Recent storms throughout the state have caused major tree damage, and cleanup following a storm can be overwhelming. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has some tips on dealing with storm-damaged trees. Many communities also have resources and guidelines, especially after major storm events. Consider reaching out to your city, county or township to learn more.
Stay safe around damaged trees Call 911 if you encounter downed power lines.
Approach damaged trees with caution. Trees that are leaning, split or missing large limbs can be unpredictable and are safety hazards. Our storm damage webpage has great advice on how to get started and work with a professional. (mndnr.gov/treecare/maintenance/ stormdamage-prevention. html) Contact a professional arborist (mndnr.gov/treecare/hiringarborist. html) for general pruning advice and tree removal. They are trained with safety in mind for themselves and the public while considering the long-term health of your trees. Also don’t forget to check their insurance and credentials.
Use proper pruning techniques on branches you can safely handle. Avoid over-pruning trees already stressed by storm damage.
Skip the burn pile
Chip, compost or haul brush to a collection site if possible. Escaped yard debris burns are the number one cause of wildfires in Minnesota. For more information, visit the composting for woodland owners page of the DNR website (mndnr.gov/wildfire/ prevention/debris-composting. html).
Check out the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s Compost Facility Site Locator to find a yard waste dropoff site near you. (pca.state. mn.us/business-with-us/community- composting) If you do choose to burn, wait until winter and until debris has dried. Snow cover will help keep the fire from spreading. Green branches also create smoky conditions and have a higher chance of reigniting later, leading to accidental fires. A permit is required to burn vegetative debris piles in Minnesota; you can learn more and request burning permits at mndnr. gov/burningpermit.
Don’t rush decisions
Trees have an amazing ability to recover. A tree that looks bad now may survive with time and care. For tree care tips, visit mndnr.gov/ tree-care.
Consider removing trees if: More than half the tree is damaged Roots are damaged or the tree is leaning The trunk has multiple cracks from a recent storm
