As well as reducing waste and creating useful material, using a wood chipper can also help prevent the spread of disease and pests in trees. By removing dead or diseased branches, wood chippers can help stop the spread of diseases such as Dutch elm disease and oak wilt. Wood chips can also act as a natural weed suppressant, reducing the need for harmful herbicides. In addition, wood chips can be used as an effective erosion control method, helping to prevent soil erosion on steep slopes.