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Belowground Plant Responses to Compound Climate Extremes in the Shortgrass Steppe

Speaker
Scott Otto
Speaker's Institution
CSU, Department of Biology
Date
2026-06-08
Time
11:00 AM
Location
NRB 345
Mixer Time
Mixer Time
Calendar (ICS) Event
📅
Additional Information

Join us for a special Master’s Thesis Defense with Biology Master’s student, Scott Otto, entitled “Belowground Plant Responses to Compound Climate Extremes in the Shortgrass Steppe”.

Scott’s research examines how belowground plant communities in the shortgrass steppe respond to the challenges posed by compound climate extremes, such as droughts and heatwaves. By investigating these interactions, his work provides valuable insights into ecosystem resilience and the critical role of plant-soil dynamics in adapting to changing environmental conditions.

Event Details
Speaker: Scott Otto
Title: Belowground Plant Responses to Compound Climate Extremes in the Shortgrass Steppe
Date: Monday, June 8
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Natural Resources Building 345

Can’t make it in person? Join us on Teams!
col.st/rp3kg

Advised by Dr. Melinda Smith, Professor & Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs, CSU Department of Biology

We look forward to seeing you there in support and celebration of Scott’s outstanding achievement!
Visit our website for more information on our seminars and follow us on social media for more announcements from Biology.

Scott Otto stands outdoors on a dock wearing a light green patterned hoodie, sunglasses hanging from the neck of his shirt, and a black backpack. Behind him is a scenic view of a lake surrounded by lush green forest and mountains under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. The graphic features a green geometric overlay with yellow dot accents. The text announces a Master’s defense seminar by Scott Otto, titled "Belowground Plant Responses to Compound Climate Extremes in the Shortgrass Steppe." The event is scheduled for Monday, June 8, at 11:00 AM in Natural Resources 345. A QR code and a link for online attendance are provided in the bottom right corner. The advisor is Dr. Melinda Smith.

Scott Otto stands outdoors on a dock wearing a light green patterned hoodie, sunglasses hanging from the neck of his shirt, and a black backpack. Behind him is a scenic view of a lake surrounded by lush green forest and mountains under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.
Robyn Bortner posing with two dogs on either side of her. She's outside beneath an overcast cloudy sky with a wide open prairie and ranch land behind her.
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Anna Hall stands on a narrow dirt trail surrounded by lush green vegetation and tall trees in a forested area. She is wearing a light green jacket, dark pants, and sandals, with a black hiking backpack and sunglasses. The sunlight filters through the trees, creating a serene and natural atmosphere.
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