Narrowleaf Willow - Salix exigua

This shrub or small tree can create quite a thicket along a creek. It's one of several willows in the area. The narrow, long leaves are a defining feature for Narrowleaf Willow (Salix exigua), sometimes called Coyote Willow. It's in the Willow Family (Salicaceae). 

The catkins appear in spring. Willows have been used extensively by native peoples for a variety of reasons, including medicinal.

For more info on narrowleaf willow, see this USU Extension webpage.