Big trees or small, very few were spared some sort of damage. The staff took over two days to clear the path I usually take. It had been impassible. Piles of brush, or cut up, massive branches were pushed aside and left. It's part of the conservation area's practice to create habitat for God's critters. That includes insects and insect eaters. The devastation caused by the weather is awe inspiring and somehow makes me feel rather small in the grand scheme of things. Entire areas of once tall trees were completely flattened but that's mostly where the ground is swampy and wet. Shallow roots don't stand a chance against nature's fury. I've seen similar damage done by a tornado. This was simply the weight of ice that felled the mighty.
There's a wood duck nesting box the park installed a couple of years ago that was once tucked away safe in the trees but now stands, unscathed, like a guardian of the fallen.
There are other, rarely seen, residents of the area who are more than happy to take advantage of this easy meal. This stand of poplars didn't stand a chance against the ice. Beavers love poplar. To have sweet, young branches from the tree tops served up without having to any of the hard work must be appreciated! There are many branches like this one that have nibble marks on them.It will take years for the trees to recover or regrow. Meanwhile, it will be interesting to see what different life the altered habitat welcomes.
"To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven." Eccl 3:1
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