Open Cavity Impact on Stem Strength

Assessing tree strength is a complex process. The dynamic nature of how trees resist forces include soil, tree, and environmental components. Cavities signify a common loss of cross-sectional area and associated strength in stems. Small cavities centered in the middle of stems (only wall four sustains the compartment), have small impacts on relative stem strength. Relatively large diameter cavities (more than 60-70% of diameter loss) represent major impacts to the structural integrity of stems.

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