attstump

Attstump is a term that refers to the remaining portion of a tree after it has been felled. Typically, an attstump is a stump that is relatively low to the ground, often due to the tree being cut close to the soil line. This contrasts with a taller stump, which might be left intentionally for various reasons, such as a woodworking project or a habitat for certain wildlife.

The presence of attstumps can have several implications. They can pose a tripping hazard in wooded areas or on properties where trees have been removed. In some cases, attstumps are removed to clear land for construction, agriculture, or to improve aesthetics. Removal methods can include digging, grinding with a stump grinder, or chemical decomposition, though the latter is a much slower process.

In natural ecosystems, attstumps can play a role in decomposition and nutrient cycling. Over time, fungi and insects break down the wood, returning carbon and other nutrients to the soil. Some small animals may also utilize attstumps for shelter or as a source of food. While the term "attstump" is not a formally recognized botanical or forestry term, it is sometimes used in informal contexts to describe a low-lying tree remnant.