Tree Assessment

Trees provide a great benefit to the environment and give us enjoyment where ever they are found whether in the park, forest stand or urban setting. However trees can be hazardous if they fail in any one part by limb or entire structure and have the potential to strike a “target” such as property or persons in the area.  ATP offers a high level service of tree survey and tree risk assessment.  This can give you an inventory of the trees on your property that includes such information as size, tree species, potential defects/problems, and recommendations on how to manage the tree when there is a problem.  We have instruments such as the ARBOTOM Sonic Tomograph and the RINNTECH Resistograph to determine internal problems in the tree as well as the Air Spade to help with root excavation and radial trenching when necessary.

It is generally assumed that a tree in the public environment is safe and people are often simply unaware of the risks associated with trees that have developed defects. Any tree has the potential to be a hazardous tree depending on a number of conditions which arborists are trained to identify.
Interest in hazard tree management is increased in societies where safety and liability concerns have developed as a part of modernity.  According to Matheny and Clark Evaluation of Hazardous Trees in Urban Areas, Second Edition; “The arborist evaluates individual trees, assess their hazard potential and recommends appropriate action.” Recognizing hazardous trees and taking proper corrective actions to minimize risks related to their environment can protect property and save lives.

The professional arborist is expected to be called on when trees need to be cared for and risks need to be managed concerning the tree conditions. Proper tree care includes the correct examination of trees, production of a rating or informed judgment as to the potential to cause damage or injury and the taking of actions to abate the hazard and reduce the associated risks.

ATP can provide services to assess trees producing written reports and recommendations and providing training for action.  ATP can also provide “Expert Witness” in liability cases where a professional decision is required to establish “duty” and “breach” which may lead to the application of responsibility or decide matters of “who should pay.”

Testimonial;  Following the assessment and reporting on the conditions for over 4000 trees in a corporate community headquarters on the South China Sea the corporation VP provided favorable  recommendation concerning Picker’s hazard abatement tree plan saying;

“[we are] …absolutely convinced we will now have a more sustainable outcome as a consequence. I am thus confident and now fully appreciate the critical role arborists play in maintaining and preserving the environment.”