Look carefully at the tree base and exposed roots. After noting any structural defects, step back and consider aspects of the environment that may influence the hazard and note the proximity to any targets. Trees of high risk would include those with substantial rot defect due to basal wounds and root rot as indicated by fruiting bodies. It is extremely important to document hazardous trees. In order to reduce liability, a record is required.
Documentation insures that the land manager has systematically inspected the area for hazards.
Heavily-used areas should be inspected annually prior to the recreation season. Additional inspections are warranted any time following severe storm activity. At the next inspection the current form will be used to identify those trees which need special attention. A new form will be completed at that time and will replace the old form in the files. The back of the Tree Hazard Evaluation Form is designed for the evaluator to map all trees evaluated.