Field vehicle for applied forest ecology research

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I propose to purchase a field vehicle to support my research program that examines the effects of disturbance (silvicultural and natural), time, and physical environment on productivity, composition, structure, and diversity of forest ecosystems in the central Boreal Shield. The proposed vehicle will contribute significantly to my research program since all my research projects are field-oriented, involving extensive field travels. My research program currently trains 6 PhD, 2 MSc, 1 research associate, 1 visiting professor and 1 undergraduate student. In addition, there were 4 field technicians (undergraduate students who are interested in research) hired to assist graduate students during the past summer. In order to carry out field work, we had to rent three vehicles during the past field season and continue to rent one or two vehicles to conduct field work during the fall. The proposed field vehicle will be more cost effective than renting that can cost for more than $2,500 per month (rent, kilometre charge and insurance). It will also be beneficial for our collaboration with forest managers that takes place all year around.