With the holiday spirit filling our hearts and city streets this month, it seemed fitting to highlight a tree that often finds its way into our homes this time of year, adorned with ornaments and family mementos: the Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii).
The Hood River Tree Committee presents its first “Tree of the Month” in hopes that it will increase resident’s appreciation for some of the special trees we live amongst, said a press release.
Opening morning of the 2015 elk bow season — 4 a.m., the alarm goes off, and I am up anyway since I cannot sleep with all the excitement of what might happen today. Start the routine: Get coffee going, spray on no-scent and get dressed, grab my gear and I am on the trail up the mountain. My trek into my hunting area is about three-quarters of a mile in and is located on the steep side of the mountain. I’ve traveled this path for nearly 20 years, but today I’ve got that little spring in my step as I dream of that trophy elk that is going to visit me.
Conscientious Oregonians have been storing up firewood for the inevitable cool days of winter and the experienced wood-gatherers know that dry, seasoned firewood burns most efficiently, provides the most heat and smokes the least.
Oregon State University Extension Service is holding a presentation and discussion session on the bark beetle infestations affecting trees in the Hood River area.