GD Jenerette

Promoting critical thinking in the realm of ecological landscapes, Darrel Jenerette serves as a Professor of Landscape Ecology within the Department of Botany and Plant Sciences and the Center for Conservation Biology at the University of California, Riverside. With a profound commitment to understanding the intricate relationships between biodiversity, energy fluxes, and biogeochemical cycling, Professor Jenerette's research spans a diverse array of ecological landscapes, including wildland, agricultural, and urban environments. Professor Jenerette's research endeavors are driven by a desire to elucidate the complex cross-scale interactions that occur from the microscopic level of microbes to the expansive global scale. His work is pivotal in understanding the impacts of global change drivers on ecological sustainability and in forecasting their potential effects on our environment. By connecting these interactions, Jenerette and his team aim to provide insights that are crucial for developing strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of global change. One of the notable areas of Professor Jenerette's research is the exploration of how vegetation configuration can influence urban microclimates. His studies have demonstrated the cooling effects that strategic vegetation placement can have in urban settings, offering potential solutions for mitigating the urban heat island effect. This research is particularly relevant in the context of increasing urbanization and climate change, where cities are seeking sustainable ways to manage rising temperatures. In addition to his work on urban microclimates, Professor Jenerette has investigated the invasion of chaparral shrublands by grasses. This research is significant in understanding how invasive species can alter native ecosystems and the subsequent effects on biodiversity and ecosystem function. By examining these dynamics, Jenerette contributes to the broader understanding of ecological resilience and the management of invasive species. Furthermore, Professor Jenerette's research extends to the regulation of greenhouse gas emissions, specifically CO2 and N2O, from agricultural soils. His work in this area is crucial for developing agricultural practices that minimize environmental impact while maintaining productivity. By studying the biogeochemical processes that regulate these emissions, Jenerette provides valuable insights into sustainable agricultural practices that can help mitigate climate change. Through his comprehensive research, Professor Darrel Jenerette continues to make significant contributions to the field of landscape ecology. His work not only advances scientific understanding but also informs practical solutions for some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.