What is a common method for assessing the health of trees?

Identifying pest infestations and disease is a common method for assessing the health of trees because it provides direct insight into factors that may be adversely affecting a tree's vigor and longevity. Pests and diseases can lead to noticeable changes in a tree's foliage, growth patterns, and overall vitality. By monitoring for signs of infestation or infection, such as discolored leaves, unusual growths, or bark damage, forest workers can take timely action to manage threats and preserve tree health.

While counting growth rings is a valuable technique for understanding a tree's age and historical growth patterns, it does not necessarily provide current information about the tree's health status. Measuring wood density can help assess the quality of wood but does not directly indicate the tree's health. Taking soil samples can provide important information about soil health and nutrient levels, which affect tree health but is more indirect when evaluating a specific tree's condition. Hence, identifying pests and diseases offers a more immediate and actionable assessment of tree health.