Lesson 8: Lessons Learned from Hurricane Season 2004

[SeaBrz_FL]

LESSON 8

Trim your trees before the storm hits
But before you start, check with a certified arborist.

Byline: Robert Sargent, Orlando Sentinel

Preparation is the best protection for trees before the next hurricane strikes, experts say.

Last year's onslaught of four storms cut broad, devastating paths of destruction through Florida's forests -- more than 2.3 million acres of trees were destroyed or severely ravaged. The estimated value of lost timber topped $424 million, according to the state Division of Forestry.

Large canopies of trees that took decades to grow were ripped apart in only a few weeks throughout more than 180 communities. Orange County, for example, collected more than 2 million cubic yards of tree debris left in the wake of the hurricanes.

Uprooted and snapped trees, broken limbs and flying wood debris made up a large part of billions of dollars worth of property damage.

Before another hurricane looms on the horizon, experts say home- and business owners can invest a little time and money to prevent even more costly damage.

"Now is a good time to look at trees around the house to see if any of them were damaged" during past storms, said Mike Stone, spokesman for the state Division of Emergency Management.

Cut back large or damaged tree branches extending over roofs. Also clear dead branches, pieces of trees and other yard debris that can blow around during heavy storms or create a fire hazard during long dry periods.

A certified arborist can provide the best guidance when it comes to large trees and those growing around buildings. Though property owners often are hesitant to shell out money for tree care, many don't consider that removing a tree can cost a few hundred dollars or more. Repairing a damaged roof and structure can cost tens of thousands.

Proper maintenance also can pay long-term dividends. Trees contribute up to 15 percent of a property's value, according to some estimates.

"The best thing they can do is to get a professional out there to inspect the trees," said Mary Edwards, a commercial arborist with ValleyCrest Tree Care Services in Orlando.

Edwards said a specialist can determine the extent of tree damage and spot tree-growth problems that likely will cause future damage. She said two important things are: to find a certified arborist -- don't hesitate to ask for credentials and past job references -- and to schedule any needed tree maintenance long before a storm hits.

Experts say last year's barrage of hurricanes provided countless examples of how trees weather the most furious storms.

Properly trimmed trees are less susceptible to hurricane damage than other trees.

Young trees with well-established roots are less likely to blow over than large trees and recently planted trees.

Laurel oaks are prone to failure during hurricanes.

Soil saturated by lots of rain can make trees unstable.

Trees grouped together are less likely to fall than individual trees.

Earlier this year, Florida received a $13 million federal grant to help local governments, nonprofit groups and educational institutions assess hurricane damage, prune hazardous trees and plant new ones.