The Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is the largest offshore oil spill in U.S. history. It is likely to be a subject for documentary filmmakers for years. These filmmakers should be aware that studies of the health effects after seven supertanker spills showed that clean-up crews had suffered short-term health problems from volatile organic compounds emitted by the oil. Short-term lung, kidney, and liver functions could be affected. 

 

Health and Human Services Department officials told a Congressional hearing that little is known about the health impacts on people of oil spills.

But MSNBC has reported that people along the Gulf Coast are getting sick, with symptoms of dizziness, vomiting, nausea, headaches, and chest pains, not only from the first responders to the crisis, but residents living along the coast as well.

Here are some signs of poor tree health:

Root Damage - Damage to roots is most easily detected above ground. Signs include branches that start dying at the tip or trunks that lean enough to need bracing.

Co-dominant Stem - A tree with two main trunks is structurally unstable and at a high risk of falling.

Excessive Lean - Many trees lean, but those with evidence of root lifting, soil mounding, cavities, cankers or decay are cause for concern.

Wounds - Trees attempt to close and compartmentalize wounds, but cavities, cankers or decay on more than 40% of the circumference can affect stability.

Longitudinal Cracks - Longitudinal cracks, especially ones that start at a branch union, can be dangerous.

Recent Excavation within the Drip-Line - Excavation or construction within the drip-line damages feeder and anchoring roots, which weakens a tree, increases its susceptibility to disease and insects, and makes it less stable and resistant to wind.

If you see any of the these conditions, have a certified arborist evaluate your tree to determine if it can be saved or if it should be removed before it crashes into your production. 

-Best Review, by Scott Spencer, May 2010