In the aftermath of last month's severe windstorm, many of us are casting a wary eye overhead, to the trees looming above our homes and places of work.

The trees could be seen as potential danger to the major investment we have made in our homes (and cars). Allow me to make an appeal before you take the chainsaw out and eradicate your yard of these "threats."

First, don't blame the trees, blame the lack of trees.

They are calling this a storm that happens only once every 10 to 20 years and perhaps the windstorm of the century. Think about how differently the landscape appeared 100 years ago. This was then still considered the Evergreen State, and for a reason.

But this state has been deforested at an alarming rate. While many have become outraged at clear-cutting in our timberlands, we may have overlooked the "clear-cutting" that has been going on in our own backyards.

To satisfy the insatiable demand for luxury homes and the profits they provide, many developers have been merciless when it comes to the flora and fauna. Trees 30 to 50 years old are cut down, and the cursory landscaping done consists of dwarf trees and low-maintenance shrubs to replace a formerly thriving habitat.

Trees and the density of trees affect the airflow. Without realizing it we have created numerous "wind tunnels" in our communities. Trees also have elaborate root systems that take up water as it falls. Replacing a 30-year-old root system with a dwarf hybrid tree does not do the job.

Trees do have a natural life span. Could it be that much of the tragic destruction of this storm is due in part to an aging forest?

Are we being intentional about planning for the replacement of those trees whose natural end will occur inevitably?

If you are casting that wary eye to the trees in your yard, consider a proper pruning of your trees, or of stabilizing the root system or feeding and strengthening your trees from the inside out.

If you are forced to cut down a dangerous or diseased tree, please plant two more in its place.

If your property is sparse on trees, consider properly planting native varieties on your land. It will enhance the value of your home and improve the environment. If you join the Arbor Day Foundation (arborday.org) you will receive 10 trees and instructions for their planting and care.

To find the fastest growing trees for our area check out: www.fastgrowingtrees.com.

Do not blame the damage of last month's storm on the trees alone; blame it on the lack of trees.

Katy Lynch

Burien/Seattle