Gowri Nagendrappa
Maîtrise
Identification des processus et des facteurs affectant la dégradation des chemins forestiers gravelés de l’est du Canada
Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Directeur: Osvaldo Valeria
Codirecteur: François Girard
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CURRENT RESEARCH PROJECT
Forest gravel roads are essential infrastructure supporting forestry and mining across Canada's vast boreal forests and providing access for emergency and recreational purposes. Spanning over a million kilometres, particularly in the eastern boreal forest, these roads face maintenance challenges due to varying site conditions, construction standards, and operational practices. Despite their importance, significant knowledge gaps exist in understanding the factors influencing road quality (bearing capacity). Previous research has often focused on individual aspects of road degradation, neglecting the holistic view necessary for effective management. This research aims to understand how abiotic factors (drainage ditches, soil deposits, and slope), building standards (roads layer thickness, width, and aggregate composition), and operational practices (time since last maintenance and wood transportation flow) impact the overall quality of the road.
By identifying and analyzing the critical factors influencing road quality, this study will offer valuable insights into the operational and structural dynamics of forest gravel roads. These insights will be instrumental in informing future maintenance protocols and ensuring the roads are maintained efficiently and sustainably. This research is pivotal for ensuring the structural integrity and functionality of forest roads, which are crucial for the economic and ecological sustainability of Canada's forested regions.
ACADEMIC TRAINING
- Master's degree in Ecology and Management of Forest Ecosystems. University of Quebec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada (2023 - to date).
- Master's degree in Natural Resource Management. University of Dharwad, Karnataka, India (2021 - 2023).
- Bachelor's degree in Forestry. College of Forestry, Ponnampet, University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga, India (2017 - 2021).
