Poison Ivy leaves, vines and roots are toxic to humans. The Spicebush leaves are oval and aromatic when crushed, blooms early and is a welcome sign of spring. They may be hard to spot because they are covered by vines. The bark of these trees is dark and deeply furrowed. The persimmon fruit is soft and edible after the first frost.
Willow trees prefer moist ground and their fibrous, matted roots help reduce erosion.
Notice the water erosion problem at the entrance to the nature trail on your left. This is a man-made problem caused by the service road for the nature trail area. Water has a soothing sound when running but can do considerable damage when running out of control. In the spring or during wet periods water sounds from the small stream can be heard if you listen carefully. Poison Ivy is using this tree as a climbing support.