**About the Editor**

**Robert G. Qualls** is Professor Emeritus in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science at the University of Nevada, USA. He received a B.S. in Biology, with Honors in Biology and Honors in Creative Writing at the University of North Carolina. He received an M.S.P.H. in Environmental Science and Engineering from the University of North Carolina and a Ph.D. in Ecology from the University of Georgia, while completing research at the Coweeta Hydrologic Laboratory. He was later an Assistant Research Professor at Duke University, working on biogeochemical cycles in the Everglades of Florida. He has taught courses in Microbial Ecology, Wetland Ecology and Management, Forest and Range Soils, Soil Genesis and Classification, Natural Resource Ecology, Biodiversity, Conservation and Humans, and Ecology of Flowing Waters. After some early research work in ultraviolet light disinfection of bacteria and viruses, and kinetics of reactions of oxidizing chlorine with humic substances, his research work has centered on the biogeochemistry of forests, wetlands, and streams. This work has included dissolved organic matter dynamics, primary succession, and soil organic matter formation, root production during succession, formation and decomposition of humic substances, protein content in dissolved organic matter, the bioavailability of N and P in rivers and lakes, and ecophysiology of invasive plants. Dr. Qualls has also been a Visiting Professor at Yokohama National University in Japan. He received the "Pioneer of Disinfection Award" from the International Water Association and the Water Environment Association. He currently serves as the Editor for the journal Forests. Outside the academic arena, he is the current (2019) U.S.A. Outdoor Track and Field Champion in the 5000 and 10,000 meter runs in his age group. He, and the three other members of his relay team, hold a current world record in the 65–69 year age group for the 4 × 800 meter relay.
