1003 - A Tree Falls in a Forest

When large trees fall over, they create an opening in the forest that lets in more sunlight. Areas that had been shaded now receive full sun, allowing new plant species to grow and thrive. This cycle of old plants dying and making room for new plants is called succession. All forests depend on this cycle to survive. Whitefish Dunes is unique because each stage of succession is represented here in the park.

Fallen trees benefit the forest community in other ways, too. Even if the tree is no longer alive, it can still offer important habitat and nutrients for a wide range of creatures, including fungi, insects, birds, and mammals.

Why do trees tip over here?
The soil in this area is sandy and shallow because the bedrock-made of Silurian dolostone-is very close to the surface. Since mature trees have almost no soil for their roots to hold onto, strong winds off Lake Michigan can easily blow them over.