During storms with high winds, falling trees can be a big hazard. Falling trees damage power lines, homes, roads, and other man made structures. There are many factors that affect tree resistance to wind including species, stand density, site characteristics (such as soil type), and much more. Many of these factors are difficult to control.
However, one factor that’s very important in tree wind resistance is at least partially within our control - tree health. Unhealthy trees have been shown to be more susceptible to falling during periods of high wind than healthy trees. Invasive species, specifically vines such as english Ivy, Japanese honeysuckle, and asiatic bittersweet have proven to be extremely detrimental to tree health.
After a recent windstorm, park ranger and Sierra Club Biodiversity Chair, Marc Imlay noticed that most of the trees that had fallen onto the road had some type of alien invasive vine such as oriental bittersweet or japanese honeysuckle, but more study needs to be done. Keeping a record of trees along highways that have invasive damage and conducting surveys of fallen trees after wind storms would create a better understanding of the problem posed by invasive plants weakening trees.
It would be much more cost effective to control the factors that lead trees to become weak and fall over during storms than it is to react to the damage caused by fallen trees after the fact. Preliminary surveys have indicated that around 50% of fallen trees could have been prevented. Cut stumping and spraying invasive vines can save affected trees and is very low cost and quick (10 minutes or less per tree) making it well worth the effort.
The Sierra Club Maryland Chapter and partners have been working hard to reduce the effect of invasive species in our area. We have been going out into local parks and removing the invasive species, helping to protect our natural environment. Check out our invasive species corner for information about threats of alien invasive weeds, check our calendar for upcoming events, and find more invasive removal park locations near you to help explore, enjoy, and protect our local environment.