# Choose a Hazard Tree Activity

Part of the Forestry Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/forestry/guide/index.md)

*Managing Forests*

> **6.** In your camp, local recreation area (park or equivalent), or neighborhood, do ONE of the following:

You choose exactly **one** hazard tree activity. Both options are about safety, but they teach slightly different skills.

## Your Two Options

**[Req 6a — Hazard Tree Inventory](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/forestry/guide/req6a/)**: Survey a defined area, note tree species and hazardous conditions, and suggest whether trimming or removal might be appropriate. This option teaches observation and practical reporting.

**[Req 6b — Review a Professional Hazard Tree Report](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/forestry/guide/req6b/)**: Study a report prepared by a professional, then visit the trees and the results of the prescribed work. This option teaches you how experts document and act on risk.

## How to Choose

**Choosing Your Hazard Tree Option** — Pick the version that fits your access and confidence

- [ ] **If you can work in a camp, park, or neighborhood with an adult's help**, Req 6a gives you hands-on observation.
- [ ] **If a park, camp, or agency already has a tree report**, Req 6b lets you learn from professional documentation.
- [ ] **What you will gain**: Req 6a builds field judgment; Req 6b helps you interpret expert recommendations and outcomes.
- [ ] **Best follow-up**: Both options connect strongly to Req 7 because storm damage, disease, insects, and wildfire can all create hazard trees.

> **Tip**
>
> A hazard tree is not simply a dead tree. A tree becomes a hazard when a defect combines with a **target** such as a tent pad, road, trail, parking area, building, bench, or playground. Risk depends on both the tree condition and what could be hit if it fails.

Go to the option page that fits your situation.

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- Previous: [Fire Prevention Campaign](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/forestry/guide/req5c/index.md)
- Next: [Hazard Tree Inventory](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/forestry/guide/req6a/index.md)