When Does a Tree Become a Risk?

Most trees in our landscapes are quite safe and pose no threat. However, some trees can become dangerous due to serious structural defects. Recognizing these defects is often difficult for the untrained eye. Trees can appear perfectly healthy and green, yet pose a threat to people and property because of defects such as dead branches, cracks, weak branch unions, internal decay, cankers, root problems, or just poor form. Learning to examine and evaluate our trees and the severity of their defects can lead to corrective action that will reduce the likelihood of the tree falling and injuring someone.

How to Recognize a Hazardous Tree – an informative publication from the USDA Forest Service

Tree Diseases that Create Hazards – a Penn State Fact Sheet

Recognizing Tree Hazards, a ISA Publication for Homeowners

Storm Damage Resource Center – a USDA Forest Service Website

Storm Damaged Trees: Prevention and Treatment

Storm Recovery – National Arbor Day Foundation Website

Storm Damage and Hazard Evaluation Factsheets