Following yesterday's storms and reports of downed trees and limbs, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) has issued its Responsible Storm Cleanup Advisory.

Guidance to property owners handling downed trees, limbs, and branches

Following severe weather, property owners often face the challenge of what to do with storm-damaged trees. Project Canopy, a DACF and Maine Forest Service (MFS) program, offers guidance for safely and responsibly handling downed trees, limbs, and branches.

Trees and Branches Around Homes and Power Lines

Property owners should use caution around downed trees and branches, particularly those affecting homes, businesses, power lines, or other utilities.

Never attempt to remove a tree or branch entangled with a power line. Contact your local power company for assistance. Even when utility lines are not involved, consider having a professional assess significant tree damage before attempting removal or repair.

For trees or large branches threatening or impacting homes or businesses, enlist the help of a reputable licensed arborist.

Injured Trees Requiring Climbing or Chainsaw Work

When storm-damaged trees require climbing or chainsaw work, homeowners are urged to work with licensed arborists. Arborists in Maine are required to be licensed, indicating they have met training, examination, and insurance requirements.

Licensed arborists can evaluate storm-damaged trees, safely perform hazardous work, and determine whether all or part of a damaged tree can be saved.

Be cautious of fly-by-night emergency tree-cutting services. Always request proof of licensing, insurance, and references. The DACF Division of Animal and Plant Health Arborist Program provides additional information about working with arborists.

Protecting Maine's Forests

The MFS reminds property owners that woody debris from storm damage can harbor harmful insects and diseases. Moving this material can unintentionally spread forest pests to new areas.

Maine has state and federal quarantines and regulations that may restrict the movement of certain woody material. These include restrictions affecting ash from emerald ash borer regulated areas, larch from areas within the European larch canker quarantine, and hemlock material from areas affected by hemlock woolly adelgid regulations.

Before moving storm debris, property owners should check the Maine Forest Service's searchable town list to determine whether quarantine restrictions apply.

Severe storms can also reveal signs of invasive forest pests. If you notice unusual insect activity or damage that may be associated with pests such as the Asian longhorned beetle or hemlock woolly adelgid, take photos and report your observations to the Maine Forest Service.