Does my tree need to come down? - Ask Extension
Approx 20-25 year old maple tree in our back yard. Had a 1/4 of it broke off in a storm 4 years ago. To about 1/4 of the trunk as well. It has filled ...
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Does my tree need to come down? #923299
Asked January 04, 2026, 4:17 PM EST
Approx 20-25 year old maple tree in our back yard. Had a 1/4 of it broke off in a storm 4 years ago. To about 1/4 of the trunk as well. It has filled out each year and seems healthy, but we want to be sure so it can be taken down before it were to fall down. Can send pic or would love to arrange for a visit to evaluate.
Linn County Oregon
Expert Response
Wow, that was very severe damage, but it looks like the tree has recovered rather well. Trees can be tree-mendously resilient. It doesn't look like there is anything nearby that the tree would damage if it started dropping limbs, aside from the fence, and that is the most likely thing for it to do. Looking at the original damage, it looks like there was some rot or damage at the top of the torn area. The tree has sealed off the damage as much as it can, but there may still be rot in there that would eventually weaken it.
Alas, Extension is unable to send out anyone to inspect it in person. It would definitely be a good idea to have a licensed arborist look at it for general health, and also for any pruning that might help it grow better and safer.
Alas, Extension is unable to send out anyone to inspect it in person. It would definitely be a good idea to have a licensed arborist look at it for general health, and also for any pruning that might help it grow better and safer.
