CouncilThe Quarterly Quarterly Newsletter of the Urban Forestry Council 2017 Issue Four

The Council Quarterly newsletter is published quarterly by the Florida Urban Forestry Council and is intended as an educational benefit to our members. Information may be reprinted if credit is given to the author(s) and this newsletter. All pictures, articles, advertisements, and other data are in no way to be construed as an endorsement of the author, products, services, or techniques. Likewise, the statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not represent the view of the Florida Urban Forestry Council or its Executive Committee. This newsletter is made possible by the generous support of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Forest Service, Adam H. Putnam Commissioner.

ADAPTIVE URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT AND CATASTROPHIC WEATHER EVENTS: A CASE STUDY FROM EUGENE, OREGON Submitted by Scott Altenhoff and Eric Cariaga, City of Eugene, Oregon

It seems our “new normal” is far There is, however, an upside to this story. and improvements through the frequent from normal; it’s time to expect the We have learned how to better address feedback. In the lines to follow, we’ll briefly catastrophic events. We use to plan and share the story of how Eugene made the unexpected and to do our best in base our work by looking back at past shift towards AM and how this shift made preparing for an uncertain future. models and tendencies. Now we practice a positive difference in both our storm a forward-looking approach. This new response and our overall operations. We’ll direction is based on Adaptive Management then provide some “how-to” recommenda- (AM) principles that emphasize the need tions when adopting a similar AM approach. to stay flexible and change with current environmental trends. We continuously Our 2014 Ice Storm: learn from current data and experimenta- tion, as opposed to stubbornly clinging In terms of their impact and severity, onto the past. The preeminent Ecologist, Eugene’s two recent ice storms were very C.S. Holling, an Emeritus Professor at the similar. Completely different, however, University of Florida and early proponent of was our agency’s response between the Adaptive Management, once defined AM as two. The first event caught us completely “natural resource management conducted off-guard and unprepared. We didn’t have a solid plan or system in place for prioritizing Background: in a manner that purposely and explicitly aims at increasing knowledge and reducing work, especially on such a large scale. Our Eugene, Oregon is a medium-sized com- uncertainty” (Holling 1978). In a nutshell, continues on pg. 2 munity situated about 100 miles south of the AM approach involves: increased Portland, OR. Historically, extreme high understanding of complex situations; being wind events have been rather infrequent highly proactive instead of reactive; a (once a decade). Severe cold spells and commitment to structured experimentation; INSIDE: heavy snow/ice storms have been rare. However, many of our longstanding weather Adaptive Urban Forest Management and Catastropic patterns are no longer standing the test of Weather Events: A Case Study from Eugene, Oregon...... 1 - 3 time. Climatic conditions are shifting. Since President’s Message...... 2 2014, Eugene has had two FEMA-declared weather disasters, one in February of Hurrican Irma Culls the Urban Forests of Florida...... 5 & 6 2014 and one in December of 2016. Both Stump the Forester...... 7 events involved catastrophic ice storms that contributed to an estimated loss of Tree of the Quarter...... 8 & 9 about 2% of its urban tree canopy (UTC). Avoid the Crash...... 11 & 12 This translates to tens of thousands of trees Request for Articles...... 15 damaged or destroyed throughout the city.

1 continued from pg. 1 President’s message work was largely driven by service request and calls from the public (more or less in Hello FUFC members! the order they were received) instead of following a structured system based on Best On September 10th and 11th, Hurricane Management Practices (BMPs). Field crews Irma blew through Florida, leaving a path were coordinated and dispatched directly of destruction throughout the state. My through our Emergency Command Center thoughts and prayers go out to our Florida families and friends who suffered loss due (ECC). This proved to be a significant bottle to the storm. neck. Just fielding and sorting through the thousands of service calls was overwhelm- Though it took less than 2 days for the ing. Much of the information received was hurricane to travel across our state, storm incomplete, inaccurate, duplicated, and out- In addition to a lack of internal support, it preparations started weeks earlier and dated. Some job sites were visited multiple was difficult to solicit private contractors the cleanup will continue months after times, even after the work had been com- during such a large scale event - and for the storm. Irma’s tree work was swift, pleted. Conversely, some sites with serious so long a duration. One of our greatest but incomplete. She left behind heaps tree hazards went unresolved for months. frustrations was the loss of many precious of debris for us to clean up. Counties The status of each situation could only be hours trying to coordinate with our and municipalities set in motion debris determined by sending staff out to check in local utility company, when dealing with management contracts to deal with the person. Although our Urban Forestry team potential electrical hazards regarding down cleanup - some for the first time ever. is part of the Eugene Parks and Open Space power lines. Prioritizing, coordinating, and keeping Division, which is in turn part of the larger The significant damage and the complexity trucks and crews operating became a Eugene Public Works Department, our routine exercise for stewards of the urban of work was certainly challenging and team was largely left on its own for the first forests. Utility foresters were busy restoring depressing. Most demoralizing though, few weeks. Other PW work units weren’t power and managing out-of-state crews. was a lack of organization, significant adequately trained, or equipped to deal with Fielding calls, addressing complaints, inefficiencies, and lack of good information technical and advanced tree problems. We and keeping the public informed about the for planning. We vowed to use this painful had a serious shortage of inspectors and progress was also a vital, daily task. Though experience to learn, to improve, and to field crews to help. Cleanup efforts dragged we prepare for hurricanes in advance, there utilize information to our advantage rather on for months. are always unforeseen issues and hidden than being overwhelmed by it. Our staff hurdles that must be overcome. spent dozens of hours debriefing, processing feedback and observations, and absorbing To all who have worked those long hours to open roads, to restore power, to remove the many lessons. We then crafted flexible debris, and to inform and aid customers, I and adjustable plans that could be applied to thank you with all my heart. The job is not information updates and rapidly changing easy and the challenges many, but I know conditions. our state has the best urban foresters, utility arborists, and tree-minded people needed to Our 2016 Ice Storm: get the job done. When the second ice storm hit in 2016, FUFC will be hosting the 2018 Urban thanks to the AM initiative, we were Forest Institute on February 5–7 in in much better shape to deal with the Wimauma at the Gulf Coast Research and challenge. A primary difference was our Education Center. This year’s theme is very organization’s general attitude and our appropriate, ‘Natural Disaster Preparation overall expectations. We had learned that we and Response Conference.’ What a great could get through an event like this, but that opportunity to discuss the challenges you encountered and to share stories of success and achievement with your peers and colleagues. You can find more information NEWSLETTER ADVERTISING Annual rates: on this great event on our website (FUFC. • • • org) or Facebook page. We look forward to you attending the conference! Business-card size advertisement: $75 Quarter page advertisement: $115 Yours Truly, Half-page advertisement: $225 Linda Seufert Full page advertisement: $450 Linda Seufert • • • 2017 FUFC President To place an advertisement in The Council Quarterly, please contact Sandy Temple, FUFC Executive Director (407-872-1738).

2 it was going to be a protracted effort. We expensive. They just need to cover the needed to stay flexible and seek out internal important details. This can all be accom- and external support wherever we could. We plished in a hybrid “operational plan” would have to temper our expectations and document of roughly 30 pages which pace ourselves for a marathon--not a sprint. covers pertinent elements of an urban This time we had an Emergency Storm forest management plan, a maintenance Response contract in place. Now we had a plan, and a storm response plan. These national line-clearance-contractor available plans should be a “living” document - within 72 hours of a request for assistance. dynamic and constantly evolving. Additionally, in this second disaster, all our Public Works teams pulled together to 2) Establish a storm response contract operations. Our GIS tools greatly enhance with a private, large-scale, tree company create an “all hands on deck” expectation the ability to prioritize situations, document from beginning to end. Another important who can provide assistance in the event work, and coordinate with other agencies. of a catastrophic storm. Establish a development was that we now had Digital queries can pin down timeframes, several new urban forestry plans in place: commit when providing the right equip- budgets, and staffing/equipment needs. The ment, personnel, and training. Secure an operational plan, a maintenance plan, 2016 storm was still grueling, but our spirits and a storm response plan. We established deployment timelines and “locked were lifted because many of the old hurdles in” pricing. Note: FEMA regulations a system for dividing the city into smaller were gone. We still have kinks to work management units when organizing our require unit-pricing rather than time and out, but we can now adapt on the fly, rather materials (T&M) pricing. This can be work. We developed a hybrid grid system than waiting till after the event was over. that accommodated public infrastructure, extremely challenging but not impos- Essentially, we are smarter and more nimble sible to pin down. neighborhoods, and road classifications. as an organization, especially in terms of We now have a prioritization system with our information management. Surprisingly, 3) Develop advance training programs precise descriptions and criteria for each this is more than half the battle. for internal staff and contractors. different category. Priorities range from Although there never seems to be a good highest to lowest based on location and Summary of our Recent Adaptations: time to conduct trainings, these can hazard potential. We adopted a geographic/ • Proactive and less reactive; greater make a huge difference for safety, team zonal approach to our work rather than just control of work through diligent plan- preparedness, and morale. jumping from service request to service ning and advance preparation/training. request. Advance winter storm response • Increased collaboration and inter- 4) Establish cooperative agreements and training, for all Public Works personnel to connected agency (internally and joint training programs with other ensure that their skills were sharp and their externally). departments and outside agencies. equipment was ready, paid off. We instituted • Increased learning potential, and adapt- a Storm Scouts program to help train office ability on the fly; increased institutional 5) Purchase and/or develop mobile and technical staff how to identify, docu- intelligence and flexibility/nimbleness. device-based GPS/GIS tools that staff, ment, and mitigate tree hazards. We worked • Increased innovation and experimenta- contractors, and partner agencies can to develop and refine field protocols to tion; willingness to endure small use to coordinate efforts, document reduce inefficiencies and communication mistakes and missteps that lead to work, and keep track of trees, public breakdowns. We created a utility company future success. infrastructure, people, equipment, and liaison that coordinates closely with Eugene • Improved communication and work activities. Water and Electric Board. Moving forward, information management. This is the field crews now use mobile tablets to run foundation for everything else. Conclusion: a GIS-based tree inventory/work manage- • Improved safety, efficiency, effective- If you want to set your agency up for ment app that tracks tree sites, personnel, ness, and faster response time. equipment and work activities. This success when confronting unknown challenges and extreme weather events, provides staff with a big picture view and Main Recommendations for Other Agencies: detailed contextual information. Teams can you need to be proactive, not passive. now communicate and coordinate much 1) Compose basic plans to include: to You need to be the driver of technological more effectively and are able to decentralize identify smaller, workable management and procedural advancement. Policy and units; how to prioritize situations; the technology can’t continue to happen to us. who, what, when, where, and why of Adaptive Management is not just a shift work assignments. Chances are that in organizational strategy, it is a shift in much of this information already resides organizational culture. in various staff members’ heads, but it is References: Holling, C. S. 1978. Adaptive imperative to document it in writing. This Environmental Assessment and Manage- is a critical element for organizational ment. Chichester, UK: John Wiley and Sons. learning/growth to occur. It is also a criti- cal component of FEMA reimbursement (establishing and following Standard Operating Procedures). These plans don’t have to be complicated, fancy, or

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4 CULLS THE URBAN FORESTS OF FLORIDA Submitted by John Harris, President –Earth Advisors, Inc.

During the storm recovery period after Hurricane Irma, we observed the need to remove many trees. We were constantly asked, “What caused my tree to fail?” The easy answers many people say and hear are: 1. The winds were strong enough to uproot the tree (the roots were too damaged to reset it). 2. The winds came through and tore up leaders and branches destroying the tree. 3. The constant tropical storm and hur- ricane level winds, over 1-2 days, dried out and tore off too many leaves and branches for the tree to recover. Those generalizations are often misleading about tree hazards and why trees fail during storms. There is a strong correlation between tree failures during the storm and the lack of proper tree care (history/ maintenance) before a storm’s arrival. Trees with poor maintenance histories were the majority of uprooted or severely damaged Ficus growing in +/- 5’ wide street swale, with road rock base across greenspace under trees in Hurricane Irma. Poorly placed, root system. Winds uprooted tree due to lack of soil needed for root growth and anchor poorly maintained, and unmaintained trees depth. are more susceptible to failure. are happening month by month, in different and/or prolonged flooding. I say quality and Hurricane Irma culled our urban forests of regions of Florida, and sharing observations maintenance did still make a difference, weaker trees. I have inspected thousands of of what happened across our landscapes even in these locations. Certainly, where trees across Florida from the Keys through and inside our urban forests. Discussions tornados speed through, where downdrafts to since Hurricane Irma’s are being held to find out how we are doing and hurricane force winds bear down, wind receded. I also have interviewed many with storm recovery and cleanup; and to where 4-8’ of salt water surges in, trees, professional foresters, arborists, landscape explore how we can improve our practices plants, vehicles, and buildings will receive inspectors, landscape contractors, and and reduce the loss of trees and landscape an increase in the level of damages. Even others, to learn from their observations of plants in future storms. in the areas hit hardest by Hurricane Irma, why trees failed. Green industry meetings the trees that were better rooted, consistent Why do I say the storm culled our urban aspect ratios (proportional relationship forests? Culling is the removal or separation between a tree’s height & width), tapered of weaker individuals from a population. limbs throughout their canopies, and were It is a forestry management practice used species known to be more wind resistant, to improve the growth and quality of trees experienced less damage -- contributing less within a stand. The term cull is also used to the destruction and debris piles. in the Florida Grades & Standards as the lowest quality for a plant being graded-- There are many wind factors and site condi- “Cull quality.” Generally, due to their tions that influence the level of damages for poor structure and non-saleable condition, a particular location. Discussing them is for cull quality plants would be chipped, or another longer article that includes discuss- composted, to provide the recycled nutrients ing and summarizing from research projects Mahogany tree with internal decay, and for plants that meet the quality standards for that study hurricanes and urban forests. close angled main stems, damaged the sale. University of Florida research projects, up house. Also, a Ficus seedling had started through Hurricane Wilma, are well sum- growing in the decay area, causing more You may think the quality of the trees and marized in the bulletin “Assessing Damage outward pressure. These are the reasons this past maintenance may not make much and Restoring Trees after a Hurricane,” tree failed in the winds; not just that there difference for locations that experienced the University of Florida/IFAS Extension, strongest winds, the highest tidal surges, was wind. continues on pg. 6 5 1. Girdling roots at the location where a or branches that tore apart when winds tree trunk snapped and failed. blew through the canopy. 2. Circling roots around the outside of a 7. Trees with most or all live canopy in the root mass (root balls). Trees did not upper 1/3 or ¼ of the tree height, without develop the spreading roots needed to the anchoring and support of lower limbs increase soil volume to anchoring roots. and having less tapering of leaders and Uprooted trees often displayed the entire limbs. The winds whipped the high root systems. A system of stunted roots canopies and tore the limbs and leaders that could have fit back into the same out of them. size nursery containers they were in when first planted. Each of these examples is a defect or 3. Restricted rooting space that hampered deficiency that can be identified during the growth and extent of root masses, the life of a tree. Each can be corrected by leaving large trees without enough preventative maintenance and proper tree ballast in the ground to stay in place care practices or by culling the tree before during high winds. Trees fell showing it is placed in the landscape. One consistent the restricted root growth in the uprooted theme comes from the workshops and root masses. seminars and meetings and discussions I 4. Shallow soil conditions, as observed in have attended since Hurricane Irma: “We development sites where road rock base need to get the word out. Maintained trees Java Plum trees that show previous for pavement and foundations is not survive storms better, trees require mainte- hatracking (stub cutting of most or all removed from greenspace areas. Trees nance, and tree damage can be prevented.” main leaders), shown by the darker bark mainly grew surface roots and shallow below old stub cuts (+/- 10 years ago) and anchoring roots. Trees uprooted with a Help the Florida Urban Forestry Council the lighter gray bark and multiple sprouts “pancake” of roots exposed. get the word out about proper tree care. growing above old stub cuts. All the trees 5. Old stub cuts, or “hatrack,” along a Well-maintained trees will provide greater in this median were stable for main trunk leader or main limb where branches tore benefits. A resilient tree canopy will buffer and root system, but the sprouts broke apart or broke off. communities during storms by protecting severely in winds. This is why hatracking is 6. Tight angled branch junctures (or trunk homes, businesses, and properties from a violation of many city codes and industry junctures) with included bark and/or damage. Read more about trees and standards---it is an abuse that causes trees signs of pressure between the trunks hurricanes from the great research that has to be structurally weaker and more prone to been done and is being planned to continue branch failure in wind storms. after Hurricane Irma. Use the research to update your municipal and county tree protection and landscape codes. Lastly, Bulletin ENH1036. This bulletin is part of share your hurricane and disaster experi- the larger Urban Forest Hurricane Recovery ences when attending upcoming meetings, Program, and more information can be read seminars, and workshops. What did you at http://collier.ifas.ufl.edu. see regarding tree survival and tree failure? What do you know about standing and/or Preventative maintenance is an investment uprooting trees? Your observations can help strategy that applies to almost everything to generate new standards, new codes, and we see around us. Most people understand new practices that will improve our shared that maintenance is needed for many parts environment. of our urban environment. Roads or pave- ment, as it ages, can break up with potholes Thanks to everyone for your efforts during that become larger if left unrepaired. Aging our Hurricane Irma Storm Recovery time roofs begin to have leaks that continue to together. Continue to work smart and be get worse until repaired. Cars need regular safe. Let people know trees saved more maintenance (changing the oil every 5,000 homes than they damaged. The urban forest miles or so, changing tires before they wear provides a level of storm protection for our down past the treads, etc.) to keep them communities. We look forward to working operating. With regular maintenance, aging Cutting all the live foliage and secondary with you for a better shared environment. trees can provide greater benefits, fewer branches out of your tree, IS TREE ABUSE; - John A. Harris, FUFC President; MS, MBA, risks, and are healthier. IS HATRACKING. Here you see a large hat BS, AAS; Landscape Economist; Tree and Land- rack; instead of the canopy tree that used Here are some of the more visible and scape Appraiser; Certified Forester; Registered to exist. Now, we have a tree needing code Consulting Arborist; Certified Arborist; Certified maintainable examples of why trees failed enforcement, removal, and replacement Landscape Inspector; Tree Grader; Registered and were culled out of our urban forests by instead of restoration pruning and Professional Mangrove Trimmer; and Qualified Hurricane Irma: preservation. Tree Risk Assessor

6 STUMP THE FORESTER

QUESTION: What impact will storm flooding roots will decline, or die. Flood waters can moisture data from NASA’s Soil Moisture have on street trees? also dilute essential elements and build Active Passive (SMAP) satellite maps up mineral toxicities within the soil. This have been used to forecast tree-related ANSWER: Though flooding will have an is especially true if the flooding involves power outages with a surprisingly high impact on our urban trees, the beneficial brackish, or salt water. degree of accuracy. This is no surprise to impact trees will have against the what we’ve seen on the ground. Increased detrimental impacts of excessive storm Flood-stressed trees may turn brown, or soil saturation, caused by flooding, will water cannot be over-emphasized. Storm- drop leaves prematurely. This does not mean decrease the holding capacity between related flooding accounts for the majority that a tree is dead. If the cambium layer- just roots and soil. The results can impact the of polluted runoff to surface water, property under the bark – is green and alive, the tree anchoring system for weeks, or perhaps damages, and storm hazards to public will likely recover. months after the storm. The structural safety. Trees, and a resilient urban tree integrity of the root system should not Though storm flooding is often a temporary canopy, will ultimately play an important be overlooked when inspecting trees that condition, the detrimental impacts on a role toward a greener storm water solution, survived flooding. tree’s anchoring system can be significant and a viable action plan. and immediate. Evidence reveals a direct Answer provided by Joe Anderson, Utility Street trees may be able to withstand correlation between increased soil saturation Forester with JEA temporary periods of stress caused by and tree-related power outages associated storm flooding, but flood waters can with hurricanes and severe storms. Soil deplete the soil of oxygen and create the anaerobic conditions that suffocate roots – halting the biological functions of photosynthesis, transpiration, and plant respiration. When talking about trees, leaves and photosynthesis get a lot of attention. Respiration is often overlooked. Respiration is the process by which stored carbohydrates, produced through photosynthesis, are used by the tree. Trees are incapable of respiration in the absence of free oxygen to roots. If flooding depletes the soil of oxygen for long periods of time,

If you would like to ‘stump the forester,’ see page 15 for information on submitting your question!

7 of RED MANGROVE Tree the Quarter (Rhizophora mangle) Submitted by Andrew Koeser, Melissa Friedman, and Gitta Hasing – UF/IFAS Gulf Coast Research and Education Center

Act--depending on the location of the trees in question. These regulations govern both removal and pruning and should be referenced by all professionals working in coastal areas. Habitat: Red mangrove is found across the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and South America. In Florida, the species is generally limited to USDA Hardiness Zones 10 and 11, tolerating occasional winter lows right around freezing (30 to 35 degrees F.). That said, red mangrove persists beyond this range given the protection offered by its coastal habitat. The species is found in full sun and moist to wet soil. It has a low drought tolerance, and high aerosol and soil salt tolerance. Leaves: Red mangrove leaves are 1½ to 6” long, simple, opposite, elliptic, and with entire margins. Leaves are thick, leathery, smooth, dark to medium green on top, and paler green to yellow underneath. Leaf undersides have tiny black dots that may require a magnifying glass or hand lens to view. The species is evergreen.

Red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle) is native to Florida and naturally occurs from southward. Like black (Avicennia germi- nans) and white (Laguncularia racemose) mangrove, red mangrove naturally occurs in low-energy coastal areas. However, red mangrove has a lower salt tolerance than black and white mangrove and tends to inhabit the lower portions of regularly flooded intertidal zones. The Nation’s champion red mangrove, located in Lee County is 64’ tall and 43” wide, but most specimens are much smaller at approximately 20-30’ in height and width. As one of the state’s three native mangrove species, red mangrove is protected by various local/ county regulations or Florida’s Mangrove Trimming and Preservation

8 Bark: The bark is reddish brown and smooth, becoming gray and slightly fissured with age. One of the more notable features of the species are the many prop roots which arc outward from the stems like buttresses.

Flowers: Flowers are small, white and emerge in clusters of 2-3 from leaf axils. They appear in early to mid-summer, though sporadic flowering can occur year round. Fruit: Initially, fruits develop as 1-2” long, brown, egg-shaped structures. Over time they evolve into a pencil-shaped propagule that emerge at the fruit base and extend up to 11” long. This extension varies from light green, dark green, to reddish-brown in color. Red mangrove fruits in late summer to early fall. Special notes: Red mangrove has a unique root system of prop roots, which generally extend outward in an arc from the lower portion of the trunk. The prop roots assist with gas exchange in oxygen-poor soils, provide stability to the tree, and prevent coastal erosion. Mangroves provide critical roosting, breeding, and nursing habitat for a variety of wading birds, fish, and other wildlife. Subsequently, mangroves play a vital role in the sustainability and success of Florida’s recreational and commer- cial fishing industries, as well as Florida’s ecotourism industry. See this species (and other coastal trees) for yourself at the Urban Forestry Institute’s pre-conference mangrove kayaking tour! Space will be limited.

9 Avoid the crash Submitted by Dave Conser, Senior Forester, Florida Forest Service

referred to as “included bark), which is really no connection at all. One or more of these competing trunks or branches may fail, splitting away. On the other hand, branches that grow out from the trunk in a horizontal direction are likely to form a stronger bond. Generally, “U-shaped” crotches are stronger than “V” crotches. This problem can be resolved with proper pruning, and the earlier the better. Live oak (Quercus virginiana) is a conundrum in this case. It has a tendency to form a lot of “V” crotches; but it is a great tree, with ultra- strong wood. It may be fine with a modest size “V,” but fail with the large V-joint. No doubt it is best to prune Live oaks early in order to promote horizontal branching and strong branch unions.

Obviously, we should survey our trees for dead branches, or recognize a tree if it’s entirely dead. With a dead tree especially, there is another important observation, or consideration. Is there a target? In other words, what’s the worst thing that can happen if the tree or branch falls? Is it likely to strike everything? If it can’t hit anything important, it has no significant target. Dead trees are actually vitally important to many cavity nesters, such as woodpeckers, owls, CRASH! She was sure a car had run into Sick, stressed or compromised trees often other birds, flying squirrels, and many her house and went rushing outside to find, show signs to the discerning eye. Not in additional critters. Consider leaving a dead not a car, but a huge tree branch, splayed every case, but often enough if we pay tree standing if you can safely do so. Even across the roof. With all the soaking rains attention. A tree with a full, luxurious after it falls on the ground, dead wood is a large, dead branch had finally given into canopy of leaves is almost always more a valuable resource for an assortment of gravity. Why hadn’t someone seen that healthy than one with a thinning top. animals. In some instances, dead wood can ahead of time and done something about it? Foresters and arborists call the live top of create an entire habitat. a tree its “crown.” Crown decline refers to When Hurricane season is upon us, some a condition when a tree has a significant Here are some other, less common hazards. homeowners turn their attention to the number of leafless twigs scattered Does a tree have a large rotten, decayed condition of their trees. Others are blissfully throughout the top of the tree. It signals area? Are their mushroom-like growths unaware of the hazard that may be lurking that the tree is declining, often due to forming in decayed areas. Rotten areas above. Should we turn our yards into root injury and/or the steady progression never heal. The tree will fight to keep the treeless pastures, or throw our hands up in of one or more root diseases. A tree with decay from progressing further into good, resignation of ignorance? Neither extreme compromised roots is more likely to topple sound wood. If the tree is healthy, it will is necessary or appropriate. over, possibly onto something important. triumph for quite some time. If the tree is unhealthy or stressed, the decay may gain There are tried and true principles when The trunk and branching structure of a the upper hand. Is the rotten area large assessing the hazards a particular tree may tree is important. One common example enough and in a position to cause the failure possess. Granted, there are few guarantees of poor structure leading to hazardous of the tree or limb? To assist your tree, in regarding what this natural world may or conditions is a sharp “V” crotch--where a fight against decay, prevent any-and-all may not throw our way. But the following two large trunks or branches join tightly injury to the bark of a tree. The bark is are some principles I have gleaned through together in a “V-like” configuration. This the tree’s natural defensive barrier against years of advising homeowners regarding the means the tree probably has an internal decay. Lawnmowers and weed eaters are condition of their trees. bark-to-bark connection (a structural defect big-time culprits in this regard. Improper

10 pruning of branches also exacerbates Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), sand live work, and perhaps removal, is probably injuries and decay. oak (Quercus geminata), dogwood (Cornus warranted. A qualified arborist is a great florida), pecan (Carya illinoinensis) resource for a more in-depth analysis. Cankers are sunken, misshapen areas, (sheltered in a non-orchard setting), and usually on the trunk of the tree. About 30% bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) are Planting trees correctly and planting “the of pine trees have cankers from a disease also real “stand-up” performers. Some of right tree in the right place” can get a tree called fusiform rust. A canker can cause a the worst include laurel oak, water oak, off to a great start. Proper pruning of young tree to be hazardous if it sand pine, Carolina trees is worthwhile. Pruning older trees extends too far around, or can be extremely beneficial. Detrimental “Don’t panic though, laurelcherry (Prunus into, the trunk of the tree. caroliniana), red maple pruning techniques as “topping” and “lion If it is more than half scientific surveys show (Acer rubrum), and tailing” should be avoided. Research way through the tree’s that only 1-2% of trees turkey oak (Quercus indicates that the practice of crown thinning trunk, there are increased that failed during cerris). Sweetgum to mitigate wind damage from hurricanes is concerns. actually harmful. Avoid disturbing a tree’s hurricanes caused (Liquidambar styraciflua) and red cedar (Juniperus root system--most of the absorbing roots A deep crack through the damage to property.” virginiana) have a of a tree are at a shallow depth of only 3 bark of the tree, into the tendency to break in to 12 inches in the soil. Avoid the CRASH wood, may indicate the hurricane winds. Don’t by promoting the health of your tree(s). tree is already failing. It’s natural for bark panic though, scientific surveys show Identifying tree issues ahead of time and to look like it has minute cracks all over the that only 1-2% of trees that failed during doing something about it depends on you. place. A long, deep crack that appears to hurricanes caused damage to property. go all the way through is a serious warning sign. Do your trees have crown decline, V-crotches, dead branches, large areas of So which trees hold up best in hurricanes? decay, cankers, or deep cracks? These are The latest research suggests Live oak some of the tell-tale signs of tree defects (Quercus virginiana) and sabal palm (Sabal that homeowners should look for. Does palmetto) are the real champs. Southern the hazardous tree have a target? If so, tree

11 Working in Harmony with Nature Sumter Electric Cooperative has always placed a high priority on the environment by working to stay in harmony with nature. Evidence of SECO’s environmental stewardship is displayed through the following programs.

Sumter Electric Cooperative: • was named a Tree Line USA utility for the fourth consecutive year by The National Arbor Day Foundation. Employee arboriculture training, public education, and maintaining abundant, healthy trees in SECO’s service area are common practices. • installs osprey nesting dishes atop of the utility pole cross arms as needed for these magnificent birds. • places squirrel guards atop the transformers to protect a variety of animals from danger, particularly squirrels. • offers net metering to members interested in renewable generation such as photovoltaic systems. • recycles retired power equipment, scrap steel, aluminum, copper, porcelain, fluorescent lights, ink printer and copier cartridges, plus much more. • researches and writes Nature’s Reflections, a special column in the members’ newsletter developed to educate the community on the flora and fauna of Florida with eco-friendly topics like xeriscaping and conservation. TM

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Contact your Nelson representative today to discuss your vegetation management needs: Bob Turner Jr. at 1-856-694-4100

14 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION (Dues are effective for the calendar year of January 1 - December 31) Make check or money order payable to FUFC and mail to: Post Office Box 547993, Orlando, FL 32854-7993 ••••••••••• Like Us! Categories (please check one): q Professional @ $25.00 on (Professional membership is open to anyone who is actively working in the profession of Urban Forestry or any related profession.) q Tree Advocate @ $20.00 (Tree Advocate membership is granted to those volunteers who How high can we go? are members of a tree board, beautification committee or other Urban Forestry volunteer group.) q Supporting @ $200.00 (Supporting membership is granted to those individuals, groups or other entities expressing a desire for a strong supportive role in the Council. Membership will be granted for up to five individuals of an organization or business.) q Government/Non-Profit Agency @ $100.00 (Government/Non-Profit Agency membership is granted to those individuals, groups or other entities actively working in the profession of Urban Forestry or any related profession. Member- ship will be granted for up to five individuals within the agency.) q Student @ $10.00 (Student membership is granted to anyone who is actively enrolled as a full-time student and who is considering pursuing a career in Urban Forestry.)

Name:

______REQUEST FOR ARTICLES Title: ______Please let us know what urban forestry projects you have going Firm: on in your neck of the woods. The Florida Urban Forestry Council would greatly appreciate the opportunity to share your ______information in our newsletter. These articles can include: Address:

n New trends in the industry ______n News about tree advocacy groups City: n Volunteer projects n City tree programs n Letters to the Editor ______n Questions for “Stump the State: Zip: Forester” ______We look forward to hearing from you on this or any other interesting Telephone: (______)______topic related to the urban forestry industry and profession. Please FAX: (______)______send any articles or ideas to Joe Anderson, FUFC newsletter editor, at E-mail: [email protected]. Thanks for contributing! Amount Enclosed: ______Date: _____/_____/_____ Would you be interested in further information regarding

serving on a Council subcommittee? n Yes n No

Area of interest: ______! Clip and Mail Today! 15 FLORIDA URBAN FORESTRY COUNCIL NON-PROFIT ORG. Post Office Box 547993 U.S. POSTAGE Orlando, FL 32854-7993 - PAID - PERMIT #2717 ORLANDO, FLORIDA

For more information or change of address, please contact the FUFC: Phone: (407) 872-1738 Fax: (407) 872-6868 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.fufc.org Change Service Requested Address Update: q Please change my address as noted on the right. q I receive duplicates. Please delete my name at right. q Please remove my name from your mailing list.

2017 fufc executive committee members

OFFICERS: COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Linda Seufert President Alexis Alvey, Appointed Position Andrew Koeser, Appointed Position Appointed Position ASLA/FL Chapter Member-at-Large Advisory Member Keith and Schnars City of Vero Beach City of St. Petersburg • • Kathy Beck, Appointed Position Gayle Lafferty, Elected Position Advisory Member Member-at-Large John Harris City of Tampa City of Vero Beach President Elect • • Acting Treasurer Kathleen Brennan, Appointed Position Mark Miller, Appointed Position Appointed Position Florida League of Cities Advisory Member FNGLA • City of Apopka Earth Advisors, Inc. Greg Brown, Appointed Position • FL Recreation and Park Association Daisy Morales, Appointed Position Joe Anderson City of Largo Advisory Member Vice President • Orange County Soil and Water Elected Position Jody Buyas, Elected Position Conservation District Member-at-Large Member-at-Large • JEA Keep Orlando Beautiful Guy Murtonen, Appointed Position • Florida Department of Transportation Jim Davis, Appointed Position Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise Erin Givens Cooperative Extension Service • Acting Secretary Sumter County John Springer, Elected Position Appointed Position • Tree Advocacy Advisory Member Steve Edgar, Appointed Position Enchanted Walkabouts Orlando Utilities Society of American Foresters • Commission Long Leaf Forest Service, Inc. David Watford, Elected Position • Utility Forester Justin Freedman Elizabeth Harkey, Elected Position SECO Energy Immediate Past President City Arborist • Elected Position City of Sanford Mark Williams, Elected Position Private Arborist • Member-at-Large E Sciences Inc. Julie Iooss, Appointed Position City of Fort Lauderdale FL Chapter ISA • Retired – City of Orlando Vacancy - Advisory Member • • Ian Jurgensen, Elected Position Lou Shepherd, Liaison Florida Forest Service Member-at-Large • City of Orlando • Sandy Temple FUFC Executive Director