Felix Ponder, Jr.

Title: Research Soil Scientist
Unit: Sustainable Management of Central Hardwood Ecosystems and Landscapes
Previous Unit: Ecology & Management of Central Hardwood Ecosystems
Address: Northern Research Station
202 ABNR Bldg., University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO 65211-7260
Phone: 573-681-5575
E-mail: Contact Felix Ponder, Jr.

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Education

• Ph. D., Southern Illinois University, 1978; Botany
• M.S., Tuskegee University, 1971; Soil Chemistry
• B.S., Fort Valley State College, 1969; Agronomy

Civic & Professional Affiliations

America Society of Agronomy, Soil Science Society of America, Walnut Council, Missouri Association of Professional Soil Scientists

Current Research

I investigate changes in forest floor, belowground activity, nutrient cycling, and vegetation growth following disturbances associated with soil disturbances. A major portion of my research is in the upland oak/hickory forest and in artificially regenerated stands of oak, black walnut, and shortleaf pine. The results of my research will be used to develop guidelines for healthy forests, sustaining and protecting long-term soil productivity of Central Hardwood forest ecosystems. To protect this soil productivity, it is important to understand the effects of forest soil disturbance on nutrient losses, soil porosity, moisture, temperature, and other belowground activity and their interactions on tree and vegetation growth and fruiting. The Missouri long-term productivity study (LTSP), which is replicated in most of the forest types represented in the United States, provides the framework for many of these studies. I also study soil processes and tree responses to ameliorating treatments that increase growth and fruiting of trees. Soil compaction and forest floor disturbance, caused by logging and skid trails and by movement of heavy equipment through the forest, are believed to have detrimental effects on soil productivity. In addition to being a scientist in RWU-4154, I collaborate with other scientists who have LTSP responsibilities.

Why is This Important

The goal of the research is to provide scientific information to public and private land managers to use in making resource management decisions that will improve or sustain current site productivity. Cultural practices that increase tree regeneration, growth of target vegetation, and fruit production increase the value of such landscapes for food, fiber, and wildlife.

Future Research

Ten-year data for the LTSP study are ready to be analyzed. These data will likely lead to new paths of research. The LTSP study will continue for at least one rotation of 80 years. I anticipate studying the long-term impact of weed-free conditions on soil enzyme activity, phospholipid acids, root development and production, and soil organism composition.

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