IPR can be thought of as the catalyst for initiating environmental transformation, but it is enhanced by other techniques and processes that will be used in our approach. These processes work together synergistically to systematically modify the environment – by strengthening the regional water cycle. While some of these concepts have been appreciated in the past, ongoing research is revealing how they may be applied as important aspects of our methodology.

Bio-Precipitation

Atmospheric moisture alone is not enough to create precipitation. For precipitation to occur, particles are needed to help water vapor condense into liquid cloud droplets, and then for these tiny droplets to grow into larger drops that are heavy enough to fall. Cloud-condensing nuclei (CCN) are particles in the atmosphere that help water vapor condense to liquid droplets. Ice nuclei (IN) are another type of particle that provide the “seed” for supercooled drops to freeze and then aggregate other supercooled droplets. CCN and IN are composed of different constituents; often dust particles, various volatile organic compounds, bacterial cells, etc.. CNN are highly abundant in the atmosphere, however when IN aren’t readily available, precipitation may be reduced or may not even occur.

Figure 1: The role of Bio-Precipitation in rain and snowfall

Figure 1: The role of Bio-Precipitation in rain and snowfall

Recent research indicates that certain bacteria may be some of the most effective IN, because they initiate ice crystal formation (nucleation) at warmer temperatures than other IN, increasing the chance that clouds will produce rain or snow1,2. Most IN require temperatures to drop below -10 deg C (14 deg F) to form ice crystals, however the bacteria can work at much warmer temperatures. This increase in the temperature for ice nucleation corresponds to a significant increase in the probability of rain or snowfall. While some species of these bacteria are considered agricultural pests, others do not have this drawback.

This video does a really good job of describing the concept, which shows great promise for further increasing regional rainfall when used in conjunction with IPR.

Carbon Farming

Carbon farming describes various agricultural techniques which remove atmospheric carbon dioxide and store it as carbon in the soil, where it aids plant growth. Increased soil carbon content usually also improves infiltration of water into the soil, reducing erosion and run-off while increasing ground-water retention. While carbon farming is usually associated with changes in agricultural processes, new research shows that it can also work to reverse desertification, and improve pastures and grasslands (as shown in this video).

Carbon farming3 holds great promise for improving the environment, food and water security, and climate change mitigation efforts.

Synergies of Concepts

These concepts rely upon natural processes that can become self-sustaining. This is important for managing initial and recurring costs, and increasing long-term benefits and financial returns. Applying these concepts enhances the effects of IPR, and supports the ultimate goal of favorably transforming the regional environment and climate.

  1. Cindy E. Morris, Franz Conen, J. Alex Huffman, Vaughan Phillips, Ulrich Poschl and David Sands (2014) Bioprecipitation: a feedback cycle linking Earth history, ecosystem dynamics and land use through biological ice nucleators in the atmosphere, Global Change Biology. 2014 20;341-351.  Doi:10.1111/gcb.12447

  2. Cindy E. Morris (2018) Phytobiomes Contribute to Climate Processes that Regulate Temperature, Wind, Cloud Cover, and Precipitation, Phytobiomes Journal. 2018 Vol 2, #2
    Pages 55-61. Retrieved Dec 21 2018, from https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/10.1094/PBIOMES-12-17-0050-P

  3. Moises Velasquez-Manoff (2018) Can Dirt Save the Earth?, New York Times, April 8, 2018.  Retrieved Oct 21 2018, from https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/18/magazine/dirt-save-earth-carbon-farming-climate-change.html