The Atlas Obscura Podcast
Tree Week: Killer Trees with Mary Roach
Apr 25, 2024
Author and science writer Mary Roach discusses killer trees, danger tree assessors, and the use of explosives to mitigate the risks posed by enormous dying trees. The podcast also delves into the art and danger of tree felling, highlighting the importance of understanding and respecting nature's risks.
23:23
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Quick takeaways
- Old, large 'danger trees' can unexpectedly fall due to rot, posing risks to visitors and wildlife.
- Tree assessors use high explosives like the 'Faller Blaster' to mitigate risks from decaying trees in Cathedral Grove.
Deep dives
The Dangers of Trees
Trees can pose unexpected dangers, with incidents of people getting killed by falling fruits like durians and pine cones. Mary Roach, a science writer, explores the concept of 'danger trees,' which are old, large trees that can unexpectedly fall due to rot. Tree assessors monitor these trees, like in Cathedral Grove, to prevent casualties by either taking action or explosively removing the top parts to reduce risks.
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