By Fred Hoppe, Board Certified Master Arborist WI-0556B, ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualified
Trees around us provide a multitude of benefits, including visual beauty, wildlife habitat, pollution filtering, and reducing harmful effects of climate change. Science has also shown us that trees are essential to our physical health, mental well-being, and quality of life.
That being said, trees can pose a risk homeowners should know about. Tree owners have a duty to inspect and maintain their trees. A property owner or manager has an obligation to periodically inspect trees for unsafe conditions. If they are not knowledgeable or qualified to assess their trees, a qualified professional should be contacted.
What is the Tree Risk Assessment Credential?
Recently, certified arborists and members of our sales arborist team Pat Walsh and Cory Tucek earned qualification by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) as tree risk assessors. Qualified tree assessors use advanced diagnostic techniques and can provide analysis and recommendations for mitigating identified risks. With this credential, Pat and Cory join our expanding team of tree risk assessors who use best practices for evaluating trees for hazardous conditions.
What Does Tree Risk Assessment Involve?
One of the first steps we take in determining your risk level is to survey the trees on your property. During the survey, trees are assessed for their likelihood of failure, the likelihood of them striking a nearby target, and the consequences should that event occur. Identifying any damaged or diseased trees along with their location and potential for damage can also help inform a plan of action. For example, trees that have a high likelihood of failure and are located close to valuable potential targets (such as houses or buildings) should be prioritized over trees with only minor defects that may cause less damage should failure occur.
We utilize advanced methodologies and tools to assist in the scientific quantification of tree risk. We consistently offer clear, defensible and accurate recommendations for risk mitigation, and can provide you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your trees that promote both safety and tree longevity.
If you have a concern about branches overhanging your property or tree trunks showing large cracks, request a quote online or by calling us at 414.257.2111. One of our tree risk assessors will visit your yard and can talk with you about how to manage any risks that are identified.