Some tips to consider when tackling storm-damaged trees.

- Document the site damage. Take lots of pictures of the damaged trees and nearby damage caused from the tree.

- Take safety precautions. Be alert for nearby or downed power lines. Keep in mind some limbs also may be under pressure from supporting the trees weight.

- Examine the tree. Take several steps back and look, as well as looking at it up close. Some dangling limbs could fall with even a slight breeze.

- Remove any broken branches first.

- To avoid tearing the bark when pruning, 1) make a cut several inches from the trunk beneath the limb; 2) make a second cut from above, several inches out from the first cut; and 3) make a final cut just outside the branch collar, the raised area that surrounds the branch where it joins the trunk.

- If the tree is a potential hazard (on a home, vehicle or outdoor structure), consider hiring a professional arborist.

- Blown over trees should be removed. Large trees with exposed roots or heavy leaning will not recover to become a suitable, structurally intact trees.

- Grinding large stumps can be a quick but sometimes expensive method to finishing your tree cleanup project. This may be another opportunity to hire a professional.

There are several helpful publications and sources of information available online at www.lsuagcenter.com

For specific information on Storm Damaged Trees see:

http://www.lsuagcenter.com/NR/rdonlyres/1ECBEEAF-4FF9-45D5-A939-
A0CF9FA76526/26249/Pub2949DStormDamagedTreesFINAL1.pdf

Also you can find a wide variety of information regarding hurricanes and trees at:

http://www.lsuagcenter.com/en/lawn_garden/home_gardening/
trees_shrubs/Hurricane+Information+Series_seriespage-1.htm

For stump removal information see:

http://www.lsuagcenter.com/en/environment/forestry/urban_forestry/
Stump+Removal+from+Home+Grounds.htm