Introduction
Trees can be valuable as they give you shade, beauty, and environmental benefits. But they can be dangerous if you do not maintain them properly.
That is why early identification of the tree risks may allow you to take proactive actions to save time and money. If you are not sure, what are the tree risk assessments? How do I identify them? And why should you address them before time?
This article will answer all your queries and make you well-informed on managing tree risks, identifying them, and avoiding them to keep them healthier and happier.
Signs of Tree Risk That You Must Look Out
Not all tree dangers are visible. Some may develop gradually and go unnoticed until they cause damage. Here are some key signs to watch for:
Leaning trees
Some trees have intrinsic growth, which means they grow by inclination. The issue did not happen suddenly; it indicates that the structure is unstable and there are cracks in the root area soil.
Dead or Decaying Branches
Dead branches, often called “widow-makers,” are a major hazard. Usually, they fall by themselves, or sometimes, they may break down due to the strong winds or storms. So, be careful and watch out for dry limbs and barks regularly.
Fungal Growth
It indicates internal decay around the tree’s base or along the trunk. This may affect the structural integrity of the tree and its growth.
Root Problems
Healthy roots support the tree. Signs of root problems include heaving soil, exposed roots, and fungal growth in the base. Construction activities around trees can also damage roots, and the tree may become unstable over time.
Cracks and Splits
Cracks and splits are visible on branches or trunks. They impact the structure of the tree and lead to bark breakage.
Dieback of Canopy
Dying of the top parts of the canopy of a tree is often an indication of stress, disease, or pest infestation.
Pests and Disease
Check if there are signs of infestation, like holes in the bark, sawdust-like debris, or an unusual number of insects in the tree. Those can weaken the tree and make it more vulnerable to failure.
Why Go With Early Tree Risk Assessment?
Ignoring tree risks leads to costly and dangerous outcomes. Here are several reasons why early intervention is necessary:
Prevent Property Damage
For instance, when damaged trees or a part of them fall into the neighbourhood, they may destroy homes and vehicles and damage other structures like fences. Correcting such damages is much more costlier than preventing the dangers.
Ensure Safety
Dead or unstable trees pose significant safety risks. Dropped branches or an entire tree can cause injuries or even fatalities. Identifying and preventing such dangers keeps your loved ones, visitors, and neighbours safe.
Save Money
Emergency response to tree issues is more expensive than early care and protection. So, caring for your trees before the hazardous situation is less expensive and better.
Preserve Aesthetic Value
A healthy tree looks more lush green and well maintained than an infested and broken tree. That is why it is important to maintain your tree and keep your landscape looking appealing.
Comply with Local Regulations
Most cities and towns mandate property owners to control tree hazards to avoid risks to the public. If you do not, you risk getting fined or facing liability cases.
Increase Tree Life
When you treat issues such as decay, pest infestation, and structural weakness in good time, you will most of the time salvage a tree that would have been cut down. You get to benefit from the tree for more years.
How to Evaluate Tree Risk?
Most property owners can do a basic tree risk assessment. More complex situations require consulting a certified arborist. Here is how to begin:
Regular Tree Inspection
Walk around the tree and look at it from every angle. Take particular attention to the trunk, roots, branches, and canopy.
The “Target Zone” Method
Consider what falls in the potential area of the tree or its branches. Are there buildings, vehicles, or people in that area?
Check for Obvious Signs of Damage
Examine cracks, leaning, dead branches, and fungal growth. Record anything odd or out of place.
Record Your Observations
Take photos and notes of any problems you see. This will allow you to track changes over time and be helpful in the future when speaking with an arborist.
Hire a Certified Arborist
An arborist can thoroughly assess tree risk with specialized equipment and technology. They can offer you expert advice tailored to your tree’s needs and the requirements of your property.
Tree Risk Assessment by a Professional Arborist
At times, dangers hidden in a tree are not observable to a layman’s eye. This is where professional tree risk assessment comes in. Certified arborists from Evans West Valley Spray will use specialized equipment, such as sonic tomography and Resistographs, to analyze the inside of a tree. These types of equipment detect internal decay and structural weaknesses that might not be observed from the exterior.
A professional evaluation includes:
- Health and structure appraisal of the tree
- Potential hazard identification
- Pruning, cabling, or removal as mitigating measures
- Document for insurance and property management records
Risk Mitigation Techniques
After the identification of risks, mitigation techniques can take several forms:
Pruning
Removing dead and weakened branches mitigates falling debris. The procedure is also an aid to improving tree health, thereby enhancing the efficiency of air circulation and light penetration.
Cabling and Bracing
For weakly structured trees, cable or bracing can be installed to add strength and minimize the chance of failure.
Root Protection
It is mandatory to protect the roots of the tree for better growth. To avoid root damage, do not build or operate heavy machinery near the tree’s base. Mulch is beneficial to keep the roots moist and protected.
Pest and Disease Management
Use targeted treatments to combat infestations and diseases promptly. This may not only keep the trees healthy but also stop further damage.
Tree Removal
Removal is your safest bet in a situation with impending danger from the tree. Make sure to hire an expert for such work to ensure its safe and efficient removal.
Last to Say
Risk identification of a tree and intervention beforehand is one of the greatest ways to prevent the risk from affecting your property and anyone within its environment.
Prevent accidents, save money, and preserve the beauty and value of your landscape by staying vigilant and seeking professional guidance when needed. Don’t wait for a tree failure to take action in tree care today for a safer tomorrow.
