Oak Observations August 2024
Acorn Crops in the East Cascades
Following a bumper crop of acorns last year (called a “mast”) questions abounded around this year’s potential acorn production. Will the oaks hold off on acorn production after the massive crop last year?
ECOP team is excited to report that acorns are appearing on Oregon white oak trees across the East Cascades.
Acorns are so high in protein, that larger than average crops like last year’s can drive spikes in the populations of animals that eat them. This includes many East Cascades familiars like bear, deer, turkey, jays, squirrels, and woodpeckers.
In a study by Dr. David Peter, riparian oaks in the East Cascades had the most productive acorn crops of oaks across the entire Pacific Northwest from British Columbia to northern California.
Planting acorns is one of the most effective ways to plant Oregon white oak. ECOP staff have noticed more successful establishment using this method versus planting seedlings.
As acorns ripen in September and October, you can easily collect and plant them to steward Oregon white oak habitat. Check out ECOP’s acorn planting guide to get started.