Maverick! Do you know what kind of tree it is? If not, please can you post a picture of the whole tree to help identify it? Some trees have specific pests and diseases, so it helps to know what the tree is. Have you noticed any little holes in the trunk or branches that would suggest beetles have been boring into the tree? Has the ground around the tree suffered any changes recently, such as flooding, or being compacted by heavy machinery? It would be helpful to know what part of the world your tree is in. If you would like to add your location to your profile, then click on the little "person" icon in the toolbar at the top left of your screen.
