Research

Current Focus: Carbon stocks response to subsurface drainage

The Willamette Valley has poorly drained soils and combined with copious rainfall, local agriculture must manage high water tables. Subsurface drainage, or tile drainage, helps mitigate saturated soils. Growers in the valley are invested in their soil health and carbon storage potential. This research aims to understand how subsurface drainage impacts total carbon stocks, soil microbial communities, and soil health.

Organic Nitrogen Cycling

Past and planned research (field experiment scheduled for fall 2024) focuses on the biological controls of organic N cycling. I am especially interested in understanding how agricultural management influences the soil function and the downstream impacts on endogenous nitrogen bioavailability.