WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST? I’ve said it before, but I’m amazed at the abundance of volunteer (wild) apple trees found throughout the Catskill Mountains. Last weekend we were near Long Eddy, Sullivan County. Before that up near Franklin, Delaware County, and coming up will be near Westkill, GreeneContinue Reading
WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST? We’re deep into the middle of the Apple Tree Pruning season. Last weekend, I was given the opportunity to restore some really old apple trees. When I walked up to them, they resembled one large “chia pet” of limbs and branches. But, somewhere insideContinue Reading
WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST? Just got some of my “from the forest” harvest back from Quaker Creek Store in Pine Island, Orange County. This butcher shop located in the middle of the “black dirt” country has been butchering up meat since 1947 and they do a good jobContinue Reading
WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST? Monday, February 4th marked the opening of the 2019 maple season in Samsonville, Ulster County; Nearly 1 week later than last year’s start. Last week’s cold temperatures make it seem unbelievable, but the forecast is showing milder weather and today will be in theContinue Reading
WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST? Stuck in meetings for two days in Suffern, Rockland County for the New York State Arborists Winter Conference. Two of the meetings spoke about the looming threat–now in PA–from spotted lantern fly. This pretty insect sucks the sap right out of trees and createsContinue Reading
WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST? The Apple Tree Pruning season is well underway & so is winter. Ice, snow, & wind are coming & with that comes tree damage. Pruning trees not only helps reallocate sunlight onto the healthiest branches, but also can improve shape & overall sturdiness. ForContinue Reading
WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST? Are deer hungry? They sure are. John & I finished pruning these 2 apple trees and moved to the other side of the yard when 3 deer popped out and began browsing the fresh apple buds. They must have been patiently waiting for usContinue Reading
WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST? And the award goes to–The Husqvarna 562 XP chainsaw with a 20″ bar. I’ve heard some mixed reviews in its durability department, but this is the most comfortable and ergonomic chainsaw I’ve ever used. It’s also priced modestly and the weight to power is justContinue Reading
WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST? Well, it’s about 50 degrees outside in central Ulster County and I’m betting this sugar maple is thinking about running on this New Year’s Day. Last year, I tapped early in January, and probably could make syrup this first week in January since temperaturesContinue Reading
WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST? Christmas tree time; Picked my balsam fir up at Bell’s Christmas Tree Farm near Accord, Ulster County. The Bell Family spends all year growing them, and on the day of your cutting, will shake it free of debris & bundle it for the rideContinue Reading