Aspen trees show brilliant color near South Fork. What’s behind the shimmering dance of aspen leaves in the wind? The stem of each leaf — a plant part technically called a petiole — is ...

Aspen trees tend to have rough bark that ranges in color: greenish or yellowish, grey, white, or a mix. These trees are medium-sized, growing between 20 and 80 feet tall.

Permits must be attached to the tree prior to cutting and must be left on the tree until it arrives at its destination. Keep in mind, that cut trees are for personal use only and may not be resold.

Aspen trees provide a rich habitat for birds, elk, deer and other animals. The grasses that sprout under them -- up to 2,000 pounds per acre -- hold water that is needed by metropolitan areas.