Under what circumstances is lightning protection warranted for a tree?

Lightning protection for trees is especially warranted for historic trees, expensive trees, or those under which people seek shelter due to several key reasons.

Historic trees often have significant cultural, ecological, or aesthetic value, representing decades or even centuries of history. Protecting these trees is essential, as their loss would be irreplaceable.

Expensive trees, whether due to rarity or size, also warrant protection because their loss could result in substantial financial implications, as they may be integral to landscaping or have intrinsic value.

Trees that provide shelter for people, especially during storms, are at greater risk because individuals might congregate under them during inclement weather, inadvertently increasing the risk of being struck by lightning. Implementing lightning protection for these trees helps safeguard not only the trees themselves but also the people who may seek refuge beneath them.

In contrast, young saplings may not require the same level of protection due to their smaller size and lower likelihood of being hit during a lightning storm. Trees near water sources might have some increased risk, but the other criteria present a stronger rationale for protection due to their importance, placement, and the potential consequences of their loss. Similarly, trees in open fields, while potentially more exposed, do not inherently necessitate protection without considering