# AGS-PRF: Bridging the Gap between Idealized Simulations and Daytime Tower Observations of Forest-Atmosphere Interactions in Complex Terrain

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Torkelson, Gregory Quigley (CA) · $202,000

## Abstract

Significant portions of Earth’s land surface are covered by complex terrain and vegetation.  Simulating the air flow through these areas is key to predicting surface temperature, moisture, and air-quality related measures.  While much research has studied how air flows across terrain or through forested canopies, less research has investigated the combination of these factors.  Another complicating factor is the stability of the atmosphere, or how the structure of the temperature aloft affects whether air rises or falls.  In this project, the researcher will investigate the intersection of these issues by conducting high-resolution numerical modeling runs and comparing the results to observed data.  The results of this research can be used in weather models for improved forecasts in critical areas like agriculture and wildfires.
 
This Postdoctoral Research Fellowship is for the study of atmospheric boundary layer turbulence over complex, vegetated topography across a range of unstable convective conditions.  The core of the project is the extension of the researcher’s prior Large Eddy Simulation (LES) database to include the effects of heat and moisture in unstable daytime conditions.  Nearly 30 LES runs will be conducted in an idealized framework, to address the following two science questions: 1) How do ABL flow physics above forested periodic hills change as unstable stratification is introduced and what is the impact of these new physics on scalar transport, and 2) Can

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2535750
- **Awardee organization:** Torkelson, Gregory Quigley (CA)
- **PI:** Gregory Q Torkelson
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** PHYSICAL & DYNAMIC METEOROLOGY, POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIPS
- **Estimated total:** $202,000
- **Funds obligated:** $202,000
- **Transaction type:** Fellowship Award
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2535750

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2535750, AGS-PRF: Bridging the Gap between Idealized Simulations and Daytime Tower Observations of Forest-Atmosphere Interactions in Complex Terrain. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2535750. Licensed CC0.

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