VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Forest Soils in a Changing Environment
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:08:08
Abstract
The students are measuring carbon and nutrient fluxes in forest soils under a changing climate and land-use. In laboratory and field experiments, they are manipulating climatic conditions (temperature, drought) and quantify the response of C and N fluxes in soils, and plant-soil interactions. The results will be interpreted and discussed in the context of changes in climate and land-use.
Objective
The students get first-hand experience with field and laboratory methods to measure carbon and nutrient fluxes and the application of stable isotope techniques. They shall learn about physico-chemical properties of Swiss forest soils, how these properties determine the ecological functions of soils and how soils respond to changes in climate and land-use. Finally the students shall interpret, discuss and present their experimental data.
Content
1. Introduction to the ecological functions of Swiss forest soils 2. Measurement of soil CO2 efflux, carbon and nutrient leaching in forest and grassland soils 3. Sampling and preparation of litter and soil samples from selected soil profiles under different land-uses 4. Setting-up laboratory experiments in microcosms. Measurement of soil respiration and leaching of carbon, nutrients and/or contaminants in climate chambers under different environmental conditions. 5. Analyses of litter, soil, and soil water for selected physical and chemical properties. 6. Learning and applying stable isotope techniques for quantifying turnover of soil carbon and their microbial communities. 7. Interpretation and final presentation of data
Resources
Lecture Notes
A manual will be distributed during the course.
Literature
Selected publications will be distributed during the course.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- ungraded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| practical/laboratory course |
Forest Soils in a Changing Environment
Ort: WSL in Birmensdorf
|
No time listed | 4 h weekly |
Offered In
-
-
-
Major in Forest and Landscape Management (from HS25 onwards) (Students who start the specialization in Forest and Landscape Management in HS25 or later study according to the 2013 regulations, edition 29.04.2025 - 8. The new structure of this specialization is shown in the current VVZ. Students who started the specialization in Forest and Landscape Management before HS25 can complete the specialization in accordance with the study guide 2024/25.)
-
-