My research focuses on the effects of large-scale environmental perturbations such as climate change and acid rain on nutrient cycling in terrestrial ecosystems with an emphasis on soil biogeochemical processes. In my research I try to apply fundamental knowledge of soil processes to address ecosystem-scale questions. In most projects I have collaborated with people from a wide range of disciplines including plant physiologists, hydrologists, and atmospheric chemists. Recent projects involved experimental and modeling studies focusing on the impacts of increased N deposition and precipitation on Mojave Desert ecosystems. More specifically, I was interested in assessing potential linkages between below-ground biotic processes including fine root dynamics and microbial decomposition and abiotic processes such as carbonate weathering and precipitation.Recently, I have become involved in research addressing the impacts of forest management on soils in the Lake Tahoe Basin. In a recent project we looked at the impacts of prescribed fire on nutrient emissions from soils to aquatic environments and the atmosphere. Finally, I have been involved in a project studying the potential use of Pinyon-Juniper lands in the Great Basin as a feedstock for biofuel production. My role in this project was to assess the potential environmental impacts of biomass harvesting in these often remote areas.
