Drought stress on trees deeper than is evident - WSMV Channel 4
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By RANDALL DICKERSON
Associated Press
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Recent rain has been welcome, but foresters say trees are still drought-stressed across Tennessee and conditions will likely get worse.
Dr. David Mercker with the University of Tennessee Extension in Jackson said old, young and weak trees are most susceptible. Varieties with small leaves generally fare better in dry times.
But whether in the forest or on the front lawn, trees are showing the effects of a prolonged dry spell.
In Sevierville, the state Forestry Division's Tom Simpson says he's seen 20-inch diameter hardwoods dying on south-facing dry ridges. Simpson worries that the fall fire season could be a difficult one.
The National Weather Service expects drought conditions to intensify into autumn statewide.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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