Michigan Trees: A Handbook of the Native and Most Important Introduced Species

"Michigan Trees: A Handbook of the Native and Most Important Introduced Species" by Charles Herbert Otis is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This handbook serves as a comprehensive guide to identifying Michigan's native and significant introduced tree species, aimed at both students and the general public. The book seeks to encourage tree study and conservation, emphasizing the importance of understanding local flora. The opening of this handbook outlines its purpose and structure, explaining the impetus behind its creation, which was to foster interest in forestry and tree conservation among residents of Michigan. It details the book's use of artificial keys, a method designed to help readers identify trees by their characteristics throughout the year, whether in summer or winter. The introduction not only recognizes contributors to the work but also lays foundational principles on identifying trees, setting the stage for further detailed descriptions and illustrations of various species found in Michigan's diverse ecosystems.