Dead or Alive - the great Spuce tree

Dead 

Kindling from the lower branches is the best for starting fires, or all branches. if the whole tree is dead

- The whole tree can be butchered for kindling and wood.

- Sap on bark is the best starter for a match or lighter starter.

- The dead needles can be piled for insulation to sleep in and under at night. This is not an exaggeration; they are dry, and this really works.

- Old sap can be chewed like gum.

Alive 

- Needles provide chlorophyll and other antioxidants all year, all seasons.

- You can sleep on the branches for comfort.

- The raw fresh gum is antioxidant-rich.

- Spring buds are tasty, soft, sour, and not bitter for a vitamin boost.

- The whole tree canopy is great for cover from rain or snow.

- The inner bark is actually quite delicious after the bitterness wears off.