News Releases

The state's recent stormy weather has prompted many calls to local county Agricultural Extension offices about storm-damaged trees.

Wayne Clatterbuck, associate professor of foresty with the University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service, says those concerned about the state of their trees may consult two Extension publications online for some quick answers to questions about tree care and maintenance.

"Storm-Damaged Residential Trees: Assessment, Care and Prevention, " UT Extension Publication SP 575, is available online at http://www.utextension.utk.edu/spfiles/sp575.pdf

The accompanying publication "How To Recognize and Prevent Tree Hazards," UT Extension Publication SP 573 may be found online at http://www.utextension.utk.edu/spfiles/sp573.pdf

Clatterbuck says maintaining damaged trees can be hazardous, and he recommends consulting a licensed arborist. David Mercker, forest management specialist with the UT Agricultural Extension Service, agrees. "Whether you need damage appraisals, tips for applying insecticides, or professional pruning, you can quickly locate a licensed arborist by searching the International Society of Arborists website," Mercker said. The site is located at http://www.isaarbor.com/arborists/arbsearch.html. Type in your zip code to find professsionals in your area.

# # #

Contacts: Wayne Clatterbuck, 865-974-7346; Patricia McDaniels, 865-974-7141