Progress 04/01/17 to 03/31/22
Outputs
Target Audience:College students, faculty, high school students, urban forestry professionals, and community members. Changes/Problems:COVID-19 pandemic impacted the project implementation, especially activities for accomplishing objective 3. A one year no-cost project extension was granted by USDA NIFA. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? The project team hosted 11 workshops that provided students with opportunities for training and professional development - one EdGCM Workshop, three i-Tree Design ModelApplication Workshop, three i-Tree Canopy Model Application Workshop, three Endowed Professorship Public Lecture Series, one leadership development workshop (virtual) In collaboration with the Society of American Foresters (SAF), the project PD formulated and hosted theSAF 2020 National Convention (virtual) closing plenary panel/session"Today's Challenges, Tomorrow's Leaders: Empowering the Next Generation of Forestry Professionals". The session encompassed a wide range of leadership development topics, including communication, cultural immersion, conflict resolution, adaptability, resilience, maintaining balance, and effective leadership styles.In collaboration with SAF, the project PD provided training on "Cultivating Leadership and Diversity" to the hundreds of participants of the 2021 Pacific Northwest Leadership Conference (virtual). The project provided participant support to students and faculty for their professional development through attending and presenting papers at the Society of American Foresters national conventions.The project provided assistantships forgraduate students andtraining stipendsfor undergraduate students. In addition to training college students, the project PD has set up a science project for high school students to apply I-Tree Canopy model within the Saint Joseph's Academy Campus and the surrounding neighborhood. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The project faculty and students disseminated the results to the communities of interest via 31 publications in journals, periodicals, dissertations, theses, conference proceedings, and conference abstract books. They presented 18 papers at theSociety of American Foresters National Convention, International Union of Forestry Research Organizations Congress, AEHS Annual International Conference on Soils, Sediments, Water, and Energy, Association of Research Directors Biennial Research Symposium, Global i-Tree Science and Users Symposium, Arboriculture & Urban Forestry Educators' Symposium & Summit, National Conference on Ecosystem Restoration, Pacific Northwest Leadership Conference -Forestry: Leadership for the True Social Distancing Profession (virtural), and Annual Meeting of the Louisiana Academy of Sciences. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?This project has ended.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The project enhanced curricula and instructional delivery through climate change and natural resource modeling approach. We developed teaching modules incorporating the Educational Global Climate Model (EdGCM) and the i-Tree models - urban forest ecosystem assessment models. The teaching modules enhanced seven courses: Forest Science, Plant and Air Pollution, Urban Forestry, Sustainable Natural Resources in Changing Climate, Tree Physiology, Ecophysiology, and Seminar. We hosted the Educational Global Climate Model (EdGCM) modeling application training workshopin collaboration with Columbia University, I-Tree Eco model, I-Tree Design model,and I-Tree Canopy model workshops in collaboration with the USDA Forest Service,as well as a virtual Leadership workshop in collaboration with the US Forest Service. The nationally renowned scientists Dr. Mark Chandler -climate scientist at Columbia University's Center for Climate System Research, and Dr. Eugene Turner of the Louisiana State University provided guest lectures to further enhance the teaching and learning at Southern University. The project reinforced learning through engaging students in research. We guided students to apply EdGCM Model and i-Tree Eco Model in research projects. Students used Gulf Coast regional climate data to simulate the climate change under different CO2 levels and sea level rise scenarios. They usedi-Tree Models to assess the ecosystem services/climate change mitigation ability of the urban forests on campus, as well as in city ofScotlandville, Zachary, Baker, and Baton Rouge. In light of increased hurricaneand flooding frequencyin the Gulf Coast region, research topics such asFlood Effects on Urban Trees,Modeling Hurricane Impacts on Tree Health,Post Hurricane Land Use Change,andWind Damage and Salinity Effects of Hurricanes on Coastal Forests of Louisianawere incorporated in the teaching and learning. The team guided the graduate students utilizethe research results for their thesis/dissertations, and the undergraduatesgearingto focus on research methodologiesand graduate school preparations. The project incorporated climate change induced stressors such as elevated CO2 level in conjunction with flooding into students' research training. The faculty and students research team has achieved valuable results and provided scientific information to assist stakeholders in planning and making informed decisions regarding adaptation to flooding and elevated CO2 levels thereby sustain economic vitality. The research yieldedfirst-hand information and contributedto the urban forest recovery in flood prone areas. The project extended teaching and learning beyond classroom through field studies and experiential learning. We organized field studies for students to gain better understanding on how flooding and sea level rise affect the bottomland forests,assessing soil carbon content in coastal wetlands in light of climate change,and evaluating vegetation change in Louisiana coast. The project fostered critical thinking, communication skills, and leadership development. We hostedurban forestry and natural resource student forums, leadership development workshops, and developed a leadership apprentice program in collaboration with the US Forest Service. Leadership building exercises were implemented and the Leadership and Agriculture Career Building - Experiences and Strategies guest lecture was also hosted. The Project PD serves on the Louisiana Governor's Climate Initiative Task Force Land Use, Buildings, and Housing Committee, andprovides expertise in formulating strategies and actions that mitigate climate change and reach net zero carbon immersion goals for the State. The climate change and ecosystem modeling application not only enhanced teaching and learning, but also led multiple research outputs from participating faculty and students.The project provided valuable information on climate change prediction and simulation under different scenarios,climate change mitigation potential of the urban forests,and mitigation strategies that benefit the stakeholders and the society. The results contributed to regional recovery and post hurricane and storm urban forest restoration and afforestation, and provided key information for educators, urban planners, urban foresters, arborists, land managers, physiologists, foresters, community members, and green industries. The project increased awareness and competence on campus of natural resource conservation and global climate change,fostered faculty collaborations across disciplines,strengthened the ties with our partners,helped SU developing competitive education and research programs,and helped in attracting new students into careers in agricultural, forestry, and natural resource management. The project contributed to the nation's needs for enhancing diversity in human resources and contributed to USDA's education, research, and extension goals. As a result of the HBCU students' participation, they have an increased level of appreciation, interest and awarenesson careers in forestry and agriculture, and they are more competitive in the pursuit of employment opportunities in the natural resource area.The project fostered cross-disciplinary partnerships among 1890 and 1862 university, USDA Forest Service, industries, non-governmental organizations, and other government agencies.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Ning, Z. and M. Gleason, 2017. Green and Sustainable Campus The i-Tree Eco Modeling Project at Southern University. P233 in Abstract Book of the 33rd Annual International Conference on Soils, Sediments, Water, and Energy.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Ning, Z. and A. M. Gleason, 2017. Structure and Ecological Function of Urban Forests on the Campus of Southern University, Baton Rouge, LA. In Program and Abstracts of the Association of Research Directors 18th Biennial Research Symposium, Atlanta, GA. p153.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Abdollahi, K., Z. Ning, and D. Falodun, 2017. Quantifying Carbon Storage and Sequestration by Urban Forest of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. In Program and Abstracts of the Association of Research Directors 18th Biennial Research Symposium, Atlanta, GA. p148.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Reshon Imon Clayton, 2018. Assessing Tree Canopy Covers, Ecological Benefits, and Economic Values of Thirty Parks along Urban and Rural Gradient in East Baton Rouge Parish. Doctoral Dissertation. UMI ProQuest. Dissertation Advisor: Zhu Ning
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
RaHarold D. Lawson, 2018. I-Tree Eco Model Application in two Urban Parks in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Doctoral Dissertation. UMI ProQuest LLC. Dissertation Advisor:Zhu Ning
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Ning, Z.H. and R. Lawson 2018. I-Tree Eco: Urban Park Tree Assessment. The Forestry Source 23(6):14-15.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Ning, Z., C. Gong, D. Chambers, D. Dyson, K. Abdollahi 2018. Impacts of Flooding and Elevated CO2 Level on Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) Saplings. P 206 in Abstract Book of the 28th Annual International Conference on Soil, Water, Energy, and Air.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Abdollahi, K. and Z. Ning, P. Khanal, T. Legiandenyi, 2018. Monitoring Urban Forest Structure and Function after Hurricane and Assessing Ecosystem Services for Louisiana Cities. P19 in Abstract Book of the National Conference on Ecosystem Restoration. New Orleans, LA August 26-30, 2018.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Ning, Z., R. Lawson, K. Abdollahi and A. Johnson, 2019. Comparative Study of Structures and Functions of Trees in Two Urban Parks. Page 184 in the Program and Abstracts Book of the Association of Research Directors 19th Biennial Research Symposium, Jacksonville, FL.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Major, S. and Z. Ning, 2019. Tree Canopy Cover and Ecological Benefits of Five Urban Parks. Page 124 in the Program and Abstracts Book of the Association of Research Directors 19th Biennial Research Symposium, Jacksonville, FL.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Ning, Z., B. Benjamin, C. Smith, W. Thomas, and K. Abdollahi, 2018. Developing urban tree species physiological response curves for cyclic flooding. At the Society of American Foresters 2018 National Convention, Oct 2018.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Ning, Z. and R. Clayton, 2018. Assessing tree canopy covers, ecological benefits, and economic values of ten city parks in Baton Rouge, LA. At the Society of American Foresters 2018 National Convention, Oct 2018.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Ning, Z., A. Johnson, and K. Abdollahi 2018. Assessing the effects of flooding on urban tree in the Gulf Coast region. At the Agricultural Annual Conference hosted by Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA Dec 12, 2018.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Abdollahi, K. and Z. Ning, 2018. Monitoring Urban Forest Structure and Function after Hurricane and Assessing Ecosystem Services for Louisiana Cities. National Conference on Ecosystem Restoration. New Orleans, LA, August 26-30, 2018.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Darrell Street, K. Abdollahi, and Z. Ning, 2019. Assessing the Urban Forest Effects and Values using i-Tree Ecosystem Analysis for Zachary, Louisiana. At the 93rd Annual Meeting of the Louisiana Academy of Sciences, March 16, 2019, Baton Rouge, LA.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Ning, Z. and Reshon Clayton, 2019. Assessing tree canopy covers, ecological benefits, and economic values of ten city parks in Baton Rouge, LA. Journal of Forestry, 117 (1):70.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Abdollahi, K. and Z. Ning, 2019. Assessing Hurricane Impacts on Ecosystem Services for Urban Forests in Louisiana, U.S.A. IUFRO 2019 Congress Online Abstract 7078. The International Union of Forestry Research Organization (IUFRO) 2019 Congress, Curitiba, Brazil, Sept 29-Oct 5, 2019.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Abdollahi, K. and Z. Ning, 2019. Developing urban tree species physiological response curves for cyclic flooding. Journal of Forestry, 117 (1):237-238.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Jackson, C., Z. Ning, B. Benjamin, K. Abdollahi, and A. Johnson, 2019. Japanese Magnolia Photosynthesis Rates in Response to Cyclic Flooding at Elevated CO2 Setting. Page 97 in the Program and Abstracts Book of the Association of Research Directors 19th Biennial Research Symposium, Jacksonville, FL.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Wilbert Thomas, 2019. Quantify Photosynthesis, Stomatal Conductance, and Transpiration Responses of Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) to Flooding at Elevated CO2 Setting. Doctoral Dissertation. UMI ProQuest LLC. Dr. Zhu Ning-Dissertation Advisor.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Ning, Z. and R. Lawson*, 2019. Comparative Analysis of Characteristics and Ecosystem Services of Trees in Two Urban Parks. Society of American Foresters 2019 National Convention, Louisville, Kentucky, Oct 29-Nov 3, 2019.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Abdollahi, K. and Z. Ning, 2019. Assessing Urban Forest Effects and Values after Hurricane Impacts in Louisiana. At Global i-Tree Science and Users Symposium, Syracuse, NY, June 16-19, 2019.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Abdollahi, K. and Z. Ning, 2019. Integrating Climate Change Science and Technology into Urban Forestry Education and Research. At Arboriculture & Urban Forestry Educators' Symposium & Summit, The Morton Arboretum, Lisle, Illinois, May 19-22, 2019.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Ning, Z. and SAF, 2020. Today's Challenges, Tomorrow's Leaders: Empowering the Next Generation of Forestry Professionals . Plenary session of the Society of American Foresters 2020 National Convention.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Majors, S., Z. Ning, and K. Abdollahi, 2021. Assessing Ecological Benefits of Trees in Five Urban Parks in Baton Rouge, LA. Journal of Forestry, Volume 119, Issue 2.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Ansel Rankins, 2019. Impacts of Cyclic Flooding on Three Urban Tree Species at Different CO2 Settings. Doctoral Dissertation. UMI ProQuest LLC. Dr. Zhu Ning-Dissertation Advisor.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Paris F. Favorite, 2018. Urban Forest Foliar Litter Decomposition a Comparative Study among Conifer, Broadleaf, and Grass Species. Doctoral Dissertation. UMI ProQuest LLC. Dr. Zhu Ning-Dissertation Advisor.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Britany R. Benjamin 2018. Physiological Responses of Japanese Magnolia (Magnolia liliiflora) to Flooding, Elevated CO2, and Light Intensity. Master degree Thesis. UMI ProQuest LLC. Dr. Zhu Ning-Thesis Advisor.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Christiean Todd Smith 2018. Effects of Flooding, Elevated CO2 level, and Light Intensity on Southern Crabapple (Malus angustifolia). Master degree Thesis. UMI ProQuest LLC. Dr. Zhu Ning-Thesis Advisor.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Ning, Z., W. Thomas, and K. Abdollahi, 2021. Quantifying Photosynthesis, Stomatal Conductance and Transpiration of Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) in Response to Flooding. Journal of Forestry, Volume 119, Issue 2.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Cultivating Leadership and Diversity. 2021 Pacific Northwest Leadership Conference -Forestry: Leadership for the True Social Distancing Profession, February 12, 2021.
|
Progress 04/01/20 to 03/31/21
Outputs
Target Audience:College students, faculty, high school students, and community members. Changes/Problems:COVID impacted the project, especiallyactivities for accomplishing objective 3. A one year no-cost project extension has been granted by USDA NIFA. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?In collaboration with SAF, the project PD provided training on Cultivating Leadership and Diversity to the hundreds of participants of the 2021 Pacific Northwest Leadership Conference.The project continued providing assistantship for a master degree student who received her third year research training through participating in quantifying wetland soil carbon and nutrient contents data analysis and thesis writing. She successfully passed thesis defense and obtained a master's degree in Dec 2020. The project also provided research and training stipends for the second master degreestudent and 4 undergraduate students. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The results have been disseminated via twopapers, one national convention plenary session, and one workshop. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?If travel is permitted (COVID-19 uncertainty), we plan to implement project objective 3 -Conduct faculty professional development field trips and student experiential learning activities at the USDA Forest Service's national forests, National Park Service, and the project partner's sites, along with other activities planned per project proposal.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Due to COVID pandemic, face to face I-Tree Eco Model application training was replaced by virtual training.Global climate change research topics were incorporated in teaching and learning, such as how increased temperature, elevated CO2, flooding, and intensified extreme climatic events affect tree health and distribution. A sustainable natural resources in a changing climate course wasoffered with topics such as global climate model EdGCM; fundamentals of and current research information on climate change, natural resources, and sustainability; impacts of climate change on natural resource with a focus on forest, wetland, and water; mitigation strategies; responsible decisions and actions to contribute to climate change mitigation and nature resource sustainability; etc.The Project PD utilized her expertise to serve on the Louisiana Governor's Climate Initiative Task Force Land Use, Buildings, and Housing Committee to recommend strategies and actions that mitigate climate change and reach net zero carbon immersion goals for the state. A virtual Leadership and Career in Agriculture training was hosted in fall 2020 at Southern University with forty-seven students and faculty participants. The Workshop explained what leadership is, identified the traits and skills of an effective leader, examined the role, duties and responsibilities of a team leader, and helped the participants to develop a plan to develop their leadership potential. In collaboration with the Society of American Foresters (SAF), the project PD hosted "Today's Challenges, Tomorrow's Leaders: Empowering the Next Generation of Forestry Professionals" plenary session of SAF 2020 National Convention (virtual). The session encompassed a wide range of topics, including communication, cultural immersion, conflict resolution, adaptability, resilience, maintaining balance, and effective leadership styles. The Project PD served as a North America regional expert for the FAO-ITTO-IUFRO Global Forest Education Project North American regional consultation, and contributed to the project via roundtable discussions, breakout sessions, and report review and feedbacks.
Publications
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Majors, S., Z. Ning, and K. Abdollahi, 2021. Assessing Ecological Benefits of Trees in Five Urban Parks in Baton Rouge, LA. Journal of Forestry, Volume 119, Issue 2.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Ning, Z., W. Thomas, and K. Abdollahi, 2021. Quantifying Photosynthesis, Stomatal Conductance and Transpiration of Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) in Response to Flooding. Journal of Forestry, Volume 119, Issue 2.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Ning, Z. and SAF, 2020. Today's Challenges, Tomorrow's Leaders: Empowering the Next Generation of Forestry Professionals . Plenary session of the Society of American Foresters 2020 National Convention.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Cultivating Leadership and Diversity. 2021 Pacific Northwest Leadership Conference -Forestry: Leadership for the True Social Distancing Profession, February 12, 2021.
|
Progress 04/01/19 to 03/31/20
Outputs
Target Audience:College students, faculty, high school students, and community members. Changes/Problems:Due to COVID -19 pandemic, students and faculty field/site study travel has been stopped. Therefore, it affected the implementation of project objective 3 "Conduct faculty professional development field trips and student experiential learning activities at the USDA Forest Service's national forests, National Park Service, and the project partner's sites, to further enhance the understanding on ecosystems and environmental stress mitigation strategies." A one-year no-cost project extension may be needed. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Leadership building exercise was formulated and implemented in fall 2019 for undergraduate students, especially freshmen. The central theme was "Modeling after a Leader Who is an SU Urban Forestry Alumni". Students were divided into groups with four students in each group. Each group was required to meet and conduct a face-to-face interview with a SU Urban Forestry Alumni who currently hold leadership position. During the interview, each group was assigned to ask the following questions: What is your leadership role? What is your leadership style? As a leader, what are three "do" that you suggest? As a leader, what are three "do not do" that you suggest? What suggestions do you have for a young student who is learning to become a leader? What is your suggestion for a young student who is interested in an urban forestry career? Any other wisdom you like to share? Each group was required to take notes during the interview, write a post interview group report, and make PPT slides based on the interview results, and present a presentation. ThePD also hosted an Endowed Professor Guest Lecture Series on "Leadership and Agriculture Career Building - Experiences and Strategies" on Nov 19, 2019. The invited speaker/guest lecturer was Dr. Renita Marshall, Vice Chancellor for Academicand Student Services/Associate Dean. She addressed four objectives: 1. What is leadership?; 2. Identify the traits and skills of an effective leader; 3. Examine the role, duties and responsibilities of a Team Leader; and 4. Develop a plan to develop your own leadership potentials. The project continues to provide assistantship for a master degree student who received research training through participating in quantifying wetland soil carbon and nutrient contents field research and laboratory sample analyses. The project provided an assistantship for a doctoral degree student who received research training through testing the combined effects of elevated CO2 and flooding. The project provided conference travel support to two faculty members to present papers at IUFRO congress. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The results have been disseminated via publications, presentations, and virtual platform. The project team members publishedthree abstracts and one doctoral dissertation; presented three papers at national and international conferences; and shared results with the community using virtual platform. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?If travel is permitted (COVID-19 uncertainty), we plan to implement project objective 3 "Conduct faculty professional development field trips and student experiential learning activities at the USDA Forest Service's national forests, National Park Service, and the project partner's sites." Other activities are also planned per project proposal.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The project organized and implemented an Educational Global Climate Model (EdGCM) Workshop on Oct 15-16, 2019. The workshop instructors were Dr. Mark Chandler, Director, EdGCM Project, and Dr. Linda Sohl, Research Scientist. Both are from the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS), Columbia University's Center for Climate Systems Research (CCSR), NY. Participants were given hands - on experiences on using EdGCM - a suite of software that allows users to run a fully functional 3D Global Climate Model (GCM) on laptops and desktop computers. The GCM at the core of EdGCM was developed by NASA and has been used in research projects by scientists worldwide to study climates of the past, present and future. The EdGCM provided the students with the user-friendly interface, as well as a database and scientific visualization tools that make it possible for educators and students to access some of NASA's most advanced climate modeling capabilities. The workshop also introduced the EzGCM to the participants. i-Tree Eco Model application was incorporated into three courses fall 2019 - spring 2020 academic year - UFOR 151 Urban Forestry (B.S level), UFOR 540 Ecophysiology (M.S. level), and UFOR 707 Stress Physiology (Ph.D. level). Students were taught how to set up I-Tree Eco field research plots, field data collection protocols, and how i-Tree analyzes data collected. Using Greenwood Community Park as a training site, students were given field data collection hands-on training. Using field data collected from Independence Park and Howell Park, students were given model simulation/data analyses and results interpretation training. In addition to i-Tree Eco Model, the project also conducted an i-Tree Canopy model application training week for undergraduates. Four more global climate change related research topics were implemented in two graduate level courses. The four topics were: 1. Climate change prediction using GCM model, 2. Climate change mitigation by urban forests - evaluating the mitigation potential using i-Tree Eco Model, 3. Effects of sea level rise on coastal vegetation, wetlands, and soil - real life scenarios in Louisiana, and 4. Wetland & soil carbon flux and its effects on water quality - real life cases in Louisiana. Global climate change related mini research projects were assigned to the graduate classes. Each student was assigned to one of the following: 1. Assessing soil carbon content in coastal wetlands in light of climate change, 2. Evaluating vegetation change in Louisiana coast, 3. Flooding and its effects, and 4. Effects of environmental factors on medicinal plants. In light of increased hurricane frequency in the Gulf Coast region, research topics such as "Modeling Hurricane Impacts on Live Oak Tree Health and Post Hurricane Land Use Change in Gulfport, MS" and "Wind Damage and Salinity Effects of Hurricanes on Coastal Forests of Louisiana" were incorporated in undergraduate seminar class UFOR 473. The project director has set up a science project with a high school student to apply i-Tree Canopy model within the Saint Joseph's Academy Campus and the surrounding neighborhood, so to assess the tree canopy cover and its ecological benefits as well as economic value. The science project helps the high school students to link climate change to environmental protection, natural resource conservation, and ecosystem assessment. The findings stimulate high school students' interests in climate change, urban forests, and natural resources by simulating the value and the design of tree canopy that could further improve the given area. It provides a connection between economical value for properties within the community, a safer environment, and benefit from cooler temperatures, less pollution, and calmer residents. In collaboration with the Baton Rouge Botanic Garden Foundation and Baton Rouge Main Library, the project PD and Co-PD hosted and delivered a Garden Discoveries Series via a virtual online Zoom meeting platform. Community members were invited and participated in discovering how trees help in mitigating climate change by preventing floods, remove air pollution, store carbon, and produce oxygen. The Co-PDs also demonstrated i-Tree Eco Model and shared relevant books about trees found in the library.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Ning, Z. and Reshon Clayton, 2019. Assessing tree canopy covers, ecological benefits, and economic values of ten city parks in Baton Rouge, LA. Journal of Forestry, 117 (1):70.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Abdollahi, K. and Z. Ning, 2019. Assessing Hurricane Impacts on Ecosystem Services for Urban Forests in Louisiana, U.S.A. IUFRO 2019 Congress Online Abstract 7078. The International Union of Forestry Research Organization (IUFRO) 2019 Congress, Curitiba, Brazil, Sept 29-Oct 5, 2019.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Abdollahi, K. and Z. Ning, 2019. Developing urban tree species physiological response curves for cyclic flooding. Journal of Forestry, 117 (1):237-238.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
4. Wilbert Thomas, 2019. Quantify Photosynthesis, Stomatal Conductance, and Transpiration Responses of Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) to Flooding at Elevated CO2 Setting. Doctoral Dissertation. UMI ProQuest LLC. Dr. Zhu Ning-Dissertation Advisor.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Ning, Z. and R. Lawson*, 2019. Comparative Analysis of Characteristics and Ecosystem Services of Trees in Two Urban Parks. Society of American Foresters 2019 National Convention, Louisville, Kentucky, Oct 29-Nov 3, 2019.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Abdollahi, K. and Z. Ning, 2019. Assessing Urban Forest Effects and Values after Hurricane Impacts in Louisiana. At Global i-Tree Science and Users Symposium, Syracuse, NY, June 16-19, 2019.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Abdollahi, K. and Z. Ning, 2019. Integrating Climate Change Science and Technology into Urban Forestry Education and Research. At Arboriculture & Urban Forestry Educators' Symposium & Summit, The Morton Arboretum, Lisle, Illinois, May 19-22, 2019.
|
Progress 04/01/18 to 03/31/19
Outputs
Target Audience:College students, faculty, and high school students. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?To enhance students' learning experience and to provide professional development opportunities, the project has organizedand hostedthree (3) i-Tree Model Application Workshops, one (1) Costal Ecosystem and Climate Change Student Forum, and one (1) Public Lecture. i-Tree Canopy Model Application Workshop, Feb 13-22, 2019. i-Tree Canopy Model Application Workshop, Sept 19, 2018. i-Tree Design Model Application Workshop, Sept 26, 2018. The EndowedProfessorshipPublic Lecture Series, Nov 6-7, 2018. Costal Ecosystem and Climate Change Student Forum, Dec 4, 2018 The project provided participant support to two (2) students for their professional development through attending Society of American Foresters National Convention and International Society of Arboriculture Conference. The project has also provided conference travel support totwo (2) faculty members for professional development by attending and presenting papers at national conferences. In addition to i-Tree Model, the project incorporated flooding and elevated CO2 level into students' research training. The uniqueness of the training is that the research tests the combined effects of two stressors, flooding and elevated CO2, which was not done before. The sound research training enabled one (1) doctoral student to finish his dissertation and another is in the process of writing the dissertation. The project continues to provide assistantship for 1 master degree student who received research training through participating in the urban park ecosystem assessment research using i-tree canopy Model. She also received communication skill training through research paper/report writing training and oral presentation training. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The project team members published1 articleand 5 abstracts. The project team also presented 6 papers at the 1890 Association of Research Directors 19thBiennial Research Symposium, Society of American Foresters National Convention, AEHS Annual International Conference on Soils, Sediments, Water, and Energy, and the Annual Meeting of the Louisiana Academy of Sciences. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?A Global Circulation Model (EdGCM) training workshop has been scheduled for Sept 17, 2019. We are planning a student leadership training workshop as well. We will continue providingstudents with experiential learning and faculty professional development. We will continue hosting the end of semester student forums and provide hands-on research training.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
To foster students' critical thinking, engagement in active learning, and to enhance their communication skills, the projectorganized and implemented a Costal Ecosystem and Climate Change Student Forum on Dec 4, 2018 in conjunction with an undergraduate course titled UFOR 410 Sustainable Urban Forest Ecosystem in a Changing Climate. The Forum enabled students to express their own initiatives and practice public speaking and debate. To inspire students' learning interest and to use technology and active learning methods, this project has been incorporated into two classes. The hands-on workshops such as I-Tree Model Application Training Workshops were organized and hosted to challenge students to use GIS and computer modeling technology and actively participate in learning. This project has guided students to apply the I-Tree Models in research to motivate students to retain and transfer the learned knowledge; conducted student experiential learning and hands-on activities using city parks as teaching and learning laboratories; and assessed the city and park ecosystems and environmental stress mitigation strategies. Under the research guidance of the project Co-PIs, two doctoral students have been applying the current version of i-Tree Eco Model to assess climate change mitigation ability of the urban forests inBaker and Zachary - two communities adjacent to Southern University campus. They have finished collecting research data and are in the process of analyzing data and writing the research results. One master degree student has assessed five park ecosystems using i-Tree Canopy model. She has written a paper and presented it at a national conference. The project incorporated climate change induced stressors such aselevated CO2 level in conjunction withflooding into students' research training. The faculty and students research team has achieved valuable results and provided scientific information to assist stakeholders in planning and making informed decisions regarding adaptation to flooding and elevated CO2 levels thereby sustaining economic vitality. The research yields first-hand information and contributes to the urban forest recovery in flood prone areas. The project has been utilized as a recruitment tool. In summer 2019, the project PD and her graduate assistant have provided i-Tree Canopy Model hands-on training to high school students utilizing the BAYOU program. The experience with using I-Tree Model has helped five high school students to make a commitment of becoming freshmen at SU in fall 2019. The experience and the accomplishments have helped the team to implement a new climate change research project. In Aug 2018, a new project titled "Quantifying Carbon Export through Vegetation, Biomass and Land Use Change Analysis of Two Contrasting Coastal Sites across Mississippi River Delta Plain" wasfunded by LA-NASA ESPCOR program in the amount of $345,000 through the collaboration with Louisiana State University.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Ning, Z.H. and R. Lawson 2018. I-Tree Eco: Urban Park Tree Assessment. The Forestry Source 23(6):14-15.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Ning, Z., C. Gong, D. Chambers, D. Dyson, K. Abdollahi 2018. Impacts of Flooding and Elevated CO2 Level on Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) Saplings. P 206 in Abstract Book of the 28th Annual International Conference on Soil, Water, Energy, and Air.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Ning, Z., R. Lawson, K. Abdollahi and A. Johnson, 2019. Comparative Study of Structures and Functions of Trees in Two Urban Parks. Page 184 in the Program and Abstracts Book of the Association of Research Directors 19th Biennial Research Symposium, Jacksonville, FL.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Abdollahi, K. and Z. Ning, P. Khanal, T. Legiandenyi, 2018. Monitoring Urban Forest Structure and Function after Hurricane and Assessing Ecosystem Services for Louisiana Cities. P19 in Abstract Book of the National Conference on Ecosystem Restoration. New Orleans, LA August 26-30, 2018.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Jackson, C., Z. Ning, B. Benjamin, K. Abdollahi, and A. Johnson, 2019. Japanese Magnolia Photosynthesis Rates in Response to Cyclic Flooding at Elevated CO2 Setting. Page 97 in the Program and Abstracts Book of the Association of Research Directors 19th Biennial Research Symposium, Jacksonville, FL.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Major, S. and Z. Ning, 2019. Tree Canopy Cover and Ecological Benefits of Five Urban Parks. Page 124 in the Program and Abstracts Book of the Association of Research Directors 19th Biennial Research Symposium, Jacksonville, FL.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Ning, Z., B. Benjamin, C. Smith, W. Thomas, and K. Abdollahi, 2018. Developing urban tree species physiological response curves for cyclic flooding. At the Society of American Foresters 2018 National Convention, Oct 2018.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Ning, Z. and R. Clayton, 2018. Assessing tree canopy covers, ecological benefits, and economic values of ten city parks in Baton Rouge, LA. At the Society of American Foresters 2018 National Convention, Oct 2018.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Ning, Z., A. Johnson, and K. Abdollahi 2018. Assessing the effects of flooding on urban tree in the Gulf Coast region. At the Agricultural Annual Conference hosted by Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA Dec 12, 2018.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Ning Z. 2018. I-Tree Eco Model Application in Quantifying Urban Forest Ecosystem Services and Climate Change Mitigation. Endowed Professor Public Lecture, Baton Rouge, LA, Nov 7, 2018.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Abdollahi, K. and Z. Ning, 2018. Monitoring Urban Forest Structure and Function after Hurricane and Assessing Ecosystem Services for Louisiana Cities. National Conference on Ecosystem Restoration. New Orleans, LA August 26-30, 2018.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Darrell Street, K. Abdollahi, and Z. Ning, 2019. Assessing the Urban Forest Effects and Values using i-Tree Ecosystem Analysis for Zachary, Louisiana. At the 93rd Annual Meeting of the Louisiana Academy of Sciences, March 16, 2019, Baton Rouge, LA.
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Progress 04/01/17 to 03/31/18
Outputs
Target Audience:College students, high school students, and faculty. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? The project PD and her Ph.D. graduate assistantsorganized and hosted three I-Tree Model application training workshops for both undergraduate and graduate students as follows: i-Tree Design Modeling Application Workshop on Feb 6-Feb 20, 2018 i-Tree Canopy Model Application Workshop on March 6-13, 2018 i-Tree Design Model Application Workshop on Nov 14-21, 2017 The project provided participant support to three (3) students for their professional development through attending Society of American Foresters national conferences. The projectalso provided conference travel support to two (2) faculty members to present papers at professional conferences. The project provided assistantship for one (1) gradaute student and enabled her to gain research and hands-on working experience whilepursuing a M.S. degree. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The project team members presented their I-Tree modelingresults at the 1890 Association of Research Directors 18th Biennial Research Symposium, Society of American Foresters National Convention, and AEHS Annual International Conference on Soils, Sediments, Water, and Energy. The I-Tree modelingresults havebeen publishedin3 abstracts and reportedintwo doctoral dissertations that are in press. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?As stated in the proposal, we will host EdGCM training workshop, providestudents with experiential learning, and faculty professional development field trips. We will continue hosting the end of semester student forums and provide hands-on research training. We will use summer programs to train and recruit new students.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
During the first year, the project enhanced the course contents and instructional delivery through I-Tree modeling approach. In fall semester 2017, weincorporated the i-Tree Design model into undergraduate level UFOR 333 -Forest Science class and graduate level UFOR 540 - Urban Forest Ecophysiology class. In spring 2018, weincorporated both i-Tree Canopy model and i-Tree Design model into undergraduate class UFOR 151 - Introduction to Urban Forestry class, UFOR 438 - Tree Physiology class, and UFOR 473 - Seminar in Urban Forestry. The project strengthened learning by providing students with I-Tree modelingresearch training, resulting in two doctoral students who applied I-Tree Model in their doctoral research and completedtheir dissertations. Three high school students (new recruits) conducted mini research project using I-Tree Design Model and presented their research results at a seminar. Many undergraduate students used local parks and SU campus as study sites for their I-Tree Model application experiential learning. The project hosted the end of semester student forums in fall 2017 and spring 2018 semesters to foster critical thinking and communication skills. The project contributed to new studentsrecruitment. In summer 2017, the project PD and her Ph.D. graduate assistantprovided i-Tree Design Model hands-on training to high school students utilizing the BAYOU Program. The experience with the mini research project using I-Tree Modelresulted in three high school students enrolling and becoming freshmen at Southern University in Fall 2017.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Ning, Z. and M. Gleason, 2017. Green and Sustainable Campus The i-Tree Eco Modeling Project at Southern University. P233 in Abstract Book of the 33rd Annual International Conference on Soils, Sediments, Water, and Energy.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Ning, Z. and A. M. Gleason, 2017. Structure and Ecological Function of Urban Forests on the Campus of Southern University, Baton Rouge, LA. In Program and Abstracts of the Association of Research Directors 18th Biennial Research Symposium, Atlanta, GA. p153.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
K. Abdollahi, Z. H. Ning, and D. Falodun, 2017. Quantifying Carbon Storage and Sequestration by Urban Forest of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. In Program and Abstracts of the Association of Research Directors 18th Biennial Research Symposium, Atlanta, GA. p148.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Reshon Imon Clayton, 2018. Assessing Tree Canopy Covers, Ecological Benefits, and Economic Values of Thirty Parks along Urban and Rural Gradient in East Baton Rouge Parish. Doctoral Dissertation. UMI ProQuest. Dissertation Advisor: Zhu Ning
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
RaHarold D. Lawson, 2018. I-Tree Eco Model Application in two Urban Parks in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Doctoral Dissertation. UMI ProQuest LLC. Dissertation Advisor:Zhu Ning
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