Dried out trees are becoming common as the drought continues in B.C. Photo courtesy CBC/Tim Ebata.
A B.C. Forest Health officer says the long wave of heat and dry weather that has gripped B.C. is having an impact on Vancouver Island trees susceptible to drought.
Tim Ebata told CBC drought and heat exposure has caused some trees to show signs of stress, and some are dying.
A lack of moisture has people concerned on east Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast, particularly for red cedars.
Ebata says people can spot drought effects showing in trees in the foliage colour.
He adds leaves will fall as a way for trees to reduce moisture demand.
Although heat exposure in summer is normal and Ebata calls them pretty tough on Vancouver Island, prolonged periods of drought consistent with the last few summers are very stressful on trees.
Ebata says dying trees have an impact on the environment by losing a mature tree’s shade, and potential habitat for various species.
“But dead trees also serve as habitat for a number of other species too. So it’s sort of a mixed blessing having a tree die in a forest,” Ebata said.
He adds you should water your trees as much as possible, but be careful not to drown them.
Ebata advises tree owners to visit the CRD website for tips to take of trees during a drought.
With files from CBC.
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