Although Toronto is expected to lose 20% of its tree canopy by the time clean up and removal from the December ice storm are complete, an article in the February 2014 edition of Landscape Ontario’s [Horticultural Trades](http://www.horttrades.com/landscape-ontario—February-2014) magazine outlines some benefits of the ice storm.
The article *[Ice Storm May Benefit Trees](http://issuu.com/landscape_ontario/docs/february_2014_lo_magazine_for_web/21?e=0)* suggest that while the ice storm that hit Southern Ontario in December was devastating, it may provide some benefits to the tree canopy, not least of which is the opportunity to connect with media, public and government officials on arbori-cultural issues.
Another advantage is that, as opposed to mid-summer wind storm damage, trees are dormant in the winter and are therefore less likely to suffer from further injury by insects and disease.
The article also reminds us of the importance of regular maintenance. Well cared for trees fared better than trees that had been neglected, or only pruned when damage occurs.
More than likely, if the tree was healthy before the storm, it is still going to be healthy after the storm says Rory Quigley, President of the International Society of Arboriculture Ontario.
An assessment of your trees done every three to five year is the best way to protect yourself against costly property or tree damage caused by ice and wind storms. according to Paul Ronan, the executive director of the Ontario Parks Association.
Read the complete article here: [http://issuu.com/landscape_ontario/docs/february_2014_lo_magazine_for_web/21?e=0](http://issuu.com/landscape_ontario/docs/february_2014_lo_magazine_for_web/21?e=0)
