snake Species (Thamnophis elegans and Thamnophis cyrtopsis) in the Mora River Watershed. Paper presented at New Mexico Academy of Science and New Mexico Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research Joint Annual Meeting and Symposium, Albuquerque, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: McBride, L. M. and Corey-Rivas, S. (2015). Metapopulation structure of riparian herpetofauna in the Mora River Watershed. Paper presented at New Mexico Highlands University Science Exposition at University of New Mexico. Taos, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: McBride, L. M. and Corey-Rivas, S. (2015). Metapopulation Structure of Two Sympatric Garter Snake Species in the Mora River Watershed. Paper presented the 12th Annual New Mexico Highlands University Student Research Day. Las Vegas, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: Zanetell, B. A. (2015). Mentoring About Climate Change: A Two-Way Street. 2015 North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Conference, June 16-20, 2015, Athens, GA. North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Journal 59(1): 97.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Trujillo, A. and Rivas, J. (2015). The Impact of the Invasive American Bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) on Woodhouse Toad (Anaxyrus woodhousii) Demographics in the Rio Mora Wildlife Refuge in Northeastern NM. New Mexico Highlands University Research Day. Las Vegas, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Rivas, J. and E.A. Martinez. (2015). Courses, Activities, and Research at NMHU. University of New Mexico-Taos and New Mexico Highlands University Science Expo, April 23. Taos, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Montoya, E. (2015). Assessing, Quantifying, and Monitoring Arroyo Restoration at Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge. University of New Mexico -Taos and New Mexico Highlands University Science Expo, April 23. Taos, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2014 Citation: Trujillo, A. and Rivas, J. (2014). The Impact of the Invasive American Bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) on Woodhouse Toad (Anaxyrus woodhousii) Demographics in the Rio Mora Wildlife Refuge in Northeastern NM. Joint Meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists. Chattanooga, TN.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Trujillo, A. and Rivas, J. (2015) The Impact of the Invasive American Bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) on Woodhouse Toad (Anaxyrus woodhousii) Demographics in the Rio Mora Wildlife Refuge in Northeastern NM. University of New Mexico -Taos and New Mexico Highlands University Science Expo, April 23. Taos, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Vialpando, C. I. and Rivas, J. A. (2015). The Efficacy of using Artificial Cover Objects at Capturing Amphibians and Reptiles in Riparian Areas of Northern New Mexico. Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles, Lawrence, KS.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Vialpando, C. I. and Rivas, J. A. (2015). Response of Northern Leopard Frogs to the Removal of the Invasive Bullfrog. New Mexico Highlands University Research Day, Las Vegas, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2014 Citation: Trujillo, A. and Rivas, J. (2014). The Impact of the Invasive American Bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) on Woodhouse Toad (Anaxyrus woodhousii) Demographics in the Rio Mora Wildlife Refuge in Northeastern NM. NM EPSCoR. Albuquerque, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Montoya, E. (2015). Quantifying Habitat Use by Native Species in Restored Arroyos Impacted by Climate Change. Denver Zoo Safari Camp, June 16, Denver, CO.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: McBride, L. M. and Corey-Rivas, S. (2015). Metapopulation structure of riparian herpetofauna in the Mora River Watershed. Poster presented at New Mexico BioInformatics, Science and Technology (NMBIST) Symposium. Santa Fe, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: McBride, L. M. and Corey-Rivas, S. (2015). Metapopulation Structure of a Garter Snake Species in the Mora River Watershed. Poster presented at Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles Meeting. Lawrence, KS.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Montoya, E. (2015). Assessing, Quantifying, and Monitoring Arroyo Restoration at Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge. New Mexico Highlands University Research Day, April 10. Las Vegas, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Vialpando, C. I. and Rivas, J. A. (2015). Response of Northern Leopard Frogs to the Removal of the Invasive Bullfrog. University of New Mexico-Taos and New Mexico Highlands University Science Expo, April 23. Taos, NM.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2014 Citation: Zanetell, B. A. (2014). The Northern New Mexico Climate Change Corps: A Higher Ed and Federal Agency Partnership to Promote Hispanic and Minority Success in Natural Resources Management. Agri-science Education for the 21st Century: Diversity, Access, and Success, Sponsored by the US Department of Agriculture - National Institute of Food and Agricultures Hispanic Serving Institutions Higher Education Program, November 19-22, 2015, Coconut Grove, FL.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Zanetell, B. A. (2015). Mentoring About Climate Change: A Two-Way Street. 2015 North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Conference, June 16-20, 2015, Athens, GA.
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2015 Citation: News article: Hooks, Cody. UNM-Taos Cultivates Climate Change Scientists. The Taos News. 3 August 2015: A4. Print and Online. http://www.taosnews.com/news/article_1c55e5d0-36f1-11e5-9b82-33f7be831f37.html