I’m sure there are tree experts in our huge community who can make sense of this damage. I know, I know—this is really a case for the expert, but he’s still on vacation for another 14 days. In the meantime, our 100-year-old oak probably won’t fall over (or so they say), but of course we’re not exactly feeling great about it. There are two larger spots at the base of the tree where a foamy liquid is oozing out. The ground is covered in “mud,” and it smells unpleasant—I can’t describe it any more precisely than that. I’m afraid it doesn’t bode well. I can’t spot any fungal fruiting bodies or anything like that. Maybe someone has a solid suggestion.