Corkscrew willow health

[Pete8347]

Have been asked to prune back this corkscrew willow but am worried about the condition of the tree. Lots of lifting bark across the main limbs of the tree with several smaller branches dieing off. Can't see any signs of fungus from the ground or around the base or any immediate signs of boring insects. Is it just age , tree is getting on for 25-30 years. Not sure if its better to advise removal on this one . Any advice be greatly appreciated.

[dumper]

You sure about age?

[richyrich]

Anthracnose of willow-Drepanopezia sphaeroides.

Might be thus. Fungal disease that affects Weeping and some contorted varieties.

[richyrich]

Just now, richyrich said:

Anthracnose of willow-Drepanopezia sphaeroides.

Might be thus. Fungal disease that affects Weeping and some contorted varieties.

Drepanopeziza

[Pete8347]

You sure about age?

Client said they planted it around 25 plus years ago .

[Pete8347]

Anthracnose of willow-Drepanopezia sphaeroides.
Might be thus. Fungal disease that affects Weeping and some contorted varieties.

Looks possible, I'm guessing this is quite established in the tree now and any remedial action would have little effect ? Being that it's in the main stems .

[richyrich]

I think it looks beyond worth keeping. 😕

[Mick Dempsey]

All twisted willows seem to go this way unless regularly hammered.

[Pete8347]

Thanks all for the replies. Forgot to mention the tree is in a conservation area so need a good cause for removal, I presume this would be sufficient. The client would rather keep the tree but don't want to be charging them for pruning if it is ultimately going to be unsafe and needs removing anyway. 

[organic guy]

Pollard it.