Estimating Leaning Tree Failures
University Outreach Publication
<br /><br /> Leaning trees are difficult to assess for catastrophic risk management. In leaning trees, the strength in tension and compression of various portions of the tree above ground, soil strength, and root holding aspects all interact. To better estimate theoretical limits of leaning tree strength, calculations were completed to assist tree specialists appreciate tree biomechanics. These estimates were made under ideal situations for educational purposes. The dynamic loads and unique situations of living trees under natural conditions cannot (and are not) modeled in this publication.<br /><br /> Figure 1 provides the theoretical criteria for the estimates made in this publication. The products produced are: Table 1 -- the degrees from vertical leading to potential failure of trees at various heights under the influence of gravity; and, Table 2 -- a listing of how many feet away from vertical is the tree top for a number of different angles across a number of tree heights.<br /><br /> Tree Biomechanics Series<br /><br /> FOR00-013<br /><br />
Dr. Kim D. Coder
2005
Daniel B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia
Athens, Georgia
4
FOR00-013
Biology (tree), Disaster, Evaluation/Assessment, Mechanics (tree), Plant Health Care, Risk Assessment and Hazard, Safety Issues, Storms, Structure (tree)
National, Southeast, International
mechanics, Leaf characteristics, biomechanics, statics, risk assessment