PRACTICE

Burned Tree Removal

Trees had to be taken down along Hwy 153 so they would not block the road. Photo: Carlene Anders

There is extensive, valuable printed and online material available for the process and safety issues around removing fire-damaged trees. Many hands, hearts, and heads make the massive job of burned tree removal a reality. Please note, there is considerable danger and liability in falling burned trees so it should be done only with professional consultation and with the utmost safety.

Example:

The unique coordination and innovative thinking during the aftermath of the Carlton Complex Firestorm of 2014 is worth sharing. With over a quarter of a million acres burned in the Carlton Complex, massive tree stands were devastated. Trees close to homes, fence lines, infrastructure, and roads had to be addressed. Organizations who assisted in disaster recovery rallied to provide experienced chainsaw teams, including Team Rubicon and UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief). Additionally, experienced local foresters and firefighters responded by volunteering their tree falling expertise. It was all coordinated through Okanogan Long Term Recovery Group, resulting in thousands of dangerous and nuisance trees being removed. In collaboration with US Dept. of Fish and Wildlife, limbs and debris from fallen trees were placed in piles on public lands for birds and other animals that lost their habitat during the fire. Volunteer teams, like AmeriCorps NCCC, came in to clean up and buck up trees as firewood to share with survivors who needed it the following winter.

Resources