Is there a problem with this tree?

Question: We just noticed the top of this tree has turned orange. This has just happened in recent days. Does it spell trouble for this huge tree in our backyard? What action(s), if any, should we take? Thanks

responder: Answered by theHome and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied September 04, 2024, 11:50 AM EDT
response: Yes, the tree suddenly browning out suggests that it has been under stress for a while and may be in decline or dying. Do you know what type of a tree it is? We are unable to enlarge your photo or see details. Have you noticed any problems before now? Dead limbs falling? Unfortunately the last several years have been very hard on our big trees (and little ones!). Mature oaks have been failing due to a number of factors, termed Oak Decline:  https://extension.umd.edu/resource/browning-and-defoliation-white-oaks/  Climate change, the related unpredictable weather and the prolonged periods of intense heat and drought over the last couple of years have taken a toll and we are expecting many trees to suffer, particularly if they weren't able to be watered.  Please read through this page which helps people to know whether it may be time to remove a tree:  https://extension.umd.edu/resource/how-do-you-decide-when-remove-tree/ If the tree's eventual fall would threaten people or property it would be a good idea to have it evaluated by an ISA-certified arborist for structural stability.  Declining/dead trees have wide environmental and wildlife value and can be left in place if their fall is not hazardous. You can also leave a 'snag', or partial trunk left that can help serve the same purpose.   Christine

responder: The Question Asker Replied September 04, 2024, 12:07 PM EDT
response: Thanks Christine! Could you recommend an ISA-certified arborist? Carl From: ask=<personal data hidden> On Behalf Of Ask ExtensionSent: Wednesday, September 4, 2024 11:50 AMTo: carlayers13 Subject: Re: Is there a problem with this tree? (#0153861)

responder: Answered by theHome and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied September 04, 2024, 2:06 PM EDT
response: You're welcome. As a research institution, in order to remain non-biased we can't recommend individual businesses. Most larger tree companies have certified arborists on staff or you can search for one at the credentialing agency here:  https://www.treesaregood.org/ Talking to neighbors about who they have used can sometimes be helpful, and it's usually a good idea to have more than one evaluation/estimate.

responder: The Question Asker Replied September 04, 2024, 2:16 PM EDT
response: Understand. Thanks again! Carl From: ask=<personal data hidden> On Behalf Of Ask ExtensionSent: Wednesday, September 4, 2024 2:06 PMTo: carlayers13 Subject: Re: Is there a problem with this tree? (#0153861)

responder: Answered by theHome and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied September 04, 2024, 2:19 PM EDT
response: We are happy to help, anytime.