Ohanapecosh Walking Tour: Decay

This stop is located at a junction where the trail turns left and a short social trail splits right.

NPS/M. Meitle Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Ohanapecosh

Amenities

1 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

Is it bad when a tree dies? Or does it provide a benefit to the forest? There is a large tree stump in the forest to your right acting as a nurse log. Life in the forest begins in many ways. Here seedlings on this "nurse log" show new beginnings in a mature forest. The roots of saplings growing on this decaying stump will eventually reach the ground. Once the stump completely decomposes, new trees with stilt-like roots will stand where it once was. Nurse logs hold water and nutrients, like a sponge. This helps new trees compete with larger established individuals.   Do you notice the small round holes in the wood? These were made by wood­-boring insects. The larger rectangular holes were made by pileated wood­peckers in search of insects for food. In many cases, the woodpeckers help rid the tree of harmful insects; however, in this instance, the tree could not survive the heavy infestation. The decaying tree will add nutrients to the soil; thus, life in the forest continues, showing the inter­relationship within the forest community.