One of the most distinctive native wildflowers now blooming in the deep shade of Hollow Oak's conservation areas is named "Indian Pipe" for its resemblance to the Native American peace pipe.  This ghostly white plant has no chlorophyll so, instead of drawing energy from the sun, Indian Pipe draws nutrients from fungi in the soil, which in turn draw nutrients from the roots of beeches and pine trees. In its parasitic role, Indian Pipe plant doesn't seem to harm its hosts and its flowers provide nectar for small bumble bees. Keep your eyes peeled for this amazing member of our local ecological web.

 

Thanks to Hollow Oak volunteers, a new hiking and biking trail is climbing from the mouth of Meeks Run through the forest to the upper reaches of the Montour Woods Conservation Area. The trail follows a series of switchbacks, climbing approximately 300 feet over a mile of trail. Join us Wednesday evenings to meet and work with other trail lovers. See details below.