The primary objective of Dr. Udawatta’s research is to quantify environmental benefits of agroforestry. Currently, he is conducting research on influences of agroforestry, grass buffer, and other conservation practices on water and soil quality. In addressing this issue he is examining how trees and grasses change surface and subsurface water quality by reducing runoff, nutrients and sediment when integrated in rowcrop agriculture and grazing management. Changes in soil physical properties, soil water dynamics, and competition for resources, root length density, nutrient accumulation, and microclimate are evaluated to examine soil and water benefits of these practices. Soil carbon sequestration and prairie restoration are some of the areas in which he has conducted research. Recently, he has used X-ray computed tomography to quantify soil porosity, distribution of pores, pore connectivity, and tortuosity as influenced by agroforestry, cover crops, and conservation practices.
Areas of Expertise
Professor
Company/Organization/Affiliation
University of Missouri