Exploring the Beauty: Five Trees Found at Welcome Station RV Park

Nestled in the beauty of Welcome Station RV Park there are six remarkable tree species standing tall, offering shade, and contributing to this small ecosystem. These trees -- Spruce, Poplar, Box Elder, Peach Leaf Willow, and Narrow-leaf Cottonwood -- not only enhance the landscape but play a role in this park's tiny ecosystem. Each of these trees were likely planted over 100 years ago and some are native to Northern Nevada. According to the table in Selected Native Trees of Northern Nevada: Are They Right for the Home Landscape?, a paper written by JoAnne Skelly, Engelmann spruce, poplar (quaking aspen), box elder, peachleaf willow, and narrow-leaf cottonwood trees are all likely native to the northern region of Nevada (Skelly 2004). Although, we do not know for certain if any of the trees are hybridized or the exact years they would have been planted. So, let's move on to exploring some unique characteristics of each of these trees.

1. Narrow-Leaf Cottonwood or Black Willow???

   
   

   Currently, there is still a bit of controversy at our park on whether our Narrow-Leaf Cottonwood trees are in fact within that species or if they are actually Black Willows. Regardless, we do still know these trees are definitely part of the Willow family and we think it is likely Narrow-leaf Cottonwood due to them being listed as native to the region. Google lens also likes to pull up Fremont Cottonwood which we believe is because these trees often hybridize. We invite any of our guests that have the capability to share knowledge regarding this controversy to please do so. But, for now let's share characteristics of the Narrow-leaf Cottonwood.

   
   

   The Narrow-leaf Cottonwood tree grows up to 45-60 ft tall and has slender twigs with a narrow crown. It thrives along streams and rivers, making it a perfect fit for Welcome Station RV Park. This tree's root system spreads aggressively which makes it helpful in stabilizing our stream banks and aiding in erosion control. In addition, it has good drainage and is a low fire hazard making the tree resilient in a variety of conditions. Guests can find one of these trees shading site 20 and all throughout.

   
   

2. Peach Leaf Willow (Salix amygdaloides)

   
   

   The Peach Leaf Willow tree has long, lance-shaped leaves that resemble those of a peach tree. It is often found near water sources and species of cottonwood trees which makes it a sensible fit within our aesthetic at the park. Many of our peach leaf willows are located on the side of the property with the pond. Though the leaves are only subtly different than that of black willows/cottonwoods, making them difficult to distinguish. These trees are also excellent in aiding with erosion control and keeping fire hazards low. Lastly, they are widely known for having medicinal properties with the bark being the most effective part of the tree.

   
   

3. Box Elder (Acer negundo)

   
   

   Guests can find two of our Box Elder trees by the laundry room where our "Pretty Rock Depository" is and at the end of site 5. The Box Elder tree is a fast-growing maple tree. It grows from around 30 - 60 ft on average and has an irregular rounded crown. This tree can withstand drought and extreme temperatures but is otherwise very brittle. Finally, these trees provide excellent shade and serve as a source of food/shelter for wildlife.

   
   

4. Poplar (Populus spp.)

   
   

   Two of our healthiest poplar trees are located at the end of sites 1 and 2. Google lens will pull these up as Quaking Aspen or White Poplars. These trees grow up to 50 ft tall on average and have a lighter grey bark. They are also excellent in aiding with erosion control and have a low fire hazard. With leaves turning gold in the fall these Poplar trees bring color to our landscape.

   
   

5. Spruce (Picea)

   
   

   Guests can find a lone Spruce tree behind site 16 and many scattered on the outside of the fence on the west side of the property. More formally referred to as an Engelmann Spruce, these trees are said to be more strictly located near timberline in White Pine and Elko counties here in Northern Nevada. They can grow anywhere from 45-130 ft tall. While the tree has good qualities for erosion control it is unfortunately a big fire hazard. They are commonly used for Christmas trees, lumber, and pulp.

These trees not only help define the character of Welcome Station RV Park but also provide valuable services to the local environment, such as erosion control, wildlife habitat, and fire prevention. We invite visitors to explore the park and appreciate the lasting beauty and contribution of these magnificent trees.