1. To study urban soil ecology. By examining nutrient cycling in urban soils, our research contributes to the rapidly growing field of urban ecosystem science. Soil is the store, regulator, and filter among air-water-biota; thus, a vital component of the urban ecosystem and essential to quality of human life. Urbanization is increasing and the majority of world’s population resides in urban areas. We study urban soils to learn how this expanding anthropogenic influence is impacting biogeochemical cycling.

2. To manage soil for urban trees. We work to match tree requirements and soil conditions. Urban soils are dramatically disturbed and often less developed due to anthropogenic activities. Some particular problems urban soils pose include compaction, alkalinity, contamination, discontinuities, sedimentation, erosion, and low organic matter.

3. To advance urban soil classification. Soils form through the interactions of climate, organisms, relief, parent material, and time. Urban soil genesis is also largely dependent upon a human influence. Urban soils are unique, variable, and poorly described. We are investigating the soil formation factors, diagnostic processes, and physical, chemical, and biological properties of urban soils.

MASS goals

MASS projects