Research projects
The Rural Ecology Laboratory focuses its research in ecosystems managed for commodity production (food, wool, timber, etc). We are particularly interested in the impact of management on ecosystem structure and function. We are currently working mainly in high country tussock grassland ecosystems, but have also conducted research in forests (natural or plantations) and mine sites. Current research projects are:
Agricultural intensification and plant biodiversity
We are exploring the consequences of agricultural intenfication on plant biodiversity in the New Zealand high country tussock grasslands using an approach based on plant functional traits.
Understanding the relative impact of different grazing animals on tussock grasslands
We are undertaking a number of studies assessing the relative impact of merino sheep versus rabbits and hares. This research is based on exclosure plots, diet analyses, and animal density data.
Land-use intensity and soil dissolved organic matter
We are studying how soil dissolved organic matter (DOC) is affected by different land-use practices, and whether DOC could be used as an indicator of "ecosystem health".
Ecological restoration of woody communities
We are interested in findings ways to improve restoration of native woody communities on degraded lands.