The iconic 150-year-old Sitka spruce, known locally as the Yaquina Bay Muscle Tree, at Oregon’s Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site is facing a new chapter focused on its ecological role rather than its towering presence.
Due to extensive decay caused by a fungal infection, the tree has been deemed a hazard and will either be partially cut back or removed entirely.
However, efforts are underway to preserve part of the tree as a “snag”—a standing dead or dying tree that provides critical habitat for numerous species.
Experts highlight that snags are invaluable to wildlife, offering shelter and nesting sites for birds, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and even insects.
The decaying wood supports fungi and other organisms, fostering biodiversity and contributing to forest health. This approach aligns with native plant conservation principles, emphasizing the ecological benefits of retaining natural structures even after a tree’s life ends.
In addition to maintaining the tree as a snag, there are plans to repurpose parts of the Sitka spruce wood for stream restoration projects and as nurse logs to encourage new plant growth. Local artists also propose creating wood prints and murals to memorialize the tree’s legacy and educate the public about its natural history.
The community has shared heartfelt memories and ideas, underscoring the tree’s role not just as a landmark but as a living part of the local ecosystem.
By transforming the Muscle Tree into a habitat resource, the park aims to celebrate its enduring contribution to native flora and fauna, ensuring that its presence continues to enrich the coastal environment for years to come
