The gypsy moth infestations in the state over the past few summers have, unfortunately, left more than a few dead oak trees in people’s yards and in the state’s forests, says Connecticut State Forester Christopher Martin. The state is working as fast as it can to address any that might be a potential hazard for hikers, but Martin said he wants hikers to use caution and common sense when it comes to outings in the woods.

“As an agency, we’re addressing a lot of these dead trees. And I don’t want to paint a picture that it’s dangerous to be outside, but it would be a smart thing if people put their situational awareness cap on. When you park the car, don’t park it under a dead tree. Be careful when you are hiking,” he says. “That’s always good advice, but it is particularly good advice this year. Don’t let it ruin your fall, but plan accordingly and keep your eyes open.”

He also recommended that homeowners, now, when the live trees still have leaves, scan their property for dead trees, and flag the dead trees with paint, then schedule a time for their removal. He says most tree removal companies are pretty busy this time of year, so that it’s likely they’ll have to come later in the year.

“Once the trees are off of the other leaves, it can be harder to tell sometimes which is which for the average Joe citizen,” he says. “If you put on a flagging of paint, when the tree removal company comes, it’s already identified. September is make-your-plan month. That’s something the homeowner can do right now. Come November, December, when the tree guy finally comes, you know which one has to be taken care of.”

—Pem McNerney