Tree samples (cookies) give dendroecologists a better understanding of environmental changes that have occurred in the past. Tree cookies can also provide a better understanding of fire histories through the fire scars left on the cookies.
This Jeffrey Pine Tree Cookie is from Plumas National Forest
How to read... a tree cookie? |
~ Each ring represents one year of growth.
~ Light tan rings showcase early wood. As the cell walls get thicker, it is late wood. ~ A dry year can result in a narrow ring, while a wet year can result in a wide ring. ~ Fire scars can provide evidence of historical fire seasonality. |