Grant: Major Resources Support Program - Infrastructure

) Queen's University Biological Station (QUBS) is a major field research facility used by scientists from Queen's, as well as other Canadian and international universities. QUBS provides: (a) secure study sites in natural environments in a diversity of habitats, (b) lab and living facilities close to field sites, (c) skilled logistical support and enhanced safety in field conditions, (d) a stimulating, interactive environment conducive to multi-institutional collaboration and supportive of developing scientists. QUBS is located on Lake Opinicon, 50 km north of Kingston, Ontario in a landscape of diverse topography and rich biodiversity. QUBS owns 2,770 ha, encompassing 7 lakes and a variety of habitats. One of these lakes has been equipped as a major biotelemetry facility to monitor the natural movements of aquatic species (fish) throughout the year with sub-meter precision. QUBS also has a year-round Operations Centre, housing for 93 people, labs, library, aquarium facilities, and shared equipment including computers, weather station, GPS, boats, motors, canoes and workshop. The staff of QUBS facilitate research by assisting with the design, maintenance and repair of equipment, maintenance of study sites, upkeep of labs, adherence to animal care requirements and ensuring safety. ) Research programs at QUBS occur in a broad range of terrestrial and freshwater habitats on subjects ranging from plants to insects, fish, amphibians, snakes, bats and birds. Questions range from theoretical to very practical conservation and management issues. QUBS provides a rich environment for graduate students and the training of highly qualified personnel. Major Resource Support is essential due to the extensive use of facilities by scientists from outside Queen's. Co-applicants include 2 from Carleton, 1 from Ottawa, 1 from U of Toronto, 1 from U of Windsor, 2 from U of Western Ontario, as well as 4 from Queen's. Many other users from Queen's and other universities and agencies also benefit from access to QUBS. This application requests that the NSERC MRS program cover a portion of the costs of running this unique facility.