Dead Oak

[coolbrze]

We're removing an Oak tree that's been dead less than a year. We know this b/c we removed another Oak for our clients last year and I noticed this tree had recently been hacked. Not only was it topped, but whoever topped it, spiked it as well (although I guess I should have expected that from a company that tops). Anyway... the tree is VERY quickly deteriorating and there's some grey crud on the tree below the bark (see pic) that is dusty. I assume this is quite detrimental to breath in. What is this stuff?

 

[VikingDrive]

Dried moss, spores or a related mold. Wood also turns gray--esp. oak. Get ready to have the runs for a couple of days if that's not your usual bit.