Bolton Landing, N.Y.- Rensselaer President Shirley Ann Jackson and Mrs. Margaret A. Darrin joined together Thursday to open the new research and education facilities at the Margaret A. and David M. Darrin '40 Fresh Water Institute. Other state and local officials and community leaders were also on hand for the rededication event.

"The new research conducted through the Darrin Fresh Water Institute will feature collaboration at its finest," said Rensselaer President Shirley Ann Jackson. "It will include biologists, chemists, geologists, and roboticists; as well as visualization, modeling, and simulation specialists; and social scientists. The synergy among such researchers surely will expand upon and enhance the breakthroughs achieved here."

Computing Facilities Boost Ecological Study
The building referred to as "the lodge" has been transformed into a modern learning and research facility that will help expand and improve the Institute's nationally recognized fresh water research on issues including acid rain, control of invasive species such as zebra mussels and milfoil, and water quality. Updates include a new state-of-the-art computing center, new year-round student/visitor residence rooms, and a refurbished public space for the many environmental education programs at the Institute.

The new third-floor computing facilities have been outfitted with high-powered computers capable of processing large amounts of scientific data, allowing fresh water research to proceed more quickly than before. Up to 15 students will now be able to attend classes and assist in research projects year-round due to upgraded residence rooms.

About the Darrin Fresh Water Institute
Rensselaer's Darrin Fresh Water Institute, established more than 30 years ago, focuses on the study of fresh water systems and ecological processes. Improvements at the Institute were undertaken with financial support from the Darrin Fund for Excellence, the Margaret A. and David M. Darrin '40 Endowed Funds, the Margaret A. Darrin Foundation, the National Science Foundation, the UPS Foundation, and the Chingos Foundation.

Contact: Joely Johnson
Phone: (518) 276-6531
E-mail: N/A