So I was out today cutting about a half mile from my house in my normal spot for fire burnt Lodgepole/Ponderosa Pine. We are expecting 14-18"+ over the next few days so I was burning off some energy while I still could. In the middle of a cluster of burnt saplings (great kindling!) there was a 20' tree that I've never seen anything like before. Due to the wind I quickly dropped/limbed/bucked it up but three cuts in my chain quickly dulled, I could barely finish bucking it up. While cutting I was spitting purple noodles (which turned to purple sawdust) then I saw this vibrant purple color inside. I found this one spices called Amaranth but it is not native to Colorado. Alas, I am at 7000' and in a deep dark gulch, I don't think that it could be. If anyone could pitch in or if someone has some insight to what this could be I am still mind blown here.
