Site G: Firs, Birches, Wildlife Tree, and Thickets

At this site there are two beautiful examples of the grand fir. This evergreen has long needles in two distinct rows, and can grow to 80 m (260 ft.) high! To the right and back about 50 ft., the tree broken in half is a good example of what is termed a wildlife tree. It is a tall snag that provides home to many cavity-nesting animals, such as owls, woodpeckers, bats, and opossums. The cavities provide warm, comfortable lodging with minimal danger from predators.

In the photoraph, you may note a large paper birch tree with numerous large hoof-shaped fungi on the side. These are known as hoof fungi or tinder polypores, "polypore" referring to the multiple tiny pores on the white underside of the fungus, through which it produces reproductive spores. This is also a good wildlife tree, although being close to the path prevents some animals from using it.

On the other side of the path you will notice a large growth of shrubs. These are salmonberry bushes; the berries are edible, but please keep them for the birds! At the end of this growth (to your right) and on the other side of the path, there are some bushes with a maple-shaped leaf. These are thimbleberries, and they are also edible. The bushes on either side of the signpost are Indian-plum.

Further up the path (towards the field) you will notice a grove of red alder and Sitka willow growing in the marshy area. Also note the large, dense bush at the end which often sports fuzzy pink flowers - this is called hardhack. It is a common shrub in sunny, moist habitats.