Counting Tree Rings

Tree cross-sections are a source of all types of information about the tree and the area where that tree was growing. Did you know that examining tree ring patterns can tell us about the climate in the area during the life of the tree? How is that possible? The answer is by knowing about tree biology (i.e. how the tree grows new wood) scientists, called dendrochronologists, can figure out past weather patterns and much more.

Visit the web sites below and learn all the details of tree-ring science! You can even contact the scientists.

Web Links:

The Ultimate Tree Ring Web Pages – A detailed site for tree ring enthusiasts with everything from “the Basics” to links at other dendrochronology sites.

The Laboratory of Tree Ring Research at the University of Arizona – A very detailed and interesting site with good resources for educators.

The Laboratory of Tree-Ring Science at the University of Tennessee – A greatly interesting site. Check out the Tree Ring Tips!

The Tree Ring Society – The TRS is an international society dedicated to tree ring research and education.