Dendrology
Green Drop Trees offers detailed dendrochronological services to determine tree age and uncover the environmental history encoded within tree rings. Our approach involves collecting cross-sections—commonly referred to as “cookies”—from trees that have been removed as part of hazard mitigation, development, or ecological projects. This method provides an unobstructed view of annual growth patterns and allows for accurate interpretation of past climatic and biological events.
Once collected, each cookie is carefully dried, sanded, and prepared for analysis. Using high-resolution imaging and specialized software, our team counts and measures annual growth rings to determine the tree’s age and identify periods of stress or disturbance. Variations in ring width can signal specific events such as forest fires, extreme cold winters, drought, pest outbreaks, or root damage—providing a historical record of the tree’s growing environment.
In a recent project, we applied this methodology to analyze the life history of trees in a former forest stand. Our analysis revealed several notable growth anomalies, including a narrow ring pattern consistent with insect defoliation, and a distinct fire scar suggesting a wildfire event decades prior. These insights helped inform both ecological restoration planning and public education efforts surrounding the site’s natural history.
Dendrochronological data can be used in a variety of contexts:
- Urban forest management: Documenting the age and growth rate of legacy or heritage trees
- Ecological and climate research: Tracking historical patterns of drought, fire, and temperature extremes
- Pest and disease studies: Identifying timeframes of biological stress linked to infestations
- Archaeological and land-use studies: Understanding historical land cover and development impacts
By combining field expertise with software-based ring analysis, Green Drop Trees provides scientifically grounded insights that contribute to informed decision-making for planners, researchers, and land managers. Whether the goal is to preserve significant trees, understand historical site conditions, or support academic studies, our tree ring analysis service offers a detailed window into the past—one ring at a time.
Why Work With Us
We are a 100% Canadian-owned, local family business with deep roots in the Prairies. For over 40 years, we’ve proudly served our communities and homes with dedication, care, and expertise.
Our ISA Certified Arborists are internationally recognized and locally trained, committed to upholding the highest standards of safety and quality in every job. We strictly follow the ISA Code of Ethics and continuously strive to deliver professional, reliable, and ethical service.
With Board Certified Master Arborists, Urban Forestry Specialists, and Tree Risk Assessment Qualified professionals on our team, you can trust Green Drop for expert guidance and care in every aspect of tree management.