Trees to Know in Oregon

CORVALLIS – Since its publication in black and white more than 50 years ago, “Trees to Know in Oregon” has become the Oregon State University Extension Service’s most-requested publication.

A new revised edition is now available – in full color.

The expanded, 152-page “Trees to Know in Oregon” provides a new generation of youth, hikers, gardeners and foresters with text that combines identification and anecdote with maps and color photographs.

Edward C. Jensen, an OSU forestry professor, is the primary author and principal photographer of the new edition of the book, but he is quick to recognize the contributions of others, especially the book’s original author, retired OSU Extension forestry specialist Charles R. Ross.

The new edition has updated sections on ornamental trees, Oregon’s forests and record-breaking big trees.

According to the book, Oregon is home to more than 50 national champion trees listed in the American Forestry Association’s National Register of Big Trees. They include the nation’s largest black cottonwood (370 feet), black walnut (278 feet), and garden plum (a 47-foot giant more than 10 feet around).

Of the truly giant Douglas-firs, the authors describe a tree in Coos County that is taller than a 28-story building with a circumference “larger than two compact cars parked side by side. Its canopy, at high noon, casts a shadow the size of a swimming pool.”

The soft-cover book is full of tidbits to help you get to know Oregon trees. For example, the authors point out that lodgepole pine was first named by Lewis and Clark. They describe how whitebark pine and birds called Clark’s nutcrackers are highly dependent on each other for survival. And they note that, although more than 1,000 varieties of pears have been named, only a half-dozen varieties are grown commercially.

Far more than just a field guide, “Trees to Know in Oregon” will be a good companion on the trail or on the nightstand, Jensen says.

The book costs $12 per copy and is available from the OSU Extension Service - Benton County Office.

By: Peg Herring
Source: Edward Jensen

Click here for ordering informaiton or visit the OSU Extension Office in Benton County for your copy at 1849 NW 9th Street in Corvallis.  Cost is $12.00