22
THE DAVEY BULLETIN
|
January/February 2018
ONE OF OREGON'S GREAT WHITE OAKS
As a young girl in the 1940s, Marilyn
Harlin boldly declared she wanted to
become a scientist. She made that
dream a reality when she became
the University of Rhode Island's only
female botany professor.
Harlin is a determined nature
enthusiast with razor-sharp vision.
When she first saw the Oregon white
oak cascading in the backyard of a
prospective home in 2011, she knew
it was the place for her.
Shortly after moving in, Harlin got right
to it and reviewed several competitive
bids from local certified arborists.
Impressed by Davey's expertise, her
decision was easy, and Harlin has
been a Davey client ever since.
Terry Brier, assistant district manager,
Portland, Oregon, Residential/
Commercial services, loves this
tree almost as much as its owner.
"Marilyn really does love this tree,
and it's one of my favorites," Brier said.
"Part of that is because I really enjoy
meeting with Marilyn. Because of her
background in the sciences, I always
Above: Got a client tree story you think should
be featured? Email bulletin@davey.com.
Below: Marilyn Harlin stands beaming under
her beloved Oregon white oak.
come away having learned something.
Likewise, she is eager to hear about
my expertise."
The first time Brier inspected Harlin's
white oak tree, he spotted a lot of
deadwood. He believed nothing had
been done to the tree for 20 years. Brier
and his team remedied that problem
and did additional pruning to remove a
limb hanging over a neighbor's home.
Brier continues to regularly prune this
tree, which has been fertilized several
times over the years. Now, Marilyn
provides nutrients by recycling its leaves.
She also waters the tree. Brier, too,
keeps a close eye on this gentle giant.
"I'm in Marilyn's neighborhood all the
time, and I always look at this tree's
crown when I'm nearby," Brier said.
"If you are caring for a historical,
remarkable tree like this one, the best
piece of advice I can share is to use
a light hand. It's easy to get carried
away and do too much. Resist that
temptation. Also, I'm a big proponent
of hugging trees. They seem to almost
talk to you."
MY DAVEY
