The Forensic Investigation Research Station (FIRS) is part of Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, and is under the direction of Dr. Melissa Connor. The research program is under the direction of Dr. Jessica Metcalf. Its location outside of Whitewater, Colorado provides, compared to the other facilities open at the time, the highest altitude (4750' AMSL) and the most arid (averaging 8" of rain a year) environment. FIRS consists of both indoor and outdoor research facilities. The outdoor facility is about an acre of fenced area surrounded by privacy fencing with razor wire. Outdoor cameras are used both for security and research. The indoor facility consists of a classroom, wet lab/morgue, walk-in cooler, intake area, office, and secure storage areas.