Abstract: This resource is a vital part of planet Earth. Every time you stand up, sit down, take a drink of water, or eat a meal, you leverage the power of this resource.  This resource is constantly changing in response to its environment. Depletion and degradation of this resource is an existential threat to humanity. Attend this presentation to find out what this resource is and learn about the secrets to its life-giving power and importance.

Biography: Dr. Holly Dolliver is Professor and Department Chair of the Department of Plant and Earth Science at the University of Wisconsin- River Falls. Holly grew up on a small farm in central Minnesota, which cultivated her lifelong interest in the natural environment. As a first-generation college student, she earned her B.S. in Soil Science and Geology from North Dakota State University and her M.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota. Her research focuses on the effects of land use change and land management practices on soil quality, carbon sequestration, contaminant transport, and soil resilience. Holly is a passionate educator who is deeply committed to the power of higher education and the mission of teaching-focused institutions. In addition to teaching and research, she leads multi-week geology field trips and coaches the 5-time national championship UWRF Soil Judging team. Holly’s happiest place is high alpine mountains where she immerses herself in long-distance hiking and bikepacking with her family.