Cloudbridge Landslide Recovery Study by Ian Giddy Purpose Landslides are integral events in the life of a tropical montane forest. They result from heavy rains and the accumulation of heavy, moisture-laden tree and other plant matter on the steeps slopes on mountain forests. But what is the sequence of regowth following a landslide in a forest? Can full recovery occur within a few decades, or how long does it take? What is the succession of plant recovery? In particular, how does recovery take place in a Costa Rican cloud forest environment? Following heavy downpours and hillside slides on a nature reserve in southern Costa Rica, we decided to test the recovery capacity of vegetation over subsequent years, using photography and an estimate of the composition of vegetation cover. The study was started in December 2007. Method The method is simple. We identify 2 easily viewed landslide sites that represent different conditions of exposure and slope. Both are near the Chirripo River and within about 150 meters of Casa Amanzimtoti on the Cloudbridge Nature Reserve.
This is an ongoing study. The initial baseline data consist of a set of photographs taken on December 27, 2007. Thumbnails of these photographs appear below, along with site descriptions.
Reseachers must bring independent funding for their projects, including travel and living expenses. The cost of living in San Gerardo is low. Send us some information about your research qualifications, what you wish to study, and when you can come. If your project is accepted, we'll assist in finding accommodation and provide access to the reserve. We'll also publish the results of the research on the Cloudbridge website. To discuss your ideas, contact Ian & Genevieve Giddy (see the contact page). |
