Why Trees Matter

I came across this editorial from the New York Times Opinion Pages yesterday. It was written earlier this year, seemingly in conjunction with Arbor Day as its message is a call to action on protecting and promoting trees.

Sure, we all know that trees are great for shade, help clean the air and water, and are the backbone for Wisconsin industry. But too often, it is overlooked how closely intermingled trees are to the success of all living species, all across the globe.

Jim Robbins does a great job of reminding us that the best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago; the second best time is today.

Read full article here.

Busy beaver indeed!

Mud Creek meanders lazily through Arington Tree Farm. The northern third of the property is accessible by crossing a ford built on Mud Creek. About two weeks ago we noticed the water levels raising at the ford. We sent Jeremy on a scouting mission dressed in hip waders. Two hundred yards downstream of the ford he found the dam. The water level in the picture is fifteen inches higher upstream of the dam. Industrious creatures, those beavers.

Timber stand improvement

This photo shows a trail through a 20 acre wood lot. This summer our goal is to do timber stand improvement (TSI).

Welcome!

Welcome to Under the Oak Tree -- the Arington Tree Farm blog.

The blog gets its name from everyone's "favorite" tree - a beautiful white oak that sits near Husker Barn. Is it politically incorrect to pick a favorite when you're on a tree farm? We hope not! This oak is over 100 years old and it's sturdy trunk and wide canopy make it the "picture-perfect" tree. We even based our ATF logo on it!

The Great White Oak - our "favorite" tree!

We'll use this space to share what's happening here on the farm. There's a lot of work going on every day, between the stands that need pruning, invasive species that need spraying and firewood that needs cutting. There's also a lot of wildlife to be checked upon and flowers to be tended to. That said, we still find some time to have fun, like today's field trip to the ice cream shop in town.

Ice cream break - yes please.

We hope you enjoy Under the Oak Tree and check back often to see what we're up to!