Collaborative Research: Climate Ecosystem Interactions on East Asian Steppes: Implications of Climate Change and Land Use Intensity

Colorado State University, Fort Collins CO

Investigators

Abstract

The goal of the collaborative research is to distinguish between the impact of climate and land use on ecosystem functioning for eastern Asian steppes. This may be possible because, while contiguous regions of Inner Mongolia and Mongolia have very similar climates, land use practices can different dramatically. The PIs will determine how much of when 'green-up' occurs is a function of climate and how much is a function of land use. The proposed work builds on research recently conducted by the authors. A rich mix of research techniques including remote sensing, modeling, field studies and statistical analyses will be used. The work is important because it will lead to better understanding of land-surface interactions and vegetation feedbacks in east Asia.