Well-maintained healthy trees are invaluable assets to every community. They beautify the landscape, contribute to the physical and mental health of citizens, and enhance economic stability. However, if tree care is neglected, these beautiful monuments of nature can become hazards, which can result in property damage, injuries, and fatalities.
Tree owners are responsible for preserving the health of their trees. It is crucial that you learn to assess your trees for possible risks, recognize signs of hazards, and implement management strategies to prevent accidents and liabilities. Vigilance will allow you to protect yourself, your property, and your community.
Conduct regular inspections
Find a certified arborist to conduct a thorough assessment of your trees. Tree inspections should be done every three to five years or as recommended by your tree care specialist. However, if major weather events, like a storm or a prolonged drought, occur or if you observe any cause for concern, have your arborist examine your tree immediately.
Risk Assessment Checklist
Examine the tree
- Species – Some species are prone to decay, developing diseases, or attracting pests.
- Height – Unusually tall or large trees can cause significant damage if they topple over onto property or passersby. It may be necessary to cut them down as soon as possible.
- Age (Maturity) – The older the tree becomes, the more susceptible it is to various illnesses and insect damage.
- Crown, Twigs, and Foliage – Find out if the crown is conflicting with utility lines. Observe the foliage; leaves that are too small or discoloured may be signs of illness or infestation.
- Branches – Check for any dead branches or detached ones that are left hanging since these can be falling hazards. Additionally, if most of its major limbs are growing on one side, it may be at risk of falling over.
- Trunk – Look for cavities, cracks, or splits along the trunk. Is it leaning more than it used to?
- Roots – Cavities or hollows in the roots may be a symptom of infestation. Fungus or mushrooms growing around the base of the tree indicates decay.
Evaluate the site
- Soil – Soil compaction and various activities, like construction, lawn installation, sidewalk repair, pavement work, or trenching can stress root systems and weaken them. If the soil is cracked or raised on one side of the tree, it may be starting to lean.
- Water – Excess water can cause problems for trees. It can inhibit root growth, loosen the soil which can cause it to be uprooted, and lead to rot. Flooding can occur after heavy rain or if there is a leak in the drain pipes. Check for standing water near the tree.
- Weather – Storms, wind patterns, precipitation, and increased sun exposure (due to construction activities) can contribute to tree damage. With the impending threat of climate change wreaking havoc on weather patterns, this may take a toll on your garden.
Assess the target
“Target” refers to the people, objects, or activities that are likely to be injured, damaged, or disrupted during tree failure. Determine who or what could be harmed, how often the targets are in the ‘danger zone’ and what to do if the worst happens.
- Target description – Do people frequently walk or stay under the canopy? Is the tree near the children’s play area or hanging over a busy sidewalk? Is there a house nearby? Are there tables and chairs or vehicles parked under the tree?
- Target zone – This could be under the canopy or within striking distance of the tree. The target zone is the length from the trunk base to 1.5 times the height of the tree.
- Occupancy rate – How frequently is the target within the target zone (rarely or continuously)?
- Action plan – Determine whether the target should be moved out of the target zone or if access to the target zone should be restricted.
Document Your Inspections
Keep thorough documentation of each inspection. Records of previous assessments will allow you to monitor the health and structure of the tree over the years. Additionally, in the event of tree failure, written evaluations can help minimize liability during a court case or a liability claim filed against you.
Create And Implement A Tree Care Plan
Develop an action plan for tree risk. During the inspection, take note of the maintenance needs of each tree and ascertain the timing and priority of work to be done. Set up a maintenance schedule for all the trees on your property. This may depend on the results of the inspection. Establish a policy for handling or mitigating possible risks. Safety should be the foremost priority, followed by tree health and preservation.
Managing Tree Risk
Reduce tree risk by taking the proper precautions and keeping on top of best tree care practices.
Tips on Tree Risk Management
- Remove the target. Move objects like vehicles, tables, landscape decor to another location to keep them from getting damaged by tree failure.
- Restrict access. Keep people and activities away from the target zone to prevent injuries.
- Prune the tree. Remove defective (split, torn, or broken) or dead branches.
- Install structural support (if needed). Cabling and bracing the tree can help to offset any structural weakness. These supports serve to reinforce, strengthen, and stabilize branches and stems.
- Improve site conditions. Aerate the soil to address compaction and give the tree better access to nutrients. Repair any construction damage. Ensure that irrigation and drainage are properly maintained to protect the root system.
- Adhere to a tree care regimen. Give your trees routine care by watering, mulching, and when necessary, pruning, deep-root fertilization, and aeration.
- Remove the tree. Tree removal should only be done as a last resort — when all other options have failed or are not feasible. However, if possible, plant a new tree (not necessarily in the same spot) to replace the old one.
Create Good Tree Planting Strategies
Figure out planting needs and ascertain possible locations for new or replacement trees. Enhance the health and safety of the landscape by careful selection of tree species:
- Prioritize diversity
- Choose species that will flourish under local conditions
- Consider the impact of factors like utilities, sidewalks, and activity areas
Taking these carefully into account will allow you to preserve the health of your trees and your landscape.
Hire A Professional Arborist
Healthy trees can add to the aesthetic appeal of your home and increase its market value. By entrusting them to an expert arborist, you ensure that your investment is safe.
A professional tree service expert can assess your trees thoroughly, identify any possible weaknesses before they become major issues. Arborists can assist you in establishing effective strategies, enhancing the sustainability of your hardscape. Be sure to contact a tree care service provider certified by the ISA (International Society of Arboriculture). They possess the knowledge, skill, and equipment to assess
Dave Lund Tree Service & Forestry provides exceptional tree services from tree risk assessment to stump removal. We have over 40 years of experience servicing various areas in Ontario. Our ISA certified arborists use cutting-edge equipment to determine the best ways to preserve your trees and protect your property. Call us toll-free at 1-800-363-0511 to request a quote.