Colder Soils in a Warmer World: A Snow Manipulation in a Northern Hardwood Forest Ecosystem

Cary Institute Of Ecosystem Studies, Inc., Millbrook NY

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract 00-75387 Groffman Colder soils in a warmer world: A snow manipulation in a northern hardwood forest ecosystem Analysis of the indirect effects of climate change on ecosystem processes is a critical challenge in ecosystem ecology. Snow depth is an important regulator of nitrogen (N) cycling in ecosystems and is highly responsive to changes in climate. This project is investigating changes in nitrogen (N) cycling and loss that occur in response to experimental manipulations of snowpack in a northern hardwood forest. The investigators will experimentally simulate the late development of snowpack, which is predicted to occur under warmer climate conditions, and characterize effects on soil freezing, soil physical structure and N cycling and loss. The project will produce basic information on physical control of plant-soil-microbial interactions and will allow scientists to evaluate the effects of reductions in snow cover associated with climate change on soil fertility, air and water quality, and the N cycling and retention of these forest ecosystems.