Development of Tree Ring – C Climate Relationships in Boreal Forests

Mining operations in the Oil Sands area can affect extensive areas of boreal forest. Those forested areas affected by mining are expected to be reclaimed by mining companies to re-establish their natural conditions after the exploitation ends. The long©term success of reclamation plans can be assessed with ecological models that simulate how different environmental factors affect tree growth and development. Climate is possibly the most important factor influencing plant growth. In this project, a data base of tree ring widths for different years will be assembled along with a corresponding series of historical climate records from local weather stations. A series of statistical equations will then be developed that describe the relationship between annual tree ring width and climate. Results of this research will be used in the development of an ecosystem model (FORECAST©climate) designed to explore the ecological consequences of climate change on forest growth and mine reclamation practices.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. James P. (Hamish) Kimmins

Student:

Juan A. Blanco

Partner:

FORRx Consulting Inc.

Discipline:

Forestry

Sector:

Forestry

University:

University of British Columbia