GDC @ AGU!

Drylands often exhibit seasonal water availability, and determining how plants mediate water redistribution is key in understanding ecosystem productivity. In this project, we are investigating how terrain complexity influences the seasonal redistribution of plant-available water and the resulting influence on woody plant encroachment.

Photovoltaic infrastructure can serve as microbial nurseries to grow biocrust to be used as inoculum for arid soil restoration. This approach, which we call "crustivoltaics", takes advantage of the favorable microclimate provided by the solar panels to cultivate a continuous supply of biocrust inoculum with high yields and minimal efforts.

Arizona State University’s research has far-reaching benefits for dryland sustainability. The Global Drylands Center brings together researchers, stakeholders and specialist to produce use-inspired research and sustainable solutions for drylands worldwide. Our research unravels the mechanisms that support high-level functioning of drylands. The center is built from a vibrant community of leaders, students and practitioners who are ready and able to introduce sustainability practices into complex dryland ecosystems.

Precipitation and atmospheric moisture are manipulated through the use of rainout shelters, irrigation, and a misting system. Using a combination of these treatments allows us to examine the effects of precipitation and atmospheric moisture, both interactively and independently, on dryland ecosystems.

Arizona State University is situated within North America’s four great drylands. These ecosystems are rapidly changing due to population growth, economic growth and evolving environmental challenges. The university is embedded in its region, and the challenges faced in this area are emblematic of the challenges facing drylands around the world. Consequently, research conducted by the Global Drylands Center is globally applicable, and solutions are globally exportable.

ASU has joined forces with partners working on similar problems; these partnerships allow our center to engage with experts from around the world. We aim to become a leader in addressing dryland-specific challenges and a resource for training those who want to implement solutions.

ASU’s strong human, institutional and interdisciplinary knowledge base well positions the university to be a world leader in dryland research, education and management. Multiple researchers from different units within the ASU community are working on approaching drylands through the lens of physical, biological and social sciences, as well as through the humanities, to build a well-rounded understanding of the field.

Because of their large impact on our planet’s functioning, ensuring the health of drylands around the world is a necessary step toward achieving global sustainability. A diverse group of stakeholders have a vested interest in drylands, from herders and ranchers to conservationists and urbanites. These groups are interested in factors like livestock production, conservation, recreation and climate change amelioration. The variety of interests and subtypes of dryland ecosystems gives the Global Drylands Center a unique opportunity to craft multiple pathways to sustainability by leveraging strong partnerships.