Understanding the Risks

Hurricane season is ramping up, and with it, the potential for damage to your property and lives. Trees, especially if they are unhealthy, can cause a significant amount of damage during a hurricane or strong summer thunderstorm. High winds can rip off weakened limbs and turn them into projectiles, while sickly trees may topple in stormy conditions, smashing anything in their path.

Identifying Risks

To assess the risks to your trees, you need to identify potential targets, such as:

• Anything that could be damaged if a branch or entire tree falls
• Valuable or sentimental items, such as cars or homes
• Power lines and other critical infrastructure

Move these items out of harm’s way if possible, especially if they are economically or sentimentally valuable.

Assessing Tree Health

A tree’s canopy is a good indicator of its health. Look for:

* Dense foliage and good color

* Leaves

* A full canopy

* No large, dead limbs

* No branches that cross and rub against each other

* No overextended branches that reach beyond the overall canopy

If you see any of these signs, it may be a indication of health concerns.

Inspecting the Trunk

Look for cracks in the trunk, both horizontally and vertically. Check for missing patches of bark or oozing sap. Also, inspect for the presence of fungi such as mushrooms or conks. These symptoms can be signs of disease, decay, tree decline, and overall structural weakness.

Inspecting the Root Zone

Inspect the roots for mower damage, which can cause them to decay, as well as girdling, which happens when roots cross over one another or encircle the base of the tree. As the crossed roots get bigger and bigger, they can choke off the water source to the tree. Getting Professional Help

Once you’ve completed these steps, you may decide to call an arborist for help. It’s essential to hire a licensed arborist in Louisiana. Getting a professional opinion is never a bad idea, even if your trees have weathered past hurricanes. An older, mature tree in the landscape that’s been there a long time may still pose a risk, regardless of its past performance. Conclusion

Preparing for the worst by assessing your trees for hurricane risk is crucial. By following these steps, you can identify potential risks and take action to protect your property and lives. Don’t wait until it’s too late – take the time to assess your trees now and get professional help if needed.