Storm Recovery Kit For Trees

A major storm can have devastating effects, changing our community in an instant. Buildings may be damaged or destroyed, power lines down, and trees broken and torn. In the wake of this loss, neighborhoods and an entire community may experience a sense of devastation not known before.

“Because trees are such a large part of a city’s visual landscape, damage to them from a severe storm can be a major shock to residents,” said John Rosenow, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation, an organization that helps people plant and care for trees. “Seeing a favorite tree down or badly damaged in the front yard can be a traumatic experience, almost like losing an old friend.”

But Rosenow also said that trees are amazingly resilient and that many recover with proper care. Information is available from the Arbor Day Foundation for residents who want to become more informed about tree care and storm recovery.

The Arbor Day Foundation’s Web site, arborday.org, offers a free Storm Recovery Kit, an online set of easy-to-understand guidelines to explain how to care for trees following a severe storm. Residents will learn to know whether a tree can be saved, the best way to remove broken limbs, and how to identify scam artists posing as arborists.

After a major storm, city officials, utility workers, and private tree care firms have their work cut out for them. The best thing residents can do is be patient and lend a hand. Citizens can help expedite the city’s recovery process by quickly learning correct tree care practices, taking care of simple tasks, and protecting against tree service imposters.

For the free Storm Recovery Kit, go to www.arborday.org.