United States Biosphere Network

03/22/2026

March 22 is World Water Day, an annual observance established by the United Nations in 1993. This year, lets remember that biosphere regions don't just encompass land. Oceans, rivers, streams, and ponds are celebrated and conserved through the work of biosphere regions.

03/06/2026

Did you know the USBN has a youth board of 18-35 year olds representing different biosphere regions?! The youth board seeks to advance the interests of young people in biospheres and provide professional experiences. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more or joining the board, please email [email protected]

01/23/2026

It's time for another "biosph-eature!" Today we are highlighting Mammoth Cave Biosphere Region in Kentucky. They have an extensive cave and karst system with the whole biosphere spanning 909,328 acres.

Mammoth Cave has been partnering with one of the world's most extensive karst systems, the Yucatan Peninsula, for proper management, continued research, and protected water resources. This year, two partners from Mexico spent a month in Kentucky conducting karst research and organizing the 12th Mammoth Cave Research Symposium.

Learn more about the Mammoth Cave Biosphere Region: https://www.bradd.org/mammoth-cave-biosphere-region/ -file-download

01/21/2026

This winter season has us thinking of warmer times! Our biosphere regions are diverse but beautiful in every season. 🍁🌷🌞❄️

Are you embracing winter, or would you rather be transported into these sunny photos? Let us know in the comments!

01/07/2026

Learn more about one of the USBN's Sustainable Food Education projects from the South Hero Land Trust and Champlain Adirondack Biosphere Network. 🌽🪴

Attend the webinar on January 14th at 6 pm EST to hear about Indigenous practices with the Abenaki Foodways Project!

REGISTER HERE: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/9hmq1u-UAcBxUCpZ-3xPww

01/01/2026

And that's a wrap on 2025! We had some great accomplishments this year thanks to our amazing partners. Check out some of the highlights and stay tuned for 2026 updates!

12/08/2025

For this "Biosph-eature," we're looking at Cascade Head Biosphere Collaborative on the Oregon coast! It consists of 102,110 acres of estuaries, native prairie, and forested uplands. Cascade Head operates on the three pillars of education, climate, and community.

In 2025, folks in the region led boat tours, hosted a natural arts and sciences speaker series, and equipped the next generation of coastal stewards with field programs! Check out their YouTube channel for an in-depth look at the biosphere: https://www.youtube.com/



Photo credit: Paul Robertson & Duncan Berry

12/03/2025

We need your help! UNESCO has introduced the MAB Youth World Mapping Survey to establish a global baseline on youth engagement in biosphere reserves. Please fill out this 8-12 minute survey by December 15th to share your perspectives and help shape the future of youth involvement!

English: https://surveys.unesco.org/793351?lang=en
Français: https://surveys.unesco.org/734757?lang=fr
Español: https://surveys.unesco.org/614659?lang=es

The survey is open to all ages and anyone with relevant experience in MAB youth engagement in Biosphere Regions.

MAB Youth World Mapping Survey (ES) Cargar formulario sin terminar Continuar después Aviso: La ejecución de JavaScript está deshabilitada en su navegador o en esta paǵina en concreto. Es posible que no pueda responder todas las preguntas del formulario. Por favor, verifique la configuración de ...

11/23/2025

We are pleased to welcome two new members to our steering committee: Jon Putnam and Rudy D'Alessandro! They both have extensive work experience in the National Park Service and are excited to help connect existing biosphere regions using their professional connections.

Jon has spent a lot of time in the Champlain Adirondack Biosphere Network and the Obtawaing Biosphere region. Rudy has worked in Alaska and Rocky Mountain National Park. They will both be an integral part of carrying out the USBN's mission!

11/19/2025

The forest is our model. 🌲🌳

In North Carolina, on the historic land of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians, the Noquisi Initiative integrated modern science and indigenous knowledge to create a food forest for the community. This is part of the USBN Sustainable Food Education Program with two other projects in the Champlain Adirondack Biosphere Network and the Guanica Biosphere Region, promoting nutritional and environmental health.

Video credit- Cliff McCreedy

11/04/2025

The USBN Youth Board is looking to expand its membership for 2026! We welcome students and professionals of all ages who are committed to building youth engagement and leadership in the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Program.

Those interested in participating in the 2026 programming for the USBN Youth Board are invited to share their interest using this link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfDyg5ALNDg6LcSpN8bOWM5QUK8gNzm3Nja_eIpaWVoyQXCLw/viewform?usp=header

UNESCO Youth