Angie Rivenshield

2000/01 & 2001/02 CEIRP Fellow

Urban Horticulture/Soil Science

Hometown: Brooklyn, NY

BS, Horticulture, Virginia Polytechnical Institute and State University

MS, Floriculture and Ornamental Horticulture, Cornell University

2000 - 2001 CEIRP Fellow Statement

My research focuses on compacted soil, such as that found in urban areas and construction sites. These soils are one of the leading causes of tree decline and death in the landscape. In order to reduce compaction, soil must be physically altered so as to increase macroporosity and decrease bulk density, thereby allowing for proper water infiltration and drainage, increased aeration, and better root movement through the soil. This can be done with the addition of organic amendment. I am investigating two types of organic matter, sphagnum peat and food waste compost, as potential compaction-reducing amendments for urban tree sites. We have found that both reduce bulk density and increase macroporosity in controlled laboratory settings. We are now applying what we found in the laboratory to field sites. Sites amended with either peat or food waste compost will be compared to control sites that are not modified aside from having trees planted in them, and other sites that are tilled but not amended. Each site has indicator tree species planted to test for varying moisture regimes and compaction tolerances. Every three months, we are measuring shoot and root growth and soil bulk density/macroporosity and pH.