While trees beautify our landscapes and provide innumerable environmental benefits, they have the potential to be hazards. Damage due to neglect, insects, disease or weather can result in weakened trunks, branches or roots. If the tree topples or tree branches fall, they could injure people or damage property.
To reduce tree hazards, inspect trees regularly. Look for dead branches, branches hanging in the tree, cracks in the trunk, cavities, rotted wood, cankers or evidence of root damage.
The following Web sites will provide general information on tree hazards. For more information on tree hazards, contact your local extension forester or a certified arborist.
Resources
- Hazard Trees, Forest and Shade Tree Pathology
- Hazard Trees, United States Forest Service
- How to Recognize Hazardous Defects in Trees, United States Forest Service
- Recognizing Tree Hazards, International Society of Arboriculture