Response of peatland ecosystem functions to novel restoration techniques

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My research program explores the response of peatland biogeochemical and ecohydrological processes to disturbance and restoration/reclamation, and their impacts on the of ecosystem functions of peatlands in the Western Boreal Forest (WBF). Peatlands are one the most valuable and abundant wetland class in the BFR. Boreal peatlands are known globally for supporting vital ecosystem functions. The ecosystem functions of peatlands in Canada's boreal forest are under threat of anthropogenic disturbances through the development of infrastructures (e.g. pipelines, seismic lines, service roads, and well pads) by resource extraction industries. Without restoration, the linear and mineral features created by these disturbances have long-lasting impact on peatland ecosystem functions, regional hydrology and biogeochemical processes. The high cost of restoration is often a key factor deterring stakeholders from investing in peatland restoration. Currently, novel cost-efficient restoration techniques that involve various forms of peat surface reconfiguration and modification of hydrologic conditions are underway across boreal peatlands impacted by in-situ oil and gas exploration. Thus, the overall goal of the proposed research is to implement an integrated ecosystem study to examine the impacts and effectiveness of these techniques on the recovery of peatland ecosystem functions in terms of carbon and nutrients biogeochemistry, hydrologic connectivity, water balance regulation, and establishment of peatland plant communities that support wildlife habitat. My hypothesis is that the effectiveness of these restoration techniques will depend on controls such as soil properties, hydrologic conditions and water chemistry. Further, interactions among these controls will determine the resultant vegetation community structure, which over time will drive ecosystem ecohydrological and biogeochemical processes by regulating below-ground microbial communities, nutrients cycling processes, and above-ground exchange of water and carbon (C). To test these hypotheses, my research program will integrate field measurements and laboratory analyses to generate all the data required to develop a mechanistic understanding of the biophysical processes that produce ecosystem functions. Implementing this integrated ecosystem study across restored peatland and natural reference sites will provide new insights on the impacts of novel restoration techniques on hydrologic conditions and micrometeorological characteristics of the sites; establishment of peatland plants and below-ground microbial communities; biogeochemical processes that control the transformation of C and nutrients; and how variation in these ecosystem processes will affect ecosystem functions of restored peatlands. This study will also contribute to the long-term goal of my research program by leading innovation on restoration techniques to remove cumulative impacts of disturbances on peatland ecosystem functions.