Specialty Terrestrial ecosystem ecology; causes and feedbacks of biotic change; grassland ecology; plant-soil-animal interactions. Research Interests Much of our current research focuses on invasive species and how these interact with other components of global environmental change. Our lab attempts to conduct research on mechanisms that can enhance ecosystem services and conservation ecology for the Anthropocene. New and emerging topics involve a) the transformation of the lower montane forests (into meadows and Ponderosa savanna) along the Colorado Front Range, and abiotic and biotic factors influencing changes in the Front Range grasslands. Our outreach activities attempt to involve students and stakeholders in active conservation and restoration efforts that will enhance the resilience of the Front Range given the current suite of environmental drivers. For those wanting to get involved, you can email me, or check out the volunteer activities at Wildlands Restoration Volunteers