A more charred log rests neatly and in perpendicular atop a naturally split one—both felled during one of the many substantial fires that have toasted large parts of the Yellowstone National park landscape over the previous couple decades. The cold climate of this mountainside, at altitudes above 7,000 feet, has helped to preserve the remains of the fallen conifers against the rot that would be much speedier at lower elevations. This scene lay within a forest of charred trees—some standing, some down—that will bear the scars of burns for multiple human generations. Nonetheless, these forest-fire-felled trees provide habitats for small plants and animals in the form of shelter and nutrients from their slow decay.
Yellowstone National Park WY (14 Sep 13) Looking NNE
44.5047, -110.2408Recovery Log
A more charred log rests neatly and in perpendicular atop a naturally split one—both felled during one of the many substantial fires that have toasted large parts of the Yellowstone National park landscape over the previous couple decades. The cold climate of this mountainside, at altitudes above 7,000 feet, has helped to preserve the remains of the fallen conifers against the rot that would be much speedier at lower elevations. This scene lay within a forest of charred trees—some standing, some down—that will bear the scars of burns for multiple human generations. Nonetheless, these forest-fire-felled trees provide habitats for small plants and animals in the form of shelter and nutrients from their slow decay.
Yellowstone National Park WY (14 Sep 13) Looking NNE
44.5047, -110.2408