  Understanding tree carbon and water relations across a precipitation gradient |
| Encroachment of woody vegetation in grassland regions is a relatively recent phenomenon frequently linked to changing land use, but it is unclear how climate and land use will interact to shape vegetation patterns in the future. We are studying the stable isotopes of carbon and oxygen in tree rings across the Midwestern precipitation gradient to explore how tree carbon and water relations are influenced by climate in this region, and to make predictions about tree species' abilities to adapt to altered climate in the future. |