Student information

MSc thesis topic: Mapping the effects of Rewilding on Woody-plant regeneration and Open-woodland Mosaics

Rewilding is a form of nature restoration that gives room for natural processes so as to regenerate self-sustaining resilient ecosystems. Myriads of rewilding initiatives have emerged across the world over the last decades, yet many of the outcomes of rewilding have not been fully empirically ascertained. A particularly controversial outcome of rewilding concerns its potential impact on woody-plant regeneration, shrub encroachment and the maintenance of open-woodland mosaics with relatively high levels of structural heterogeneity.

What: in this project we will evaluate how plant regeneration and structural heterogeneity in open-woodland mosaic landscapes is affected by rewilding. In selected rewilding sites we will:

  • measure the vertical and horizontal structural heterogeneity in vegetation
  • characterize plant regeneration and the demographic structure of trees
  • use aerial images, airborne LiDAR and other remote sensing data to investigate how these have changed over time and space

The student will have the opportunity to interact with a larger team of students at NIOO working on “sister projects” trying to understand the impact of rewilding on biodiversity, Climate Change mitigation & adaptation. The MGI student working on this topic will focus on the use of remote sensing data to investigate changes over time and space.

Where: selected rewilding sites in the Netherlands

Requirements

For who: this project is suitable for an MSc thesis and/or internship, and involves fieldwork and data analysis. A good candidate must show:

  • interest in applying remote sensing techniques for ecosystem restoration
  • experience in GIS, remote sensing and/or the analyses of aerial images
  • ability work in a team & interest in collaborating with international partners
  • experience or interest to learn some basic statistical analyses
  • availability during summer/fall months for developing the project (flexible dates)

Theme(s): Sensing & measuring, Integrated Land Monitoring