Think Like the Scientist: Lindsey Rustad
Meet the Scientist | About the Study

Lindsey Rustad, Ecologist
USDA Forest Service scientistLindsey Rustad

I am currently conducting research the effects of ice storms on the ecology of a forest.

Example of a simple research question I have tried to answer

How do large-scale destructive events like ice storms affect the health and growth of a forest?

Most Exciting Discovery

I've experimented with a variety of destructive forces - acid rain, global warming, and now ice storms. What I've discovered is that we, as a society, are capable of fixing many of the problems we have created.

When did you know you wanted to be a scientist?

When I was younger, I often visited Long Island Sound. The water was clear and full of life. However, as I grew older it become more and more polluted. I learned then that we need to care for ecosystems.

Dr. Lindsey Rustad, Forest Ecologist


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  • Ph.D., University of Maine 
  • USDA Forest Service Scientist
  • A forest ecologist studies the interrelated patterns and processes of vegetation, animals, energy, water and nutrients in forests.