https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/186424181
The discovery of the Sitka Alder on this blustery day in Homer, a place most Alaskans know for its rugged coastal beauty and abundant wildlife, gave me insight into the tenacity of native plant species in the face of challenging environmental conditions. Its multifaceted role in promoting biodiversity, stabilizing coastal ecosystems, and offering sustenance to wildlife (Sitka alder) underscores its ecological significance in our region.
The Sitka Alder, an integral part of Alaska's native flora, is a deciduous shrub belonging to the Alnus genus in the Betulaceae family. Typically ranging in height from 3 to 12 feet (1 to 4 meters), this shrub is instantly recognizable by its serrated leaves, small cones, and its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil through a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria (Frankia Alni.). These traits contribute to its remarkable resilience and adaptability.
Traditionally, Native Alaskans used the Sitka Alder for a number of things from availing themselves fo the tannins found in the bark as a tanning agent, to building sheters , band basketry, as a medicine to treat inflammation, and even a dye to produce shades of red and brown (Turner, Nancy).
As we continue to explore and appreciate the natural wonders around us, it is essential to recognize and protect species like the Sitka Alder. Their contribution to the resilience and beauty of our natural landscapes is a reminder of the intricate web of life that thrives even in the harshest of environments and I’m afraid with all the development around us, we are interfering with that perfect natural balance.
Works Cited
"Frankia Alni." Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 23 May 2023, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frankia_alni#:~:text=Frankia%20alni%20is%20a%20Gram,the%20roots%20of%20alder%20trees. Accessed 6 Oct. 2023.
"Sitka Alder." Biodiversity of the ECentral Coast, 6 Oct. 2023, www.centralcoastbiodiversity.org/sitka-alder-bull-alnus-viridis-ssp-sinuata.html.
Turner, Nancy J. Plants Used by the Haida Indians of Alaska. University of Washington Press, 2005.
Comentarios
Hello Samantha;
I almost chose the Alder this week for my observation and enjoyed reading what you had to say. Near my house, I have several Alders that are well over a small bush size; they are as tall as the Western Hemlock, but maybe it's because they are part of an Old Forest growth and have not been damaged by human hand. Many people I know consider them weed trees because they can take root anywhere and love disturbed soil. They will be some of the first trees to sprout after a landslide here in Southeast. I am constantly removing them from my small garden just outside my door.
I was unaware of "the tannins found in the bark as a tanning agent, to building shelters, band basketry, as a medicine to treat inflammation, and even a dye to produce shades of red and brown (Turner, Nancy)." I did know that Alder is a good wood for use in smokehouses. I have helped gather Alder for friends who are smoking salmon. It is a lovely smoke that isn't too heavy like cedar or the lower 48 hickory taste.
Thank you for your observation-
Gayleen
Turner, Nancy J. Plants Used by the Haida Indians of Alaska. University of Washington Press, 2005.
Hi Sam – Alders are my all-time favorite shrub, I really enjoyed your observation this week. Up in Nome we have a few different types of alders in our area, including the Sitka alder. I love them because they are beautiful and green, because they smell amazing and because my son loves collecting their little cones. The downside in our area is they grow in very thick patches, easily hiding predators when we are out picking berries or fishing. They are not good for burning in a fire but a lot of people burn the limbs, leaves and trucks and use the smoke for smoking fish.
Agregar un comentario