Driving around the county one doesn't have to go far before you see tree damage.

Some trees had root failure where saturated soil along with high winds allowed trees to fall over. These exposed root systems for large trees are sure death. Young trees might survive if staking can secure the tree to allow it to re-grow roots. Be sure not to damage the bark of the young tree while staking. The use of an old piece of garden hose with the wire run through it should provide protection.

Trees which have lost several limbs should be monitored. Trees with 30% damage or less might be pruned and salvaged. The question here is, "Is the trunk damaged?" Damage to the trunk causes the tree to become a safety hazard thus these trees should be removed.

Trees with more than 50% damage most likely should be replaced. The reasoning here is they likely pose a safety hazard and will have a misshaped growth habit. Pine trees should be replaced when damage exceeds 30%.

Trees with bark stripped have received major damage as well. A tree with bark removed all the way around is called girdled. Girdled trees should be removed because nutrient flow has been shut down.

Trees with bark damage around the circumference of less than 30% should be pruned and monitored as recovery progresses. Trees with bark damage over 50% should be removed.

Those beautiful additions to the landscape we call trees are precious. Many will have to be replaced with new ones but for some there is a chance of survival with some quality care. Make those decisions wisely. Get out there and evaluate the damage that way you will know what you need. Be careful there are many hanging branches where wind could dislodge them.