Representatives of the University of Wisconsin–Madison (UWM) and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) signed a memorandum of understanding Dec. 14 to launch a pilot program for collaboration on environmental issues for the Army, WisPolitics reported.
Per the memorandum, the two-year program aims to work together on training, consultation, and resources for environmental-related issues for the U.S. Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command (Airborne). UW–Madison’s Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies will serve as the partnership’s campus lead.
“UW–Madison’s leadership in environmental studies positions us as an ideal partner for the U.S. Department of Defense,” said UW–Madison Chancellor Dr. Jennifer L. Mnookin. “Our interdisciplinary environmental research and education, combined with our experience partnering with governments, businesses and communities will assist in addressing the complex environmental problems faced by Civil Affairs personnel.”
Brig. Gen. Dean Thompson of the U.S. Army’s 353rd Civil Affairs Command said: “Environmental factors often lead to conflict, and conflict often leads to environmental degradation. Our Civil Affairs teams frequently deal with these issues,” says Brigadier General Dean Thompson of the U.S. Army’s 353rd Civil Affairs Command. “The United States Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command (Airborne) is grateful that the UW–Madison Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies is willing to partner with us to address these critical issues.”
