UVM Theses and Dissertations
Format:
Print
Author:
Doshi, Samir K.
Dept./Program:
Natural Resources
Year:
2011
Degree:
PhD
Abstract:
This dissertation proposes a new collaborative design to help develop resilient and sustainable communities in the Appalachian coalfields, utilizing local knowledge, infrastructures and stewardship. The communities of the Appalachian coalfields represent a complex system with a rich cultural history that has interacted with its ecology on many scales and levels.
The foundation of the regenerative design model is to restore the minesoils of degraded coal-mined landscapes. This study evaluates with alternative restoration applications in the form of Native Warm Season Grasses (NWSG). The objective of this study is to determine the efficacy of soil restoration through NWSG as well as biofuel feedstock production. Varieties of switchgrass, big bluestem and Atlantic coastal panicgrass were seeded on reclaimed mine lands in the summer of 2007. Results from changes in soil physics and chemistry show improved soil health as of 2010. Aboveground yields show a net energy ratio and potential for small-scale local biofuel production.
The study then evaluated community resilience strategies and capacity of Appalachian coalfield communities. Using the four-phase model of community resilience as a framework, a qualitative community based participatory action research case study was performed through four years of interviews, surveys, focus groups, and dialogue in the region. Using the concept mapping and conversational modeling software tool Compendium, relationships and initiatives are mapped to understand current dynamics and how communities can increase their resilience capacity.
Although it produces less than 5% of all U.S. electricity, mountaintop removal coal mining (MTR) has dramatically affected the ecology, economy and overall sustainability of Appalachian coalfield communities. Before a new design model can be proposed for the region, the carbon emissions of the entire life cycle of MTR are calculated. The carbon .emissions per kilowatt-hour of MTR are compared with other forms of electricity production and recommendations are made on how to best manage coal mining in the development of Appalachian coalfield communities.
By incorporating the social, economic and ecological research of this study, a new theory of ecological design is proposed to restore the degraded landscapes of the Appalachian coalfields and regenerate a new and invigorated economy. The theory includes three orders of ecological design that work in a succession similar to a natural ecosystem.
The foundation of the regenerative design model is to restore the minesoils of degraded coal-mined landscapes. This study evaluates with alternative restoration applications in the form of Native Warm Season Grasses (NWSG). The objective of this study is to determine the efficacy of soil restoration through NWSG as well as biofuel feedstock production. Varieties of switchgrass, big bluestem and Atlantic coastal panicgrass were seeded on reclaimed mine lands in the summer of 2007. Results from changes in soil physics and chemistry show improved soil health as of 2010. Aboveground yields show a net energy ratio and potential for small-scale local biofuel production.
The study then evaluated community resilience strategies and capacity of Appalachian coalfield communities. Using the four-phase model of community resilience as a framework, a qualitative community based participatory action research case study was performed through four years of interviews, surveys, focus groups, and dialogue in the region. Using the concept mapping and conversational modeling software tool Compendium, relationships and initiatives are mapped to understand current dynamics and how communities can increase their resilience capacity.
Although it produces less than 5% of all U.S. electricity, mountaintop removal coal mining (MTR) has dramatically affected the ecology, economy and overall sustainability of Appalachian coalfield communities. Before a new design model can be proposed for the region, the carbon emissions of the entire life cycle of MTR are calculated. The carbon .emissions per kilowatt-hour of MTR are compared with other forms of electricity production and recommendations are made on how to best manage coal mining in the development of Appalachian coalfield communities.
By incorporating the social, economic and ecological research of this study, a new theory of ecological design is proposed to restore the degraded landscapes of the Appalachian coalfields and regenerate a new and invigorated economy. The theory includes three orders of ecological design that work in a succession similar to a natural ecosystem.