Dave H (MI)
Well-known Member
Fool ash tree. Laying mostly on the ground but snagged in a couple other trees. Usual procedure, done it many times. Sever it from the root and drag it free of the other tree(s). I always cut a short distance down from the top and then put in a wedge. This usually holds the tree up until you pull the wedge. But this tree was mostly down and when I started down from the top the underside suddenly shattered and the root end went down fast. Chainsaw went with it. I was watching out for the saw when I realized the top half of the tree was pivoting toward my head. Really don't know if I ducked. The cut end sideswiped my head and tore the lower half of my ear loose and ripped it free of the cartilage. I was on the ground holding my dangling earlobe when my daughter came up and got me to the road. Drove the tractor about halfway before the other daughter caught me up and drove me the rest of the way. Six hours later, two ER's and an emergency plastic surgeon and I am home. Sore but OK. You never think it will happen to you. Have a good holiday folks! Mine is all the better for not having my skull crushed by a 10" ash tree.