TERRA-PNW integrates ecophysiological studies, modeling, remote sensing, and geographic information systems using novel approaches for addressing ecological issues in the Pacific Northwest region.

The mission of the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research and Regional Analysis group (TERRA-PNW) is to develop quantitative approaches to understanding terrestrial ecosystem structure and function from site to region, and the response to natural and human-induced changes.

Approach

TERRA-PNW has three basic integrated activities:

1 - Ecosystem-level research combining field measurements and modeling to understand carbon, water and nitrogen cycling in terrestrial systems, and interactions with the atmosphere;

2 - Remote sensing research to understand spatial and temporal variation in forest structure, composition, and age;

3 - Modeling spatial and temporal variation in biogeochemical processes of terrestrial ecosystems across regions.

The combination of the three activities is used to understand the influence of climate, developmental stage, disturbance, and management on processes controlling carbon, water and nutrient cycling of terrestrial ecosystems seasonally and annually through decades.