Forestry -
Ice Storm Damage
Salvaging Trees After an Ice Storm
You might as well get some benefit from all of the limbs and fallen trees
after the recent ice storm that hit Arkansas.
Materials from fallen or salvaged trees can be used in several ways. The
larger branches can be cut and used for firewood. Add smaller branches and twigs
to the compost pile or cut up for kindling. Branches can also be converted into
chips for use as a compost, mulch or other landscaping purposes if chipping
equipment is available. In some areas, landfills or other waste disposal
facilities are available to local residents.
Following the cleanup and repair of storm-damaged trees, you may want to
plant new trees. You can reduce future maintenance problems. First, make certain
the tree being considered is hardy to the area. Then, consider the potential
insect and or disease problems that may be associated with a particular species.
It helps to know the approximate size and shape of the tree when mature. This
will help determine where to plant it to minimize pruning because of
interference with utility lines, branches rubbing against the house or other
buildings, etc.
Finally, consider characteristics of the tree other than the provision of
shade, such as presence of spring flowers, attractiveness to birds, fall color
and winter appearance. Through careful selection, it is possible to obtain
species which will contribute to the overall landscape in more than just one
way.
For more information about salvaging landscape trees or timber, contact your
local office of the
Cooperative Extension Service or Arkansas Forestry Commission or talk to
landscape professionals in your area.
Contact: Tamara Walkingstick (501) 671-2346.
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