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Safely clean up storm debris
Replace weather-damaged trees with stronger ones by Sharon Dowdy, News Editor, UGA CAES News Don’t attempt to handle trees that overhang or touch power lines, he said. Call local utility company professionals for assistance. “Many people are injured while trying to clean up debris after tornadoes and hurricanes,” Dickens said. “Ideally, it’s best to hire a reputable professional.”
Tree loss Uprooted trees will often die.
Tornadoes and heavy winds whipped across Georgia on April 13, 2020 killing eight Georgians, destroying property, and taking down small and large trees.
Tornadoes and heavy winds blew across Georgia in the early morning hours on April
UAC MAGAZINE | SPRING 2021
13 last year, killing eight Georgians, destroying homes, and leaving landscapes littered with downed trees and limbs.
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“Medium to large trees that have been uprooted with severe lean (greater than 60 degrees from vertical) have little chance of surviving because the broken roots that used to structurally support the top weight and nourishment of the tree are damaged.” ~ David Dickens Professor of Forest Productivity UGA Cooperative Extension
Strong weather is common in Georgia during the spring, and so is cleaning up after it. But there’s a way to do it safely and wisely, said David Dickens, professor of forest productivity with University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.
Tackle unsightly, damaged trees next. For example, Bradford pear trees are prone to split. “This type of injury is difficult to reshape and the lopsided weight can cause the tree to blow over with soft wet ground and a gusty wind,” he said. He recommends removing severely misshapen trees and replanting a tree with better structure.
Step by step
Remove and replace
“Prioritize your chores by starting to work on trees that endanger buildings, other valuable structures and fences first with proper care, safety equipment and knowledge,” he said. “If you are hesitant or think you may be hurt removing downed trees, then contact a reputable tree company."
“You may have to crank up the chainsaw for the removal of an old favorite tree, but take this opportunity to consider carefully the next tree and select one that has a stronger design,” he said. “Live oak is an example of a sturdy tree that can withstand more severe winds."
