Tree ecophysiology, forest ecology

Forest Tree Ecophysiology

Tree ecophysiology focuses on understanding environmental controls on the distribution, abundance, and productivity of forest plants from a physiological perspective. We address a broad range of basic and applied research questions, such as: How does plant competition affect resource availability, tree stress, and resistance to insects? Why are some trees resistant to insect attacks? How does fire affect growth and resource availability to trees? How do restoration thinning and other silvicultural treatments affect tree growth and water use? How does climate change affect tree growth? What factors lead to degradation of forests?

We address these questions using a combination of field, greenhouse, and laboratory studies. Our lab included modern equipment for measuring photosynthesis, respiration, transpiration, water stress, leaf area, tree growth, tissue- and soil-nutrient levels, light quantity and quality, and site environment. Flagstaff's location provides us with easy access to ecosystems ranging from alpine to desert - an unparalleled natural laboratory. The National Science Foundation, USDA Competitive Grants Program, USDA Forest Service, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, State of Arizona, and the Ecological Restoration Institute have supported our research.

Education

B.S., University of Tennessee, 1982
M.S., The Pennsylvania State University, 1984
Ph.D., The Pennsylvania State University, 1988
Postdoctoral: The Pennsylvania State University, 1988-1992

Contact Information

Fall 2008 Courses

Past Courses Taught

Some of Dr. Kolb's Publications

Last Updated ( Wednesday, 09 July 2008 )