General Cottage Q&A: Is a tree is downed by a storm and falls into the lake, who is responsible? By Cottage Life Published: August 7, 2025 share Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Pinterest Copy Link Cancel Should anyone remove it at all? Senior editor Alysha Vandertogt explains who is responsible for a downed tree and the surprising benefits one can have on the ecology of the lake. Related Story How to protect your trees from emerald ash borer damage Related Story Cottage Q&A: Is there an ideal water level for a lake? Related Story Cottage Q&A: How to stop geese from pooping on your shoreline