Stewardship Corner | Allelopathy – ‘The Chemicals Between Us’

Ever wonder how a single species can dominate an area and lead to a monoculture, where diverse neighbors are sparse? The answer might lie in allelochemicals.

Allelopathy describes how organisms produce biochemical compounds, known as allelochemicals, that influence the germination, growth, survival, and reproduction of nearby species. This process is essentially a form of chemical competition aimed at boosting the organism’s own survival and reproduction. Without getting too in the weeds, allelopathy is a form of chemical competition.

In allelopathic plants, these compounds can be released through leaves, stems, fruits, or roots. They enter the soil through root exudates, runoff from rain, or decomposing plant matter. Some plants also release allelochemicals into the air, adding another layer to this chemical competition.READ MORE

Urban Growth and Flood Resiliency: Navigating Environmental and Social Challenges in Urban Settings

Wildlands is embarking on a series of Flood Resilience articles that delve into flood-resilient projects’ social and environmental challenges and opportunities. This article specifically focuses on urban landscapes, the backdrop for some of our society’s most pressing challenges and promising opportunities.

With all the benefits of urban development, there are various environmental and infrastructure management challenges, intermingled with social challenges that all present as important considerations in our environmental restoration, recreational, and community enhancement work. They range from increased risk of flooding to impacts on water quality and aquatic habitat degradation and displacement. However, as cities continue to expand and redevelop, the need for effective flood mitigation, water quality, and ecological restoration solutions to manage these development impacts is gaining an increasing amount of recognition. These solutions, when implemented, can bring about a positive change, improving the environment and our quality of life, instilling hope for a more resilient and sustainable future.READ MORE