i would vote for #2. take load off split without too much damage and hope it heals over

So do you think the wind caused it? If so, I agree that removal is probable the best option. If you don't think it was wind, then I would probable leave it along.

FWIW, I've had a couple branches get a bit twisted up by the wind while they were small, only to close by the end of the growing season (was waiting till fall to prune as they were not going to harm anything). Now several years later, they have withstood storms that too branches out elsewhere. Point being, at that early age, the is not serious damage if it gets no worse.

Arktrees

This branch is one of those you'd want to keep for aesthetics but might be one you'd prune off down the road for more clearance.

==>>> get rid of it .. the branch.. not the tree .. lol

there is no aesthetic in further damage ...

ken

Gents, thanks for the feedback.

It was a special order that was shipped to me direct from a neighboring state. It appears the damage occurred prior to delivery as I don't see any green.

I'll take a closer look to see if further damage is possible from wind. The break is facing northeast which this time of year the prevailing winds tend to come from the south or west. If it was a broken branch I'd just snip it. This is the first time I've encounter this type of split.

Eitherway my best option may be to remove the branch to avoid even potential for further damage. I just hate pruning red oaks this late in the season but I guess its pruned anyhow.