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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 29/09/2026

Thanks for following along today! Grasslands are diverse, resilient ecosystems that benefit both people and nature. I hope you've learned something new and are inspired to visit a grassland near you. -Marissa A.

Photo of Marissa standing in front of a grassland

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 29/09/2026

Our TNC science in MN, ND and SD is critical to delivering on our 2030 protection and improved management of lands outcome. Our science tells us where and how we need to take action to get the highest quality restoration and management acres for nature and people. -Marissa A.

Photo of a grassland with the sun peeking out over the clouds up above.

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 29/09/2026

Grasslands are incredibly beautiful places, but difficult to capture in a photo. You have to get creative and immersed in the plants. I grew up in Missouri, the Show Me state. Show me your grasslands! -Marissa A.

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 29/09/2026

Restoration prospects were identified where cropland overlaps areas with limited habitat connectivity. Water quality benefits were strongest in Iowa and southern Minnesota, phosphorus retention peaked in the Red River Valley, and pollination and carbon benefits occurred across the region. -Marissa A

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 29/09/2026

I love grasslands because they are diverse, dynamic, and deeply linked with people. People and grasslands have supported each other for time immemorial. Restoring this relationship is key to conservation. Today I’ll highlight science helping us do that, even as we face climate change. -Marissa A.

Group of about 20 people standing in a grassland.

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 29/09/2026

Today's takeover starts here! Hear from Marissa Ahlering as she introduces herself and explains why grasslands are one of the world's most overlooked and important ecosystems.

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 28/09/2026

Tomorrow at 1 p.m. ET, we're handing the keys to grassland scientist Marissa Ahlering 🔑🎙️. Follow along as she shares why prairies matter, how science is helping balance agriculture and biodiversity, and why some of the world's most overlooked ecosystems deserve a closer look.

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 25/09/2026

Building the energy projects we need starts with better planning. TNC Science's Clean Energy Compass helps planners and developers identify climate, conservation and community considerations early, helping avoid delays and improve outcomes for people and nature. nature.ly/4xIYJ3g

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 03/09/2026

Big news from Gabon! The Government of Gabon, The Nature Conservancy, and Enduring Earth have launched Gabon Infini, a new initiative designed to mobilize up to $200M over 10 years for conservation and community development. Read more about this new initiative here nature.ly/4isiiZR

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 31/08/2026

Thanks for following along today! Protecting migratory birds requires strong science, partnership, and stewardship across entire flyways. We're proud to contribute from Virginia's coast and grateful for everyone helping conserve these remarkable species. -VCR Migratory Bird Team

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 31/08/2026

We often say "the islands are for the birds," but many Virginia Coast Reserve barrier islands are open to visitors, too. Responsible recreation helps protect sensitive wildlife while giving people a chance to experience this remarkable coastal wilderness. Learn more: exploreourseaside.org -VCR Team

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 31/08/2026

Sea level rise is increasing flooding risks for beach-nesting birds. One project we're exploring is the use of elevated nesting platforms to help American Oystercatchers raise chicks above high tides and storm-driven flooding. -VCR Migratory Bird Team

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 31/08/2026

How do you follow a bird across continents? We're using advanced GPS tracking technology to better understand where shorebirds travel and how habitats across the Western Hemisphere are connected. The data helps guide conservation far beyond Virginia. -VCR Migratory Bird Team

Photo of a bird with a GPS tracker on its back taken by Mario Balitbit.

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 31/08/2026

Our team manages habitat for incredible coastal birds, including American Oystercatchers, Piping Plovers, Black Skimmers, gulls, and several species of terns. Every nesting season brings new challenges and opportunities to help these birds thrive along Virginia's coast. -VCR Migratory Bird Team

Three different images of migratory birds at the VCR habitat taken by Mario Balitbit

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 31/08/2026

Did you know Virginia’s barrier islands are a critical stopover, nesting, and wintering habitat for shorebirds? The Volgenau Virginia Coast Reserve protects more than 50 miles of wild coastline, supporting birds that travel thousands of miles across the Western Hemisphere. -VCR Migratory Bird Team

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 31/08/2026

Hi Bluesky! We’re Alex Wilke and Mario Balitbit from TNC’s Volgenau Virginia Coast Reserve. Today we’re sharing what it takes to protect one of the most important migratory bird habitats in the Western Hemisphere and why these barrier islands matter for birds, people, and coastal ecosystems.

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 27/08/2026

Save the date! On Aug. 31 at 1 p.m. ET, TNC's Migratory Bird Team is taking over our account. Join Alex Wilke and Mario Balitbit for a look at the science, stewardship, and conservation helping shorebirds thrive along Virginia's wild barrier islands. Don't miss it! 🪶

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 07/08/2026

What sustains conservation success over the long term? 🦓 A new analysis from Zambia suggests the answer is governance. Strong community institutions, transparent benefit-sharing, and clear authority are critical for lasting outcomes. Learn more about these findings here nature.ly/3RSLb6s

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 29/07/2026

I want to leave you with one final thought: Palmyra doesn't tell us coral reefs are safe from climate change. It does show us that local actions still matter. By studying resilient reefs, we're learning lessons that could help reefs around the world. Thanks for following along! -Joe Pollock 🪸

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 29/07/2026

Sharks often get cast as the villains of the ocean. But on coral reefs, they're often an important part of what keeps the system working. Healthy shark populations help maintain balanced food webs and more resilient reefs. -Joe Pollock 🪸

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 29/07/2026

Coral reefs are constantly competing for space. After bleaching, algae can take over - or corals can recover. Healthy grazing fish help tip the balance by clearing algae and creating space for corals to come back. -Joe Pollock 🪸

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 29/07/2026

One of the most important lessons from Palmyra: the same heat stress can produce very different outcomes. Some reefs were hit hard. Others barely flinched. That's a reminder that what we do locally really matter- and that gives me hope. -Joe Pollock 🪸

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 29/07/2026

Coral bleaching happens when reefs get too hot for too long. It can be devastating, but bleaching isn't always the end of the story. At Palmyra, we're seeing some reefs recover, and we're working to understand why. -Joe Pollock 🪸

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 29/07/2026

Hi everyone! I’m Dr. Joe Pollock, Senior Reef Strategy Lead with TNC, taking over the TNC Science Bluesky account from Palmyra Atoll. Over the next few posts, I’ll share what we’re learning about coral reef resilience and how these reefs offer hope and lessons for reefs worldwide 🪸🌊

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 28/07/2026

Just a reminder: Dr. Joe Pollock will be taking over the TNC Science Bluesky account tomorrow from Palmyra Atoll! 🪸 From coral bleaching and reef recovery to the surprising role of sharks, he'll share stories and science from one of the world's most remarkable coral reef ecosystems. Don't miss it!

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 20/07/2026

📢 Join us next Wednesday for a special TNC Science Bluesky takeover from Palmyra Atoll! 🪸🌊 Dr. Joe Pollock, TNC's Senior Reef Strategy Lead, will share what we're learning about coral reef resilience, recovery after bleaching, and why some reefs offer hope for the future.

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 17/06/2026

On the VCR team, some of the most useful tools are simple. A garden rake can pull samples to the boat on cold days. Shoots are sorted by hand. The real expertise is knowing what to look for, and when. Timing and experience are everything. 🪣 -VCR Team @bolusk.bsky.social

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 17/06/2026

Still with the VCR team! These bays had no eelgrass for nearly 70 years. Now, nearly 12,000 acres are back. Every season depends on moments like this, watching, waiting, and acting fast. It’s how we keep rebuilding habitat and give bay scallops a real shot at returning. -VCR Team @bolusk.bsky.social

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 17/06/2026

You’re still here with the VCR team! This is a moment we wait for all year. We’re pulling shoots, opening spathes, and scanning meadows for signs seeds are ready. Miss this window, too early or too late, and we lose the year. These calls shape what we can restore. -VCR Team @bolusk.bsky.social

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 17/06/2026

Hi VCR team here! We are coming to you from one of Virginia’s coastal bays where one of the largest eelgrass restorations on Earth is unfolding. Our job right now? Getting the timing just right, because a few days can make or break a year’s effort. Check out some field footage! @bolusk.bsky.social

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 17/06/2026

🎙️ Today we’re handing over the mic to the Virginia Coast Reserve (VCR) team. Go behind the scenes of the world’s most successful seagrass restoration and see how this work is creating a path for bay scallops to return to Virginia for the first time in nearly a century! @bolusk.bsky.social

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 16/06/2026

Heads up! Our Virginia Coast Reserve team is taking over the TNC Science Bluesky account tomorrow! From eelgrass restoration to bringing back vital habitats, see how decades of work, and perfect timing, are making waves. Stay tuned! 🌱🪸@bolusk.bsky.social

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 15/06/2026

Welcome Olivia Brand, our Science Communications and Social Media Summer Intern! 🎉 A recent UVM grad in Engineering Management and Public Communications, she’s passionate about innovation, sustainability, and creative storytelling, and loves exploring the outdoors.

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 08/06/2026

Tiffany & Co.’s "Love for Our Oceans" initiative has contributed more than two million US dollars to support The Nature Conservancy’s work protecting and restoring ocean habitats. This World Oceans Day, explore how science protects reefs and seagrass. Learn more: nature.ly/3SsRjlz

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 20/05/2026

That’s a wrap from me, thanks for following along. I’m grateful to share this space and these ideas with you. Let’s keep learning from one another and working toward stewardship, justice, and bold, system-level change together. -Phil @philiploring.com

Fence with a sign declaring protected habitat for California Least Terns at a TNC project in Ormond Beach, California

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 20/05/2026

Recently, I had a chance to visit our team in Texas, to see the many ways we’re stewarding coastal ecosystems. It is a win-win! We use nature-based solutions that benefit us through coastal protection and food and do so in a way that supports biodiversity and clean water. -Phil @philiploring.com

Phil and other members of TNC’s Global Science and Texas teams visiting a TNC preserve in Texas City, Texas

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 20/05/2026

People have had a hand in shaping most of the terrestrial world for at least 12,000 years! It is well-past time we gave these sophisticated practices their due. Our research shows how practices that are ancient are just as important today for reversing biodiversity loss. -Phil @philiploring.com

A gloved hand holds a fresh oyster from a commercial oyster reef in Galveston Bay, which benefits from reef restorations led by TNC and our partner, Prestige Oysters

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 20/05/2026

A big focus of my work is cultural keystone species. From Pacific salmon to Ecuador’s ivory palms, they anchor deep relationships with nature, supporting our wellbeing, while stewardship helps sustain entire ecosystems. -Phil @philiploring.com

Salmon spawning in interior Alaska in United States, North America

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 20/05/2026

As a social scientist, I love to connect with people, to sit down and listen, and learn to see environmental problems and solutions from their perspectives. Because there is no single perspective or world view that is going to solve problems like climate change. -Phil @philiploring.com

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 20/05/2026

Hi Bluesky 👋 I’m Phil Loring, Global Director of Human Dimensions Science. I’ll be taking over this account to share insights from my work and what I’m learning from diverse voices shaping solutions for people and the planet. -Phil @philiploring.com

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 20/05/2026

Taking the TNC Bluesky mic today is Phil Loring, an interdisciplinary social scientist and storyteller focused on stewardship, food systems, justice, and transformational change. Phil will be highlighting his work at TNC, so feel free to ask questions and follow along to hear more! @philiploring.com

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 19/05/2026

Join us tomorrow for a Bluesky takeover! We’re excited to welcome Phil Loring as he takes over the TNC Science Bluesky account for the day. He’ll be sharing perspectives from his work and offering insights you won’t want to miss. 📻Tune in, follow along, and bring your questions! @philiploring.com

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 12/05/2026

Podcast alert! A new episode of Nature is the Solution highlights how nature-based solutions support ecosystems and communities in Massachusetts. 🎙️Episode 9 explores links between environment and health with Senator Bill Frist and Dr. Catherine Machalaba. 🎧Listen: nature.ly/4qXNUrh

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 02/04/2026

🔥Wildfires are a growing global health crisis. Join TNC and the Future Earth Health Knowledge-Action Network on April 14th for a webinar on cross‑sector solutions that protect health, nature, and vulnerable communities worldwide. Sign up for the free webinar here nature.ly/3PJeJlC

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 19/02/2026

Thanks for reading along! Sharing this work matters to me because understanding climate risks is the first step toward protecting people. I’m grateful to be part of a team using science to help communities facing the greatest challenges. @lukeaparsons.bsky.social

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 19/02/2026

Climate science takes many forms - from analyzing decades of temperature data to working with communities experiencing air quality and fire impacts, to understanding heat exposure for outdoor workers globally. These images tell the story of what climate science looks like at TNC.

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 19/02/2026

My work isn’t just about the future; it helps guide where adaptation support is needed now. Limiting warming protects everyone, especially the communities hit hardest. And adaptation must target those most vulnerable. This builds on our global humid heat research.

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 19/02/2026

I study how extreme heat affects vulnerable communities. At very high temps, fans can actually worsen heat stress, they stop helping above 35–39°C. With 3°C of warming, high vulnerability areas may see around 22 more days above safe fan use temps, posing serious risks for those without AC.

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 19/02/2026

In my research, I’ve found that socially vulnerable communities across the U.S. are already living in temperatures about 1.5°C hotter than less vulnerable areas, and this gap has been widening for more than 70 years. agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/...

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The Nature Conservancy Science @science.nature.org · 19/02/2026

Growing up in the drought stricken Southwest and later watching glaciers shrink while leading NOLS courses set my path. Those moments pushed me to ask how warming will reshape water, ecosystems, and agriculture, and now I’m working to find the answers.

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