August is Tree Check Month, a designated time to make sure that neighborhood trees are in good health.

Tree Check Month is about looking up and observing the trees, says arborist Eric Brito.

Brito recommends looking for discolored leaves or leaves that seem to be dying. He says this could indicate that trees are not getting enough nutrients.  

Brito says that it’s also important to notice hanging branches, which could pose hazards, and holes that could indicate bugs have been eating away at the tree. For example, if you see round, dime-sized holes, they could be signs of the destructive Asian longhorned beetle, an invasive pest. To report sightings, call 1-866-702-9938 or complete an online form at www.AsianLonghornedBeetle.com.