Oklahoma Water

Resources Center

Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering is hosting Dr. Jia Yang, assistant professor from the Department of Natural Resources Ecology and Management at Oklahoma State University, as a BAE seminar speaker on Friday, Sep. 26, 11:00am - 12:00 pm, 207 Ag Hall. 

 

Presentation title: Water, Wildfire, and Woody Plant Encroachment under a Changing Climate in the Southern Great Plains

 

Abstract: Terrestrial ecosystems in the Southern Great Plains (SGP) have undergone substantial changes in recent decades, driven by climate variability, altered wildfire regimes, and intensified human activities. This presentation highlights the challenges these ecosystems face and projects how they may evolve in the future. Such insights are critical for stakeholders seeking to make long-term preparations and to develop effective management strategies that support adaptation to a changing environment.

 

Bio: Dr. Jia Yang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management at Oklahoma State University. He received his Ph.D. from Auburn University in 2015. His research focuses on ecosystem patterns and dynamics in response to climate change and land disturbances. He primarily uses process-based ecosystem and hydrological modeling in combination with satellite remote sensing. His research interests include wildfire regimes and their impacts, water resource availability, and terrestrial ecosystem dynamics.