Dr. Lora L. Smith’s research program is centered on the ecology of amphibians and reptiles of the Southeastern Coastal Plain, and in particular on herpetofaunal linkages between aquatic and terrestrial systems and keystone species in these systems. She is also investigating the interactions between natural and human disturbance legacies in longleaf pine forests and herpetofaunal communities. Aspects of her research program are incorporated into field courses for university students.