An old oak tree approaches its end
Yesterday, I was sorry to see severe damage to an old oak tree that I like. We had months of extreme drought this summer, and then a windstorm or two when we finally got a few showers.
Besides the large broken branch that left a gaping wound, it looks like some of its other branches have dried out and died back. It will probably still cling to life for a while, but the decline is irreversible.
The broken branch isn't very obvious from the highway, so I didn't notice it until I turned on the side road and drove by the tree yesterday. It was a shock to see.
I've been watching this tree for 15 years. Most of its top has been dead for several years. I think that was caused by a lightning strike. Every spring, I wonder if it will leaf out again.
I think this oak is probably over 200 years old. It has watched the traffic on the "Russellville Road" in Christian County, Kentucky, for a long, long time. I'm glad I've had the chance to enjoy and appreciate it.
Technorati tags: 
"The power to recognize trees at a glance without examining their leaves or flowers or fruit as they are seen, for example, from the car-window during a railroad journey, can only be acquired by studying them as they grow under all possible conditions over wide areas of territory. Such an attainment may not have much practical value, but once acquired it gives to the possessor a good deal of pleasure which is denied to less fortunate travelers."
2 comments -- please add yours:
Thank you for showing us such a beauty. She has lived a long life and will continue to provide for woodpeckers and such as she passes. I'm sure!
You're right, Chris. The larger dead branches at the top of the tree are probably already a good perch for vultures and birds of prey.
Post a Comment