About ICES
A self-supported organization within the nonprofit Student Association Inc., ICES seeks to establish an environmental center at PennWest California to create inter-institutional partnerships that build, facilitate, coordinate and enhance existing and future environmental programs.
ICES is guided by an advisory board that represents diverse backgrounds and interests, with broad community representation inclusive of the University, in all its aspects, and the southwestern Pennsylvania region.
ICES at SAI Farm
The master plan for SAI Farm set aside a parcel of about 10 acres known as the Environmental Studies Habitat. This parcel provides a diverse environment including a wooded area, wetlands, a stream and open fields.
The 3,000-square-foot barn also has been designated as a potential multi-use educational and research facility.
Recent Initiatives at the SAI Farm
TRAVEL TO GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
During the Summer 2024 break, Dr. Kyle Fredrick traveled to Glacier National Park
as a member of a team of collaborators sponsored by the American Association of State
Colleges and Universities (AASCU). The program, called Stewardship of Public Lands,
was hosted at the Glacier Institute near the west entrance to the park. Over the
four-day event, participants attended presentations by local indigenous tribe representatives,
park administrators, scientists, and non-profit organizational leaders. In addition
to "classroom" activities, they enjoyed interpretive hikes led by Glacier Institute
employees, expert in various fields of ecology, history, and indigenous culture. The
focus of the retreat was lessons learned and considerations required for establishing
beneficial use of public lands. Presentations focused on including stakeholders and
giving a voice to community members at every stage of planning and program development.
We hope to be able to utilize Dr. Fredrick’s experience in Alaska as we further develop
programs at the Farm.
Contact Us
Dr. Robert Whyte
Professor
Biology, Earth and Environmental Sciences
whyte@pennwest.edu
724-938-5955
Dr. Sarah Meiss
Associate Professor
Biology, Earth and Environmental Sciences
meiss@pennwest.edu
724-938-4203