A number of case histories are presented in which damage to structures supported on shallow foundations in the Chicago area have occurred due to desiccation. Particular emphasis is placed on the soil properties at each site, proximity of trees and root systems, surface run-off characteristics, and climatic factors. Also included is a discussion of the process by which trees cause desiccation and of some general rules to minimize this problem, as well as a discussion of means of arresting settlements of existing structures affected by desiccation.