About the Appalachian Laboratory
Appalachian Laboratory is an environmental research facility of the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES), the principal institution for advanced environmental research and graduate studies within the University System of Maryland. It was founded in 1962 in the mountains of western Maryland, where it sits at the headwaters of the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Faculty at the Laboratory conduct research in aquatic ecology, landscape and watershed ecology, conservation biology and restoration ecology, behavioral and evolutionary ecology, and study both freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems of Maryland and other locations in the United States and the world.
Environmental education is an important part of the mission of the Appalachian Laboratory, aimed at motivating future generations to be environmentally literate and to understand the importance of an ecologically healthy environment. Through this effort, the Lab educates teachers, students, and other members of our western Maryland community how to be wise stewards of our valuable natural resources. The Appalachian Laboratory recognizes local citizens for their outstanding contributions to environmental education through an award given in honor of the late Richard A. Johnson.
The Appalachian Laboratory also serves as the headquarters and administrative lead of the Chesapeake Watershed Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CHWA CESU), a partnership among 53 university/research institutions and 11 federal agencies whose members strive to understand and protect the natural and cultural resources of the region. The CHWA CESU is part of the CESU national network of 17 similar partnerships. The primary objective of the network is to foster stewardship of the environment through collaborative research, technical assistance and education that support integrated ecosystem management.
- Appalachian Laboratory History
- Appalachian Laboratory Regional Impact Fact Sheet 2023
- Central Appalachians Stable Isotope Facility (CASIF)
- Chesapeake Watershed CESU
- Directions to the Appalachian Laboratory
- Employment Opportunities at UMCES
- Internships at the Appalachian Laboratory
- Richard A. Johnson Environmental Education Award
- Water Chemistry Analytical Laboratory
- Watershed Moments Community Learning Series
About the Frostburg and Allegany County Communities
60,000 acres of majestic nature, internationally recognized bike trails, three centuries of American history, a diverse food, brewery and winery scene, and an endless amount of outdoor adventure. Welcome to Allegany County, the Mountain Side of Maryland. The Mountains are calling!
Tourism and Economic Development Partners
The Mountain Side of Maryland is the tourism website for Allegany County, Maryland, and is hosted by the Allegany County Office of Tourism. The site offers directories with links for local restaurants, events, and activities.
The Allegany County Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) maintains a website with regional economic and demographic data and other community-related information.