Question
I planted several live oak trees about two years ago, they are 12 to 16 feet tall now. Most seem to be doing good, but several seem to have started dying from the top down. The topmost branches lose their leaves and snap off very easily with no green underneath the bark. I would appreciate any information you can give me and let me know if this is really a problem or just a natural occurance.
Thanks,
J.C. Bolton (Texas Gulf Coast, south of Houston)

Answer
From you description I really can not tell what the problem may be. i would recommend hat you call the Texas Forest service (state agency) and ask one of their Forester to come out and take a look. They can diagnose the problem and if they can not they will get one of the Texas Forest Service pest management specialist to take a look.
here is the web link to their contact page for Houston or you can use the drop down menu for another location. Their number should also be in the local phone book.
http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu/main/article.aspx?ctrl=3