Lahy, Neve (Westminster College)
Faculty Advisor: Kruback, Matt (Westminster College, Art)
Tree of Trees
Neve Lahy:
The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is a group of national forests within our Wasatch Mountains. The forest is a host to many species of trees, both coniferous and flowering. I have chosen seven of each of the most prominent local cone bearing and flowering trees to focus on.
The trees are a crucial part of the ecosystem and participate in many symbiotic relationships. Without the trees the ecosystem wouldn't survive. It is important to acknowledge the vitality of our local forests not only for us, but for all other organisms dependent on the trees.
A phylogenetic tree is a branching diagram showing the evolutionary relationships among various biological species. Phylogeny is based upon similarities and differences in their physical or genetic characteristics. The branches indicate closeness in relation to one another. The species nearest to each other on the phylogeny are the most closely related organisms based on special derived traits.
Learning how to identify the trees that I am so often surrounded by has brought me a deeper appreciation and love for the organisms around me. Now that I can spend time in trees and know exactly what I am looking at has given me a broader understanding of how the trees not only interact with me but the other ecological factors present in the area. I feel more keenly aware of what it takes to protect these trees and enjoy them more respectfully.