Published · Morgan Oaks Eternal Preserve
Oaks gave Morgan Oaks its name. Meet the native trees of the Placer County foothills, why they matter for wildlife, and why they make such meaningful memorial trees.
Long before the preserve existed, oaks shaped this land. They feed and shelter wildlife, hold soil on the hillsides, and shade the grasses through hot Central Valley summers. When families choose a tree memorial at Morgan Oaks, they are helping restore the oak woodland that once covered much of the Sierra foothills.
Valley Oak
The valley oak is California’s largest oak, with a broad spreading canopy and deep roots that reach groundwater. Some valley oaks live for hundreds of years. Its acorns have fed people and wildlife in this region for thousands of years.
Blue Oak
Blue oaks are named for their blue-green leaves. They are remarkably drought tolerant and grow slowly, which makes them some of the most enduring trees on the foothill landscape.
Interior Live Oak
Unlike valley and blue oaks, the interior live oak keeps its leaves year-round. It offers shade and shelter in every season, a quiet reminder of continuity through the winter months.
Companions to the Oaks
The foothill woodland also includes native pines, California buckeye, and western redbud. Our stewards recommend species based on each site’s soil, sun, and water so every memorial tree has the best chance to thrive.
Why Oaks Matter for Wildlife
- Acorns feed woodpeckers, jays, deer, and squirrels
- Oaks host hundreds of native insect species that feed songbirds
- Cavities in mature oaks shelter owls and bats
- Fallen leaves build healthy soil for the meadow below
Come see the oaks for yourself. The preserve is in Lincoln, CA. Call (833) 667-4266 to plan a visit.
