Hazards of Root Disease in Pacific Northwest Recreation Sites

Trees with root diseases. especially not caused by Phellinus weirii, are subject to windthrow, and thus seriously threaten public safety in developed recreation sites in Pacific Northwest forests. Pathologists or specially trained foresters should inspect an area for root disease hazards before construction begins. When trees with diseased roots are found on sites that are already in operation, managers must reduce present and future hazards while maintaining the area's beauty.