what are trees with holes?

[Brian Beauchamp]

I've seen larger Redbuds heavily affected by cankers develop a look like that. If they are understory trees, there is a good chance that is what they are.

[Ron Scott]

Dave,

Are those trees in a flood plain near a river or stream, area of high water table?

[woodtroll]

Red bud bark furrows are not so deep.
Some willows have bark like that.
Is that what you are thinking Ron?
I still think Sassafras. But when ever I am sure on here, it turns out to be something eles. :
I don't have any sassafras samples around me to post.

[SwampDonkey]

Looks like willow canker and wet woods to me, like I said earlier. ;) I see some fine branches in the foreground that look willowy. ;)

[Clark]

Dave,

Are those trees in a flood plain near a river or stream, area of high water table?

I was wondering the same thing, Ron.  My mind was wandering to box elder, maybe green or white ash, but certainly the typical form of box elder.  However, I have my doubts no matter what my mind thinks one minute.

Clark

[Dave VH]

I think that there is a high water table there, but the closest river is probably 2 miles away,
does that answer?

if it helps, on the same property are a lot of locust trees, and a few black oaks