Post 4
The tree seen here is an American chestnut tree, or Castanea dentata. This tree is rare due to a blight that nearly wiped out all of these trees. The blight was introduced to North America in the early 20th century, most likely from imported trees, and was first discovered in 1905 by mycologist William Murrill. Nearly all mature American chestnut trees have been destroyed, but because the root system is resistant to the fungus that causes the blight, the species has survived. Before the blight, the chestnut tree was one of the most important hardwood timber trees in this region; it is estimated that one out of every four trees in the Appalachian Mountains was an American chestnut. Sprouts can live long enough to grow seeds before dying. Some Japanese and Chinese chestnut trees are more resistant to the blight, however. Scientists are working to create hybrids of these trees to create a blight-resistant American chestnut. In addition, groups such as The American Chestnut Foundation aim to reintroduce blight-resistant chestnuts into their original range.
If you’re lucky, you may see the family of white-tailed deer on the right side of the trail. Spiders may also be near the trail, a reminder that you can look closely to see things you might otherwise pass right by. Lichen and fungus grow off the trees and piles of rocks that line the trail. Off in the distance, you'll notice that the brook leads to the large pond by Post 5.