Professors Write New Book on Ozark Forest Science

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University of Arkansas professors Frederick Paillet and Steven Stephenson have published a new book on the science of Northwest Arkansas' scenery. Titled Ozark Forest Forensics, The Science Behind the Scenery in our Regional Forests, the work aims to enhance a walk in the woods with accessible information aimed at the lay person with an interest in the natural world.

"Our forest forensics book is carefully designed to enhance the enjoyment of a walk in the woods by providing insights into the forested landscape that might otherwise go unnoticed by the casual observer," said Paillet. "These insights cover more than just trees, including such subjects as branch and canopy structure, erosional processes that shape stream channels and rock ledges, interaction of plants and their pollinators, and the effect of diseases and other pathogens on the tree population."

Because field photographs can be cluttered and confusing, the book uses unambiguous line drawings to present the intended lessons, Paillet said. "Our chapters present information that is directly related to things that the hiker can be expected to see or experience on the trail, and the book is designed to fit neatly into the hiker's backpack."

Paillet is an adjunct professor who conducts research related to geophysics, hydrology and paleoecology. Stephenson is a research professor in the biology department. The book is published by the Ozark Society Foundation.