Editor’s Note: Interested in free weekly updates from Northern Michigan? Sign up for the WEEKLY PINE VIEW
Tips from the DNR
REGION– After another round of heavy March storms in northern Michigan, many trees are left bent, broken, and tangled in debris. While cleanup may feel urgent, experts stress one thing first: slow down and stay safe.
Before touching anything, assess your surroundings carefully. Hidden dangers like downed or energized power lines and branches under tension can pose serious risks. If there’s any chance a tree or limb is touching a wire, keep your distance and call the utility company.
Resist the urge to shake snow or ice off branches—this often causes more harm than good. Most trees will naturally recover as temperatures rise. When it comes to damage, leave large limbs, leaning trees, and hazardous situations to certified professionals who have the proper equipment and training.
For smaller, reachable damage, careful pruning can help trees heal. Make clean cuts at proper junctions, avoid over-pruning, and use sanitized tools. In the weeks ahead, watch for delayed signs of damage like leaning, cracked trunks, or dying branches—these may require expert evaluation.
Cleanup can feel overwhelming, but patience pays off. Check with local officials for debris disposal options, and if hiring help, be clear about responsibilities for removal.
Looking ahead, this storm is a reminder of the importance of proper tree care and diversity. With thoughtful maintenance and planning, Michigan’s trees can recover and remain strong for years to come.
Photo courtesy of the DNR.
