Beech Tree Teachings of Resilience in Heat Waves and Flash Droughts.
Video 3m15s
The beech tree’s resilience is tested by disturbances in heat waves and flash droughts. Research by physicist and environmental data scientist Blandine Courcot at DOT-Lab’s forest research site (Quebec, Canada) shows that these trees, a living being, can withstand brief dry periods under moderate stress. However, excessive stress can be fatal. From 2017 to 2020, water potential, soil temperature and weather data were collected to understand this resilience. Courcot’s findings demonstrate American Beech trees in a northern climate maintain stable soil conditions despite high hydric stress and heat. Her research inspired the outdoor art installation ”devenir-hêtre (beech-becoming)” at the Fondation Grantham in May 2023 (Quebec). Ælab and MÉDIANE’s research team presented her data as sensory experiences in an outdoor art installation in a rural forest. It explored the beech tree’s delicate balancing between stress and strength amid changing climates, blending scientific insight with creative expression for public engagement.
Commended Entry with Prize attribution
Creative Climate Challenge no. 5 Heat Waves
https://www.climatecreativeschallenge.com/challenge05
