This is my favorite time of year.
The mornings are cool. Wood smoke lifts out of chimneys. The morning fog perches between tree branches. The world seems to slow its pace as it tilts toward winter.
This is a good time of year to have your trees evaluated before the winter storms arrive. What we do is called a Tree Risk Assessment. We assess the individual parts of the tree taking into mind proper tree growth and the individual characteristics of the species.
Is there a long branch over the roof that is heavily loaded?
Are there conflicting branches that have caused wounding?
Does the tree have multiple stems with poorly attached unions?
Does the stem or have a new lean?
Is there a cavity or swelling in the trunk?
A Tree Risk Assessment is a proactive approach to limiting potential structural problems in trees. However, we can't prevent all risk. Let's keep in mind that all trees are different and some more prone to structural problems based on poor pruning and genetics. Add to this the variables of mother nature and it's easy to see that all we can do is limit risk.
Do take the time this fall to have your trees evaluated.
( And be sure to find that book you've always wanted to read and get that done when the rain returns.)
Thanks to Byron Will for the photo.
