Vertical split in dead standing tree - how to take it down

[ykkramer]

I have a dead standing ash tree that i’d like to remove. There were two other nearly identical standing dead ash trees in the vicinity - one I fell with no issues (but it didnt have a crack) and the other fell earlier this year by pulling up the roots which were mostly rotted away.

This one seems a little more “precarious” to say the least and to further complicate things, I don’t recall noticing the split earlier this summer when I fell the other one so either I just didnt pay attention or it occurred somewhat recently. Not knowing for sure gives me a little more concern. I’m also operating under the assumption something will definitely fall from up top so regardless I really want no part of being anywhere near the base of this thing when it starts to come down.

What is the best way to approach this tree? Or is it better to leave it standing and let things run their course? It seems like it is super solid despite the crack but it’s super hard to gauge how long it’ll hold upright. I searched for answers but most scenarios were either heavily leaning trees or trees with forked trunks. Any advice here is much appreciated!

 

[BeatCJ]

I think if I had to get that down I would push it over with a Dozer or excavator. If those aren't options, and it's not going to hit anything when it comes over, I would stay away from it.

If it's a danger to people, I would get someone well versed in hazard tree removal.

 

[lone wolf]

That tree should give the OP pause! Stay away from it.

 

[lone wolf]

I think if I had to get that down I would push it over with a Dozer or excavator. If those aren't options, and it's not going to hit anything when it comes over, I would stay away from it.

If it's a danger to people, I would get someone well versed in hazard tree removal.

NO! Try to break it down with a heavy machine from a safe distance. Don't be under it, anything could happen.

 

[Mad Professor]

Let it fall over or tannerite.

 

[capetrees]

I have a dead standing ash tree that i’d like to remove. There were two other nearly identical standing dead ash trees in the vicinity - one I fell with no issues (but it didnt have a crack) and the other fell earlier this year by pulling up the roots which were mostly rotted away.

This one seems a little more “precarious” to say the least and to further complicate things, I don’t recall noticing the split earlier this summer when I fell the other one so either I just didnt pay attention or it occurred somewhat recently. Not knowing for sure gives me a little more concern. I’m also operating under the assumption something will definitely fall from up top so regardless I really want no part of being anywhere near the base of this thing when it starts to come down.

What is the best way to approach this tree? Or is it better to leave it standing and let things run their course? It seems like it is super solid despite the crack but it’s super hard to gauge how long it’ll hold upright. I searched for answers but most scenarios were either heavily leaning trees or trees with forked trunks. Any advice here is much appreciated!

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Buy some heavy tie down straps and wrap it a couple of times nice and tight. It wouldn't hurt to put a chain around it also. At that point, cut it as you would any other tree but do it carefully and ready to run.

 

[ZinTrees]

its a dead ash, its already one of the sketchiest trees to work on, add the split and some inexperience, and you have a recipe for disaster

leave it, or if you must take it down, throwline over the limbs and break them off one at a time from a long distance away

can also shoot if down if you don't care where it falls assuming local laws allow for it (its what I would do personally)

 

[jblnut]

Buy some heavy tie down straps and wrap it a couple of times nice and tight. It wouldn't hurt to put a chain around it also. At that point, cut it as you would any other tree but do it carefully and ready to run.

I’ve done this as well with split trees like that in the past with fine results. Gotta take ones time and not rush any part of it. I like to ramjam those trees with the skiddy first to knock anything loose off before strapping it together. Never tackle something like this alone. Always have someone watching above you for movement of any kind.