A large old maple tree spreads its limbs against a bright spring sky in Carrboro, N.C. The old tree, missing a lower right limb and showing signs of other abrupt pruning in its canopy, still shows signs of life despite being in overall poor health. Flashes of bright green indicate another season. Those are samaras, the little fruits that carry the seeds of a new generation. On the right is a low brick building and a redbud tree in flower. To its left in the background are other trees. In the foreground is a white delivery van (right) and an SUV (left).