What's Happening?
Binghamton University's Assistant Professor of Ecosystem Science, Amber (Amy) Churchill, has received a $298,476 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This funding will support an expansion of ongoing research at the Pasture and Lawn Enhanced
Diversity Global-change Experiment (PLEDGE) site at Nuthatch Hollow. The project aims to investigate how short-term drought conditions, particularly high-intensity 'pulse' droughts combined with high temperatures, affect lawn performance over time. These types of droughts are predicted to become more frequent in New York, especially during summer months. The research will focus on understanding the impact of changing water availability on aspects like lawn greenness and plant density, which influence aesthetic value and recreational use. The PLEDGE site, established in spring 2024, currently studies the functional effects of plant diversity on lawns and their responses to external factors like fertilization. The new research will involve dividing existing lawn plots into sections to receive varying amounts of water, with the first year quantifying variation and the second year focusing on drought effects.
Why It's Important?
This USDA grant highlights a critical area of research given the increasing frequency of short-term, high-intensity droughts due to climate change. Lawns, public parks, and golf courses cover nearly 2% of the continental U.S. and consume a significant portion—30% to 60%—of potable water for irrigation. They also often require extensive management with fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides to maintain their appearance. Understanding how different plant species and management strategies can enhance drought resilience in these widespread ecosystems has substantial implications for water conservation and environmental sustainability across the nation. The research could lead to more sustainable lawn management practices, reducing reliance on excessive water and chemical inputs. This is particularly important for urban and suburban areas where lawns are prevalent, offering potential solutions for homeowners and municipalities to maintain green spaces more efficiently in the face of changing climate patterns. The project also emphasizes community engagement, aiming to share findings with the public to promote better backyard management.
What's Next?
The research project will proceed in phases, with the first year dedicated to quantifying natural variations within the existing lawn plots. The subsequent year will focus specifically on the effects of drought by experimentally manipulating water availability across different sections of the lawns. Beyond the experimental phase, the project includes plans for community discussions. These discussions will aim to educate both fellow researchers and local community members on managing biodiversity in urban spaces and how such management can contribute to ecosystem stability under evolving environmental conditions. The long-term goal is to develop recommendations for what to plant in lawns and how to manage them more sustainably, potentially influencing future landscaping practices and water conservation efforts in residential and public areas. The findings from this research could inform agricultural and environmental policies related to water usage and land management.
Beyond the Headlines
The research at Binghamton University delves into the less obvious implications of climate change on everyday landscapes, specifically lawns. While often overlooked, lawns represent a significant human-created ecosystem with considerable environmental impact, particularly concerning water consumption and chemical use. This study's focus on 'pulse' droughts—short, intense dry periods—reflects a nuanced understanding of climate change impacts that go beyond prolonged, continuous droughts. The concept of 'ecosystem stability' in urban settings, as explored through this research, underscores the interconnectedness of human activities and natural processes. By investigating how plant diversity can enhance resilience, the project touches upon the broader ecological principle of biodiversity as a buffer against environmental stressors. The community engagement aspect also highlights a growing trend in scientific research to bridge the gap between academic findings and practical application, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their immediate environment and contribute to larger sustainability goals.
