Timberline

The concept of the timberline was important during the expansion of New Empires in the Americas as it marked the limit where settlers could find wood for building and fuel, crucial for survival and expansion. Settlers needed to understand the timberline to determine where they could establish sustainable communities. This knowledge helped them avoid settling in areas where they couldn't gather enough resources. Today, the timberline is still important as it affects where people can build homes, ski resorts, and other structures. For example, if someone wants to build a cabin in the mountains, knowing the timberline helps them choose a location where trees can grow, providing natural shelter from winds and access to firewood.