Five years ago, the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) started something fairly simple: a small fund that would distribute a portion of membership dues to Chapters and Sections to support their own efforts.

The Partnership Fund idea was driven by the understanding that SER's Chapters and Sections are often closest to the work happening on the ground: restoration projects, local partnerships, student engagement, and community relationships. The fund was created to support that work in a more direct way, by awarding small but flexible resources to develop their own ideas.

Since the first round of awards in 2020, the Partnership Fund has now distributed $77,590 USD to SER Chapters and Sections worldwide.

As we enter the sixth round of funding, now is a good time to look back on what the fund has supported and how it has evolved over time.

2020: The first grants

The first Partnership Fund awards in 2020 focused strongly on inclusion, access, and early capacity building.

SER Midwest-Great Lakes received a grant for activities focused on establishing greater connections to Midwestern Native American tribes (Ojibwe, Dakota, Ho-Chunk, Chippewa, and Menominee, as examples) and individuals working in restoration, raising awareness of Native American-led restoration projects and Traditional Ecological Knowledge in the region, and increasing entry into the field of restoration and SER by Native American individuals.

The SER New England Chapter (now the SER Northeast Chapter) expanded its Aimlee Laderman Student Research Grants, established in 2015, to support undergraduate and graduate students doing ecological restoration research in their region.

SER Texas focused their funds on membership diversity and engagement across eight subregions, including outreach to students, communities of color, low-income communities, and practitioners in northern Mexico. Bilingual materials and local partnerships helped broaden participation in chapter activities.

SER Western Canada received an award to promote and support the work of Indigenous students studying restoration in the region, and to build connections and capacity with local Indigenous communities. The funds supported the establishment of a one-year scholarship awarded to an Indigenous post-secondary student studying restoration, environmental management, or ecology in their region.

Overall, the first year of the fund was very focused on participation, with chapters working to lower barriers to entry and ensure all are included in restoration work.

2021: Membership growth and equity-focused programming

By the second round in 2021, chapter grants focused on membership growth and inclusive programming.

SER Europe launched a major membership expansion effort, Towards 500 European Ecological Restorers, aimed at growing their membership in the region to that number. This included targeted recruitment in Central and Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, student engagement programs including mentoring opportunities, and peer-to-peer membership outreach. Funding supported a recruitment intern, communications materials, and networking events.

SER Northeast launched a webinar series focused on justice, equity, and inclusion in ecological restoration, to expand awareness of the value of diverse perspectives in achieving successful outcomes. The series brought in speakers with diverse lived experiences, highlighted the relationship between people, land, and restoration, and provided a platform for members to learn from each other.

SER Northwest hired a communications intern to strengthen member engagement, improve outreach, and support communications across the chapter, giving a student or emerging professional interested in the non-research elements of ecological restoration an opportunity to engage with the operations of the chapter.

SER Western Canada continued its Indigenous scholarship program, strengthening both financial support and mentorship opportunities for Indigenous students in restoration-related fields.

Across these projects, a theme emerged: chapters were not only trying to bring new members in, but also improving how they support and engage the members they already have.

2022 to 2024: Growing chapter and section capacity

In the following years, the Partnership Fund continued to support a wide range of chapter and section initiatives, including providing seed money to support a new continental chapter, SER Africa. Other funded projects included the translation of the International Network for Seed-based Restoration (INSR) native seed standards and the advocacy efforts of SER Europe in support of the European Union Nature Restoration Law. Grants were also awarded to SER Eastern Canada, SER Mid-Atlantic, SER Midwest-Great Lakes, and SER Northeast for projects that supported launching new student associations and growing student and emerging professional engagement. SER Northwest and SER Western Canada continued their efforts to support Indigenous people with funded scholarships and other programs.

The SER Sections also began to consider ways to use the Partnership Fund to support their work, through projects like INSR's Seeds of Restoration Podcast and the Large-Scale Ecosystem Restoration Section (LERS) webinar series.

During this period, much of the supported work focused on regional conferences and workshops, student and early-career engagement, communications and outreach improvements, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives, and strengthening chapter structure and leadership.

Rather than one overarching theme, these years show steady growth in how Chapters and Sections use the Partnership Fund, as a flexible resource to support whatever is most needed locally at the time. In many cases, the fund helped chapters move ideas forward that might not have been possible within regular budgets or staffing.

2025: Increased support for conferences and students

The most recent funding rounds in 2025 show continued evolution in both scale and scope.

SER Texas received support for The ROOTS Program: Restoration Outreach and Opportunities for Texas Students, focused on student engagement and workforce development.

SER Europe was awarded funding to support efforts to kick-start the formation of national sub-chapters across the continent, growing SER's presence in Europe.

The Large-Scale Ecosystem Restoration Section (LERS) received support to develop a case study awards process to highlight and share lessons from large restoration projects.

In Canada, SER Ontario supported a student-association-led restoration conference at Trent University, SER Western Canada continued its Indigenous scholarship program, and SER Eastern Canada hosted a bilingual symposium connecting research and practice.

These projects show that the Partnership Fund is increasingly supporting not just individual events, but longer-term chapter development and regional coordination.

2025: The first Chapter and Section Leadership Workshop

Since 2018, a portion of the Partnership Fund has been set aside to create a Chapter and Section Leadership Fund, to provide funding for a workshop at a World Conference. In 2025, the fund had finally reached the point where it could support the event, and chapter and section leaders were invited to attend, with travel grants provided from the Leadership Fund.

In September 2025, at SER2025 in Denver, Colorado, 14 of SER's 19 Chapters and Sections sent representatives to attend the first-ever leadership conference. More than 30 leaders attended and spent an afternoon sharing best practices and lessons learned while building relationships with their fellow chapter and section leaders.

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, and SER plans to regularly host these workshops as funding allows.

Five years of impact

The program has given Chapters and Sections a way to test ideas, build programs, and respond to local needs with a small amount of flexible support.

At its core, the Partnership Fund is a reinvestment tool, funneling a portion of membership dues directly to Chapters and Sections so they can strengthen their own work. Its value comes from being accessible, flexible, and member-driven.

Over time, it has also helped strengthen connections across SER's global network by encouraging Chapters and Sections to share ideas, develop programs, and learn from each other.

Applications now open for the 2026 funding cycle

We are now accepting applications for the sixth round of the Partnership Fund.

Applications are due 24 July, and all active SER Chapters and Sections in good standing are eligible to apply. Student Associations that work with Chapters are also encouraged to apply, submitting in collaboration with their Chapter leaders.

The Partnership Fund continues to support projects that strengthen chapter and section capacity, expand participation in ecological restoration, support students and early-career professionals, advance equity, inclusion, and Indigenous engagement, and build collaboration across regions.

We encourage Chapters and Sections to think about what projects they could move forward with this support in the coming year.

If you are a Chapter or Section leader, you will have already received the link to apply. If you have any questions, reach out to Wendy Sturley, Membership and Marketing Director, SER, at wendy.sturley@ser.org.

The Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) mourns the passing of David Franklin Polster, a pioneering Canadian plant ecologist, restoration practitioner, educator, and longtime leader within the restoration community. Dave passed away on May 11, 2026, following a lengthy illness. He was 74.

Throughout a career spanning more than four decades, Dave helped shape the science and practice of ecological restoration across Canada and beyond. Widely recognized for his work restoring severely disturbed landscapes, he championed restoration approaches grounded in ecological succession and natural recovery processes. His work on mine sites, industrial disturbances, unstable slopes, and other degraded ecosystems demonstrated how understanding nature's own regenerative capacity can guide successful restoration.

A dedicated member and leader within SER, Dave played a foundational role in establishing the Society's British Columbia Chapter, which later evolved into the SER Western Canada Chapter. Dave also served on the SER Board of Directors and, in 2019, was among the inaugural recipients of SER's Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) credential.

In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to ecological restoration and to SER, Dave received the Society's John Rieger Award in 2013. A generous educator and mentor, in 2020, he presented the SER webinar Natural Processes for the Restoration of Drastically Disturbed Sites, highlighting the approach that guided much of his life's work.

Dave’s influence can be seen in the ecosystems he helped recover, the restoration professionals he mentored, and the enduring impact of his ideas on the field of ecological restoration.

SER extends its deepest condolences to Dave's family, friends, colleagues, former students, and the many restoration practitioners whose lives and careers he touched. His legacy will continue to inspire restoration efforts and practitioners for generations to come.

We extend our gratitude to all the nominees who participated in the election process. The active engagement of such talented professionals is what allows our organization to lead the way in advancing the field of ecological restoration.

After tallying all votes from our membership, we are thrilled to welcome six new members and two returning members to the SER Board of Directors for terms commencing 1 July 2026 (three other board seats were not up for election this cycle or no valid candidate was identified for this election cycle).

Newly elected board members are denoted with an asterisk (*). Re-elected board members are denoted with two asterisks (**). All remaining board positions were not up for election this cycle. Institutions are listed below for informational purposes.

Executive Committee:

Chair-Elect: Luiz Moraes, Embrapa (Brazil)

Vice Chair: Karma Bouazza, Lebanon Reforestation Initiative (Lebanon)

Treasurer: Tom Kaye, Institute for Applied Ecology (USA)**

Secretary: TBD (the Secretary is selected from within the full board)

Regional Directors:

Africa: Peter Alele, Vice-Chair of SER Africa, Forest Stewardship Council (Uganda)**

Asia: Shalini Dhyani, CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (India)*

Europe: Aveliina Helm, Chair of SER Europe, University of Tartu (Estonia)*

Latin America and the Caribbean: Candidate is still yet to be determined.

North America: Linnea Spears-Lebrun, SWCA Environmental Consultants (USA)*

Pacific: Valerie Hagger, Board Member of SER Australasia, The University of Queensland (Australia)**

At-Large Directors:

Andrew Taylor, UWA Oceans Institute and Blue Corner Conservation (Indonesia)*

Craig Beatty, World Wildlife Fund (USA)*

Emanuela Weidlich, Leuphana University (Germany)

Fangyuan Hua, Peking University (China)

Jeanne Chambers, US Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station (USA)

Student and Emerging Professional Director:

Esther Olufunmilayo David, Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (Nigeria)*

We look forward to the new board’s leadership and insights as SER embarks on implementing our bold new restoration initiatives over the next few years.

We would also like to recognize and thank our outgoing Board members who will complete their board terms on 30 June 2026:

Excellence Akeredolu, At-Large Director, University of Lagos (Nigeria)

Ramesh Venkataraman, Treasurer, Junglescapes Charitable Trust (India)

Their dedication and service have been instrumental in positioning SER for long-term growth and impact, and we are grateful for their contributions to the Society.

Once again, thank you to all members who took the time to vote in this election. We look forward to working with our new board to advance our mission and serve our membership.

We are pleased to welcome a new cohort of certified practitioners to our Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) program.

As experts in the field of restoration, certified practitioners apply standards-based approaches to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development challenges through their distinct backgrounds in the biological and physical sciences, commitment to high-quality restoration practice, and continuing education in ecological restoration.

Congratulations to the following CERPs

Allie Abram, Brandee Anderson, Maddie Berg, Samuel Burrell, Katelyn Cary, Michael Coco, Shereen Dabbas, Shannon Davison, James Ellis, Tahnee Faddis, Darwin García Bautista, Andy Grinstead, Wael Hefny, Ariel Herrera, Brad Humber, Joanna Kipper, Keith MacCallum, Brandon McCracken, Cândida Mendes, Sarah Meush, Justin Morgan, Cassidy Mowbray, Meagan Olson, Carrie Parris, Brittney Rogers, Billy Sale, Marylaura Sandoval, Will Stanley, David Stein, Robert Tyler, Flor Vázquez Corzas, Khalil Walji, and Huiling Zhu.

These practitioners include:

• An ecological restoration coordinator integrating restoration practices with cultural traditions to restore ecological function and community connection simultaneously in Jordan’s degraded rangelands.
• An engineer using Standards-based practices to restore degraded urban streams across Maryland, with impacts ranging from local channel stability to watershed-wide nutrient loading mitigation.
• A scientist working with partners across eight countries in sub-Saharan Africa to lead the alignment of restoration monitoring data with the Framework for Ecosystem Restoration Monitoring and support the adoption of restoration practices among local farmers.
• A landscape architect leading the implementation and management of Miyawaki forests in Lebanon and Saudi Arabia.

Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) is a senior-level certification awarded to established restoration practitioners who meet CERP knowledge requirements and have demonstrated at least 5 years of full-time restoration experience.

Congratulations to the following CERPITs

Hannah Andersson, José Antonio Aranda Pineda, Olivia Balkwill, Nàvan Beukes, Bidhan Chandra Pal, Michael Clawson, Milla den Hollander, Pablo Denti, Joshua Espada, Coşkun Güçlü, Tressa Hill, Matthew Hilz, Damian Hubbard, Ayokunle Fortunatus Joel, Yogita Karpate, Isabell Kittel, Victoria Lehto, Yadira Macias, Protus Mutua, Elizabeth Navratil, Russell Torgerson, Laura Vedovato, Molly Von Holten, Lucy Wong.

These practitioners include:

• The chair of SER’s Make A Difference Week, who is working to expand access to restoration around the globe.
• A graduate researcher addressing the legacy impacts of 50 years of golf course management Central Ohio to create a long-term roadmap for wetland restoration.
• A postdoctoral researcher assessing the effects of aboveground restoration on soil biomes in Hong Kong and southern China.
• A recent graduate of the Niagara College Ecological Restoration program, which is guaranteed to meet CERPIT requirements and provides a fast-track to certification upon graduation.

Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner-in-Training (CERPIT) is a preliminary certification offered to those individuals who meet CERP knowledge requirements or have 5 years of full-time restoration experience.

With the addition of Bangladesh, Portugal, and the Philippines to this cohort, CERPs and CERPITs now represent 40+ countries across six continents. Our global community includes restoration experts from Australia, Bahamas, Brazil, Canada, Caribbean Netherlands, Chile, China and Hong Kong SAR, Colombia, Costa Rica, Denmark, Ecuador, France, Germany, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, Romania, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Switzerland, Uganda, United Kingdom, United States and Puerto Rico, and Zimbabwe.

If your country isn't listed, contact certification@ser.org to find out how to connect local restoration practitioners to the CERP Program.

Information about the CERP program, including benefits, fees, and application deadlines, is available on our website here. You can also read our article "Common Questions from Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner Applicants" or email your questions to certification@ser.org.

CERPs and The Global Biodiversity Standard

The TGBS–SER practitioner certification pathway has strengthened restoration capacity across regions since its launch. Through this partnership, 32 TGBS assessors have earned either the CERP or CERPIT credential, representing 10 countries: Hong Kong SAR, Kenya, Madagascar, India, Brazil, Uganda, Peru, Jordan, Malaysia, and Mexico.

In several of these countries, TGBS assessors were among the first professionals to achieve CERP or CERPIT status, helping to expand awareness of standards-based ecological restoration in regions where formal certification pathways were previously limited. With 10 new CERPs and CERPITs, this application period had the most TGBS assessors certified to date.

The partnership has strengthened professional connections among TGBS assessors, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange across regions. Certified TGBS assessors are now connected to an international network of more than 700 active CERPs and CERPITs across 40+ countries, where practitioners share knowledge, align approaches, and improve restoration outcomes across diverse ecological and cultural contexts.

As the funded phase of this partnership concludes, the capacity built through these certifications continues. TGBS-certified practitioners remain equipped to make informed, standards-based decisions, supporting biodiversity conservation and the development of resilient, healthy ecosystems across TGBS sites worldwide.

CERP Academic Partnership Program

SER's CERP Academic Partnership Program connects academic institutions with the world's only international certification for ecological restoration practitioners.

This program is designed to set students on a clear career pathway, strengthen connections between academia and the global restoration community, and highlight institutions committed to excellence in restoration education.

Why partner with SER's CERP program?

• Open career pathways for graduates through CERPIT recognition
• Align curricula with international restoration standards
• Provide early networking opportunities with restoration professionals worldwide
• Enhance your institution's visibility in SER's Academic Program Directory

SER offers three partnership options: Academic & Professional Partnership, Academic Alignment, and Academic Associate. Each option meets the needs of programs at different stages of development. Equity options are available for institutions with limited resources.

The following institutions have partnered with SER's Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner-In-Training (CERPIT) Program to create a clear pathway for graduating students to enter the restoration workforce:

• Brigham Young University
• British Columbia Institute of Technology
• Colorado State University
• Grand Valley State University
  
• Niagara College
• The Ohio State University
• Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León
• University of Minnesota
• University of Victoria
• University of Washington, Seattle
• University of Wisconsin, River Falls
• Utah State University
• Virginia Tech

View the CERP Program Partnering Requirements to learn more, or contact Karen Tekverk, Certification Program Manager at certification@ser.org.

Many thanks to our CERP program sponsors:

We gratefully acknowledge our returning sponsors for their continued support:

Why Join the SER Board?

SER Board members not only influence the strategic direction and priorities of the organization, but also play a crucial role in advancing ecological restoration science, practice, and policy at local, regional, and global levels. Joining the SER Board of Directors grants you the opportunity to work collaboratively with a diverse range of partners, stakeholders, and members to further the goals of SER. Serving on the Board promises personal and professional growth, allowing you to share your expertise, experience, and insights with the global restoration community.

Who Should Apply & What’s Involved

To be eligible, candidates must be active SER members in good standing for at least the previous two years. A demonstrated commitment to the Society’s mission is essential, and candidates are expected to actively participate in the governance, committee work, and financial development of SER, including attendance at quarterly conference calls.

The expected time commitment is 4 hours per month, but this may vary depending on position held, committee appointment, and other obligations. Proficiency in English is necessary, as all Board meetings are conducted in English. While prior experience with SER committees, section or chapter boards, or leadership roles is recommended, it is not required.

Application Deadline: 16 February 2026

All nominations must be received by 5:00 AM UTC on 16 February 2026. Individuals who submit incomplete applications or who submit applications after this deadline will not be eligible for nomination. Applicants for nomination will be evaluated by SER’s Board Development Committee and a formal slate of candidates will be forwarded to the Executive Committee for approval.

Submit your application to serve on SER’s Board of Directors

Open Board Positions

Treasurer – one (1) position open during this election

• Requires SER Board or leadership activity (e.g. chapter or section board) within the last four years.
• Basic knowledge/ability to read and analyze nonprofit financial reports and nonprofit budgeting/fiscal management.
• Term: two (2) years

Representative-At-Large – two (2) positions open during this election

• Prior experience on chapter or section boards or other SER leadership roles recommended but not required.
• Term: four (4) years

Regional Representative, Africa – one (1) position open during this election

• Prior experience on chapter or section boards or other SER leadership roles recommended but not required
• The candidate must reside or work in the region – region includes the continent of Africa
• Term: two (2) years

Regional Representative, Asia  – one (1) position open during this election

• Prior experience on chapter or section boards or other SER leadership roles recommended but not required
• The candidate must reside or work in the region – region includes east and southeast Asia west to Europe and Africa
• Term: two (2) years

Regional Representative, Europe – one (1) position open during this election

• Prior experience on chapter or section boards or other SER leadership roles recommended but not required
• The candidate must reside or work in the region – region includes British Isles, Iceland, continental Europe east to the Ural Mountains, Ural River, and Black Sea
• Term: two (2) years

Regional Representative, Latin America/Caribbean – one (1) position open during this election

• Prior experience on chapter or section boards or other SER leadership roles recommended but not required
• The candidate must reside or work in the region – region includes Mexico to Argentina and Chile, Bermuda, and the West Indies
• Term: two (2) years

Regional Representative, North America – one (1) position open during this election

• Prior experience on chapter or section boards or other SER leadership roles recommended but not required
• The candidate must reside or work in the region – region includes Canada and the United States
• Term: two (2) years 

Regional Representative, Pacific – one (1) position open during this election

• Prior experience on chapter or section boards or other SER leadership roles recommended but not required
• The candidate must reside or work in the region – region includes Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific
• Term: two (2) years

Student and Emerging Professional Representative – one (1) position open during this election

• Must be an active Student and Emerging Professional or Student Association member.
• Term: two (2) years

Additional information

For more information about the roles and responsibilities of each of these positions, please see the following documents:

• Responsibilities of SER Regional Representatives
• Responsibilities of SER Board Members
• SER Bylaws

Potential applicants may review the board application before completing the online application form by clicking here.

Submit your application to serve on SER’s Board of Directors

If you have questions about the application process, please contact SER at elections@ser.org.

Continuing a meaningful tradition at the closing plenary, Brock Bowles, President of the SER Rocky Mountain Chapter, passed the message stick to Alice Nunes, co-chair of SER2027. Originally crafted in Noongar Boodjar by Heidi Mippy and first presented at SER2023, the message stick symbolizes the responsibility of hosting the next World Conference. It now begins its journey to Lisbon, where preparations are underway for this global gathering.

SER2027 marks the first World Conference in Europe since 2015 in Manchester, England, and before that Zaragoza, Spain, in 2005.

Ecosystems are the foundation of life and the backbone of our economies—yet they are disappearing at an alarming pace. To safeguard our future, ecological restoration must be treated not as an option, but as a vital investment. The time for promises is over. Now is the moment to accelerate and scale up restoration through bold collaborations across disciplines, regions, communities, and sectors.

For 35+ years, the Society for Ecological Restoration has supported, empowered, and connected the global restoration community. At its 11th World Conference, SER2025, over 1,400 delegates from 75+ countries gathered in Denver, USA to turn commitments into action. Practitioners, scientists, Indigenous leaders, policymakers, and innovators joined forces to unlock restoration’s full potential.

SER2025 marks a pivotal moment in the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which urge countries to bring 30% of degraded lands and waters under effective restoration by 2030. These commitments are inspiring and ambitious, but ambition is not enough. At this critical juncture, SER has launched REVIVE, a bold initiative to scale capacity with exemplary projects, trained professionals, standards-based methods, and supportive policy and finance.

Inspired by this momentum, the delegates of SER2025 unite in calling for:

• Accelerated national action backed by financing—turning global commitments into measurable progress.
• Private sector investment to create resilient supply chains and longer-term economic stability. 
• Empowered communities and Indigenous leadership that ensure equity, cultural relevance, and lasting stewardship.
• Passionate practitioners equipped with the standards and tools needed to deliver restoration that is high-quality, scalable, and impact-driven.
• Innovative governance to enact forward-thinking policies and legislation that incentivize effective, efficient, and engaging restoration—making it easier to do the right thing at scale.

Restoration unites people and nations. It reconnects us with nature and each other. In a divided world, it offers hope, healing, and purpose.

SER2025 urges governments, civil society, and businesses to mobilize ecological restoration as the pathway for change—because the planet can’t wait, and neither can we.

On the 10th and 11th of September 2025, 72 participants–selected from over 350 applicants—from more than 45 countries on 6 continents, came together online to compete in SER’s first-ever ecological restoration Hackathon. The Hackathon was developed as a way to enable those unable to travel to Denver for SER’s World Conference, SER2025, including experts from around the world whose voices might not otherwise be heard, to participate and contribute to the sharing of knowledge and ideas at the event.

What is an ecological restoration Hackathon?

A Hackathon is an event that brings together experts in a specific field to collaborate and solve a problem within a given timeframe, in competition with other teams. Often associated with the technology sector, SER’s ecological restoration Hackathon aimed to accelerate the development of solutions to help address critical challenges in restoration practice.

14 teams competed over two sessions to develop innovative, practical, and affordable approaches to Monitoring (or Measuring), Reporting, and Verification (MRV) in ecological restoration. The challenge posed by the competition was to develop practical MRV tools and solutions that strengthen transparency, build trust, and enable scalable, high-integrity restoration efforts to support the delivery of project certification, private finance, and other relevant activities.

While monitoring and reporting are already broadly developed in the ecological restoration space, including through SER’s International Principles and Standards, the intent was for participants to further refine this existing knowledge as outlined through three sub-challenges, across three main ecosystem types - terrestrial, inland waters, and coastal/marine:

1. Subchallenge #1:  Create a low-cost, lightweight “MRV kit” concept (real or theoretical) that a small organization in a rural or remote area could use with minimal connectivity, budget, or technical expertise, including recommendations for Automated MRV (AutoMRV) as appropriate.
2.  Subchallenge #2: Design a monitoring framework / method / protocol that addresses ecological monitoring challenges for your ecosystem, including recommendations for AutoMRV as appropriate.
3. Subchallenge #3: Design a monitoring framework / method / protocol that addresses social monitoring challenges for your ecosystem, including recommendations for AutoMRV as appropriate

The event was hosted in collaboration with the Nature Tech Collective (NTC), acting as a technical expert on MRV to help guide the development of the event and as a live resource for Hackathon competitors.

What is MRV and why is it important for restoration?

MRV refers to:

• The structured process of tracking restoration activities and outcomes (Monitoring)
• Organizing and communicating results in accessible formats, including in the context of global environmental targets (Reporting)
• Validating the accuracy and credibility of the monitored and reported data (Verification)

AutoMRV refers to MRV that can be readily automated or semi-automated through, for example, systems that collect, process, and report data with minimal manual intervention (e.g. remote sensing, AI, data platforms).

For more information about MRV and its importance in nature tech, NTC recently published a detailed blog post, with an overview of how it is used in restoration practice and its growing importance for policymakers, investors, practitioners, and researchers.

Outcomes of the SER Hackathon

Participants were allocated to teams across the three ecosystem types, broadly aligned with their area of expertise. Teams had four hours to collaborate online in the development of an MRV tool or solution according to the sub-challenge they had been assigned. The final products/solutions will be judged on a range of criteria, including innovation, feasibility, clarity of presentation, and alignment with SER’s Standards.

Hackathon winner video presentations will be shown at SER2025, taking place in Denver, CO, from September 30 - October 4, 2025. Thank you to all of our participants for your time and engagement to help expand knowledge and innovation in this vital field! 

…and especially to those who shared their experience with their networks…!

Team MAADTZ

Expert presenter, David B.

As the sole certification initiative for restoration professionals worldwide, our program establishes demanding professional benchmarks for practitioners engaged in designing, implementing, supervising, and monitoring restoration initiatives globally. These certified experts bring comprehensive expertise in biological and physical sciences, coupled with a commitment to high-quality restoration practices and continuous professional advancement. Such specialized knowledge supports these professionals as they address pressing global environmental challenges, including climate change impacts, biodiversity decline, and sustainable development objectives.

With the addition of France and Denmark to this cohort, CERPs and CERPITs now represent 37 countries across six continents. In addition to France and Denmark, our global community includes restoration experts from Australia, Bahamas, Brazil, Canada, Caribbean Netherlands, Chile, China and Hong Kong SAR, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Germany, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, Romania, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Switzerland, Uganda, United Kingdom, United States and Puerto Rico, and Zimbabwe.

If your country is not listed, contact certification@ser.org to find out how to connect local restoration practitioners to the CERP Program.

About the April 2025 Certification Recipients

These new practitioners demonstrate diverse restoration efforts across ecosystems. Some highlights of their work include:

• Restoring 100,000 hectares of degraded thicket in South Africa with spekboom to boost carbon storage, biodiversity, and rural livelihoods
• Conserving threatened tree species in Kenya's Central Highlands through community-led restoration, and in Uganda by strengthening regional seed collection capacity
• Rehabilitating degraded arid habitats in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, with large-scale afforestation aligned with Vision 2030
• Restoring invaded ecosystems on La Réunion, France, by removing alien plants and reintroducing indigenous species through community initiatives
• Safeguarding threatened plants in New Zealand with seed banking, recovery plans, and coastal dune restoration
• Converting farmland into wetlands and uplands in Ontario, Canada, while transforming plantations into diverse forests for species at risk
• Restoring prairie-oak ecosystems in Oregon, U.S., by reviving meadows, recovering endangered daisies, and creating butterfly corridors

We proudly welcome these new practitioners and look forward to their contributions to the ecological restoration community!

Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioners (CERP)

Congratulations to our CERP recipients: 

Brandon Alderman, Stéphane Baret, Jon Berlie, Angela Bouma, Brock Bowles, Steven Collins, Matthew Distler, Margaret Finch, Tim Forrester, David Graff III, David Holbrook, Sebastian Walaita Javan, Jonathan Jenkins, Chloe Lewis, Matt Marshall, Douglas Mensing, Ahmed Mohamed, Liv Monck-Whipp, Paul Reed, Haley Ritter, Jesse Robinson, Ariana Rogers, Briana Stephens, Matt Van Ess, Piet Vroeg, and Andrea Zemrau.

The CERP designation recognizes experienced restoration practitioners with at least five years of full-time experience who demonstrate expert-level understanding of restoration practices. This certification provides professional recognition and supports career advancement.

Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner-in-Training (CERPIT)

We also congratulate our CERPIT recipients: 

Lucy Adhiambo, Débora Agatha, Matthew Chao, Bryan Coppede, Cameron Covill, Maria (Rika) du Plessis, Kyle Filicky, Maya Fives, George Frankland, Hannah Glanvill, Petrus (Corné) Grobler, Shaun Hoekstra, Jennifer Koppe, Rachel Kristensen, Ryan Lawrence, Elise LeBlanc, José Manuel Mamani, Tom Mayo, Erin McGowan, Christopher Newton, Sara Rasnick, Cristal Reagh, Phoebe Russell, Ashley Theron, Jacob Wheat, and Antonio Zodda.

The CERPIT program serves as an entry point for professionals who meet CERP knowledge requirements or possess five years of restoration experience. It provides valuable networking and professional development opportunities.

Returning Academic Partners

Niagara College continues to support the CERP Program and high-quality restoration as an Academic and Professional Partner of SER. This program helps students jump-start their restoration careers with new CERPIT opportunities, offering a clear path to becoming a CERPIT. Niagara College's Ecosystem Restoration program, featuring restoration-focused coursework, prepares graduates to meet CERPIT requirements. This alignment earns Niagara College a premium listing in SER's Academic Programs Directory.

We also congratulate our most recent CERPIT recipients through the Niagara College Partnership: Sadie Campbell, Vedanshi Desai, Meghan Lavoie, Meghan Fratoni, Andrew Nawrot, and Vyshnavi Vinaya Kumar Nair.

Join Our Global Community

Ready to advance your career in ecological restoration? Begin your CERP application today and join our community of restoration experts worldwide. For more information, watch our informational webinar: SER's CERP Program: Is Practitioner Certification Right for You?

Program Sponsors

We gratefully acknowledge our returning sponsors for their continued support:

SER does not condone threats to nature, science, or the related public interest anywhere across the world. Ecological restoration is an incredibly important tool to address the global challenge of climate change and also to maximize the delivery of other ecosystem services like flood control, water and food security, and others that are critical to human survival and well-being, as well as for economic progress. Nearly every global report related to climate asserts that coordinated and committed efforts within the next 5 to 10 years are critical to reducing the impacts of climate change.

Recent actions that could reverse decades of environmental progress are deeply alarming, which elevates the importance of the restoration work each of you do, every day. Given the close link between the health of natural ecosystems and social-economic stability, we urge the public and private sectors across the world to continue supporting and implementing effective ecological restoration.

For those directly affected by recent actions, including those who have lost funding or employment, we encourage you to stay a part of the SER community through our Open Doors or Equity membership options. In 2020, SER introduced the Open Doors membership to ensure that financial barriers don’t prevent anyone from participating. This membership offers the same benefits as all other individual memberships, and SER is proud to welcome hundreds of Open Doors members each year. If you cannot afford to maintain your Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) status, please contact us for assistance. SER also offers a Jobs Board with listings relevant to our membership.

The need for unity in protecting and restoring our planet has never been more pressing. Together, SER members form a global community committed to a common mission. Your restoration work makes a difference for both people and the planet by enabling respect for the environment, inspiring change, empowering communities, and creating sustainable options for future generations. Thank you for being part of this community, and thank you for all that you do.

Our certification program sets rigorous professional standards for restoration practitioners worldwide. Certified practitioners demonstrate strong knowledge of biological and physical sciences, coupled with a dedication to excellence in restoration practices and ongoing professional development. This expertise is crucial as practitioners address global challenges including climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development.

With the additions of Jordan and Malaysia in this cohort, CERPs and CERPITs now represent 35 countries across six continents. Our global community includes restoration experts from Australia, Bahamas, Brazil, Canada, Caribbean Netherlands, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Germany, Ghana, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Kuwait, Madagascar, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, Romania, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Switzerland, Uganda, United Kingdom, United States, and Zimbabwe .

If your country isn't listed, contact certification@ser.org to find out how to connect local restoration practitioners to the CERP Program.

About the October 2024 Certification Recipients

These new practitioners bring a diverse range of expertise. Some highlights of their work include:

• Restoring a Tanzanian forest site to create a corridor between two neighbouring forest reserves in a biodiversity hotspot
• Using micropropagation to reintroduce orchids in southern China, establishing a self-sustaining and ecologically viable population in its natural habitat.
• Removing artificial structures along stream habitats on the east coast of Canada and the United States to restore fish and aquatic organism access to stream channels
• Promoting reforestation in Uganda through participatory approaches with local farmers

We proudly welcome these new practitioners and look forward to their contributions to the ecological restoration community!

Congratulations to our Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioners:  Sascha Bachmann, Louis Charron, Amanda Draves, Sharif Durzi, Bryan Emerson, César Figueroa, Stephan Gale, Benjamin Girgenti, Adriaan Grobler, Will Johnson, Elyse Jurgen, Imran Khan, Alex Kinzer, Jonathan Konz, Stacey Libra, Donnah MacKinnon, Benjamin (Luke) Meherg, Peter Moddle, Candace Reynolds, Steven Russell, Sloane Sanchez, Tom Saxton, Michael Szuter, Jeroen van der Horst, Jeffrey Veglahn, and Nenibarini Zabbey.

The CERP designation recognizes experienced restoration practitioners with at least 5 years of full-time experience who demonstrate expert-level understanding of restoration practices. This certification offers professional recognition and various career advancement benefit.

We also extend congratulations to our Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner-in-Training (CERPIT) recipients: Ghadeer Qasim Mousa Abu-Eid, Risa Askerooth, Rae Attridge, Alec Blewett, James Bolyard, Eric Caldwell, Dawn Desmarais, Elizabeth Dutra, Tyler Ellison, Nicholas Galuszynski, Tyler Gaudreau, Hunter Harness, Kokugonza Harriet, Adeline Hii Yen Mei, Diana Holmes, Kristen Hunt, Nicole Lamirande, Gunwant Mahajan, Angela Melney, Nova Morales, Antonia Nyamukuru, Carlos Ontegi Nyabuto, Claire O'Sullivan, Alexandra Posteraro, Cole Pragides, Drew Rinaldi Subits, Eric Slaugh, Nusrat Jannah Snigdha, and Hatem Taifour.

The CERPIT program serves as an entry point for professionals who meet CERP knowledge requirements or possess 5 years of restoration experience. It provides valuable networking and professional development opportunities.

Join Our Global Community

Ready to advance your career in ecological restoration? Begin your CERP application today and join our community of restoration experts worldwide. For more information, watch our informational webinar:  SER’s CERP Program: Is Practitioner Certification Right for You?

New Academic Alignment

Brigham Young University (BYU) helps students jump-start their restoration careers with new CERPIT opportunities. BYU is the latest institution to align with SER's CERP program, offering students a path to become a CERPIT. BYU's Plant and Wildlife Sciences Bachelors program, featuring restoration-focused coursework, prepares graduates to meet CERPIT requirements. This alignment earns BYU a premium listing in SER's Academic Programs Directory.

Program Sponsors

We gratefully acknowledge our returning sponsors for their continued support:

Restoration Day at COP 16

The Convention on Biological Diversity COP16 summit in Cali, Colombia, held from 21 October to 1 November, reiterated the imperative work to not just halt, but reverse biodiversity loss through implementation of the KM-GBF, including Target 2, the restoration target. Restoration Day, on 30 October, brought together experts from various fields—including senior ministers and policymakers, practitioners, scientists, investors, Indigenous leaders, and faith groups— to exchange insights, share resources, and present strategies to scale restoration efforts. Restoration Day focused on a suite of different initiatives to support Target 2, which aims for 30% of degraded terrestrial, inland waters, and coastal and marine ecosystems to be under effective restoration by 2030 .

SER International Policy Lead, George Gann, participated in the panel alongside speakers from the European Commission (EC), FAO, the Brazilian Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and the International Land Coalition. A key message came from Brazil’s environment minister, Marina Silva, who underscored the vital role of restoration in unifying the three Rio Conventions: UNFCCC, UNCBD and the UNCCD which address climate change, biodiversity and land degradation, respectively. A summary of the session, speakers and themes from Restoration Day can be found here.

Launch event and presentation of the Target 2 Guide at COP16. From left to right Julian Fox (FAO), Jamal Annagylyjova (UN Convention on Biological Diversity), David Garcia (International Land Coalition, ILC),  George Gann (Society for Ecological Restoration, SER), Fabiola Zerbini (Brazilian Ministry of Environment and Climate Change), Florian Claeys (European Commission, DG ENV), Yelena Finegold (FAO), Bethanie Walder (Society for Ecological Restoration, SER).

SER Executive Director Bethanie Walder moderated a panel on Guidance and Tools to build capacity for restoration. SER International Policy Lead George Gann, lead author of the new Resource Guide for Target 2, presented the guide during this panel. He was joined by speakers from the European Commission (EC), FAO, the Brazilian Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and the International Land Coalition to discuss not only the guide, but additional resources, new regulations, and exemplary case studies of national, regional, and indigenous efforts to elevate restoration.

Resource Guide for Implementation of Target 2 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework

During the past year, SER has partnered with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and CIFOR-ICRAF to support countries in delivering Target 2, specifically by developing Delivering Restoration Outcomes for Biodiversity and Human Well-Being: The resource guide for Target 2 of the KM-GBF. Formally launched during Restoration Day, this guide offers practical advice, tools and resources for countries as they plan, implement, and assess restoration projects at all scales. It also provides guidance for reporting on national commitments.

The guide explains the key elements of Target 2, including defining effective restoration as “standards-based restoration underpinned by agreed principles that results in appropriately balanced sustainable net gain that benefits and enhances biodiversity, ecosystem integrity and human well-being.” This definition recognizes the importance of applying standards to restoration practice globally as a mechanism for improving outcomes from restoration investments. Building from the guide and this successful collaboration, SER will continue working with CBD, FAO, and CIFOR-ICRAF to support country-oriented capacity building efforts to implement Target 2.

The guide drew on key content from SER’s previous work, including the SER International Principles and Standards on Ecosystem Restoration. It also introduced an updated graphical depiction of the SER Restorative Continuum, incorporating all three key ecosystems into the new design .

Standards of Practice to Inform the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

Given the importance of standards to the definition of effective restoration, restoration standards were on the agenda in other sessions as well during COP16. At the IUCN Pavilion, two SER past Chairs, Jim Hallet and Cara Nelson (Cara also co-chairs the Ecosystem Restoration Thematic Group of the IUCN Commission on Ecosystem Management), as well as George Gann, participated in a session to present an overview of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration Standards of Practice to guide ecosystem restoration (SOPs) along with case studies of how these SOPs are being applied to existing restoration projects around the world.

The UN Decade SOPs were co-developed by IUCN, SER, and FAO, with dozens of other organizations, and they were formally released in early 2024. These SOPs support restoration initiatives, community involvement, and Indigenous engagement for all ecosystem restoration, across the entire restorative continuum. This session also discussed continued efforts to increase the utility and applicability and uptake of the SOPs globally.

Jim Hallet, past SER Chair, presenting the on the UN Decade Standards of Practice at COP16.

The Global Biodiversity Standard

SER was proud to be affiliated with yet another important event at COP16. October 25 marked the official launch of the Global Biodiversity Standard (TGBS), the most scientifically rigorous framework for measuring the impacts of tree planting, habitat restoration, and agroforestry on biodiversity. SER is a key partner in TGBS, with George Gann and SER Policy and Practice Specialist Amarizni Mosyaftiani providing essential scientific and practical expertise in developing TGBS methods and training resources, including the manual, which provides best practice methodology for evaluating and certifying restoration projects. Key components of TGBS are built directly from the SER Standards, including, for example the ecological recovery wheel, the social benefits wheel, and the associated Five-star System for assessing the attributes and sub-attributes on the wheels. TGBS is both critically important and novel in the project certification space because it focuses on certifying the biodiversity outcomes of the projects. And it does this by building local capacity and biodiversity hubs, especially in partnership with botanic gardens across the world. The first three certified projects were announced during the COP and there was sustained interest in the program far beyond the launch event .

You can hear more about TGBS on Botanic Gardens Conservation International’s (BGCI) podcast, The Understory. And read about it in Business Green .

David Bartholomew, Global Biodiversity Standard Project Manager at BGCI being interviewed at the COP16.

EU Nature Restoration Law

Passed in June 2024, the EU’s Nature Restoration Law (NRL) sets binding targets for EU countries to restore at least 20% of EU land and seas by 2030. SER Europe (SER-E) formed a legal working group to highlight the law’s significance amid months of intense negotiations ahead of the final vote. SER views the NRL as a global paradigm shift for restoration from a legal or regulatory perspective. While nearly all current restoration regulations are triggered by new degradation, the NRL obligates restoration of past degradation that was never remediated. EU countries must now submit National Restoration Plans to the European Commission within two years, including details of how they will monitor and report on progress towards their restoration targets. Functionally, the NRL decouples restoration requirements and investment from new degradation, creating increased opportunity for restoration to result in net gain for people and nature. While this exact model may not be replicable everywhere, it sets the stage for a new global discussion on proactive approaches to restoration. SER is pleased to report that we will be undertaking a project in 2025 with lawyers and regulators from across the world to explore how this and other proactive regulatory approaches can be modeled and innovated globally to incentivize and prioritize effective ecological and ecosystem restoration .

SCOR’s ReStore: The first insurance product for ecological restoration

In May 2024, SCOR, one of the world’s leading reinsurers launched a novel product to insure ecological restoration projects. The first product of its kind, the Nature Restoration & Conservation Insurance Initiative, NatReCo, aims to reduce risk for financial investment in restoration. If an insured project experiences a covered event, and that event negatively impacts the restoration works (e.g. a flood wipes out the trees that were planted), then the insurance would provide the funding to re-implement the work. While there have been several one-time restoration insurance policies issued, no other insurance company currently offers any product like this. NatReCo was developed with key advisory input from senior SER leadership, including both Bethanie Walder and George Gann. The product is built on the SER Standards, recognizing that applying standards to restoration reduces risk and increases the likelihood of success. Therefore, to be able to buy a policy through NatReCo, projects will have to demonstrably follow the standards. As the product ramps up (it is still in the testing phase, but it is available), Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioners (CERPs) will be prioritized for plan reviews and as experts to assist claims adjusters reviewing claims. Given the limited funding available for restoration, and the massive need, initiatives like this are imperative for implementing restoration at scale and SER is pleased to be part of this innovative product development and delivery. NatReCo was featured during side events in conjunction with CBD COP16.

SER at COP16 of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)

Bethanie Walder will also be attending the UNCCD COP in Riyadh in early December. There SER will participate in numerous activities, similar to some of the activities at the CBD COP, including participating in sessions that will promote the UN Decade SOPs and the Target 2 Guide to the UNCCD delegates. The expected outcomes are very similar to the CBD COP, reiterating the thematic connection that restoration creates between the different conventions. The UNCCD is expected to debate, and ideally to pass their own restoration targets at this COP. SER looks forward to supporting these efforts by sharing best available knowledge about the opportunities, challenges, and benefits of ecological restoration to support both human well-being and nature .

SER at the UNCCD COP16:

• 4 December: From Soils to the Arabian Leopard – A Manifesto for Comprehensive Regeneration

• 6 December: UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. Your ideas for the next 5 years!

• 6 December: Drought Resilience through an Integrated Landscape Restoration approach

• 7 December: Scaling Up Land Restoration - Bridging large-scale and grassroots efforts for sustainable and long term impact

• 10 December: Guidance, resources, and case studies to support delivery of global restoration goals

The Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) is proud to announce its contribution to the "Delivering restoration outcomes for biodiversity and human well-being – Resource guide to Target 2 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework". The Target 2 resource guide was launched on Restoration Day, 30 October 2024, at the UN’s Biodiversity Conference COP16 in Cali, Colombia. This important resource was developed in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and in collaboration with CIFOR-ICRAF.

This comprehensive guide offers practical recommendations and essential background information to support nations in implementing Target 2 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Target 2 calls for at least 30 percent of degraded ecosystems to be under effective restoration by 2030. George Gann CERP and SER International Policy Lead, participated in the launch event, describing the guide as a “living document” created through a collaborative process.

The guide represents a significant step forward in supporting global restoration efforts. It emphasizes:

• Building on existing initiatives like the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration and FAO’s Framework for Ecosystem Restoration Monitoring (FERM).
• Providing a roadmap for integrating ecosystem restoration into National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans.
• Offering practical resources for implementing restoration plans.
• Highlighting the need for effective communication with all stakeholders, including practitioners, implementers, and Indigenous Peoples.

Launch event and presentation of the Target 2 Guide at COP16. From left to right George Gann (Society for Ecological Restoration, SER), David Garcia (International Land Coalition, ILC), Jamal Annagylyjova (UN Convention on Biological Diversity), Julian Fox (FAO), Bethanie Walder (Society for Ecological Restoration, SER), Fabiola Zerbini (Brazilian Ministry of Environment and Climate Change), Yelena Finegold (FAO), Florian Claeys (European Commission, DG ENV).

SER remains committed to supporting the global restoration community. We are proud to have contributed to this vital resource and look forward to collaborating with partners worldwide to achieve the goals of Target 2.

This unique certification promotes high professional standards for those involved in restoration projects worldwide. Our certified practitioners, experts in restoration, possess a strong background in the biological and physical sciences, alongside a commitment to top-notch restoration practices and continuous learning. This program prepares them to address crucial issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development.

CERPs and CERPITs now represent 33 countries, with the additions of Ecuador, Madagascar, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Uganda in this cohort. (If your country isn't listed, contact certification@ser.org to find out how to connect local restoration practitioners to the CERP Program.)

A map of CERPs and CERPITs around the world, in 33 countries, including Australia, Bahamas, Brazil, Canada, Caribbean Netherlands, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Germany, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Kuwait, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, Romania, Saudi Arabia, South Africa UK, US, and Zimbabwe, with Ecuador, Madagascar, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Uganda added this year.

These new practitioners bring a diverse range of expertise. Some highlights of their work include:

• The restoration of critical native vegetation in the Galápagos Islands
• Reconnecting mangrove habitats in Ghana to reverse fragmentation, mitigate climate change effects, and create economic opportunities
• In situ coral rearing throughout the Caribbean and Colombian Pacific
• Evaluating different grassland restoration methods in Switzerland
• Restoring wetlands to former agricultural sites in California to create hundreds of additional acres of freshwater emergent wetland

We proudly welcome these new practitioners and look forward to their contributions to the ecological restoration community!

Congratulations to our Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioners: Courtney Antonacci, Manjula Arumugam, Miguel Bailetti, Paul Blanchflower, Pablo Bravo Monasterio, Patrick Britton, Stephanie Canfield, Jeremy Clark, Laura Craig, Shellie English, Cyndi Gates, Andrew (Drew) Gatewood, Joshua Grabel, Eric (Tom) Groves, Tess Hanson, Harold Manrique Hernandez, Claire Mallen, Said Musa Mutegeki Alislam, Sean Nussle, Todd Polacek, Kevin Preischel, Mbolasoa Narindra Ramehefamanana, Jessie Spasov, Nicole Sulewski, Peter Tomsovic, Mariska Weijerman, Joseph (Chip) Wendt, Mae Whyte, Robyn Worcester, and Jacob Zehnder.

SER awards the CERP designation to experienced restoration practitioners with at least 5 years of full-time experience, demonstrating an expert-level understanding of restoration practices. This certification offers numerous professional benefits and recognition as experts in the ecological restoration field.

We also extend congratulations to our Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner-in-Training (CERPIT) recipients: Angela Alegria Ortega, Abdullah Alharthi, Amanda Archer, Kiran Baldwin, Luiz Henrique Rondina Baqueiro, Anna Calle, Fernanda Cardoso, Jessica Castro, Dawn Cunningham, Victoria Engler, Stephen Ferrante, Angelina Fowler, Nicholas Harper, Daniel Hribar, Elyse Jurgen, Rajab Kakaire, Imran Khan, Danny Leahy, Matt Marshall, Nehemiah Tettey Odjer-Bio, Michaela Owens, Mark Paglierani, Nicolas Perciballi, Laura Sarmiento Rodriguez, Daniel Slodowicz, Karin van de Braak, Katie Vasquez, and Sebastian Walaita Javan.

The CERPIT program acts as a stepping stone for individuals who meet CERP knowledge requirements or possess 5 years of restoration experience, providing them with professional and networking benefits.

Through our partnership with Niagara College’s Ecosystem Restoration (Graduate Certificate) program, 10 graduates are getting a jumpstart on their career with a CERPIT credential. Congratulations to: Meghan Durksen, Connor Ferguson, Abbey Iannone, Julia Minaji, Lebert Omac, Liam Page, Alisha Rizvi, Paige Schoenwolf, Manjot Takhar, and Sneha Vattathuvayal.

Join this exceptional community of restoration experts. Begin your CERP application today to advance your career and contribute to global ecological restoration efforts.
 
If you’re interested in applying, watch our webinar for more information: SER’s CERP Program: Is Practitioner Certification Right for You?

We also wish to thank our returning sponsors for their generous support of the program:

The Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) and Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) are jointly announcing the release of The Global Biodiversity Standard: Manual for Assessment and Best Practices, a new resource detailing the assessment methodology for evaluating and certifying global restoration projects. Although the Global Biodiversity Standard (TGBS) won’t be formally launched until later this year, we are excited to release this document to the restoration community as it achieves SER’s objectives of elevating standards-based restoration and will strengthen the work of practitioners. This will be a new certification tool and Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioners and Practitioners in training will have the opportunity to be involved and get trained. Download the manual and register for the 22 July webinar to begin learning about this new methodology.

The Global Biodiversity Standard Manual Development

The Global Biodiversity Standard (TGBS) is designed to provide assurance that tree planting, habitat restoration, and agroforestry practices are protecting, restoring, and enhancing biodiversity. TGBS applies the tried and tested expertise of the global botanical and restoration community, with the knowledge of local communities, to tree planting and restoration sites across the world . 

The methodology outlined in TGBS manual was created and refined collaboratively with a diverse group of organizations and experts including SER in partnership with BGCI, the Plan Vivo Foundation, TRAFFIC, the Center for International Forestry Research, the World Agroforestry Centre (CIFOR-ICRAF), Ecosia, 1t.org and many more. These organizations and experts include biodiversity specialists, ecologists, sociologists, tree planting organizations, and certification agencies.

George Gann, CERP and SER International Policy Lead will continue to guide SER’s engagement with TGBS, along with SER Policy and Practice Specialist Amarizni Mosyaftiani, CERPIT. George and Amar are providing substantial scientific, technical, and practical expertise to the development of TGBS methods, manuals, and practitioner training resources .

TGBS Manual Objectives

TGBS aims to promote effective and high-quality global biodiversity outcomes for tree plantings, forest restoration, agroforestry, and other initiatives. The manual serves as a guide for practitioners to achieve improved biodiversity outcomes through site-based certification. The manual is divided into nine sections which cover TGBS certification, including application, assessment, and certification:

1. Introduction: This section introduces TGBS, its rationale, scope, and criteria. It explains certification tiers, terms, and conditions.
2. Getting Started: Discusses the roles and responsibilities of assessors, applicants, and others. It includes instructions on defining the reference ecosystem.
3. Application Form: Covers essential details of the application form, including project description and prerequisites.
4. Remote Sensing Survey: Describes how to conduct remote sensing surveys for TGBS assessments, including data interpretation and analysis.
5. Field Survey: Explains how to conduct field surveys for TGBS assessments, evaluating biodiversity impact, stakeholder engagement, and more.
6. Assessment, Verification, and Certification: Details the TGBS assessment, verification, and certification process, including scoring sites against TGBS criteria.
7. Restoration Mentoring: Outlines modules and mentoring resources for applicants, covering best practices and project sustainability.
8. Becoming a TGBS Assessor and Trainer: Describes the requirements and training to become a TGBS assessor or trainer.
9. Conclusion: Provides a summary of the manual's key points, emphasizing the importance of TGBS certification and the need for continuous improvement.

Testing the Methodology

The methodology has also undergone rigorous testing by 13 hubs across 9 countries across more than 100 projects and various land uses in multiple countries. Remote-sensing and ground survey methodologies have been tested by TGBS hubs, including Auroville Botanical Gardens (India), the Centre for Ecosystem Restoration – Kenya, Huarango Nature (Peru), Jardim Botânico Araribá (Brazil), Missouri Botanic Gardens Madagascar Program, Tooro Botanical Gardens (Uganda), Tropical Rainforest Conservation Research Centre (Malaysia), Royal Botanic Garden, and Jordan and Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden (Hong Kong).

Remote sensing methods explained in the manual include the use of spaceborne sensors to understand historical trends of project site attributes outlined in the SER 5-star Recovery System. Recognizing that a combination of standard and bespoke methodologies are needed depending on the site and its conditions, the manual provides a list of diverse methodologies.

Next steps

The release of the manual is a key step towards fostering TGBS adoption as a guiding framework for assessing and certifying biodiversity outcomes from forestry conservation and restoration initiatives worldwide. TGBS is receiving support from various organizations, including Rabobank, Reforest’Action, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Bioflore and Restor.

TGBS will be officially launched during the Convention on Biological Diversity COP-16 in Cali, Colombia in October 2024. This will represent a significant moment in its development as it issues its first certifications to sites that show positive biodiversity outcomes.

For further information on The Global Biodiversity Standard and its implementation, visit: https://www.biodiversitystandard.org/. 

The Society for Ecological Restoration is pleased to announce the results of our 2024 Board of Directors election. The talented individuals elected from across the globe to serve on the board have the scientific and practical background to ensure that SER continues to lead the way in advancing the field of ecological restoration. The expertise of both new and returning board members represents the multi-faceted nature of restoration work and brings forth a diversity of perspectives from not only the science, practice, and policy, but also emerging leadership and lived experience across geographies and backgrounds.

We extend our gratitude to all the nominees who participated in the election process. The active engagement of such talented professionals is what allows our organization to lead the way in advancing the field of ecological restoration.

After tallying all votes from our membership, we are thrilled to welcome three new members and eight returning members to the SER Board of Directors for terms commencing 1 July 2024 (two other board seats were not up for election this cycle):

Newly elected board members are denoted with an asterisk (*). Re-elected board members are denoted with two asterisks (**). All remaining board positions were not up for election this cycle. Institutions are listed below for informational purposes.

Executive Committee:

Chair: Karma Bouazza, Lebanon Reforestation Initiative (Lebanon)

Vice Chair: Kingsley Dixon, CERP, Past Chair SER Australasia, Curtin University (Australia)

Treasurer: Ramesh Venkataraman, CERP, Chair-Elect of the SER Natural Regeneration Network, Junglescapes Charitable Trust (India)**

Secretary: TBD (the Secretary is selected from within the full board)

Regional Directors:

Africa: Peter Alele, Vice-Chair of SER Africa, Forest Stewardship Council (Uganda)**

Asia: Laura Graham, Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation (Indonesia)**

Europe: Jordi Cortina-Segarra, Chair of SER Europe, University of Alicante (Spain)**

Latin America and the Caribbean: Luiz Moraes, Embrapa (Brazil)**

North America: Tom Kaye, Institute for Applied Ecology (USA)**

Pacific: Valerie Hagger, Board Member of SER Australasia, The University of Queensland (Australia)*

At-Large Directors:

Cristina Eisenberg, Oregon State University (USA)

Excellence Akeredolu, Faculty Advisor to the SER UNILAG Student Association, University of Lagos (Nigeria)

Jeanne Chambers, US Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station (USA)**

Emanuela Weidlich, Leuphana University (Germany)**

Samira Omar Asem, CERP, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (Kuwait)*

Student and Emerging Professional Director:

Enzo Martelli Moya, University of Montana (USA)*

We look forward to the new board’s leadership and insights as SER embarks on implementing our bold new restoration initiatives over the next few years. 

We would also like to recognize and thank our outgoing Board members who will complete their board terms on 30 June 2024:

Stephanie Mansourian, At-large Director (Switzerland)

Bruce Clarkson, Pacific Director (New Zealand)

Their dedication and service have been instrumental in positioning SER for long-term growth and impact, and we are grateful for their contributions to the Society.

Once again, thank you to all members who took the time to vote in this election. We look forward to working with our new board to advance our mission and serve our membership. 

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF or GBF) of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) includes 23 targets to help protect and improve biodiversity across the world. Target 2 (the restoration target) calls for 30% of degraded ecosystems to be under effective restoration by 2030. Restoration is also directly mentioned or is relevant to numerous other targets, recognizing the important role restoration will play to achieve the CBD’s long-term biodiversity objectives. SER is partnering with CBD, FAO (specifically through the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration Best Practices Task Force) and representatives from several other NGOs to build capacity for implementing Target 2. Specifically, SER is leading development of a guide to Target 2, and on 14 May during a side event at the CBD technical meeting in Kenya, we released a discussion draft of that guide: "Delivering restoration outcomes for biodiversity and human wellbeing through Target 2 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework". During the side event, SER International Policy Lead George Gann provided an introduction to the key content in the guide and encouraged input and feedback on this discussion draft to enhance the final version. In addition to introducing the guide, representatives from CBD, FAO, and UNEP discussed the importance of Target 2, while representatives from the CBD delegations in Kenya and Japan shared information about how they are implementing Target 2 in their countries. FAO also discussed the Framework on Ecosystem Restoration Monitoring (FERM), which will be the primary tool used to measure global achievements under Target 2.

To access the draft of the guide and make comments, CLICK HERE.

COMMENT HERE

While in Kenya, George Gann and Bethanie Walder also had the opportunity to meet with colleagues from the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, the UN Freshwater Program, FAO, CIFOR-ICRAF, IUCN CEM Human Health and Ecosystem Management Thematic Group, Ramsar, and many others. Special thanks to the UN Decade team for coordinating several meetings and to CIFOR-ICRAF for hosting a half-day meeting to discuss synergies and additional collaboration opportunities across the restorative continuum.

SBSTTA 26 Side Event - Delivering Restoration Outcomes for Biodiversity and Human Wellbeing

Join Bethanie Walder, SER Executive Director, and George Gann, SER International Policy Lead, alongside other partners of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration at the 26th meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA). Register for the side event "Delivering Restoration Outcomes for Biodiversity and Human Wellbeing" presenting the draft Resource Guide for Target 2 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).

This document builds on previous SER work on the CBD Short Term Action Plan on Ecosystem Restoration , the International Principles and Standards for the Practice of Ecological Restoration , and Standards of Practice for the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, and develops a roadmap to support the delivery of GBF Target 2; bringing 30% of terrestrial, inland waters, and marine and coastal ecosystems under effective restoration by 2030.

  Date: Tuesday, 14 May 2024

Time: 18:15-20:00 EAT / 11:15 - 13:00 EDT

Topics: Ecosystem Restoration; Capacity Strengthening

GBF Goals and Targets: Goal A; Goal B; Target 2

Background Information

This side event will shed light on the Resource Guide to Target 2 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) and its implications.

The specific objectives of the side event are to:

• Provide a platform for countries to share their experiences in setting up national restoration targets aligned to the KMGBF Target 2.
• Present the draft Resource Guide for Target 2 and open an informal feedback process (both during and after SBSTTA) to accept inputs and recommendations from parties, experts, and other interested stakeholders to enhance the final version of the guide.

In 2023, partners of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, including the CBD Secretariat, FAO, UNEP, SER, CIFOR-ICRAF and others, collaborated to enhance technical and methodological capacity of CBD Parties and other stakeholders in setting, implementing, and monitoring ecosystem restoration targets under the GBF. This support was provided through the UN Decade's monitoring task-force through webinars, side-events, and workshops organized by the partners.

A significant outcome of these efforts was the "Developing a Roadmap for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF) Target 2" workshop, held in November 2023 in Rome. During this workshop, attended by over 100 participants including SER staff, members, and certified practitioners, country needs were identified, technical and scientific gaps were addressed, and a comprehensive plan for country support was outlined.

A key component of this plan is the collaborative development of the Resource Guide for Target 2, aimed at providing guidance and resources for countries and restoration implementers to update the national restoration targets and operationalize restoration activities. Additionally, the plan includes targeted support for piloting the implementation of the resource guide in a few selected countries.

The side event will introduce key content from the discussion draft of the guide. It will also offer the opportunity for countries to share their experiences, challenges, and successes in formulating national ecosystem restoration targets in the build-up to COP 16. Special focus will be given to addressing identified gaps in non-terrestrial ecosystem restoration, baselines, and definitions. The draft Resource Guide to Target 2 will be shared at the event, inviting countries and experts to provide valuable inputs for refining the document.

Key Points:

1. The NRL's proactive obligation to achieve nature restoration objectives distinguishes it globally, marking a significant milestone in the policy framework for restoration and contributing to international targets like those set by the Global Biodiversity Framework and the Paris Agreement.
2. The NRL's strengths lie in its legally binding targets to restore land and marine ecosystems, its holistic approach emphasizing nature-based solutions, and its active involvement of societal actors in restoration efforts.
3. Despite significant negotiations and compromises, the NRL has encountered continued challenges during its final stages of approval. Sweden, Finland, Poland, Italy, the Netherlands, and Hungary are withholding support of the law, while Austria and Belgium would abstain, resulting in the law lacking the required qualified majority of 55 percent of EU countries representing 65 percent of the bloc’s population. 
4. Farmer protests across Europe, originating in France and spreading to countries like Spain, Belgium, and Italy, have prompted policymakers to offer concessions watering down the NRL. These include delaying the implementation of biodiversity rules that mandate keeping 4% of farmland free from crop production for soil regeneration and shelving an anti-pesticide law in February. 
5. Well-planned and designed restoration obligations can benefit all sectors. Food systems, raw materials, and global supply chains face increasing pressure from climate change and land degradation. Effective, standards-based restoration can help all sectors manage their risks, ensuring, for example, the long-term production of food resources and the availability of essential natural resources on which humans depend.
6. Belgium, currently steering discussions among EU countries, is still attempting to convince member state governments to change their stance. However, this task proves challenging in advance of June’s bloc-wide election.
7. The uncertainty surrounding the NRL jeopardizes the EU's commitment to environmental protection and undermines its international credibility.

As we navigate this critical juncture, SER and SER-Europe remain committed to supporting the adoption and  implementation of the EU Nature Restoration Law. Read SER-Europe’s 22 March 2024 statement here. Collaboration with like-minded organizations, governments, and communities is essential to the NRL's success. Our collective efforts can pave the way to a sustainable future where nature thrives and communities prosper.

Join SER, SER-Europe and global policy experts for an in-depth discussion on the prospective NRL on Tuesday, 7 May 2024.

About this year’s grants

Translation of International Standards for Native Seeds in Ecological Restoration

In June 2020 the International Network for Seed-based Restoration (INSR) and SER released the world’s first International Standards for Native Seeds in Ecological Restoration as eight articles in a special issue of Restoration Ecology. The Standards document and articles analyzing each step of the native seed supply chain can be downloaded for free here. INSR has nearly 800 members from 63 countries, and is working to improve access to technical content for non-English speakers practicing ecological restoration. 

As of June 2023, INSR has worked with restoration researchers and practitioners who are native speakers of Spanish, Portuguese, and Mandarin to translate three, two, and one of the articles, respectively (https://ser-insr.org/native-seed-standards). Additional translations are in progress in Arabic and French, thanks to Partnership Fund support from 2022, which provides support to fund additional translations. Translated Standards will be used to promote ecological restoration in underserved communities and to promote SER and INSR.

SER Indigenous Scholarship for a student or professional engaged in restoration in Western Canada

This funding application follows in the footsteps of successful support of indigenous people studying ecological restoration in Western Canada. SER Western Canada has supported youth in three funding rounds to date. Each student was in financial need, and the funding helped them complete their studies.

This year’s round of funds will be used to provide a one-time scholarship to an Indigenous student or professional studying or working in ecological restoration, environmental management, and/or ecology in Western Canada for restoration related training. Learn more about one of SER Western Canada’s past recipients here. 

Developing activities for community college, university students, and new graduates to grow SER membership in Atlantic

SER Eastern Canada (SER-EC) was established two years ago to cover the provinces of Québéc and Atlantic Canada (New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island). In this short time, SER-EC has made significant strides in membership growth and engagement. Two standout events, the Joint Peatland Ecology Research Group and SER-EC Science Symposium, attended by over 100 individuals, and the Reclaim, Restore and Rewild (RE3) Conference, which drew more than 700 participants, were instrumental in achieving the goal of expanding membership to 100 in the second year. These events, held in Québéc City, also played a crucial role in establishing the first student chapter at Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue - UQAT.

In addition to these impactful in-person events, SER-EC has hosted several virtual activities, including a launch meeting, two Annual General Assemblies of Members, and five webinars. Despite these efforts, an analysis of SER-EC's membership list reveals that only 14% of members are from Atlantic Canada, with limited representation from students and emerging professionals. This disparity is particularly striking considering the region's numerous universities.

To address this gap and further enhance engagement, SER-EC received Partnership Grant funding for projects aimed at increasing membership among post-secondary students and recently graduated professionals from Atlantic Canada. This funding will also support the establishment of the region's first student chapter, continuing SER-EC's commitment to fostering the next generation of restoration practitioners.

Continued support for the SER Africa Chapter

This year's Partnership Grant award will support administration, management, and the expansion of SER Africa's reach through enhanced communication, regional coordination, and the establishment of new student chapters. The SER Africa Board of Director’s capacity is constrained by voluntary participation, and this funding will help cover the costs of chapter administration. With this funding, SER Africa, a new and geographically diverse chapter, aims to improve strategic communication, establish the board, and enhance its functioning with these funds. Read more about their work building ecological restoration capacity here.

SER Mid-Atlantic student and emerging professionals outreach

The recent initiatives by the SER Mid-Atlantic Chapter, including the launch of a LinkedIn page and discussions with board members regarding the Fall 2023 CERP and CERPIT application window, have shed light on the chapter's student and emerging professional demographics. With approximately 30 registered members in this category and four collegiate SER-affiliated clubs, it is evident that there is a strong interest in further engagement and resources within this community.

Feedback from members, expressing desires for more networking opportunities and support, has highlighted the need for additional efforts to enhance access to resources like the CERP program. Comments such as "I wish our school had a club," "Do you think I meet CERPIT requirements with my education?" and "It would be great to connect with other young professionals in the field" underscore this need.

To address these insights, the chapter received Partnership Grant funding for two main initiatives. Firstly, the funds will help expand its social media presence to better engage with the next generation of restoration practitioners. Secondly, the initiative seeks to support career development by providing assistance to emerging professionals navigating the CERP application process.

Developing and supporting student chapters in the Northeast Region

SER Northeast identified a notable gap in student representation within its membership, recognizing this demographic as crucial for the chapter's long-term growth and sustainability. Conversations with other regional chapters and the Chapter Relations Committee have emphasized the importance of addressing this issue.

The emerging professionals committee has made it a priority to support and expand student membership and chapter activities in the coming years. The this year's funding will serve as a catalyst for advancing this priority area, providing crucial support and resources for the next few years.

About the Partnership Fund Program

The annual competitive grant program was established by the 2018 Strategic Plan for Membership and is funded by an allocated portion of membership dues across most membership types. In partnership with its Chapter Relations Committee, SER awards grants to chapters and thematic sections to increase their capacity to deliver programs and services to members that fulfill our mission of advancing the science, practice, and policy of ecological restoration. Past grant awards have supported membership recruitment and diversification efforts, scholarships, webinars, and communications.

SER has awarded $58,949 USD since the program’s inception with each grant varying from $800 to the maximum award of $5,000 USD.

Looking forward to 2024

Applications for the 2024 grant cycle will open in April. Only SER Chapters and Sections can submit proposals, and SER members are encouraged to contact their regional chapter or section to coordinate a proposal submission if they have an idea for a project that would benefit the greater SER member community.

We are thrilled to welcome a talented group of practitioners to our Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) program.

This unique certification encourages high professional standards for those involved in restoration projects worldwide. Our certified practitioners are experts in the field of restoration and possess a strong background in the biological and physical sciences, alongside a commitment to top-notch restoration practices and continuous learning. This program equips them to address crucial issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development.

This new cohort is the largest in several seasons, and they represent  an incredible group of practitioners, including professionals with expertise in deserts, wetlands, and everything in between. They include the first CERPIT from West Virginia, four CERPs and CERPITs working at the Centre for Ecosystem Restoration Kenya or on the Global Biodiversity Standard, a committee member for the SER 2024 North American Conference, and even SER’s very own Board of Directors Chair, Kingsley Dixon! The need for ecological restoration done at the highest standards continues to grow, as does the CERP program.

We are delighted that CERPs and CERPITs now represent 28 countries, with the additions of Germany, Saudi Arabia, and South America in this cohort. (Don’t see your country on the list? Reach out to certification@ser.org to find out how to connect local restoration practitioners to the CERP Program.)  We proudly welcome this cohort and look forward to their contributions to the restoration practitioner community!

A map of CERPs and CERPITs around the world, in 28 countries, including Australia, Bahamas, Brazil, Canada, Caribbean Netherlands, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Kuwait, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, Romania, UK, US, and Zimbabwe, with Germany, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa added this year.

Congratulations to our Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioners: Sara Alaica, Danielle Bissett, Stuart Blackwell, Wendy Charron, Samantha Cooke, Nikkie Cox, Kenneth (Alex) Darr, Kingsley Dixon, Matthew Fisk, Catherine Hoy, Vince Humenay, Patrick Kelly, Jessica Levy, Adam Luke, Douglas Macfarlane, Barry Nerhus Jr., Marnie Niederhofer, Victor Otieno, Barbara Restaino, Erin Roberts, Megan Rochon, Dustin Romero, Sarah Smith, Tess Sprawson, Janelle Turner, Julie Vanderwal, Jake Watson, and Laura Wensink.

The CERP designation is awarded to experienced restoration practitioners with at least 5 years of full-time experience, demonstrating an expert-level understanding of restoration practices. This certification provides numerous professional benefits and recognition as experts in the field of ecological restoration.

We also extend congratulations to our Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner-in-Training (CERPIT) recipients: Lucas Acaba, David Bartholomew, Jon Berlie, Samuel Burrell, Iona Clive, Taryn Contento, Tahnee Faddis, Andrew Gichira, Yan Kam Ming, Isabella Kirkpatrick, Teresiah Mungai, Leslie Potts, Cole Reistrup, Hugo Reyes Aldana, Benedetta Veneroni, Robert Wachter, Wincate Wanja Kagane, Caroline Wanjiku Muthoni, and Mariska Weijerman.

The CERPIT program serves as a stepping stone for individuals who meet CERP knowledge requirements or possess 5 years of restoration experience, providing them with professional and networking benefits.

Through the partnership between SER and Niagara College’s Ecosystem Restoration (Graduate Certificate) program , 9 graduates are getting a jumpstart on their career, becoming CERPITs. Congratulations to: Winston Chow, Victoria Difede, Emma Dryden, Tom Chun Wa Lee, Nicole Monstur, Katja Odegaard, Maria Quintero-Diaz, Mike Weber, and Natasha Welch.

Don't miss this chance to become part of an exceptional community of restoration experts. Start your application today and embark on a journey towards a greener, healthier world!
 
To those interested in making a difference through ecological restoration, watch our webinar, SER’s CERP Program: Is Practitioner Certification Right for You?

We also wish to thank our sponsors SWCA, WSP, and Westervelt Ecological Services for their generous support of the CERP program:

South Dakota State University helps students jump-start their careers in ecological restoration with new CERPIT opportunities!

In conjunction with our CERP program, SER offers a variety of options to academic institutions with programs in ecological restoration. These options allow institutions to help launch their students’ careers in restoration and distinguish themselves as being committed to training the next generation of restoration professionals.

South Dakota State University is the newest addition to the roster of programs that have met the rigorous criteria for alignment with the CERP certification! With this alignment, SDSU students who complete a B.S. in Ecology and Environmental Science including an exceptional set of restoration-focused coursework will have confidence that they will meet CERPIT requirements upon graduation, and the institution will receive a premium listing on SER’s Academic Programs Directory.

Find out more about this program on the South Dakota State University Ecology and Environmental Science B.S. and the Native Plant Institute webpages.

An impressive set of CERPs and CERPITs are helping move the CERP Program forward as part of a CERP Committee.

SER has officially concluded its recent election to fill CERP program committee seats in 2024! We would like to sincerely thank those individuals in our certified practitioner community who participated in this election, and we can’t wait to work with these fantastic new committee members.

Congratulations to our new CERP Committee Members!

Certification Committee: Jay Fain (CERP), Linnea Spears-Lebrun (CERP), Christian Mata Bonilla (CERP), Jen Lyndall (CERP), Christine Taliga (CERP), Andrew Esterson (CERP), Edwin A. Hernandez-Delgado (CERP), Brent Shaver (CERP), Lynde Dodd (CERP), Chris May (CERP)

Standards Committee: Ryan Pierce (CERPIT), Adrian Juncosa (CERP), Alex Seasholtz (CERPIT)

Appeals and Disciplinary Committee: Joe Berg (CERP), Lindsay Taylor (CERPIT)

Continuing Education Committee: Michael Spina (CERP), Patrick Shea (CERPIT), Katherine Zaiger (CERP)

Marketing and Outreach Committee: Blaine Rothauser (CERP), Robert Mayer (CERP)

The electees listed above bring a diverse range of professional backgrounds and unique competencies to the CERP program. SER is incredibly excited to welcome these practitioners into the program and engage with them in the next three years. You can learn more about them, and CERP Committees in general, on the CERP Program’s Goals and Governance Page.