Rangeland Ecology and Restoration Lab
The Rangeland Ecology and Restoration Lab at New Mexico State University uses a variety of approaches rooted in community and trait-based ecology to address two core goals:
- Understand how various components of global change (e.g., drought, invasive species, nutrient enrichment) alter plant communities and ecosystems.
- Apply this understanding to the restoration of degraded ecosystems. Specifically we ask:
- How can we manipulate abiotic and biotic filters to promote the establishment of native species and hinder the spread of invasive species in restoration projects?
- Which functional traits drive plant establishment, survival, and persistence in restored communities?
- How can restoration of degraded ecosystems enhance biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and ecosystem services?