The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds Missourians to exercise caution when cleaning up after winter storms. When storms damage trees, clean-up and recovery can seem overwhelming. Some injured trees can be trimmed to maintain their health and value to homeowners. Others should be removed. Knowing what repairs to make, how to make them, and how to avoid paying for unneeded services can help keep injury – both physical and financial – at a minimum. Be aware of utility lines and hazardous overhanging limbs. Alert your electricity provider immediately and allow experts to assess the danger. Remove trees or limbs that have fallen on your home or are blocking access to your residence. Hire a Qualified Arborist WARNING: Use caution before hiring people who knock on your door. Good arborists generally are too busy to generate business this way. Door knockers are especially common after a storm and are notorious for recommending unhealthy tree-trimming practices such as “tree topping. For more information, contact your local MDC office, or go online to mdc.mo.gov/resource/tree-care-after-storms.

For more information, contact your local MDC office, or go online to mdc.mo.gov/resource/tree-care-after-storms.