SNAG: (noun)  “An unexpected or hidden obstacle; sharp, angular or jagged projection.”

In forestry,  “snags” are dead or dying trees that at one time were thought to have no value and simply taken out, but are now known to support a wide variety of species and assist in forest regeneration.  Snags are sometimes still removed in forestry practices for safety, fire suppression or wood chip products, but they play an essential role in the health of our woods.  Snags are metaphoric for the things that happen in our human lives as well…

They can also be unexpectedly beautiful, even in their dying states:

 

Stand

Etch

Porcus

Lichus

     Betula

Endosmosis

Split

Excelsior

long line

 

Tangle

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Thank you so much to those who’ve supported this series, including Robbin Gallery. What a joy it has been to explore, and what a surprise to me that these photos have been so well received.

I hope next time you are in the woods you notice snags, and the trees move you to become a steward for the preservation of all parts of our forests.