Observations by gga

Second of two ashes found today, close to the first. Take the main trail behind Williams barn, pass the beaver pond on the right and cross the small bridge. Take the short loop trail to the left.

Both ashes are within 30 feet of the trail, on the left (northish) and within 10 feet of each other. This tree is shown with red arrows, and the previously posted tree is shown with a blue arrow. Close to the trail is the tree with the injury at the base of the trunk.

(Need to get a good photo of the opposite twigs.)

Note the long main trunk, bark pattern, and exposed roots. Buds are not visible from the ground, as would be the case with some maples. Branches are sparse, compared to maples, which are more twiggy.

Ash tree found behind Williams Barn. Pass the beaver pond which is on the right, go over the wooden bridge, then take the small loop trail to the left. The Ash is within 30 feet of the trail. Pond can be seen in the distance beyond the ash.

Note the long main trunk.

Note the opposite branching.

The branching is sparse and sturdy, compared to the also opposite, but very twiggy, branching of a maple. (One guide says the stronger branches on the ash are necessary to hold the weight of its compound leaves.)

Note also the lack of large buds at this time, compared to the visible ones of some maples.

Note the bark pattern.

Note how the roots are visible above ground.

The second to last photo shows the view of the ash from the loop trail; the tree in the foreground, with a trunk wound, is close to the trail.