WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST?

Fall foliage is pretty much done in central Ulster County barring some oak trees. A couple of weeks ago I snapped this photo of a sassafras tree. Normally they seem to turn a brilliant gold, showing up any sugar maple tree. However, this year, it turned an awesome red, showing up any red maple tree. Sassafras is a small tree that normally grows near the Hudson Valley or in an area with a history of forest fires. It’s known more for its fragrant smell and tea made from its roots. However, its foliage is extremely under-rated. 

A small tree often found on forest-edges or hedgerows

May the forest be with you,

 

Ryan Trapani

Director of Forest Services

Catskill Forest Association