Question
We live in Potomac, Maryland (suburb of Washington DC) and have a number of large (approx. 23 yrs old) River Birch trees in our heavily landscaped back yard around a large pool. Also have 2 in the front yard. They require constant clean up. Their leaves fall continuously from early June until Fall. Need to clean up patio, deck and driveways around them every day.  They are the only trees in the yard which drop leaves the entire summer. Is this normal for River Birch?  My wife wants to get rid of them, however I like them and hope there is a solution. Perhaps an iron deficiency?  

Answer
No it is not normal. It could be one of several problems--too little water, leaf blight disease, aphids (an insect). I would suggest you call the local office of the Maryland Forestry agency and ask one of their Foresters OR their Pest Management specialists to come take a look. This is a free service is most states. Here is a web link to their contact page.

http://www.dnr.state.md.us/forests/phonelist.html