Large-scale storm events that cause excessive tree damage can rapidly compromise public safety. Communities manage such catastrophes with varying degrees of efficiency and often rely on aid from state and federal government agencies to fund hazard reduction and debris removal. That aid depends significantly on the ability to estimate storm damage accurately and quickly.
This protocol introduces a standard method to assess widespread storm damage in a simple, credible, and efficient manner immediately after a severe storm. This assessment method is adaptable to various community types and sizes, and it provides information on the time and funds needed to mitigate storm damage.