RMSA partnered with certified arborist Alan Haywood to provide in-person tree risk assessment trainings. The course combined classroom instruction with practical demonstrations, teaching public works staff key skills for identifying and managing tree risks. If you weren’t able to attend, check out our top four takeaways.
- Health vs. structure of trees: The training distinguished between the health and structural integrity of trees. Health refers to the tree's ability to stay alive and grow, while structure pertains to its ability to remain standing and whole.
- Causes of tree failure: Primary tree failure causes include gravity, wind, rain, snow, ice, and decay. Examples of these are trees uprooting in wet soil, branches breaking under ice or snow, and bark injuries that result in decay.
- Warning signs: Key tree risk indicators include leaning, multiple trunks, exposed wood, weak branch attachments, cavities, decay pockets, cracks, and deadwood in trunks and branches.
- Critical root zone: The critical root zone is a foot per inch of the tree's diameter plus the trunk itself. Keeping construction and other activities away from this zone helps protect the tree's roots and overall health.
Review these takeaways and visit your parks and other properties to assess the health and safety of your trees. If there are issues, consider contacting an arborist to provide further assessment and to take preventative action.
RMSA’s tree inspection guide is a helpful resource as you review your trees. Use our laminated root rot prevention guide to identify and prevent root rot.
Get more information on local certified arborists. Questions? RMSA staff is here to help!