RESEARCH INTERESTS

Research in my lab examines functional variation among land plants, in the context of larger issues in plant ecology.  We also use GIS and remote sensing along with ground-based studies to assess patterns of plant community change, and our ecophysiological studies give insight on why change is (or is not) occurring.  Our work on plant-environment relationships contributes to an understanding of the adaptive biology of plants, and addresses applied concerns of vegetation management and restoration.

Current research projects are focused on factors affecting species boundaries.  We have two main efforts:  1) tree invasion of subalpine and alpine meadows and 2) exotic forb invasion of semiarid, sagebrush-steppe rangelands, particularly following disturbances such as fire.  These problems require an understanding of plant establishment and recruitment into populations, which is also a central concern for restoring vegetation communities on disturbed or degraded sites. 

(Below are some photos of our treeline research, taken by E Maher and N Hasselquist, former MS students)