NYBG: The Root of the Problem: How a Resilient Old Growth Forest Resists Urban Soil Impairment

Described as “primeval” by NYBG’s founder, the Thain Family Forest dodged saws and plows to remain flourishing for millennia. Yet, the forest has coexisted for centuries within the country’s most populous city. What can such a unique history of land-use teach us about forest ecology in, of, and for cities? For that, we look to the soil for answers. In this webinar, Brad Oberle, Associate Curator at the Garden’s Center for Conservation and Restoration Ecology, will take us through his research into forest soil health and explore how new tree planting techniques could help manage legacy pollution at the Garden and beyond.

Brad Oberle is an Associate Curator in the Center for Conservation and Restoration Ecology at NYBG. His research seeks solutions to the climate and biodiversity crises in forests of cities and coastlines, where trees are most valuable and vulnerable.