Date: Sun, 3 Mar 2013 11:55:57 -0500
From: Margaret Tiano
Subject: Q&A about champion trees
Thanks for the questions about champion trees:
1) Q: I would imagine that the height was measured by triangulation with a site line a measured distance from the base of the tree. Is this correct?
A: Although triangulation is a standard method for measuring the height of trees, since this was a significant record-breaking event, the tall tree hunters climbed the tree and dropped a measuring tape. The National Parks article describes the difficulties they had to overcome to do this.
2) Q: Also interesting the use of “breast height” as a reminder of the origin of a foot as a measurement. I believe it was originally the length of the King of England’s foot, but I don’t remember which king! And the variability of such a measure would apply in this instance too.
A: Like the “foot”, “breast height” has been standardized – at 4.5 feet above the ground. This can vary depending on how the base of the tree is shaped and the slope of the ground around it. When accuracy is desired, several measurements are taken and averaged to find the “right” spot to measure the circumference. There are also guidelines for how to deal with multiple trunks, unusually misshapen trunks, etc.
3) Q: Am also imagining that the diameter has to be a calculated number from a measured circumference. Why not just use the direct measured circumference instead?
Diameter is used to state the measurement because it makes it easier to calculate the board-feet of lumber yielded by a standing tree. Remember the process was developed for measuring trees to be harvested for timber. Grand Trees uses the method provided by the Champion Tree program, but there are others.
The group that measured this particular tree is from The Native Tree Society <www.nativetreesociety.org> They have an in-depth discussion of measurement methods and their work in developing more accurate ones. You’ll find that under the “Measurement Basics” tab.
If you like big trees, you’ll enjoy the photos!
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Tall & short tree tale of the day: If you like feeding the Ruby Throated Hummingbirds, you may already know about the migration tracking maps <www.hummingbirds.net> where people report their first sightings. Last year’s map shows the first sightings in our area to be around the middle of March. However, two native trees in your Chatham back yard (or nearby) will tell you when to get those feeders ready. The Yellow Buckeye is a short understory tree that produces greenish-yellow, tubular shaped flowers in early spring. When these start to bloom, get ready for the literal “early birds” of the migration to appear. Next, watch for the tulip-shaped blooms on the Tulip Poplar (the same as the tall-tree record holder). SInce the trees are tall and the flowers also have a greenish-yellow color, you may not notice the flowers forming unless you look for them. This is when the main mass of the migration will arrive, both those that pass through and the ones that will set up housekeeping here.
Margaret
Outreach Volunteer
Grand Trees of Chatham – Tell us about your favorite tree!