The National Mall in Northwest Washington in Washington, District of Columbia — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
A Log Called Home
More than 1,200 wildlife species in the United States—including mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and insects—depend on dead or dying wood for their habitats.
What's the Snag?
A snag is a standing dead, or dying, tree. Snags provide homes for all kinds of creatures, including many birds that use them as a place to nest and a source of insects for food.
Life After Death
The death of a tree may seem like the end of the story, but it's actually the start of a new chapter.
When a tree falls, it opens up part of the forest floor to sunlight. As the wood is decayed by fungi, insects, and bacteria, it turns into humus—the organic component of soil—which supports new life.
Walls of Wood
Plants and animals aren't the only ones who use wood for their homes. Wood has played an important role in the history of American homes, from Native American dwellings and pioneer log cabins to prefabricated houses. Think about all the buildings in your community that are made of wood.
Erected by Smithsonian Gardens, Smithsonian Institution.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Anthropology & Archaeology • Industry & Commerce
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Location. 38° 53.499′ N, 77° 1.72′ W. Marker is in Northwest Washington in Washington, District of Columbia. It is in The National Mall. Marker is at the intersection of 12th Street Northwest and Constitution Avenue Northwest (U.S. 50), on the right when traveling south on 12th Street Northwest. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 620 12th St NW, Washington DC 20229, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Developing Sustainable Practices (a few steps from this marker); We Need You! (within shouting distance of this marker); "For Country, for Community!" (within shouting distance of this marker); Chioggia Beets (within shouting distance of this marker); Green Glaze Collards (within shouting distance of this marker); Welcome to Our Meadow! (within shouting distance of this marker); "Garden for Victory!" (within shouting distance of this marker); "Better Food, Better Health and Better Cities" (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Northwest Washington.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 30, 2023. It was originally submitted on December 18, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 306 times since then and 47 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on December 18, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
