Biographical Information about Bernard Bormann

Bernard Bormann is the principal forest ecologist and team leader in the ecosystem processes program with the USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station in Corvallis, Oregon. He is also courtesy professor in the Department of Forest Science at Oregon State University. He received his master’s degree from the University of Washington, Botany Department in plant ecology and soils and his PhD from Oregon State University’s Department of Forest Science in forest physiology.

The focus of his work in research and application is on management impacts and natural processes controlling long-term ecosystem productivity. He has active studies in Oregon, Washington, and Alaska, including effects of pioneering plants on soil productivity, rates of mineral weathering, and nitrogen fixation; and effects of windthrow on soils and streamwater chemistry.

He has a keen interest in speeding learning through adaptive management by integrating research and management to help sustain ecosystems. His work includes active management experiments in coastal Oregon, including a 16,000 acre replicated study comparing alternate approaches to achieve the Northwest Forest Plan.