IN MEMORY OF BARBARA J. MADSEN, PhD
From the Cranbrook Institute of Science:
Last week, Michigan lost one of her finest botanists and wetland ecologists. We are deeply saddened by the sudden death of Barbara J. Madsen, Ph.D.
Barb will be best remembered for her deep knowledge and passion for Michigan's bogs, fens, and coastal wetlands. She knew the ecology of Michigan's peatlands (from the hydrology to the plants) more than any other person in the state. She has studied the dynamics of Michigan's coastal wetlands for decades-through periods of high and low lake levels. Both State and Federal resource agencies have relied on her wetland expertise, and on her ability to enlighten us, imparting not only information but understanding. Barb was not only a scientist, but a teacher, and a friend to many of us.
Barb was most recently working as the collections manager for the Cranbrook Institute of Science. She was a sought-after expert working to protect the environment and provided critical testimony to Michigan's legislature and in several lawsuits. She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Michigan where she was mentored by Michigan's botanical legends Ed Voss and Howard Crum. In addition to her work to protect Michigan's environment, Barb was passionate about singing, particularly her work with the vocal ensemble Vox.
As per her family's wishes, the Cranbrook Institute of Science has established a memorial fund at the Institute that will support future botanical research and collections development at Cranbrook.
Please send any donations to:
Director's Office
Cranbrook Institute of Science
39221 Woodward Avenue
PO Box 801
Bloomfield Hills, Michigan 48303-0801