The Ecology Center has over 20 acres of woodland that borders a creek. Many big, old trees are within those woods: Cottonwood, Sycamore, Black Walnut, White Oak, Black Oak, Silver Maple and American Elm among many other tree species. Seeing the biggest trees down broke my heart.
Here are a few pictures of the same tree. This picture shows that the ground was pulled up, exposing the roots.
This is the other side of that big clod of earth.
And here is the tree that pulled the ground up when it fell.
I took many pictures of the damage Mayhem left in its wake and none of them do justice to the destruction. The whine of chainsaws could be heard first thing this morning and I found a trio of men in hard hats working on the black walnut tree. It was a big beautiful tree too.
Snapped trees was a frequent sight all over the Ecology Center
And countless times I came across trees that had fallen across the trail, forcing me to create my own path. In this picture, the path is blocked by two trees.
Of course the first thing I thought of when I arrived were the chickadees residing in the nest box in the woods. A large part of a tree had fallen very close to the box, but the box and the residents within, were unharmed.
Over the last few years the Ecology Center has started planted new young trees within the woods. I know I won't see these trees mature in my lifetime, but it's reassuring to know that someone in the future will appreciate their beauty.
Mayhem's weekend visit has reminded me not to take all of the big, old trees for granted. When the sun is shining and the paths are cleared, I will go out and take more photos of those beautiful trees still standing.
I feel like having a service everytime we lose a tree here. I have been nurturing some small trees and am beginning to see some good results.
ReplyDeleteSome tree species grow faster than others but they are all beautiful. Glad you are taking care of some youngsters! :)
ReplyDeleteWOW! That is some damage.
ReplyDeleteBut think of how many species may flourish, now that they can get sunlight that was blocked out by the big trees.
Nature has a way of restoring balance.
Aww thanks Hillbilly Mom, I didn't think of the silver lining in this cloud of darkness. I know that's a bit extreme, but it did break my heart. I'm guessing next spring we'll see more flowers and maybe even some smaller trees like dogwoods pop up.
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