I am pleased to announce the membership of the 2021–2022 Buffalo State College Commencement Committee:
Chair: Kathleen O’Brien, Chair and
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The mighty northern red oak (Quercus rubra) is one of the most versatile trees native to Eastern North America. Its range is east of the Mississippi River from Quebec to Georgia. This tree not only offers refuge for birds; it is also a major food source with its acorns favored by deer, squirrels, and nearly 100 other vertebrate species of animals. It also attracts insects, especially lepidoptera—the moths and butterflies.
This plentiful tree is considered one of the more important trees for lumber and other forestry products. In Western New York, many older homes have oak trim because it was an inexpensive wood compared with other hardwoods. Red oaks are favored by landscape designers for their beautiful rounded branch structure, often growing as wide as they are tall if grown in open areas. In the fall, the leaves turn from green to yellow to orange to deep red as the season progresses. In late fall and early winter, red oaks often hold on to their dead leaves, and you can spot these oaks in the woods at a distance when driving in the countryside.
There are many red oaks on the Buffalo State College campus, including this large specimen on the southwest corner of Cassety Hall in Perry Quad. This tree transplants easily, but if you choose to plant one, make sure it has room to grow!
Photo and information courtesy of Steven Sypniewski, Buffalo State arboretum manager.