I have dozens of cedars along my back fence, all of them healthy. There are two more outside my front door which show the same symptoms as Little Hawk's. I've always attributed it to the town's excessive application of salt to the sidewalk about two feet away. The trees seem to cure themselves. It's been a wet spring hereabouts so it isn't drought. Since there is a salt mine supporting the local economy I don't forsee a change in the situation.

Likewise I noticed similar cedars in the Bruce, along the roadsides but not in the woods. I always figure it's to do with vehicle pollution but I'm no scientist, just a guy who likes to walk in the woods.

BUT...It's a good question LH. I think I'll call the local Field Naturalist Clubs for assistance. I'm a distance away from you (southern Ontario) but there's likely a link.

Peace, Mooh.