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!

View attachment 1221465View attachment 1221466View attachment 1221469View attachment 1221470

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.