Biology Project Abstract
A BOTANICAL SURVEY (2001)
Presenters:
Rachel Cook, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 W. Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506; oboean@imsa.edu
Andrew Langan, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 W. Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506; alangan@imsa.edu
Tori Walters, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 W. Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506; tjw@imsa.edu
Chris Young, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 W. Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506; cyoung@imsa.edu
Mentors:
David Gossman, Gossman Consulting, Inc., 45W982 Plank Road, Hampshire, IL 60140
Elizabeth Neese, Ph.D., University of California at Berkeley, 2180 La Mirada Drive, Richmond, CA 94803
Abstract:
In its second year, this botanical survey has progressed through its infancy and has now advanced into a higher stage of development. The store of pressed, dried specimens grows with each gathering season. As new plants are extracted from various microclimes on the Gossman’s farm in Jackson County, Iowa, they are cataloged in a new system to account for their location, special characteristics, and blooming season. The clockwork of collecting, pressing, and mounting becomes ever smoother, while the botanical vocabulary expands. Due to the growing numbers of specimens, some measures have been taken to preserve the plants for the future, such as freezing and insect-free herbarium storage. This mentorship is an ongoing process and is projected to last many more years.