In the demanding and hazardous realm of emergency tree removal, the paramount importance of safety gear and protective equipment cannot be overstated. The nature of this work involves unpredictable variables such as inclement weather, unstable structures, and the sheer unpredictability of stressed trees. Thus, ensuring that every worker is equipped with essential safety gear is critical to mitigate risks and safeguard their well-being.
Firstly, helmets are indispensable in the arsenal of protective equipment for workers involved in tree removal operations. They serve not only to protect against head injuries from falling branches and debris but also help shield against bumps or scrapes when navigating through dense underbrush or confined spaces. In emergencies where time is crucial, such as after a storm or other natural disasters, helmets provide a necessary defense against rapid dynamic changes in the environment.
Equally important are gloves, which protect the hands from a myriad of hazards. These include cuts from sharp branches, splinters, and even exposure to harmful substances that might be present in damaged areas. Gloves enhance grip stability on tools like chainsaws and ropes, which are often used in tree removal tasks. This improved handling can significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by slipping tools or compromised manual dexterity.
Goggles or other forms of eye protection are another critical component. The process of cutting down or dismembering trees can send a spray of wood chips, dust, and other particulates flying at high velocity. Without proper eye protection, workers expose themselves to potential severe eye injuries or temporary vision obstruction-both scenarios that could lead to more significant accidents during an operation already fraught with danger.
Protective clothing rounds out this essential list by offering a barrier between rough elements and the worker's skin. Durable fabrics designed for outdoor work resist tearing and puncture while providing some measure of thermal protection against extreme cold or heat-common conditions during emergency responses following weather events.
Integrating these pieces of safety gear into standard operating procedures not only complies with occupational health standards but also conveys a commitment to worker safety-a core value in any responsible organization dealing with high-risk activities such as emergency tree removal.
By thoroughly understanding and implementing appropriate use of helmets, gloves, goggles, and protective clothing, workers can focus more effectively on their tasks knowing they are shielded from many physical risks inherent in their job. This attention to safety detail ensures that teams can perform their duties efficiently without unnecessary interruptions caused by avoidable injuries.
In conclusion, while techniques and modern machinery play crucial roles in tree removal operations after emergencies such as storms or earthquakes; it is vital not to overlook the fundamental role that proper safety gear plays. Each piece-from helmet to sturdy boots-works synergistically to create a safer working environment that protects those who perform these perilous yet essential tasks.
Chainsaws, essential tools in the repertoire of arboriculture and emergency tree removal services, come in various forms, each tailored to specific needs and environments. Understanding the different types of chainsaws and their applications is crucial for anyone involved in tree care or removal, particularly in emergency scenarios where efficiency and speed are paramount.
The two primary types of chainsaws are gas-powered and electric. Each has distinct characteristics making them suitable for different situations during emergency tree removal.
Gas-powered chainsaws are the most common type used in professional tree removal. These chainsaws are powerful, portable, and ideal for cutting through thick tree trunks swiftly. Their high power output allows them to handle larger projects and tougher wood easily. The mobility of gas chainsaws is particularly advantageous in emergency situations where access to electricity may be limited or non-existent. For instance, after a storm, when trees have fallen on infrastructure, gas-powered chainsaws enable quick clearing without reliance on electric power sources.
On the other hand, electric chainsaws come in two varieties: corded and battery-operated. Corded electric chainsaws require a connection to a power outlet but provide steady power suitable for smaller tasks or lighter work typically found in suburban areas. Battery-operated models offer more mobility than their corded counterparts and are quieter and environmentally friendlier than gas-powered saws. They are perfect for situations where noise reduction is necessary or where exhaust fumes from a gas engine would be problematic.
In addition to understanding the types of chainsaws, knowing the right techniques is equally important for effective emergency tree removal. Proper training in handling these tools ensures safety and efficiency. Techniques such as directional felling, where trees are cut to fall in a predetermined direction, can prevent additional damage to property or injury.
Moreover, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as helmets, gloves, goggles, and ear protection while operating any type of chainsaw cannot be overstated. Safety should always remain a top priority given the inherent risks associated with handling powerful cutting tools.
Lastly, regular maintenance of the equipment guarantees that these machines perform optimally when required urgently. This includes routine checks before use as well as proper cleaning and storage post-operation.
In conclusion, whether one opts for a gas-powered or an electric chainsaw largely depends on specific needs related to power availability, job size, environmental concerns, and noise restrictions. Each type has its advantages suited to different scenarios encountered during emergency tree removals. Mastery over these tools combined with correct techniques significantly enhances the ability to manage hazardous situations effectively while minimizing harm to people and property.
In the realm of emergency tree removal, especially when dealing with large trees during critical situations such as post-storm cleanups or urban development projects, the deployment of heavy-duty machinery is indispensable. The techniques and equipment used in these operations are not only fascinating in their complexity but crucial for ensuring safety, efficiency, and minimal environmental impact.
Firstly, cranes play a pivotal role in the removal of large trees from challenging locations. These towering machines provide the necessary leverage to lift hefty trunks and branches securely over obstacles like houses, power lines, and other structures. The precision that cranes offer allows operators to carefully maneuver sections of the tree without causing damage to the surrounding area. This is particularly vital in emergency scenarios where fallen or dangerously leaning trees pose immediate risks to property and human life.
Bulldozers, though less precise than cranes, are equally important in emergency tree removal operations. They are typically utilized to clear paths and remove debris in areas where trees have been downed by natural disasters such as hurricanes or tornadoes. A bulldozer's robust pushing power is essential for quickly clearing large volumes of wood and foliage from roads and access ways, thereby facilitating smoother operations for other machinery and emergency responders.
Additionally, once a tree is brought down safely by a crane or pushed aside by a bulldozer, wood chippers come into play. These powerful devices are capable of breaking down vast amounts of wooden material into smaller chips, which can be easily transported or reused as mulch. Wood chippers drastically reduce the volume of debris left behind, helping clean up efforts tremendously by allowing for efficient disposal or recycling of organic materials.
The use of these heavy-duty machines requires skilled operators trained specifically for high-pressure environments inherent in emergency situations. The operation must be meticulously planned; each movement thoughtfully coordinated to ensure the safety of all personnel involved as well as the preservation of nearby property.
Moreover, it's not just about removing the trees safely but also about considering long-term impacts on the ecosystem. Professionals engaged in this work must balance efficiency with thoughtful ecological stewardship-ensuring that habitat disruption is minimized and that there is compliance with local regulations regarding wildlife protection.
In conclusion, heavy-duty machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, and wood chippers are fundamental to managing large-scale tree emergencies effectively. These tools enable specialists to perform rapid yet safe removals-a process that involves not only technical expertise but also an acute awareness of environmental conservation and community safety standards. As urban areas continue to expand and weather patterns grow increasingly volatile due to climate change, mastering these techniques will be ever more critical.
In the realm of emergency tree removal, rigging and lifting techniques play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of the operation. These methods are not only crucial for controlling the direction of a tree's fall but also indispensable for dismantling large branches in controlled sections. This essay delves into the various techniques and equipment utilized in these high-stakes situations, providing insight into their strategic implementation.
Rigging, fundamentally, involves the use of pulleys, cables, and other equipment to create a mechanical advantage that allows small forces to lift or move heavy loads safely. In the context of tree removal, rigging is essential for managing parts of a tree as they are cut away. The primary goal is to control these parts so they do not cause damage to property or harm people nearby.
One common technique used in tree rigging is the use of a block and tackle system—a combination of pulleys (blocks) and ropes or cables (tackles). This system multiplies the force applied, enabling precise manipulation and movement of heavy branches or sections of the trunk. For instance, when a large branch needs to be removed from a damaged or diseased tree, riggers can attach one end of a rope to the branch and thread it through one or more pulleys attached to another part of the tree or an adjacent structure. By pulling on this rope, workers can guide the descent of the branch slowly and carefully to avoid any uncontrolled falls.
Additionally, different types of slings—such as chain slings, wire rope slings, and synthetic slings—are employed based on their suitability for specific tasks within tree removal operations. Wire rope slings are typically used for their durability and strength, ideal for supporting heavy loads without breaking. Synthetic slings offer flexibility and are lighter than wire ropes or chains which makes them easier to handle; they are often used when there is a need to prevent damage on softer surfaces or when working around delicate obstacles.
Another critical aspect is understanding how forces act during cutting operations using these tools. It’s essential that operators calculate loading angles correctly because incorrect angles can significantly affect stability during lifting operations. Moreover, knowing how tension distributes across different parts of rigging systems helps prevent accidents due to overloading one area beyond its capacity.
Safety measures must be rigorously followed during these operations; this includes wearing personal protective equipment like helmets with face shields, gloves for grip enhancement and protection against cuts from ropes or cables, ear protection against noise generated by saws and other machinery among others.
In conclusion, effective use of rigging and lifting techniques in emergency tree removal not only ensures safety but also enhances efficiency by allowing precise control over every step—from cutting branches strategically down to guiding their descent smoothly towards ground level where they can be processed further without causing any harm or inconvenience. This comprehensive approach combining sophisticated equipment with skilled execution ensures that even in emergencies involving large trees potentially hazardous settings turn into systematically manageable operations.
Stump removal is an essential aspect of the tree removal process, particularly in emergency situations where a tree has fallen due to storms or other unexpected events. Removing the stump can be crucial for safety reasons, preventing pest infestation, and facilitating landscaping or construction projects. There are several techniques for stump removal, each with its own set of tools and applications. The most common methods include stump grinding and chemical treatments.
Stump grinding is one of the most efficient and popular methods used in both emergency and routine tree removal scenarios. This technique involves the use of a stump grinder, a powerful machine equipped with a high-speed rotating cutting disk that chips away at the wood. Stump grinders come in various sizes from large, heavy-duty machines that are operated by professionals to smaller, handheld models suitable for tight spaces. In emergency situations, such as after a storm where quick clearing is necessary to restore access or prevent further hazards, professional crews often use large stump grinders to quickly remove remnants of downed trees.
The process of stump grinding starts by positioning the grinder over the stump and lowering the cutting blade into it. The blade moves back and forth across the surface of the stump, gradually grinding it down into small chips or mulch. This method is highly effective as it not only removes stumps but also minimizes disturbance to the surrounding area compared to traditional excavation methods.
Another method employed for stump removal is chemical treatment. This approach involves applying specific chemicals directly onto the stump to accelerate its decomposition. The chemicals used are typically potassium nitrate or other substances that increase rotting speed by breaking down the wood fibers. Homeowners or professionals drill holes into the top of the stump and pour in these chemical solutions; then they cover it to keep out moisture and light.
Chemical treatments are more time-consuming compared to mechanical removal like grinding since they require weeks or months for complete decomposition depending on environmental conditions like temperature and humidity levels. However, this method can be advantageous in sensitive areas where heavy machinery could damage existing structures or landscapes.
Both techniques-stump grinding and chemical treatments-are valuable tools in emergency tree removal operations depending on factors such as urgency, location accessibility, environmental impact considerations, and budget constraints. Safety precautions must always be prioritized during these activities due to potential risks associated with operating heavy machinery or handling chemicals.
In conclusion, whether through mechanical means like grinding or using slower yet environmentally sensitive chemical processes, properly removing stumps following an emergency tree fall is critical not only for aesthetic purposes but also for restoring safety and usability in affected areas.
In the wake of a storm or other emergency situations, tree removal becomes a critical task to ensure public safety and restore order. However, the job doesn't end with the cutting down of a hazardous tree. An equally important aspect is the cleanup procedure that follows. This essay delves into the various techniques and equipment used in effectively cleaning up debris, such as sawdust, branches, and leaves, ensuring that the site is left safe and clear of hazards post-removal.
Firstly, once an emergency tree removal has been executed, one of the initial steps involves the clearing of larger debris, including branches and sections of the trunk. Chainsaws are commonly employed during both tree cutting and initial cleanup phases to slice larger wood pieces into manageable sizes. For transporting these heavy wood segments from the site, machinery such as cranes or front loaders might be used depending on the size of the debris and access to the site.
Following this, smaller debris like twigs, leaves, and sawdust needs attention. Rakes and leaf blowers are handy tools for gathering scattered vegetative debris into piles for easier collection. Leaf blowers are particularly efficient for quickly clearing large areas or blowing leaves out of gutters and from rooftops if needed after a tree-related incident.
For collecting and hauling away this gathered debris, utility trucks equipped with dump beds are typically used. This allows for efficient transportation of large volumes of wood and leafy material off-site to designated disposal areas such as recycling centers where they can be processed into mulch or compost.
Another crucial aspect is dealing with sawdust which can be slippery and hazardous especially on pathways or roads. Here industrial strength vacuums can be employed to suck up fine particles from hard surfaces ensuring thorough cleanliness. In instances where sawdust has spread over grassy or garden areas, it may be manually collected using brooms or mechanically with specialized turf vacuums.
Safety during cleanup is paramount; hence workers often wear protective gear including gloves, goggles, helmets, and sometimes masks especially when operating blowers or when dust levels are high. Moreover, caution signs might be temporarily placed around cleanup zones to warn passersby of potential hazards like falling branches or ongoing work.
Lastly but importantly is checking for any residual damages inflicted by fallen trees such as damage to underground utilities (like water pipes), sidewalks or foundation issues in nearby structures that might pose long-term safety risks if unaddressed.
In summary, effective cleanup after emergency tree removal involves not just labor but strategic use of various specialized tools and equipment designed for handling different types of tree debris safely and efficiently. Ensuring all remnants are cleared not only restores aesthetics but more critically prevents potential hazards making spaces safe again for public use.
In the field of emergency tree removal, adherence to legal considerations and acquisition of necessary permits is not just a procedural formality but a vital aspect that ensures safety, compliance, and effective coordination. This essay delves into the importance of obtaining required permissions from local authorities before undertaking such tasks, particularly within the framework of regional regulations.
Emergency tree removal typically becomes necessary after natural disasters like storms or hurricanes, or when a tree poses an immediate risk to public safety due to disease or structural damage. While the urgency of these situations may prompt a swift action, it is crucial for service providers to navigate through the legal landscape governing such activities.
Firstly, securing permits before removing trees is imperative because it aligns the removal process with local environmental management policies. Different regions have specific regulations designed to protect their natural landscapes and biodiversity. For instance, some areas might be in ecological recovery zones where any form of tree disturbance could hinder restoration efforts. Permits ensure that emergency removals are conducted without contravening these broader environmental conservation goals.
Moreover, permits play a critical role in maintaining public safety and minimizing liability for both service providers and property owners. Local authorities provide guidelines on how to safely remove trees considering various factors like the size of the tree, its proximity to structures or power lines, and the appropriate methods for disposal or recycling of debris. By following these guidelines through permitted actions, operators ensure that all safety protocols are observed thereby reducing potential hazards associated with unsupervised tree removal.
On another note, obtaining permits often requires an assessment by certified arborists or consultations with local forestry departments prior to approval. These assessments determine not only the necessity but also the best approach for removing a hazardous tree while considering its impact on surrounding flora and fauna. Thus, this process promotes accountability as well as adherence to best practices within arboriculture.
Furthermore, in some cases where heritage or significant landmark trees are involved, additional layers of permissions might be necessary even in emergencies. Such measures prevent potential backlash from community members who value these natural monuments and assure them that any action taken has considered both public safety and cultural significance.
In conclusion, while emergency situations require quick responses, bypassing legal frameworks can lead to negative consequences including penalties from local governments or environmental bodies. Henceforth, understanding and complying with regional regulations regarding emergency tree removal is essential-not only does it fortify legal compliance and operational safety but it also reinforces community trust in tree care professionals by demonstrating respect for both law and nature.
Forestry is the science and craft of creating, managing, planting, using, conserving and repairing forests and woodlands for associated resources for human and environmental benefits.[1] Forestry is practiced in plantations and natural stands.[2] The science of forestry has elements that belong to the biological, physical, social, political and managerial sciences.[3] Forest management plays an essential role in the creation and modification of habitats and affects ecosystem services provisioning.[4]
Modern forestry generally embraces a broad range of concerns, in what is known as multiple-use management, including: the provision of timber, fuel wood, wildlife habitat, natural water quality management, recreation, landscape and community protection, employment, aesthetically appealing landscapes, biodiversity management, watershed management, erosion control, and preserving forests as "sinks" for atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Forest ecosystems have come to be seen as the most important component of the biosphere,[5] and forestry has emerged as a vital applied science, craft, and technology. A practitioner of forestry is known as a forester. Another common term is silviculturist. Silviculture is narrower than forestry, being concerned only with forest plants, but is often used synonymously with forestry.
All people depend upon forests and their biodiversity, some more than others.[6] Forestry is an important economic segment in various industrial countries,[7] as forests provide more than 86 million green jobs and support the livelihoods of many more people.[6] For example, in Germany, forests cover nearly a third of the land area,[8] wood is the most important renewable resource, and forestry supports more than a million jobs and about €181 billion of value to the German economy each year.[9]
Worldwide, an estimated 880 million people spend part of their time collecting fuelwood or producing charcoal, many of them women.[6][quantify] Human populations tend to be low in areas of low-income countries with high forest cover and high forest biodiversity, but poverty rates in these areas tend to be high.[6] Some 252 million people living in forests and savannahs have incomes of less than US$1.25 per day.[6]
Over the past centuries, forestry was regarded as a separate science. With the rise of ecology and environmental science, there has been a reordering in the applied sciences. In line with this view, forestry is a primary land-use science comparable with agriculture.[10] Under these headings, the fundamentals behind the management of natural forests comes by way of natural ecology. Forests or tree plantations, those whose primary purpose is the extraction of forest products, are planned and managed to utilize a mix of ecological and agroecological principles.[11] In many regions of the world there is considerable conflict between forest practices and other societal priorities such as water quality, watershed preservation, sustainable fishing, conservation, and species preservation.[12]
Silvology (Latin: silva or sylva, "forests and woods"; Ancient Greek: -λογία, -logia, "science of" or "study of") is the biological science of studying forests and woodlands, incorporating the understanding of natural forest ecosystems, and the effects and development of silvicultural practices. The term complements silviculture, which deals with the art and practice of forest management.[13]
Silvology is seen as a single science for forestry and was first used by Professor Roelof A.A. Oldeman at Wageningen University.[14] It integrates the study of forests and forest ecology, dealing with single tree autecology and natural forest ecology.
Dendrology (Ancient Greek: δÃŽÂνδρον, dendron, "tree"; and Ancient Greek: -λογία, -logia, science of or study of) or xylology (Ancient Greek: ξÃÂλον, ksulon, "wood") is the science and study of woody plants (trees, shrubs, and lianas), specifically, their taxonomic classifications.[15] There is no sharp boundary between plant taxonomy and dendrology; woody plants not only belong to many different plant families, but these families may be made up of both woody and non-woody members. Some families include only a few woody species. Dendrology, as a discipline of industrial forestry, tends to focus on identification of economically useful woody plants and their taxonomic interrelationships. As an academic course of study, dendrology will include all woody plants, native and non-native, that occur in a region. A related discipline is the study of sylvics, which focuses on the autecology of genera and species.
The provenance of forest reproductive material used to plant forests has a great influence on how the trees develop, hence why it is important to use forest reproductive material of good quality and of high genetic diversity.[16] More generally, all forest management practices, including in natural regeneration systems, may impact the genetic diversity of trees.
The term genetic diversity describes the differences in DNA sequence between individuals as distinct from variation caused by environmental influences. The unique genetic composition of an individual (its genotype) will determine its performance (its phenotype) at a particular site.[17]
Genetic diversity is needed to maintain the vitality of forests and to provide resilience to pests and diseases. Genetic diversity also ensures that forest trees can survive, adapt and evolve under changing environmental conditions. Furthermore, genetic diversity is the foundation of biological diversity at species and ecosystem levels. Forest genetic resources are therefore important to consider in forest management.[16]
Genetic diversity in forests is threatened by forest fires, pests and diseases, habitat fragmentation, poor silvicultural practices and inappropriate use of forest reproductive material.
About 98 million hectares of forest were affected by fire in 2015; this was mainly in the tropical domain, where fire burned about 4 percent of the total forest area in that year. More than two-thirds of the total forest area affected was in Africa and South America. Insects, diseases and severe weather events damaged about 40 million hectares of forests in 2015, mainly in the temperate and boreal domains.[18]
Furthermore, the marginal populations of many tree species are facing new threats due to the effects of climate change.[16]
Most countries in Europe have recommendations or guidelines for selecting species and provenances that can be used in a given site or zone.[17]
Forest management is a branch of forestry concerned with overall administrative, legal, economic, and social aspects, as well as scientific and technical aspects, such as silviculture, forest protection, and forest regulation. This includes management for timber, aesthetics, recreation, urban values, water, wildlife, inland and nearshore fisheries, wood products, plant genetic resources, and other forest resource values.[19] Management objectives can be for conservation, utilisation, or a mixture of the two. Techniques include timber extraction, planting and replanting of different species, building and maintenance of roads and pathways through forests, and preventing fire.
The first dedicated forestry school was established by Georg Ludwig Hartig at Hungen in the Wetterau, Hesse, in 1787, though forestry had been taught earlier in central Europe, including at the University of Giessen, in Hesse-Darmstadt.
In Spain, the first forestry school was the Forest Engineering School of Madrid (Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros de Montes), founded in 1844.
The first in North America, the Biltmore Forest School was established near Asheville, North Carolina, by Carl A. Schenck on September 1, 1898, on the grounds of George W. Vanderbilt's Biltmore Estate. Another early school was the New York State College of Forestry, established at Cornell University just a few weeks later, in September 1898.
Early 19th century North American foresters went to Germany to study forestry. Some early German foresters also emigrated to North America.
In South America the first forestry school was established in Brazil, in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, in 1962, and moved the next year to become a faculty at the Federal University of Paraná, in Curitiba.[34]
Today, forestry education typically includes training in general biology, ecology, botany, genetics, soil science, climatology, hydrology, economics and forest management. Education in the basics of sociology and political science is often considered an advantage. Professional skills in conflict resolution and communication are also important in training programs.[35]
In India, forestry education is imparted in the agricultural universities and in Forest Research Institutes (deemed universities). Four year degree programmes are conducted in these universities at the undergraduate level. Masters and Doctorate degrees are also available in these universities.
In the United States, postsecondary forestry education leading to a Bachelor's degree or Master's degree is accredited by the Society of American Foresters.[36]
In Canada the Canadian Institute of Forestry awards silver rings to graduates from accredited university BSc programs, as well as college and technical programs.[37]
In many European countries, training in forestry is made in accordance with requirements of the Bologna Process and the European Higher Education Area.
The International Union of Forest Research Organizations is the only international organization that coordinates forest science efforts worldwide.[38]
In order to keep up with changing demands and environmental factors, forestry education does not stop at graduation. Increasingly, forestry professionals engage in regular training to maintain and improve on their management practices. An increasingly popular tool are marteloscopes; one hectare large, rectangular forest sites where all trees are numbered, mapped and recorded.
These sites can be used to do virtual thinnings and test one's wood quality and volume estimations as well as tree microhabitats. This system is mainly suitable to regions with small-scale multi-functional forest management systems
Forestry literature is the books, journals and other publications about forestry.
The first major works about forestry in the English language included Roger Taverner's Booke of Survey (1565), John Manwood's A Brefe Collection of the Lawes of the Forrest (1592) and John Evelyn's Sylva (1662).[39]
cite book
cite journal
The Society of American Foresters grants accreditation only to specific educational curricula that lead to a first professional degree in forestry at the bachelor's or master's level.
This article incorporates text from a free content work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 (license statement/permission). Text taken from Global Forest Resources Assessment 2020 Key findings​, FAO, FAO.
This article incorporates text from a free content work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO (license statement/permission). Text taken from The State of the World's Forests 2020. Forests, biodiversity and people – In brief​, FAO & UNEP, FAO & UNEP.
This article incorporates text from a free content work. Licensed under CC BY-SA IGO 3.0 (license statement/permission). Text taken from World Food and Agriculture – Statistical Yearbook 2023​, FAO, FAO.
Arboriculture (/ˈɑËÂrbÉ™rɪˌkÊŒltʃər, É‘ËÂrˈbÉâ€Ã‹Âr-/)[1] is the cultivation, management, and study of individual trees, shrubs, vines, and other perennial woody plants. The science of arboriculture studies how these plants grow and respond to cultural practices and to their environment. The practice of arboriculture includes cultural techniques such as selection, planting, training, fertilization, pest and pathogen control, pruning, shaping, and removal.
A person who practices or studies arboriculture can be termed an arborist or an arboriculturist. A tree surgeon is more typically someone who is trained in the physical maintenance and manipulation of trees and therefore more a part of the arboriculture process rather than an arborist. Risk management, legal issues, and aesthetic considerations have come to play prominent roles in the practice of arboriculture. Businesses often need to hire arboriculturists to complete "tree hazard surveys" and generally manage the trees on-site to fulfill occupational safety and health obligations.[citation needed]
Arboriculture is primarily focused on individual woody plants and trees maintained for permanent landscape and amenity purposes, usually in gardens, parks or other populated settings, by arborists, for the enjoyment, protection, and benefit of people.[citation needed]
Arboricultural matters are also considered to be within the practice of urban forestry yet the clear and separate divisions are not distinct or discreet.[citation needed]
Tree benefits are the economic, ecological, social and aesthetic use, function purpose, or services of a tree (or group of trees), in its situational context in the landscape.
A tree defect is any feature, condition, or deformity of a tree that indicates weak structure or instability that could contribute to tree failure.
Common types of tree defects:
Codominant stems: two or more stems that grow upward from a single point of origin and compete with one another.
Included bark: bark is incorporated in the joint between two limbs, creating a weak attachment
Dead, diseased, or broken branches:
Cracks
Cavity and hollows: sunken or open areas wherein a tree has suffered injury followed by decay. Further indications include: fungal fruiting structures, insect or animal nests.
Lean: a lean of more than 40% from vertical presents a risk of tree failure
Taper: change in diameter over the length of trunks branches and roots
Epicormic branches (water sprouts in canopy or suckers from root system): often grow in response to major damage or excessive pruning
Roots:
Proper tree installation ensures the long-term viability of the tree and reduces the risk of tree failure.
Quality nursery stock must be used. There must be no visible damage or sign of disease. Ideally the tree should have good crown structure. A healthy root ball should not have circling roots and new fibrous roots should be present at the soil perimeter. Girdling or circling roots should be pruned out. Excess soil above the root flare should be removed immediately, since it present a risk of disease ingress into the trunk.
Appropriate time of year to plant: generally fall or early spring in temperate regions of the northern hemisphere.
Planting hole: the planting hole should be 3 times the width of the root ball. The hole should be dug deep enough that when the root ball is placed on the substrate, the root flare is 3–5cm above the surrounding soil grade. If soil is left against the trunk, it may lead to bark, cambium and wood decay. Angular sides to the planting hole will encourage roots to grow radially from the trunk, rather than circling the planting hole. In urban settings, soil preparation may include the use of:
Tree wells: a zone of mulch can be installed around the tree trunk to: limit root zone competition (from turf or weeds), reduce soil compaction, improve soil structure, conserve moisture, and keep lawn equipment at a distance. No more than 5–10cm of mulch should be used to avoid suffocating the roots. Mulch must be kept approximately 20cm from the trunk to avoid burying the root flare. With city trees additional tree well preparation includes:
Tree grates/grill and frames: limit compaction on root zone and mechanical damage to roots and trunk
Root barriers: forces roots to grow down under surface asphalt/concrete/pavers to limit infrastructure damage from roots
Staking: newly planted, immature trees should be staked for one growing season to allow for the root system to establish. Staking for longer than one season should only be considered in situations where the root system has failed to establish sufficient structural support. Guy wires can be used for larger, newly planted trees. Care must be used to avoid stem girdling from the support system ties.
Irrigation: irrigation infrastructure may be installed to ensure a regular water supply throughout the lifetime of the tree. Wicking beds are an underground reservoir from which water is wicked into soil. Watering bags may be temporarily installed around tree stakes to provide water until the root system becomes established. Permeable paving allows for water infiltration in paved urban settings, such as parks and walkways.
Within the United Kingdom trees are considered as a material consideration within the town planning system and may be conserved as amenity landscape[2] features.
The role of the Arborist or Local Government Arboricultural Officer is likely to have a great effect on such matters. Identification of trees of high quality which may have extensive longevity is a key element in the preservation of trees.
Urban and rural trees may benefit from statutory protection under the Town and Country Planning[3] system. Such protection can result in the conservation and improvement of the urban forest as well as rural settlements.
Historically the profession divides into the operational and professional areas. These might be further subdivided into the private and public sectors. The profession is broadly considered as having one trade body known as the Arboricultural Association, although the Institute of Chartered Foresters offers a route for professional recognition and chartered arboriculturist status.
The qualifications associated with the industry range from vocational to Doctorate. Arboriculture is a comparatively young industry.
Lithia Springs may refer to:
An arborist, or (less commonly) arboriculturist, is a professional in the practice of arboriculture, which is the cultivation, management, and study of individual trees, shrubs, vines, and other perennial woody plants in dendrology and horticulture.[citation needed]
Arborists generally focus on the health and safety of individual plants and trees, rather than managing forests or harvesting wood (silviculture or forestry). An arborist's scope of work is therefore distinct from that of either a forester or a logger.[citation needed]
In order for arborists to work near power wires, either additional training is required or they need to be certified as a Qualified Line Clearance Arborist or Utility Arborist (there may be different terminology for various countries). There is a variety of minimum distances that must be kept from power wires depending on voltage, however the common distance for low voltage lines in urban settings is 10 feet (about 3 metres).[1]
Arborists who climb (as not all do) can use a variety of techniques to ascend into the tree. The least invasive, and most popular technique used is to ascend on rope. There are two common methods of climbing, Single Rope System (SRS) and Moving Rope System (MRS). When personal safety is an issue, or the tree is being removed, arborists may use 'spikes', (also known as 'gaffs' or 'spurs') attached to their chainsaw boots with straps to ascend and work. Spikes wound the tree, leaving small holes where each step has been.[citation needed]
An arborist's work may involve very large and complex trees, or ecological communities and their abiotic components in the context of the landscape ecosystem. These may require monitoring and treatment to ensure they are healthy, safe, and suitable to property owners or community standards. This work may include some or all of the following: planting; transplanting; pruning; structural support; preventing, or diagnosing and treating phytopathology or parasitism; preventing or interrupting grazing or predation; installing lightning protection; and removing vegetation deemed as hazardous, an invasive species, a disease vector, or a weed.[citation needed]
Arborists may also plan, consult, write reports and give legal testimony. While some aspects of this work are done on the ground or in an office, much of it is done by arborists who perform tree services and who climb the trees with ropes, harnesses and other equipment. Lifts and cranes may be used too. The work of all arborists is not the same. Some may just provide a consulting service; others may perform climbing, pruning and planting: whilst others may provide a combination of all of these services.[2]
Arborists gain qualifications to practice arboriculture in a variety of ways and some arborists are more qualified than others. Experience working safely and effectively in and around trees is essential. Arborists tend to specialize in one or more disciplines of arboriculture, such as diagnosis and treatment of pests, diseases and nutritional deficiencies in trees, climbing and pruning, cabling and lightning protection, or consultation and report writing. All these disciplines are related to one another and some arborists are very well experienced in all areas of tree work, however not all arborists have the training or experience to properly practice every discipline.[citation needed]
Arborists choose to pursue formal certification, which is available in some countries and varies somewhat by location. An arborist who holds certification in one or more disciplines may be expected to participate in rigorous continuing education requirements to ensure constant improvement of skills and techniques.[citation needed]
In Australia, arboricultural education and training are streamlined countrywide through a multi-disciplinary vocational education, training, and qualification authority called the Australian Qualifications Framework, which offers varying levels of professional qualification. Government institutions including Technical and Further Education TAFE offer Certificate III or a diploma in arboriculture as well as some universities.[3][4] There are also many private institutions covering similar educational framework in each state. Recognition of prior learning is also an option for practicing arborists with 10 or more years of experience with no prior formal training. It allows them to be assessed and fast track their certification.[citation needed]
In France, a qualified arborist must hold a Management of Ornamental Trees certificate, and a qualified arborist climber must hold a Pruning and Care of Trees certificate; both delivered by the French Ministry of Agriculture.[5][6]
In the UK, an arborist can gain qualifications up to and including a master's degree. College-based courses include further education qualifications, such as national certificate, national diploma, while higher education courses in arboriculture include foundation degree, bachelor's degree and master's degree.[citation needed]
In the US, a Certified Arborist (CA) is a professional who has over three years of documented and verified experience and has passed a rigorous written test from the International Society of Arboriculture. Other designations include Municipal Specialist, Utility Specialist and Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA). The USA and Canada additionally have college-based training which, if passed, will give the certificate of Qualified Arborist. The Qualified Arborist can then be used to offset partial experience towards the Certified Arborist.
Tree Risk Assessment Qualified credential (TRAQ), designed by the International Society of Arboriculture, was launched in 2013. At that time people holding the TRACE credential were transferred over to the TRAQ credential.[citation needed]
In Canada, there are provincially governed apprenticeship programs that allow arborists' to work near power lines upon completion. These apprenticeship programs must meet the provincial reregulations (For example, in B.C. they must meet WorkSafeBC G19.30), and individuals must ensure they meet the requirements of the owner of the power system.[citation needed]
Trees in urban landscape settings are often subject to disturbances, whether human or natural, both above and below ground. They may require care to improve their chances of survival following damage from either biotic or abiotic causes. Arborists can provide appropriate solutions, such as pruning trees for health and good structure, for aesthetic reasons, and to permit people to walk under them (a technique often referred to as "crown raising"), or to keep them away from wires, fences and buildings (a technique referred to as "crown reduction").[7] Timing and methods of treatment depend on the species of tree and the purpose of the work. To determine the best practices, a thorough knowledge of local species and environments is essential.[citation needed]
There can be a vast difference between the techniques and practices of professional arborists and those of inadequately trained tree workers. Some commonly offered "services" are considered unacceptable by modern arboricultural standards and may seriously damage, disfigure, weaken, or even kill trees. One such example is tree topping, lopping, or "hat-racking", where entire tops of trees or main stems are removed, generally by cross-cutting the main stem(s) or leaders, leaving large unsightly stubs. Trees that manage to survive such treatment are left prone to a spectrum of detrimental effects, including vigorous but weakly attached regrowth, pest susceptibility, pathogen intrusion, and internal decay.[8]
Pruning should only be done with a specific purpose in mind. Every cut is a wound, and every leaf lost is removal of photosynthetic potential. Proper pruning can be helpful in many ways, but should always be done with the minimum amount of live tissue removed.[9]
In recent years, research has proven that wound dressings such as paint, tar or other coverings are unnecessary and may harm trees. The coverings may encourage growth of decay-causing fungi. Proper pruning, by cutting through branches at the right location, can do more to limit decay than wound dressing [10]
Chemicals can be applied to trees for insect or disease control through soil application, stem injections or spraying. Compacted or disturbed soils can be improved in various ways.[citation needed]
Arborists can also assess trees to determine the health, structure, safety or feasibility within a landscape and in proximity to humans. Modern arboriculture has progressed in technology and sophistication from practices of the past. Many current practices are based on knowledge gained through recent research, including that of Alex Shigo, considered one "father" of modern arboriculture.[11]
Depending on the jurisdiction, there may be a number of legal issues surrounding the practices of arborists, including boundary issues, public safety issues, "heritage" trees of community value, and "neighbour" issues such as ownership, obstruction of views, impacts of roots crossing boundaries, nuisance problems, disease or insect quarantines, and safety of nearby trees or plants that may be affected.[citation needed]
Arborists are frequently consulted to establish the factual basis of disputes involving trees, or by private property owners seeking to avoid legal liability through the duty of care.[12] Arborists may be asked to assess the value of a tree[13] in the process of an insurance claim for trees damaged or destroyed,[14] or to recover damages resulting from tree theft or vandalism.[15] In cities with tree preservation orders an arborist's evaluation of tree hazard may be required before a property owner may remove a tree, or to assure the protection of trees in development plans and during construction operations. Carrying out work on protected trees and hedges is illegal without express permission from local authorities,[16] and can result in legal action including fines.[17] Homeowners who have entered into contracts with a Homeowner's association (see also Restrictive covenants) may need an arborists' professional opinion of a hazardous condition prior to removing a tree, or may be obligated to assure the protection of the views of neighboring properties prior to planting a tree or in the course of pruning.[18] Arborists may be consulted in forensic investigations where the evidence of a crime can be determined within the growth rings of a tree, for example. Arborists may be engaged by one member of a dispute in order to identify factual information about trees useful to that member of the dispute, or they can be engaged as an expert witness providing unbiased scientific knowledge in a court case. Homeowners associations seeking to write restrictive covenants, or legislative bodies seeking to write laws involving trees, may seek the counsel of arborists in order to avoid future difficulties.[19]
Before undertaking works in the UK, arborists have a legal responsibility to survey trees for wildlife, especially bats, which are given particular legal protection. In addition, any tree in the UK can be covered by a tree preservation order and it is illegal to conduct any work on a tree, including deadwooding or pruning, before permission has been sought from the local council.[citation needed]
The protagonist in Italo Calvino's novel The Baron in the Trees lives life on the ground as a boy and spends the rest of his life swinging from tree to tree in the Italian countryside. As a young man he helps the local fruit farmers by pruning their trees.[citation needed]
Some noteworthy arborists include:
The International Society of Arboriculture, commonly known as ISA, is an international non-profit organization headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia,[1] United States. The ISA serves the tree care industry as a paid membership association and a credentialing organization that promotes the professional practice of arboriculture.[2] ISA focuses on providing research, technology, and education opportunities for tree care professionals to develop their arboricultural expertise. ISA also works to educate the general public about the benefits of trees and the need for proper tree care.[3][4]
Worldwide, ISA has 22,000 members and 31,000 ISA-certified tree care professionals with 59 chapters, associate organizations, and professional affiliates throughout North America, Asia, Oceania, Europe, and South America.[5]
ISA offers the following credentials:
The Certified Arborist credential identifies professional arborists who have a minimum of three years' full-time experience working in the professional tree care industry and who have passed an examination covering facets of arboriculture.[6][7] The Western Chapter of the ISA started the certification program in the 1980s,[citation needed] with the ISA initiating it in 1992.[8]
The Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA) or simply Master Arborist credential identifies professional arborists who have attained the highest level of arboriculture offered by the ISA and one of the two top levels in the field. There are several paths to the Board Certified Master Arborist, but typically on average each has been an ISA Certified Arborist a minimum of three to five years before qualifying for the exam (this can vary depending upon other education and experience). The certification began as a result of the need to distinguish the top few arborists and allow others to identify those with superior credentials.
The Master Arborist examination is a far more extensive exam than the Certified Arborist Exam, and covers a broad scope of both aboriculture management, science and work practices. The exam includes the following areas:
Another credential that is on a par with the Master Arborist is that of the American Society of Consulting Arborists, the Registered Consulting Arborist.[9] There are perhaps six hundred individuals with that qualification, and only 70 arborists who hold both credentials.[citation needed]
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