Quantification of root decomposition remains controversial because researchers can not control the process. The literature provides examples in which researchers have limited the size, age and species of roots used in studies, or controlled the onset of decomposition. Others have controlled ambient and/or soil conditions during root growth and decomposition. Still, there is not one quintessential root decomposition methodology that can be utilized across species or ecotomes. Using data from available publications, decay curves will be generated with consideration given to tree species, stand age, root size, temperature and methodology. Predictions of root decomposition and belowground carbon pools will be explored under different management and climate scenarios.