Home < Ice Storm 2004

In December and early January severe ice storms struck parts of Ohio. In addition to extensive power outages, closed roads and damage to structures, many trees were affected.

A similar event occurred in New England in 1998 and in southern Ohio in 2003. As a result several publications were developed by the USDA Forest Service to help private woodland owners to make informed decisions on how to react. Several of these fact sheets are posted at the left. We are working to gather information on the extent of the damage and how forest trees will respond to this damage. We will continue to post new information on this site as it becomes available.

After reviewing much of the literature from the 1998 Storm in New England and communication with a number of foresters from the area, we recommend the following:

Be Patient! Don't Panic! Many of the standing trees with damage to as much as 75% of their crowns will survive. Acting too quickly could result in additional, unnecessary damage to trees.

Always Think Safety! Be aware of hazards when you are in the woods. Hanging branches and slash on the ground are of greatest concern. Windy conditions can greatly increase the risk.

Get Help! Seek assistance from a professional forester to assess the damage and help you develop a plan of action.

For more information, contact:

Dave Apsley (apsley.1@osu.edu)
Natural Resources Specialist
Ohio State University Extension
(740)289-2071