THE LIPHOOK FOREST FUMIGATION PROJECT - STUDIES OF SULFUR-DIOXIDE AND OZONE EFFECTS ON CONIFEROUS TREES

The Liphook Forest Fumigation Project is a long-term field study of the effects of sulphur dioxide (SO2) and ozone (O3) on the coniferous ecosystem including the growth and performance of three species of conifer: Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr, Picea abies (L.) Karsten and Pinus sylvestris L. Seven experimental plots (diameter 50 m) were planted with 200 2-year-old seedlings of each species in 1985. Five of the plots receive computer-controlled fumigation treatments with two levels of SO2 fumigation (annual means 14 and 24 ppb; parts in 10(9) by volume), one level of O3 fumigation (1.5 times ambient) and the combination of these treatments. SO2 fumigation commenced in early 1987 and O3 fumigation in early 1988. Over 35 studies are in progress at the site including work on tree growth, physiology, nutrient status, litter decomposition, soil chemistry, root growth, insects, micro-organisms, throughfall chemistry and lichens. This wide range of studies using a large number of trees under realistic environmental conditions demonstrates the potential of this method for investigating air-pollutant effects on forest ecology.