Baba's Tree springs back to life after being nearly destroyed by Thomas Fire
Claudia Boyd-Barrett
The following is from an article, “Baba’s Tree springs back to life after being nearly destroyed by Thomas Fire,” published on February 11, 2019 by the Ventura County Star.
By Claudia Boyd-Barrett
A revered oak tree in Upper Ojai that was almost completely destroyed in the Thomas Fire is bursting back to life.
BABA’S TREE at Meher Mount with sunburn protection, props supporting the weak limbs, and hoses for occasional watering during hot, dry months to aid in recovery. The fallen piece in the center is part of the trunk that toppled in the December 2017 Thomas Fire. (Photo: Sam Ervin, November 17, 2018)
Baba's Tree, a coast live oak named for Indian spiritual teacher Meher Baba, is a key attraction at the Meher Mount retreat on the remote Sulphur Mountain Road. Much of the tree collapsed and burned during the December 2017 Thomas Fire, leaving Meher Mount's caretakers fearing the worst.
Now, just over a year later, the tree is rebounding. Bushels of leaves have sprouted from the shattered trunk and charred branches. The once giant canopy, almost obliterated in the fire, has expanded to about half its former size.
While still fragile, Meher Mount board members and supporters are increasingly hopeful the tree will continue to thrive.
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Claudia Boyd-Barrett, “Baba’s Tree springs back to life after being nearly destroyed by Thomas Fire,” Ventura County Star, accessed online February 11, 2019. USA Today Network.