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Use of dendrochronology and dendrochemistry in environmental forensics: does it meet the Daubert criteria?
| Authors: | Jean Christophe Balouet, Kevin T. Smith, Don Vroblesky, Gil Oudijk |
| Year: | 2009 |
| Type: | Scientific Journal |
| Station: | Northern Research Station |
| Source: | Environmental Forensics. 10: 268-276. |
Download (PDF 77 KB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/34253.pdf
Abstract
Dendrochronological methods have been in use for more than 100 years, providing us a record of climate, human activities (archaeology), floods, fire, mudslides and other geological and biological events. More recently, dendrochemisty has been used to assess the time frames of the onset and existence of environmental contamination. This article assesses the scientific status of dendrochronology and dendrochemistry with respect to the admissibility of expert testimony and Daubert legal criteria. The purpose of this article is to identify the crucial scientific aspects of dendrochronology and dendrochemistry that address the Daubert criteria and Rule 702 as amended in 2000.