Arborist Consulting
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Our ISA Certified Arborist is able to provide professional expert consultations and Arborist Evaluation Reports. Whether you are looking for an assessment of tree health, would like advice on forest management, or are in need of a Certified Arborist report for city planning and developing, we have you covered.
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What is an Arborist Evaluation Report?
Arborist Evaluation Reports provide detailed information regarding the health and condition of a single tree, or population of trees. The reports document any causes or concerns such as disease or structural damage, the environmental impact of the tree(s), and offers best arboriculture practice recommendations for each tree in question.
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What is a TRAQ Report?
A Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAQ) report is a written document that provides an evaluation of the potential risks associated with trees, including the likelihood of failure and the consequences of failure. The report is prepared by a qualified professional who has been trained and certified in the principles and practices of tree risk assessment. The assessment considers factors such as the tree’s species, location, condition, age, and structural integrity, as well as the surrounding environment, such as nearby buildings, sidewalks, and power lines. The TRAQ report provides recommendations for reducing or mitigating the risks associated with the trees and is used by property owners, tree care professionals, and local governments to prioritize tree maintenance and management activities.
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Types of Tree Assessments
A tree assessment is a process of evaluating the health, structure, and safety of trees. It can involve a detailed inspection of the tree’s leaves, branches, trunk, roots, and surrounding environment to determine its current condition and potential risks. The assessment is performed by a Certified Arborist. Tree assessments can be used to develop a management plan for trees, including recommendations for maintenance, pruning, or removal. Tree assessments are important for ensuring the health and safety of the tree and its surrounding environment.
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There are generally 3 levels of tree assessments:
Level I Tree Assessment
This is our standard level of assessment when performing tree assessments and inventories. A level I tree assessment is a basic evaluation of a tree’s overall health and safety. This type of assessment typically includes a visual inspection of the tree from the ground. Our Certified Arborist may look for signs of disease, pests, damage, and structural weaknesses. The assessment can include a review of the tree’s growth and development patterns, including crown density and canopy spread. A level I assessment does not include any intrusive methods such as drilling, excavation, or soil testing. The purpose of a level I assessment is to identify any immediate concerns that need to be addressed, but it is not a comprehensive analysis of the tree’s long-term health and stability.
Level II Tree Assessment
A level II tree assessment is a more comprehensive evaluation of a tree’s structure, health, and stability. It involves a thorough inspection of the tree’s crown, trunk, root system, and surrounding area, including the soil and other environmental factors. The assessment includes a detailed analysis of the tree’s physical condition, including its growth pattern, branching structure, and any signs of disease or damage. The purpose of a level II tree assessment is to identify any potential hazards or structural weaknesses that could pose a risk to people, property, or the environment. This information can then be used to develop an Arborist Evaluation Report and/or management plan to ensure the tree’s long-term health and stability.
Level III Tree Assessment
A Level III Tree Assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of the health and safety of a tree, or trees, in an urban or suburban landscape. This assessment is conducted our Certified Arborist and involves a thorough examination of the tree or trees. Depending on the purpose and goal, this assessment can include the following factors:
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Crown density and structure
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Trunk and branch size and condition
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Leaf and bark analysis
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Root system observation
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Soil assessment
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Site conditions and environmental factors
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Pest and disease diagnosis
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Assessment of tree stability and safety
The aim of a Level III Tree Assessment is to identify any potential hazards and provide recommendations for improving the health and safety of the trees, including pruning, fertilization, and removal of diseased or dead wood. This type of assessment is often performed for large, mature trees that are deemed important for an urban canopy, or the overstory of a forest and often require a more in-depth evaluation, an aerial inspection, and additional tools.
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Performing an Aerial Inspection
An aerial tree inspection is a process of examining the condition and health of a tree’s canopy from an aerial perspective. This type of inspection involves a climber who is also a Certified Arborist and navigates throughout the crown of the tree to look for signs of damage, decay, or disease that may affect its stability and health. The aerial inspection is commonly used by arborists, forestry professionals, and property managers to assess the safety and maintenance needs of trees in urban and rural areas.
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