Momentum Tree Experts

Fresh pitch tubes on a ponderosa pine— one of the classic signs of a mountain pine beetle attack.

These popcorn-like blobs are resin the tree pushes out in an attempt to defend itself by trapping or “pitching out” invading beetles. If the beetles overwhelm the tree’s defenses, they bore beneath the bark and disrupt the flow of water and nutrients.

In drought-stressed forests across the Southwest and Colorado, weakened ponderosas become especially vulnerable. Early detection matters: pitch tubes, boring dust at the base of the tree, fading crowns, and woodpecker activity can all be indicators of infestation.

Connect with us via the link in our bio for more info. or a tree health assessment. Thank you!

The largest recorded Quaking Aspen in Colorado was measured in the San Juan National Forest at 38.7” DBH, 91’ tall, with a 37’ crown spread.

Not far from Durango, this tree has held champion status for years, a reminder that Aspen can reach impressive size when conditions line up.

Most people think of Aspen as dense clones and groves. Individual stems like this are a reminder of how unique the species really is. 💚

We’re excited to celebrate our ISA-Certified Arborists and ISA Board Certified Master Arborist for earning the ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ)!

This advanced certification means they’ve completed specialized training and passed both written and field assessments to better evaluate tree risk and safety. It’s all about making informed decisions that protect people, property, and the health of your trees.

We’re proud of the team for continuing to grow their expertise and raise the bar for tree care. 👏

For support diagnosing tree health, deep root watering, and soil care, connect with us by calling (970) 403-5545 or emailing [email protected].

Learn more: https://momentumtreeexperts.com/tree-care-blog/how-do-we-support-trees-during-drought/ 💧

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How Do We Support Trees During Drought When Water Use Is Restricted? Protect your trees from drought stress in Durango, CO. Learn how deep root watering and soil treatments improve moisture retention.

Behind the scenes at the Momentum Shop: morning briefings where we run through the day’s priorities, sync up the team, and get everything dialed in so the day’s projects start smoothly and stay on track. 🏃‍♂️

⚠️ Tent caterpillars and their silken tents are emerging early across the high country in Durango this year!

These insects feed on leaves and can quickly defoliate branches, stressing trees and making them more susceptible to disease. Arborists are already seeing impacts on local aspens and narrowleaf cottonwoods.

This early activity means the treatment window is even narrower than usual. If you have aspens or narrowleaf cottonwoods, now is a good time to take a closer look and consider scheduling a consultation with an ISA-Certified Arborist to keep your trees healthy.

Call or email us at (970) 403-5545 or [email protected].
MomentumTreeExperts.com

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Momentum is planting trees for Earth Day today and every day! We’ve launched our own nursery and are planting 80 trees, 50 in residential spaces and 30 for the city.

Every day is Earth Day. 🌍🌲💚

We operate year-round, but spring has kicked Arborism into high gear!

Now’s the time to schedule tree care like wildfire mitigation, tree planting, and insect treatments before the heat sets in and our calendar fills up.

Connect with us and schedule a consultation: https://momentumtreeexperts.com/contact-us/ 🌳❤️

Grateful for morning rain quenching the trees. 🌧️

These shots were taken in owner Moses Cooper’s backyard. It’s 1 of 4 larches there.

The European larch (Larix decidua) is 1 of 5 deciduous conifers, dropping its needles golden and bare before winter.

📷: Panasonic DC-GX9 and LEICA 45mm f/2.8 (ISO 200, 90mm, f/11, 6s)

Trees from Travels: Japan Spotlight 🇯🇵

Owner Moses Cooper and team documented remarkable trees and exceptional Japanese tree care techniques in January 2026.

Yukitsuri (雪吊り) is a traditional technique where ropes support tree branches to prevent breakage under heavy snow, supporting structure before failure in snowy places.

Niwaki (庭木) is the Japanese practice of shaping trees over time, balancing structure, health, and aesthetics. It’s about working with the tree instead of forcing it into shape.

Komomaki (菰巻き) is another traditional technique involving wrapping trees in straw during winter to protect against cold damage, help manage overwintering pest insects, and encourage proactive care.

Learn more: https://momentumtreeexperts.com/tree-care-blog/japanese-tree-care-techniques/