To Cut or to Leave

WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST?

A lot of people–I find–love trees. But there is a time to throw in the towel. This red maple isn’t having it. Maple is one tree that isn’t too happy to have its roots squashed or compacted by sitework. Normally in 10 years or less it will succumb to this root damage and die. Root damage typically manifests itself when the top of the central leader begins to die-back; This die-back will usually progress downward into the crown. After property or “targets” are built near dying trees, the price for tree removal is significantly higher since expensive “targets” must be avoided. Either build away from tree roots or remove the tree beforehand.

Ryan Trapani

Director of Forest Services

Catskill Forest Association