Estimating Wind Forces on Tree Crowns
University Outreach Publication
<br /><br /> Wind and gravity are the two primary forces acting upon tree crowns. The structural resistance to these forces by the tree require complex allocation processes and dedication of limited resources. Assessing the shear scale of both wind and gravity forces, and considering most trees do not usually fall under their own weight, wind forces on the crown are dominant and immense. Resistance to wind forces can be summarrized by measures of crown density, living crown height, and total height of the tree.<br /><br /> This publication will concentrate on theoretical approaches to estimating wind force resistance by open grown tree crowns. The dynamic and complex circumstances of soil, tree, and environment can not be adequately modeled here. Only a few isolated static components will be examined. The purpose of this publication is to allow tree specialists to appreciate tree biomechanics. Figure 1 graphically defines the calculations involved.<br /><br /> Tree Biomechanics Series<br /><br /> FOR00-016<br /><br />
Dr. Kim D. Coder
2005
Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia
Athens, GA
4
FOR00-016
Biology (tree), Disaster, Evaluation/Assessment, Mechanics (tree), Plant Health Care, Risk Assessment and Hazard, Safety Issues, Storms, Structure (tree)
National, Southeast, International
mechanics, Leaf characteristics, biomechanics, statics, risk assessment