My research falls under the general rubric of "ecosystem processes˛, łnitrogen cycling˛ and łnitrogen deposition˛. More specifically, I am investigating if anthropogenic nitrogen deposition affects nitrogen cycling in annual grasslands of southern California. Interest in nitrogen deposition stems from suggestions that increased nitrogen availability in terrestrial ecosystems may result in plant community changes. In southern California, annual grasslands are replacing coastal sage scrub communities rather rapidly and it has been suggested that nitrogen deposition may facilitate grassland expansion. High levels of nitrogen deposition have been measured in southern California and it does appear that annual grassland expansion is more complete in high deposition areas. My research is designed to understand the movement of nitrogen in annual grasslands with respect to high and low levels of nitrogen deposition
