Mapping the Future of Restoration: How Etinosa Is Bridging Science and Recreation
A recognized leader in ecological restoration and sustainable land use, Etinosa Igunbor is not only advancing science—he’s shaping how we plan, protect, and enjoy outdoor spaces.
Etinosa brings over a decade of experience in environmental and forest management, having led large-scale reforestation and conservation efforts in Nigeria as a Forestry Officer with the Edo State Ministry of Environment and Sustainability. Now, with support from the National Science Foundation, he’s conducting cutting-edge research in the Intermountain West of the United States—an effort that’s yielding actionable insights for land managers and recreation planners alike.
His project, Carbon Sequestration in Restored Ecosystems, uses geospatial modeling, remote sensing, and soil sampling to analyze how restored wet meadows and sagebrush landscapes store carbon. These ecosystems, often overlooked but ecologically critical, are foundational to both biodiversity and outdoor recreation in the American West.
Through this work, Etinosa is identifying the ecological drivers behind carbon accumulation across varied land-use histories and restoration methods. The findings don’t just stay in scientific journals—they’re designed to inform sustainable recreation and conservation decisions at the local level, especially in under-resourced communities. His systems-based, low-cost approach ensures that even communities with limited capacity can benefit from high-impact, science-driven strategies.
“Restored landscapes aren’t just better for the environment—they’re better for people,” says Etinosa. “When we understand how ecosystems function and heal, we can create recreation plans that are both inclusive and sustainable.”
Honored with the SORP New Professional Scholarship Award in 2024, Etinosa is a rising voice in the movement to integrate ecological science with equitable access to nature. His work supports SORP’s mission to connect people, places, and purpose—ensuring that outdoor recreation infrastructure supports environmental resilience for generations to come.