I am a dryland ecologist. My current research focuses on environmental impacts of solar energy development in the Mojave desert. Solar energy development is growing at an unprecedented rate with efforts to decarbonize. However, solar energy is land intensive. Many new projects in the southwestern U.S. being sited on previously undisturbed, fragile habitat. What impact is this having on soils, plant communities, local hydrology, and species of concern? These are the questions my research seeks to answer.
My dissertation research looked at barriers to plant recruitment in dryland restoration on the Colorado Plateau. I'm also excited about incorporating new technologies and remote sensing into restoration planning, implementation, and monitoring. Contact |