Soil Ecology and Restoration Group

The Soil Ecology and Restoration Group is a research group within the biology department of San Diego State University and administrated by the San Diego State University Research Foundation. The research emphasis of SERG is on ecosystem dynamics of southern California. Theoretical analysis of fundamental processes and structures is complemented by applied research in native habitat restoration. Primary research emphases include restoration techniques, soil chemistry, soil microbial ecology, and plant-microorganism relationships. Past studies have ranged from the effects of elevated carbon dioxide on soil fungi to comparisons of container size on survival and growth of native species transplants. Research and practical application has been accomplished through grants and contracts received from all types and levels of funding. These include competitive national agency grants from the Department of Energy, National Science Foundation, and the Environmental Protection Agency, along with direct contracts from other federal organizations including the Department of Defense, National Park Service, and the Bureau of Land Management. State agencies contracting with SERG include the California Department of Transportation, California Department of Fish and Game, and the California Department of Parks and Recreation. SERG research has also been funded by private agencies such as Southern California Edison, AMEC, and EDAW.