Storm damage information for landowners

Abstract

Tornadoes and other storms cause varying degrees of damage to the forests. Damage to trees can range from “light,” where branches in treetops were broken, to “heavy,” where trees snapped off, were blown over, or lost most of their branches. Forest damage can be highly variable across the affected areas and depend on tree species, age and whether the stand had been thinned recently or not. The level and extent of damage you sustained as well as your ownership objectives will help you determine what actions are needed to restore the health and productivity of your woods. The recommendations in this booklet are designed to provide you with basic guidance as you make decisions about the best course of action to follow.