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Research title The impact of peatland disturbance on carbon and nutrient losses into the receiving waters of the Whitelee Windfarm development (with Dept. of Chemistry). Summary of research Peatlands are under increasing pressure from the construction of large scale windfarms, such as the Whitelee Windfarm in Central Scotland, UK (55o 40’ 36” N, 04o 14’ 54” W). It is hypothesised that the disturbance of peatlands by these developments, caused by the creation of roads, insertion of turbine bases and associated forestry, can impact peatland structure and function by increasing the rate of decomposition of organic matter which becomes exposed during construction. This may potentially increase the transfer of carbon and nutrients from terrestrial to aquatic ecosystems which is undesirable for maintenance of carbon stores and protection of sensitive waters from nutrient enrichment. Using a combination of field, laboratory, and GIS approaches, this studentship studies differences in carbon and nutrient discharge between nine catchments at the Whitelee Windfarm under different river flow conditions. Export budgets will be calculated and the landscape factors controlling water chemistry identified. The status of Whitelee in regards to catchment peat carbon sequestration will also be determined. The GIS will be used as a decision support tool to provide guidance for peatland and forest management at future large-scale windfarm developments. Supervisors Professor Susan Waldron
Dr Hugh Flowers (University of Glasgow)
Dr Kate Heal (University of Edinburgh)
Dr Tom Nesbit (Forestry Commission) |
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