Forests and Water
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Research Theme: Forest Disturbance, Erosion Processes and Water Quality
Forest disturbance can occur naturally or through human action and is defined here as events or actions that dramatically alter the forest environment. Disturbances could result in a hydrological and geomorphologic change within a forest, which may alter the stream water quality from a catchment. Often an impact on stream water quality will be dependant on the disturbances proximity or linkage to the stream network, and the subsequent climatic conditions.
Fire, timber harvesting practices and unsealed forest roads are major research interests of the Forests and Water group. These disturbances have the potential to increase the erosion of soil and the supply of sediment and associated pollutants to streams; which is of major concern for water management authorities. Research into how and when this material is generated will assist in the prediction and the possible mitigation of the downstream effects of these changes to the forest environment.
Current Projects