A lineman cuts through a downed tree.
 / Co-Mo Electric Cooperative
Did the recent snowstorms break tree branches? You may be able to wait to cut them off.
Instead, as long as the branch doesn't pose a risk, wait until the snow melts, according to Missouri conservation officials.
They added that there's likely no need to cut down the whole tree unless more than half of the damaged tree has already fallen to the ground, since trees usually have the ability to recover from damage.
Officials said property owners should hire certified arborists when trimming trees, making sure to get more than one estimate for the job.