Project Overview
Forest regeneration under two mitigation strategies: deer exclosure and liming.
Department(s)
Biology
Environmental Studies
Abstract
We are continuing research of forest health under mitigation: deer exclosure in Hamilton, NY, and liming in Adirondack State Park.
Hamilton, NY: In the United States, white-tailed deer are a native species whose large population size disrupts forest regeneration by browsing seedlings and reducing biodiversity and abundance of birds by eliminating food sources. Deer are browsing herbivores and favor young hardwood seedlings and herbaceous plants within the forest understory and this preference has direct impacts on forest regeneration because deer can suppress seedling growth and the next generation of trees. In 2017, we established deer fencing to prevent deer browse and measured their status. In summer 2026, we will remeasure these sites to determine if trees, seedlings, and soil status has improved.
Adirondacks, NY: Before the clean air act of 1990, powerplants and combustion of fossil fuels released chemicals into the atmosphere that caused acid rain in the Adirondacks. Acid rain acidified the soils and lakes in the Adirondacks reducing forest health. In 2006, researchers applied CaCO3 to mitigate the damage to these sites. We have been measuring the impacts of liming for almost 20 years on forest productivity and soil nutrient status. In summer 2026 we will remeasure these sites and georeference the trees to assess neighborhood effects. We will be staying in the Adirondacks for 3-4 days at a time for data collection, followed by lab work.
Both projects require field and laboratory work. Students will learn how to measure aboveground biomass, identify trees, assess seedlings, collect soils, and analyze plants and soils for nutrients.
Student Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- Completion of Biology 181 and Chemistry 101.
- Comfort with general laboratory procedures, specifically mixing chemical solutions and micropipetting.
- Ability to work outdoors for extended periods and hike 2–3 miles per day (often carrying equipment or off-trail).
- A genuine interest in ecology, forest health, or environmental science.
Project Length
8 weeks
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