Science Café at Tucson Botanical Gardens

Why There is No Planet B

When

6 p.m., Oct. 3, 2019

Changing Landscapes From the Ground Up

Katerina Dontsova, Associate Professor, Department of Environmental Science, University of Arizona

The Landscape Evolution Observatory (LEO) is a unique experiment at Biosphere 2, consisting of three massive slopes. Each plot consists of crushed basalt rock as a basis for soil formation and is equipped with more than a thousand sensors to monitor changes. This study examines initial landscape development under the influence of rainfall and microorganisms with plants to be added soon. With time, slopes accumulate carbon from the atmosphere and new minerals that help plants grow. This study aims to deepen our understanding of how landscapes may change as climate changes. 

Guests of the Science Café are invited to stroll the gardens after the talk courtesy of the Tucson Botanical Gardens. Open until 8:00 PM.

It is strongly suggested that guests make reservations in advance if they would like to dine at Café Botanica,  https://tucsonbotanical.org/cafe