9632471 Lowrey This project will fund the purchase of compactor units for the research collections of the University of New Mexico's Museum of Southwestern Biology. The overall project represents a partnership between the NSF and the University of New Mexico, with the University providing funding for renovation of collection space and for all necessary rails and flooring for the spacesaver units. The compactor system, purchased with NSF funds, will be loaded with existing cases. The Museum of Southwestern Biology is a research and teaching facility in the University's Department of Biology. It houses important collections of vertebrates, arthropods, and plants. This project will alleviate severe overcrowding and safety concerns present in the old facility and take advantage of an exceptional opportunity to continue the University's efforts to integrate research and teaching in the biological sciences. The incorporation of compactor units into the project at this time of renovation/construction of the space will additionally provide for future collections growth, allow exceptional flexibility for research and teaching, and will be extremely cost effective.
