Climate change is constantly impacting our environment, and current trends are occurring much more rapidly and intensely than in previous climatic shifts. We understand this through extensive data records. In addition to various ongoing stewardship initiatives at the preserve, Pepperwood also hosts a comprehensive scientific field station, where we collect ecological data over time. As a field station, Pepperwood is recognized as a “Sentinel Site for Nature” (SSN). This designation is part of a statewide long-term monitoring collaborative that aims to establish biodiversity baselines and assess changes over time. Think of it as connecting nature to a monitor to check her vital signs daily, helping us detect shifts and track trends. We’re essentially watching climate change in real time, which positions us to envision solutions for our most pressing climate-related challenges.