Reasons for Tree Pruning

The Forestry Department of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board prunes trees in the urban forest for a variety of reasons including:

To remove limbs which either may or are rubbing a building
To remove dead limbs that can fall and cause damage or injury
To remove low limbs that interfere with pedestrian or vehicular traffic
To remove branches that block traffic signs and signals
To remove branches that block street light illumination over the traffic corridor
To improve tree health by removing diseased limbs, reducing wind resistance and correcting growth defects
To improve the aesthetic appearance of the tree
To enhance the general health and well-being of the public
To reduce the potential for criminal activity by eliminating hiding places and increasing visibility