What is dendrochronology?

Seems like a big word, but the answer is pretty simple. Dendrochronology is the scientific method of tree ring dating. By counting concentric rings, we can tell the age of the tree and also the climate experienced through the life of one particular tree, or a whole forest. Dendrochronologists don’t have to cut a tree down to count the rings along the stump. Boring instruments extract a thin strip of wood that goes all the way to the centre of the tree. Drilling trees this way does not harm them, and gives us a reliable sample to analyze. Dark rings represent wood that grew in late summer and fall, while light coloured rings represent wood that grew in the spring and early summer months, so one dark and light ring represents a year in the life of a tree. Environmental, or climate information can be learned by inspecting tree rings. For example, rainy years, droughts, and even forest fires the tree has survived in the past, and now dendrochronologists are starting to map out the effects of climate change using this scientific method.

The preservation of mature trees is an essential part of urban planning, but it’s important to check their health regularly and take steps to keep them healthy. If you have trees on your property and would like an assessment or consultation on their management, please call us for an on-site appointment and quote. We have over 40 years of experience and the certifications needed to serve our communities on a highly skilled professional level and have developed a reputation for reliable tree and landscaping services in Southwest BC.