Thesis (M.Sc.)--University of Hong Kong, 1998. / Includes bibliographical references (leaf 124-128) Also available in print.

Thesis (M.U.D.)--University of Hong Kong, 1994. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 92-94) Also available in print.

Traditional mine reclamation often results in highly compacted lands which prohibit tree growth and survival, reduce infiltration rates, and increase runoff. In 2005, six 0.4 ha plots were constructed on the Bent Mountain surface mine in eastern KY by the University of Kentucky in accordance with Forestry Reclamation Approach’s low compaction guidelines. The plots consisted of two replications each of (1) brown weathered sandstone (BROWN), (2) gray unweathered sandstone (GRAY), (3) and a combination of both sandstones and shales (MIXED). The goal of this project was to assess the hydrologic performance on a storm event basis (monitoring years 2012-2013) of the plots. It was hypothesized that the increase in tree growth on the plots, especially in BROWN,would result in storm-based hydrological changes since plot construction. Results showed that no significant differences were found between the 2005-2006 and 2012-2013 monitoring periods for the storm parameters of discharge volume,discharge duration, and curve number. A significant increase was noted for peak discharge, lag time, and response time. No significant differences were found between spoil types in spite of the difference in vegetative cover. Results suggest that placement of spoil has the greatest influence over storm hydrology at this point in time.

An eastern range management concept was developed and demonstrated for coal surface mined lands. An objective weighting methodology was employed to determine the optimum forage species mixture to seed surface mined sites. With the optimum mixture determined, total costs for establishment, total monthly available dry matter, and percent crude protein content were calculated for each homogeneous range unit. These outputs of the FRSELECT (Forage Selection) algorithm were then stored for linear programming analysis. Inputs from FRSELECT were combined with animal class nutrient requirements, other costs, and revenue data to determine the optimal allocation of resources using the COPLAN (Computer Optimization PLANing) linear programming model. The COPLAN system combines a matrix generating subsystem with the revised simplex algorithm and cost minimization objective function to determine the optimal economic solution. Outputs from this model are interpreted and displayed through a report-generating routine. The union of these two sub-systems (FRSELECT and COPLAN) create the hybrid model RANGER (Resource Allocation for Non-tillable Grassland and Eastern Rangeland). Initial runs of the RANGER model using inputs typical of the opportunities in southwest Virginia, demonstrated a protein deficiency in the available forage for the late fall and winter months. A protein supplement input was necessary for all additional runs of the model. Sensitivity analyses suggested a limitation on operation size and profitability according to the amount and type of protein supplement supplied. Further analyses suggested unprofitable levels of operation at all but large (1000+ acres, 453.6 ha) areas. / Master of Science

Mining has caused ecosystem losses worldwide, with surface mining disturbing >2.4 million hectares in the United States since 1930. The Appalachian region of the US is home to extensive temperate deciduous forests that provide many ecosystem services and economic benefits. However, >400,000 hectares of forest have been lost due to surface coal mining, with most not being restored back to native forests or other productive land uses. These areas are left fragmented, heavily modified, unmanaged, and densely invaded by non-native plants. Autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) is one of the most prevalent invasive species on reclaimed mines in Appalachia and viewed as one of the main hindrances to the successful reclamation of mined land to restore native forests. In order to better assess the impact autumn olive can have on reclamation success, we characterize autumn olive's performance in various reclamation scenarios and also how the management of autumn olive affects hardwood tree establishment. We review how exotic species impact restoration outcomes, and advocate for a better understanding of how these species could contribute towards a more ecological understanding of reclamation. Reclamation goals are currently assessed after 5 years, prioritizing short-term goals (e.g. erosion control) instead of longer-term goals such as the return of ecosystem function. With a better understanding of plant function and ecological processes, we hope to continue to advance successful reclamation on surface mined lands. / Master of Science in Life Sciences

This item was digitized as part of the Million Books Project led by Carnegie Mellon University and supported by grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF). Cornell University coordinated the participation of land-grant and agricultural libraries in providing historical agricultural information for the digitization project; the University of Arizona Libraries, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and the Office of Arid Lands Studies collaborated in the selection and provision of material for the digitization project.

This item was digitized as part of the Million Books Project led by Carnegie Mellon University and supported by grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF). Cornell University coordinated the participation of land-grant and agricultural libraries in providing historical agricultural information for the digitization project; the University of Arizona Libraries, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and the Office of Arid Lands Studies collaborated in the selection and provision of material for the digitization project.

published_or_final_version / Real Estate and Construction / Doctoral / Doctor of Philosophy

published_or_final_version / Urban Planning / Master / Master of Science in Urban Planning

published_or_final_version / Geography and Geology / Master / Master of Philosophy