Hooffs Run Dendrology

Dendrology: Hooffs Run Watershed, Alexandria VA. 

Visitors to the Hooffs Run Watershed are likely to encounter the following trees:

 

Northern Catalpa Bignoniaceae Catalpa speciosa   Source: Virginia Tech Dendrology

 

Silver Maple Aceraceae Acer saccharinum   Source: Virginia Tech Dendrology

 

 

flowering dogwood Cornaceae Cornus florida   Source: Virginia Tech Dendrology

 

Unfortunately within the Hooffs Run watershed it is rare to encounter snags or logs from Northern Catalpa, Silver Maple, or Flowering Dogwood trees. According to the National Wildlife Federation, "Dead trees provide vital habitat for more than 1,000 species of wildlife nationwide...by some estimates, the removal of dead material from forests can mean a loss of habitat for up to one-fifth of the animals in the ecosystem." 

While the Hooffs Run watershed is not a forest, and is a mixed residential/commercial area, greater consideration should be given by the City and residents to leave dead trees in yards and public places. While out exploring the Del Ray and Old Town neighborhoods, it is extremely rare to come across a log or snag from a dead tree. They are quickly removed by the city or landscaping companies, presumably as they are not visually appealing to most residents. 

This is unfortunate, as in addition to birds (such as woodpeckers) using the wood for nesting cavities, mammals including squirrels, opossums and raccoons use dead trees as nesting sites, according to the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Furthermore, decaying logs serve the benefit of returning nutrients to the soil. 

 

Below is an example of a fallen tree left to decay in Huntley Meadows Park in Alexandria. Residents within the Hooffs Run watershed could take inspiration from this example and leave trees and snags in their yards.  

Source: Pete Frazer, December 2020