In the past 2 weeks of severe storms (and a tornado!), I have seen dozens of trees with these marks. Most recently yesterday while kayaking on the Wading, Sunday hiking along the Mullica, Saturday on Ridge Rd.....etc. I picked up a curled piece of inner bark from a pine tree that had been hit. I brought it home. Pieces of it were scattered within 20-30 feet of the tree. It has a peculiar scent and I'm curious how long it will last. Yesterday I was told that Native Americans believe lightning struck trees to be sacred and have many uses for them.... perhaps Gabe can ellaborate? or anyone else?
Thanks.