Help Storm Damaged Trees Recover from Heavy Snow

For Immediate Release
For Further Information Contact Sonia Garth:
(217) 355-9411 Ext 217

CHAMPAIGN, IL(January 4, 2007) - As roads are cleared and power is restored throughout regions damaged by recent winter storms, homeowners and clean-up crews need to remember to be extremely careful when working around damaged and ice-covered trees, cautions the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).

"What's fallen to the ground is just part of the overall danger associated with storm-damaged trees," says Jim Skiera, ISA Executive Director. "A major storm can do massive damage high in the treetops, posing extreme danger to people for weeks and months to come."

According to Skiera, potential hazards and tree problems are not always obvious to the untrained eye. Ice-damaged tree limbs can split or break in the treetops, and branches of all sizes can come crashing down at any time - especially during high winds. That's why trees should be checked from the bottom up, preferably by a Certified Arborist, to determine the full extent of storm damage.

"Paying attention to the treetops now can prevent further damage and greater property loss later on," Skiera says. "Ice damage can put major stress on a tree, and that stress can require pruning or additional support such as cables or braces."

Post Storm Clean-Up Tips:

Do not try to do it all yourself-Never be tempted to use a ladder or an overhead chainsaw to remove damaged limbs. Hire a professional arborist for dangerous work such as pruning or removing trees, especially ones with large broken or hanging limbs.

Assess the damages- Your tree should be evaluated for overall health other than storm damage. If the tree is basically healthy and vigorous, and major limbs, branches, and at least 50 percent of the tree's crown are still intact then there is a good chance for complete recovery. For assistance, hire an ISA Certified Arborist to determine the tree's condition.

Beware of Price Gouging- Sometimes less credible tree services will take advantage of storm victims. Good tree work by qualified professionals is not inexpensive; however, poor work no matter the price paid can cost you a great deal. Professional prices should include liability and workman's compensation insurance, as well as bucket trucks and equipment. Prices may include costs for heavier specialty equipment that may be needed such as cranes, loaders, etc

Hire Only Reputable Companies- Be wary of individuals who go door-to-door and offer bargains for doing tree work. Most reputable companies are far too busy to solicit work this way. Ask any tree care company or Certified Arborist for proof of insurance before hiring them to do work on your trees. A reputable company will also have personal and property damage insurance as well as worker's compensation coverage.

For more tips on how to care for storm damaged trees or to find a local Certified Arborist, visit www.treesaregood.org.

The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), headquartered in Champaign, Ill., is a nonprofit organization supporting tree care research and education around the world. As part of ISA's dedication to the care and preservation of shade and ornamental trees, it offers the only internationally-recognized certification program in the industry. For more information on ISA and Certified Arborists, visit www.isa-arbor.com.