Research
In 1988-89 a factorial trial called Salal Cedar Hemlock Integrated Research Program (SCHIRP) was established on Northern Vancouver Island to analyze growth effects of scarification, fertilization and tree density on western red cedar (Thuja plicata Donn ex D. Don) and western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla (Raf.) Sarg.) at two very distinctive forest types; low-productive “CH” and medium-productive “HA”. My research is looking to find the most productive combination of silvicultural treatments per specific site. To investigate the latest responses to all silviculture treatments tested on these sites and compare with their respective costs of implementation, a cost-benefit analysis of each treatment and its potential for carbon credits associated with faster growth and Carbon sequestration will also be calculated. Through this study I hope to develop an accurate recommendation to enhance productivity of the sites and an improved forest management strategy for the forestry sector of Northern Vancouver Island.
Background
After 2 years in Geography I transferred and graduated from the Forestry Engineering program at the Universidade Federal de Viçosa (UFV) in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Throughout my five-year honours program, I worked on some important research projects in a diverse range of subjects, including silvicultural practices, entomology, forest economics, soil science, energy and nutrient cycling. Interests in my current area of research were sparked by my two year participation in the UFV research group of carbon and energy studies. From this, I was selected to be part in an innovative project sponsored by the Minas Gerais state government, private industries, the Brazilian Federal forestry police and UFV. This project aimed to aid impoverished farmers surrounding UFV in developing techniques and silvicultural practices. I helped to develop creative ways to apply or improvise existing techniques with the main purpose of increasing profit and growth potential of their forests without imposing a risk to the environment. All these projects together with my undergraduate final thesis on economic analysis of saw wood exportation, led me to look for a masters project in a similar field at UBC. Fortunately, Dr. Cindy Prescott with a partnership of the forest company WFP accepted my request.
Fun
Despite the fact that lately you will probably find me mostly in my office at UBC working hard, I would say that my biggest hobby would be 35mm film photography… I just love it! I like to shoot other things besides just pictures. I have recently been introduced to hunting sports during my time in the North of Vancouver Island. Another one of my favorite past times (and most people would agree with this) is that I love to talk! There is nothing I find more interesting than a great conversation with friends, family and colleagues. I also use to train and couch boxing as well, but I discovered that watching boxing on TV is less painful and still lots of fun. Finally, I would say that I also like to play most other sport that could be deemed “beer-league” with the only condition that there should be more beer than sport (so feel free to invite me for any league with that criteria!!!).
Degree
MSc with Cindy Prescott