Carter (1997) notes that this is "the most common native ash in the southern third of New mexico at elevations from 4,500 to 8,000 ft. (1,370 to 2,440 m)." Fraxinus velutina is "moderately used as food by birds and animals who usually peel off the wing before eating the attached seeds" (Elmore 1976). The presence of velvet ash indicates a permanent underground water supply (Eastern New Mexico University Campus Trees).

Bark of the velvet ash, Fraxinus velutina. Note the deep furrows in the gray bark.