While avoiding coming up with a topic and writing this week’s article, I scrolled upon Ryan Cafferky’s Facebook post about a large oak tree his Hood River-based company, A Life With Trees, recently removed. It was well written and informative, and included some “who knew?” moments. So, I reached out to him and got permission to modify it for this space.

They strive to preserve trees whenever possible and only recommend removal when absolutely necessary.

🌳 A Hidden Threat: Why This 100-Year-Old Oak Had to Come Down

The homeowner initially requested a pruning consultation, but during the inspection, mushrooms at the base of the tree raised red flags. The fungus, identified as Armillaria (honey mushroom), often indicates hidden decay. To assess the tree’s structural integrity, we performed a root crown excavation and found extensive decay, mycelium, and spongy wood in the buttress roots. Probing further revealed significant voids where solid wood should have been.

 

🛠 The Advanced Technology Behind Tree Risk Assessment

To confirm our findings, we brought in a consulting arborist from Portland to perform a sonic tomography scan. This tool allows arborists to assess the internal health of a tree using sound waves.

Sonic tomography works by placing sensors around the trunk of the tree. These sensors are connected to nails lightly tapped into the bark. When a hammer strikes each sensor, it sends sound waves through the tree, which travel at different speeds depending on the density of the wood. The denser and healthier the wood, the faster the waves travel; if there is decay or hollow areas, the waves slow down.

The collected data is processed into a color-coded image, providing a cross-sectional view of the tree’s internal structure. At the soil level, the oak appeared relatively solid. However, just six inches lower, the scan showed major internal decay, confirming the presence of extensive fungal damage and structural instability.

With multiple risk factors, including decay, weight distribution, and proximity to structures, we determined this tree had a high likelihood of failure. Had it fallen, it could have caused significant damage to two homes.

🚨 What Homeowners Should Know About Tree Health

From the outside, this tree looked perfectly healthy—a reminder that internal decay isn’t always visible. This particular case was worsened by a downspout draining directly at the tree’s base, creating conditions for fungal growth over the years.

Do You Have Trees at Risk? Ask Yourself:

✅ Has the grade around the tree been changed?
✅ Is the tree in a heavily irrigated or poorly drained area?
✅ Have underground utilities been installed near the tree recently?
✅ Are there mushrooms growing at the base or dead tips in the canopy?

If you answered yes to any of these, consider having a certified arborist inspect your trees.

🌲 Schedule a Consultation with A Life With Trees → (541) 806-2333
🔗 Visit: https://alifewithtrees.com/ Serving the Columbia River Gorge
All photos Ryan Cafferky