Rare Chestnut Trees at Escalante Middle School: A Little-Known Part of Durango’s Urban Forest
Codi Coghlan
In Durango, Colorado, towering pines or sturdy oaks are the norm when it comes to trees. But hidden in the corner of Escalante Middle School’s grounds lives a less common neighbor— a small grove of chestnut trees. How did these trees, unusual for this area, come to be here? And why might they matter more than we realize?
How Chestnut Trees Found Their Way to Escalante
The chestnut trees at Escalante didn’t just appear by chance. According to Matt Besecker, Durango’s City Arborist, he first encountered these trees while surveying city tree species and was surprised, since chestnuts aren’t a typical pick for urban planting here. It’s likely these trees are Chinese or European chestnuts, not the American chestnuts that once thrived before the chestnut blight wiped them out in the early 20th century.
Why Are Chestnuts Rare Around Durango?
Chestnuts are rare in Southwestern Colorado for a few reasons. The original American chestnut was almost wiped out by a devastating fungus early last century. What remains today are often non-native relatives that adapt differently to local conditions. Additionally, Durango’s urban planners tend to avoid planting nut-bearing trees in public spaces, citing the maintenance challenges posed by fallen nuts and the increased likelihood of attracting wildlife.
A Few Things to Know About Chestnut Trees
- Their nuts are covered in spiky hulls— nature’s way of protecting them until they’re ready to drop.
- The flowers produce nectar that attracts pollinators.
- Beyond their beauty and nuts, chestnuts have historically been valued for durable wood and as a food source.
Growing Chestnuts Here: What It Takes
Chestnuts prefer well-drained soil and enough space to spread, but they do face challenges— from insects to the need for some maintenance to keep the spiny nuts from becoming hazards along pathways. They also provide food for local wildlife, so siting them thoughtfully is key.
Why Does Diversity in Urban Trees Matter?
When cities rely too much on a single tree species, they set themselves up for trouble. Dutch elm disease, for example, devastated entire neighborhoods that once depended on elms. Introducing trees like chestnuts adds layers of resilience to Durango’s urban forest. Each species supports different wildlife, brings unique strengths, and helps balance the ecosystem.
Have You Seen Any Rare Trees Around?
Maybe you’ve spotted an unusual tree near your home or school. If so, it’s worth sharing that find. Arborists are interested in mapping and learning from these less common species. Taking a photo, noting the location, or telling your story can help care for the urban forest we all share.
Part of a Living Story
The chestnut trees at Escalante are more than a curiosity— they’re part of a living story about how nature adapts, how cities evolve, and how we can all play a role in nurturing the varied life around us. Keep your eyes open; you never know when you might find an unexpected piece of Durango’s green puzzle.
If you find a rare or unusual tree around Durango, we’d love nothing more than an email or text to Info@MomentumTreeExperts.com or (970) 403-5545 sharing your discovery!
