NSERC Oil Sands Terrestrial Restoration Ecology Research

The NSERC Industrial Research Chair in Terrestrial Restoration Ecology facilitates research that examines how plant roots and associated microbial communities interact with natural and reclaimed soils, particularly in reclamation sites that may contain residual oil. These projects are the result of a partnership between the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), COSIA, member companies, and academic institutions. Research questions included: (1) what are the natural dimensions of and mechanisms underlying rooting profiles of boreal plants and trees, (2) what are the effects of bitumen on root distribution, and (3) do root symbionts mediate tree survival on bituminous soils.

This resource includes projects from 2016 to 2021: five master’s theses, one doctoral thesis, and two published journal papers. Additionally, twelve undergraduate summer positions were funded between 2016 and 2019. For specific conclusions, refer to the results of each paper.