• Basic Science Remote Sensing Initiative (BSRSI) formed with David Skole as Director.
• David Skole and Stuart Gage meet and synergy develops.
• Environmental Deans ask MSU faculty to assist in developing and Environmental Initiative.
• Skole and Gage agree to assist in developing Environmental Science thrust in Land Use and Land    Cover Change.
• Skole and Gage work to develop the LUCC thrust with Environmental Deans.
• Skole and Gage develop a plan and have numerous discussions with Dean Corey (CSS) and Dean    Poston (CANR) to evolve a strategy and an implementation plan.
• Skole and Gage develop a strategy and plan and make presentations to engage administration    regarding the plan to expand Land Use as a major environmental theme for MSU.
• Numerous presentations are made to Deans and Directors and the plan is adjusted based on    suggestions by administration.
• A synthesis presentation is made to top MSU Administration including the President, Provost, Vice    Present for Research and Graduate Studies and the Environmental Deans.
• The plan is enthusiastically endorsed and the Provost is given a special briefing to assist in    obtaining additional resources.
• Skole and Gage determine that a Strategic Partnership Grant would be an ideal mechanism to    support a Land Use and Land Cover Change Enterprise.