10 years ago I bought my current home. On the property is a magnificent Copper Beech. It's about 50 to 60 feet in height (maybe more). I've notice that the past year the tree has had signifigant loss of branches (some rather large) Fungus covers the larger branches that have fallen. Also, The tree has not bourne fruit for several years now. I can recall when I first move here that I would shovel barrels full of beech nuts, I haven't done this for at least 3 years. I do not think the tree is getting the same water supply it once received since I added an asphalt driveway nearby. The water used to soak right into the soil around the tree, now much of it roll down the ashpalt into the street. I love this tree. I can't imagine the memories it holds as I get conflicting estimates as to it's age. I've noticed postings of people looking for samples, etc. If anyone wants has any interest in more information I'd be happy to provide. Maybe you're researching similar cases.
Have a Hazard Tree Evaluation made by a Certified Arborist as soon as possible. British tree expert A. Mitchell wrote that these are apt to break up and fall quite rapidly when killed by fungi. I had a 'Rohanii' ("purple oakleaf beech") die suddenly one year, and topple perhaps as soon as within a year later myself.
sounds like the tree knew it was on its last legs, (big effort at reproduction before it dies) Agreed with Ron, get it looked at asap........adding the drive, i feel would have made no difference.
Thanks for the advice. I've contacted a tree specialists and I'm getting an analysis done this week. I'll post the results here,