Flux towerInstrumentsSolar PanelsSpartina alternifloraSpartina alterniflora
In recent times, the atmosphere has experienced substantial changes in its composition. These changes have been manifested in the rapid, secular increases of the so-called greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and ground-level ozone all of which can dramatically alter the energy balance of our planet. Our research then seeks to understand how physical and biological constraints influence rates of energy and mass exchange between the biosphere (e.g., forests) and the atmospheric layer adjacent to the ground surface. Within this general theme, we have accomplished laboratory and field investigations to increase our knowledge concerning the processes contributing to ozone formation and destruction close to the ground, hydrocarbon emission and processing inside and above plant canopies, and carbon sequestration by deciduous forests. The central goal of all this research is to integrate field research findings in a theoretical framework (i.e., numerical models) to develop predictive capabilities to address societally questions related to regional and global air quality and climate change.
Research projects