Forest Forensics: A Field Guide to Reading the Forested Landscape - Tom Wessels (paperback)

Author Tom Wessels is a forest ecologist and professor emeritus at Antioch University New England. He has spent 50 years studying forest, desert, arctic, and alpine ecosystems around the world, but has a special fondness for Mount Desert Island, where he recently retired. “Forest Forensics” is a resource for discerning features of the landscape that tell of its history. For example, observing the topography of the ground may reveal “pillows” (mounds) and “cradles” (depressions) in close proximity. These can be indicative that long ago, a large tree blew over, its roots unearthing tangled soil and rocks, leaving a “cradle.” After years of decomposition, the roots, soil, and rocks create a nearby mound. 

Uniquely formatted as a dichotomous key, richly illustrated, and perfectly palm or pack-sized, this book is an excellent tool that will bring greater depth of understanding and intimacy to your outdoor excursions. 160 pages.