Efficacy of Activated Carbon as a Restoration Aid in Megathyrsus invaded Areas

We conducted an experimental restoration in Kapolei, Oahu, on an area previously invaded by Megathyrsus maximus. In addition to a control and raking only condition, we tested activated carbon, granulite (locally sourced, biowaste based, biochar) and a combination of activated carbon and granulite. We took samples prior to the restoration, at the 6 month and 1 year mark. We hypothesized that activated carbon would improve restoration outcomes by disrupting soil legacies, potentially driven by the soil microbial community associated with the invasive grass.