Investigating Invertebrate Biodiversity in Managed Forests

• We are investigating the role of commercial forest management, including logging, herbicide treatment, thinning, and prescribed fire on insect communities and biodiversity.  Results of this research will be used to recommend management practices for optimal benefit of diverse invertebrate communities in managed forests, while balancing the need to minimize pest and invasive insects.

• We are developing research to quantify the benefit
  of urban forests relative to pollinators and beneficial insect diversity in urban environments, and to investigate variables which may influence nest establishment and reproductive success of solitary wild bees and other beneficial insect groups in urban and semi-urban environments, including forage patch connectivity, competitive stress, pesticides, and microclimate conditions.

• We are developing research to assess the response of pollinators to longleaf pine restoration.