Research Mentor:Dr. Michele Pruyn
Why/how did you get involved with the program?
I knew Dr. Pruyn from having classes with her and she told me she was planning on continuing/improving last year REU project. She knew I was interested in tree physiology and asked me if I would be interested in working with her. So I applied because it seemed like an interesting study and I wanted to get some more research experience.
What is your project?
We're comparing water properties (sapflow, root conductivty, and stem relative water content)in Yellow birch across 3 elevations on the Mt. Kineo trail.
Why is it important?
Yellow birch have been declining most likely because of thaw-freeze events. We're looking at water availability and determing if it plays a role in their distribution.
And finally....what is your favorite piece of gear?
The increment corer, used to take core samples from trees.
