1995-2002

Characterization and Mechanisms of Plant Responses to Ozone in the Northeastern United States

Final Report

Annual Meeting Minutes:  1995     1996-2002

Annual Reports: 1996     1997     1998     1999     2000    2001

Publications

Institutions and Scientists

NE-176 Project Objectives 

•Characterize whole plant responses to ozone, including carbon assimilation and allocation, growth and productivity.

•Identify and delineate primary factors, both biotic and environmental, that determine plant responses to ozone.

•Determine mechanisms of ozone action and plant defense systems using cultivars and genotypes characterized in whole-plant experiments.

NE-176 Project Description
There is a natural beneficial ozone layer in the upper atmosphere that prevents harmful radiation from the sun from reaching the ground and causing skin cancer. At ground-level there is ozone as well, but this ozone can often be harmful to human health.  It also injures plants.

The investigators believe that ground-level ozone is one of the most important air pollutants affecting crop production and forest health.

We need more information on ozone concentrations in agricultural and forested areas, and a better understanding of how plants respond to ozone, before we can tell whether current air standards sufficiently protect vegetation against ozone. 

Scientists representing some 13 research institutions from 11 states are participating in this multi-state research project.