Title: Identify conditions that signal a need for tree care.
Course: Community Forestry and Tree Management (18502-III) > Section: Maintaining and Caring for Trees

Identification should include

- hazard and conflict recognition
- condition and vitality assessment
  - lightning strike
  - ice damage
  - wind damage
  - signs and symptoms of insect damage or disease
  - deadwood in the branches
  - girdling roots
  - age of tree
  - poor structure
  - included bark
  - co-dominant leaders
  - mechanical damage
  - cavities
  - cankers
  - sun scald.

Process/Skill Questions:

- What are the branch and trunk defects that indicate the need for maintenance?
- What are health and vitality characteristics that indicate the need for maintenance?
- What are symptoms of soil deficiencies?
- What are the characteristics of a tree that has been struck by lightning?
- What are characteristics of disease and insect damage?
- How would a tree-care professional respond to co-dominant leaders?
- What are some methods to reduce the risk of mechanical damage to young trees?
- How can the structure of a young tree be improved to encourage the type of growth desired in a mature tree?