Kevin Devito

Dr. Kevin Devito is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Alberta's Faculty of Science. His research focuses on landscape eco-hydrology, forest and wetland hydrology, and the impacts of climate and land use on boreal ecosystems. He leads studies in the Utikuma Region Study Area (URSA), Alberta, investigating hydrogeology, wildfire effects, and peatland dynamics. He collaborates on oil sands reclamation strategies and teaches courses like BIOL 333/REN R 333 (Wetland Science and Management).

Dr. Devito’s research examines regional climate-hydrology linkages, perched peatlands, and riparian zone roles in boreal forests. His work integrates field studies, remote sensing, and numerical modeling to address environmental challenges such as land reclamation and climate change impacts. He participates in NSERC CREATE programs and has authored/co-authored over 100 peer-reviewed articles on hydrology, biogeochemistry, and ecosystem resilience.

Advising and grants: Dr. Devito mentors students in hydrology and wetland ecology, with projects funded by NSERC, Alberta-Pacific Forest Products, and industry partnerships. His lab focuses on designing sustainable reclamation practices and understanding post-wildfire ecosystem recovery.

Labs/teams: His research group collaborates with the Canadian Oil Sands Network for Research and Development (CONRD), the Land Reclamation International Graduate School (LRIGS), and international hydrology networks. Key sites include the Utikuma Study Area and reclaimed oil sands landscapes near Fort McMurray.