Researchers use satellites, tagging trees to help prevent wildfires in Flagstaff [Video]

FLAGSTAFF, AZ (AZFamily) — Coconino County is home to the largest ponderosa pine forest in the world, so monitoring what impacts these trees’ health can help the state determine how to fix it.

Researchers from Northern Arizona’s Ecosystem Science Innovation Lab measured, chipped and drilled a small device into ponderosa pines in Flagstaff.

Lab associate director Amy Wolkowinsky said the device tracks how trees respond to stress.

“Tag key species with field instruments like dendrometers which measure the amount of shrinkage and expansion in a tree overnight over the course of a day over the course of time and that is one way we can evaluate tree stress,” Wolkowinsky said.

The lab received funding from the state to conduct these surveys in forests across Arizona.

Wolkowinsky said the overall goal is reducing wildfire risk. “Better identify tree stress so that forests can be managed to help prevent high-stress conditions that could be conducive …