Notes from the Dean
A welcome and perspective from the Nelson Institute’s leadership.
Notes from the Dean
“Some say the world will end in fire, Some say in ice. From what I’ve tasted of desire I hold with those who favor fire.”
June 15, 2026
Deep Dive
An in-depth look at big questions, breakthrough work, or urgent environmental issues.
The Land Ethic in a World on Fire
Wildfires threaten more than life; they threaten its memory.
June 15, 2026
The Air We Share
Human-made pollution is down, wildfire smoke is up, and your lungs are caught in between.
March 13, 2026
What We Don’t Know (Yet)
You have questions about the environmental impacts of data centers. Our experts do, too.
December 15, 2025
Reflection
Guest essays and op-eds that reflect on experience, place, and purpose in a changing world.
Learning Without Burning Out
When facts are bleak, an emotionally informed approach to environmental education can keep students’ inner fire burning.
June 15, 2026
The Real Costs of Air Quality Deregulation in Wisconsin
Policy changes at the federal level will have a direct impact on your health.
March 13, 2026
Minerals, Modern Life, and the Future of Society
To safeguard our democracy, we need to dig deep — and reach for the stars.
December 15, 2025
In Your Environment
Practical how-tos, at-home actions, and personal sustainability steps.
How to NOT Start a Fire
Don’t worry, Billy Joel. No one’s accusing you of starting a fire. We’re just here to help you prevent one.
June 15, 2026
How to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
Seven quick tips to help you breathe easy at home.
March 13, 2026
How to Be Sust(AI)nable
Four tips for using artificial intelligence responsibly and sustainably.
December 15, 2025
Alumni in Focus
Nelson Institute graduates making bold moves and meaningful impact around the globe.
The Burn Boss
Ryan Klausch turned prescribed burns into a career — one unexpected job at a time.
June 15, 2026
Behind the Binoculars
Olivia Sanderfoot came to birding looking for an “easy A,” but now shares accolades and office space with the world’s top birders.
March 13, 2026
The Transdisciplinarian
How Alberto Vargas turned interdisciplinary interests into a career-defining strength.
December 15, 2025
Field Notes
Student dispatches from courses, fieldwork, internships, and research.
Field Notes: Learning to Burn
Inside UW–Madison’s prescribed fire ecology and implementation course.
June 15, 2026
Field Notes: The Environmental Sustainability Scholars Program (ESSP)
Learn how a group of freshmen are setting the stage for sustainability, community, and connection.
December 15, 2025
Unearthed
Nelson Institute experts share five things you didn’t know about an environmental topic.
Five Things You Didn’t Know About Dragons
Meet the beasts that have inspired stories across centuries.
June 15, 2026
Five Things You Didn’t Know About Allergies
Including one plant that deserves a collective apology.
March 13, 2026
Unearthed: Five Things You Didn’t Know About Dirt
It’s all around you — in your yard, on your shoes — but did you know these soil secrets?
December 15, 2025
Abstracts
The latest research highlights from Nelson Institute faculty and students.
Understanding Fire’s Climate Feedbacks
A new project led by Min Chen will use machine learning and advanced climate modeling to reduce uncertainty in wildfire predictions.
June 15, 2026
Strengthening our Shorelines
Chelsea Schelly helps lead a $1 million NSF project supporting rural and Indigenous communities facing growing climate hazards.
June 15, 2026
Seeds of Resilience
How one species of bird is helping forests persist in the face of wildfire.
June 15, 2026
