Tree Felling on Hayes Common

Felled Beech on Hayes Common, 3 March 2013.

One of the management jobs on the local commons is to make sure that none of the trees bordering the paths are likely to fall on visitors, or drop limbs onto them.  Today I saw evidence that the rangers had been at work.

This was a large Beech, and I could see why it had been felled.  A fungus infestation had weakened its heart considerably.  You can see that the two main trunks have fallen apart during the felling, most likely because of this weakening.

Felled Beech on Hayes Common, 3 March 2013.

This closeup shows the punky, diseased heartwood next to the remaining strong and healthy wood, and the difference is evident.  The dark line at the border shows the tree's defences at work, too late!

Felled Oak on Hayes Common, 3 March 2013.

Further on I saw this recently felled Oak.  This was more of a puzzle.  I can't see any obvious weakening, but there is that blue stain.  It is on both sides of the cut, so can't be an attempt to poison the stump.  It must have been introduced to find something out about the tree, and if I ever find out what has been going on here, I will add a note!