Wednesday December 30, 2009
I've compiled a photo gallery of winter trees and their identifying markers in the dormant season. This gallery will augment your study of trees in winter to better identify tree species without leaves. What is your favorite tree marker or tree part that helps you identify a major tree in winter? Take a picture and send it to me as an email attachment to include in the photo gallery. You will receive full credit for the photo.
Use this gallery and follow my instructions in Winter Tree Identification - A Beginner Guide to Winter Tree Identification. Using your powers of observation, you will find a pleasurable and beneficial way to enhance your skills as a naturalist - even in the dead of winter.
Monday December 28, 2009
A tree identification manual with a key is certainly helpful during a tree's growing season but not as helpful during winter. Developing your overall observation skills and sizing up a tree will be invaluable during the dormant season even as the twig key is tucked away in your warm library. Get to know a tree and its parts, or "markers", and how these parts look in every season - especially in winter.
More on Botanical Markers and Tree Characteristics
More winter identification information:
Persistent Oak Leaves - Photo by Steve Nix
Friday December 25, 2009
How to Hire a Tree Service
An all-purpose handyman driving around you're neighborhood in a pickup truck with a chainsaw may not be suitable for work demanding such a high level of responsibility, says About Landscaping Guide David Beaulieu. He also may not be bonded and with no insurance to protect either his service or your property.
David also insists you be wary of hiring tree services requesting payment in advance or who wish to begin work without having drawn up a free estimate of the cost. In fact, consumers should demand not only an estimate but also a written contract, laying out precisely what the tree limbing job entails and for how much.
Discussion: Should This Man Cut His Own Tree?
Tuesday December 22, 2009
"Your feet are the only two feet you got for your whole life and they will always be the ones who take you where you need to go. Treat them like kings because without them your face would be in the dirt." - Tyson Schultz, Oregon Logger
I ask a group of loggers and foresters several years ago what brand of boot they favored. I tallied their votes in a poll and have listed the top boots in order of popularity. Here are some great recommendations if you need a new pair of boots or plan to give a pair for Christmas.
Photo Courtesy Red Wing Boots
