Siberian Elm - Ulums pumila

 Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) is a relatively common tree around Great Basin towns, as it is easy to grow and doesn't need much water. Sometimes they find their way outside of towns, like this specimen. In other areas they can become a nuisance. In the spring they make little seed pods that attract a lot of birds. Siberian elm is our only species in the Elm Family (Ulmaceae) found in Snake Valley.

Trees generally don't get very large. For more info, see the Invasive Plant Atlas.

Water Birch - Betula occidentalis

 This tree that likes to grow right next to streams is water birch (Betula occidentalis), which is in the Birch Family (Betulaceae), the only member of that family in this area. It grows in western North America.

 Leaves are bright green and heart-shaped, with a dentate margin. Catkins grow along the twigs.

The bark for water birch is red with white spots. Older bark gets shaggy and starts peeling off.

For more info about water birch, see this USU webpage.