This US Department of Agriculture publication contains 2 volumes: Conifers and Hardwoods. The handbook provides scientific names, general descriptions, habitats, ranges, climate, soils, associated forest cover, life history, uses, hybrids, and genetics information for over 200 North American trees. A glossary is available, as well as a summary and explanation of general tree characteristics, insect ... Full description.

This audio lecture features scientists who examine the unusually high mortality rate of sugar maple and red spruce trees as a means of illuminating broader issues affecting forests of the Northeastern United States. The scientists discuss the decline of these species and whether it is a local phenomenon, or if it is indicative of larger regional-scale disturbances. Data is presented from study stands ... Full description.

This tutorial discusses the concept of forest succession, the stages of development which forest plants follow as they grow or re-grow following an event such as a forest fire or insect infestation. Topics include the role of pioneer species, the transition to longer-lived plants such as lodgepole pine, Douglas fir, and subalpine fir, and the transition to climax species such as cedars, hemlocks and ... Full description.

This page, from the University of Illinois Extension, has an animated cartoon designed to help 3rd through 5th grade students gain an appreciation of trees, observe trees in their everyday lives, and develop an interest in discovering more about trees. It is intended for adults to work with children to explore the secret life of trees. It meets several of the Illinois statewide learning goals for ... Full description.

This information sheet discusses the ability of trees in major Colorado forest types to withstand fire damage or reestablish after a fire. Characteristics such as thickness of the bark, rooting depth, needle length, bud size, and degree of scorch contribute to the resistance and survival of a tree after a fire event. The effects on seed reserves and the ability of aspen trees, many shrubs, and grasses ... Full description.

Scientists analyzing tree ring data to measure the growth of white spruce trees in the Arctic report that their findings contradict the widely held scientific belief that a warmer Arctic climate should spur rapid plant growth. The data suggests that upland white spruce trees aren't benefiting from a warmer climate. This radio broadcast from 2000 reports on that research and explains how a more arid ... Full description.

Created by and for firefighters, this clearinghouse provides links to State and Federal agencies involved in fire and emergency services. There are training programs and links to resources related to emergency preparedness, emergency medical services, fire prevention and hazardous materials. Full description.

This non-profit, professional association represents members of the global wildland fire community. The purpose of the association is to facilitate communication and provide leadership for the wildland fire community. The site provides information about membership, periodicals (Wildfire Magazine and the Journal of Wildland Fire), documents and reports from safety and fire summit meetings, upcoming ... Full description.

This National Park Service (NPS) website highlights the geology of Olympic National Park in Washington state. It discusses the mountains and rocks of the park, Ice Age features (Puget Sound), coastal features, and forests of the area. There are links to park maps, visitor information, and additional resources. Full description.

This article explains the importance of forests in the carbon cycle and why they must be preserved. Topics include carbon sequestration in forests and strategies for forest-based mitigation of global warming. It further states that measures to protect, restore, and sustainably manage forests can offer significant climate change mitigation potential and that forest-based measures can be an effective ... Full description.