Broken Trees
Oaks that have their mainstem broken may die while yellow-poplars and other fast growth species such as cottonwood may regenerate their top. How fast the log must be removed to recover value is based on how far up the stem the damage occurs.
Obvious mainstem breakage that results initial loss of sawtimber value. Unacceptable growing stock.
Mainstem breakage that occurs above 18 to 20 feet above the ground allows recovery of butt log within 1 year of damage. This oak tree will not recover its top. Unacceptable growing stock.
Mainstem breakage that occurs 12 to 15 feet above the ground should be removed as quickly as possible. This oak tree will not recover its top. Unacceptable growing stock.
Yellow-poplar and other fast growth species can ultimately recover from high mainstem breakage. However, growth will initially be slow. Unacceptable growing stock.
Conifers that have live branches below a maintstem break will generally remain alive. However, no long-term improvement should be expected. Unacceptable growing stock
Pines having mainstem breakage below live branches will die. Unacceptable growing stock.