Exploring the implications of seed mix choice on the restoration of biodiverse grasslands

Soil restoration following the cessation of quarrying activities requires careful management to re-establish functional capacity that will support a biodiverse system. This research form basis of an MSc thesis project which aims to assess whether the seed mixes chosen to restore grassland areas affects below (microbial) and aboveground (plant) diversity and subsequently soil formation processes through plant-microbe feedback mechanisms. 

The student will compare biodiversity implications of unseeded (spontaneous restoration) to areas seeded for biodiverse grassland development, and to an area managed for pasture (low species diversity seed mix and with composts applied). These seeded restored areas will be compared to an undisturbed (>30 years) species rich area adjacent to Ketton Quarry and an area that was restored for agriculture (but is now unused) about 15-18 years ago as references sites. 

These comparisons will allow observations of restoration development and the value of different seed mixes towards promoting biodiversity.  The student will also ascertain benefits to below-ground organic carbon stocks; soil carbon preservation is critical if we are to address the COP26 primary strategy “to protect and restore ecosystems”.  The project will investigate whether potential barriers to effective soil restoration can be identified and provide guidance on mechanisms that may overcome the identified barriers.