The contribution of soil aggregates to carbon sequestration in restored urban grasslands

As urban development continues to replace or transform native grasslands, restoration has become increasingly critical for maintaining underground carbon storage. This study explores whether urban soils can be restored to carbon-enriched grasslands. Our findings suggest that: 1) carbon accrual occurs in urban grassland restoration sites, 2) markers of restoration success and perception of high quality restoration are reflected in levels of carbon storage, and 3) management type, rather than simply the duration of management, are important in promoting underground carbon storage. Faculty Sponsors: Dr. Louise Egerton-Warburton and Corey Palmer, Chicago Botanic Garden Dr. Neal Blair and Dr. Kathryn Schreiner, Northwestern Universit