Alder is common along stream banks at lower elevation, seldom reaching 15 feet in height. When burned, the wood does not throw sparks or make much ash, making it an excellent fuel for smoking fish, meat, and hides. The twigs and inner bark produce a useful red dye. In addition to their human uses, Alders are an important colonizing species providing critical habitat for songbirds like the yellowrumped warbler.
Glacier National Park
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service