Research in the College of Arts and Sciences
In recognition of the outstanding efforts of our students, faculty and staff, on a regular basis we will acknowledge the work of a member of the college. Today, we recognize- Heather Throop….
Arts and Sciences Honors ... Dr. Heather Throop, Assistant Professor, Department of Biology
Soil organic carbon dynamics in response to long-term ecological changes in drylands: an integrated program for carbon cycle research and enhancing climate change literacy
Rising atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration is one of the most critical issues faced by society today. Accurate prediction of future atmospheric carbon dioxide, and hence future climate, requires a comprehensive understanding of the global carbon cycle. Equally crucial to society is an informed public that is able to respond to climate change with prudent public policy decisions. This project is an integrated research and teaching program that will 1) enhance understanding of the controls over carbon storage in desert soils and 2) implement educational initiatives to enhance ecological and climate literacy in southern New Mexico. Deserts are extremely important in the global carbon cycle as they account for a large proportion of global land area, and because widespread changes in vegetation and land management in these areas may strongly affect soil carbon pools. A suite of emerging analytical techniques (e.g., plant biopolymer, stable isotope, and radiocarbon analyses) will be used to quantify the sources and stability of plant inputs into desert soils under different land management scenarios. Educational initiatives in this project will focus on enhancing ecological and climate literacy in elementary-level students and teachers. An inquiry-based elementary curriculum focused on desert ecology and climate change will be developed, field-tested, and disseminated and courses for teachers on the use of innovative technological tools for effectively engaging students in ecology and climate science will be developed.