Tree Hazard and Risk Assessments

Where it has been identified, through a Tree Condition Investigation, that a tree is unsound, and there is concern that it presents a possible danger to people or property through mechanical failure (i.e. risk of collapse), a Tree Hazard and Risk Assessment Report can be drawn up.

Particularly on larger sites, Tree Hazard and Risk Assessments help identify action priorities to enable clients to target tree management budgets effectively.

Hazard and Risk Assessments adopt a consistent approach, assessing tree size and condition, on the one hand, and target characteristics (site and usage), on the other.

Tree Condition Investigations

Investigation > Assessment > Prognosis >
Management Recommendations.

Condition Investigations are carried out with the benefit of considerable experience in the assessment of large, mature trees. The investigative procedure adopts techniques, which conform with current arboricultural good practice. Various levels of investigation may be applied and include:

• standard Visual Tree Assessment techniques, scrutinising and interpreting the external features of the tree and its growth circumstances
• acoustic scanning using Tomography to provide visual imagery of the internal cross-section of a trunk.
• micro-drill testing of internal woody parts to provide information regarding tissue quality.
• woody increment analysis to gain insight into growth history.
• carefully targeted excavation using standard tree-sensitive manual procedures. In exceptional cases roots may be exposed by means of the use of targeted high-pressurized air through ‘Air-knife’ techniques.
• aerial assessment using safe climbing techniques and mobile-platform access to crown parts not clearly visible from ground level

After the Condition Investigation, the client is presented with a full written report to guide future management, or analyse past tree failure. Reports can be produced to expert witness standard, for use in court.

Trees and Site Development

Arboricultural Guidance is increasingly becoming a key part in the preparation of any building development proposal. Much of our work focuses upon advising clients with regard to tree-related planning issues and the assessment of impacts of a proposal upon the condition of nearby trees.

Arboricultural guidance is provided on the design, layout and construction method of proposed development, to avoid or mitigate unacceptable impacts of development upon trees.

Most Planning Authorities nowadays require evidence that the current British Standard guidance within B.S. 58937: 2005 ‘Trees in relation of construction – Recommendations’ has been appropriately considered and applied where a development is proposed about a site with trees. The Consultancy is well-versed within this area of expertise and is able to provide:

• Initial Tree Quality Assessments
• Calculation of Root Protection Areas
• Advice on form and area of Construction Exclusion Zones
• Advice on practical Tree Protection measures on site
• Advice on design and construction procedures to mitigate impacts upon trees
• Presentation of Generalised and Specific Work Method Statements as required
• Tree Planting proposals as part of development landscape plans.

We have a good record of effective liaison with Local Authority Planning Departments to achieve reasonable resolution for the client.

Tree Preservation Planning issues

Arboricultural Guidance may be required by clients with regard to planning issues concerning Tree Preservation Orders and Conservation Area conditions and constraints, affecting trees upon their property.

The Consultancy is competent and experienced in the Presentation of Planning Appeal material on these and other tree-related planning issues.

Expert Witness Presentations

Long-standing arboricultural experience, training and familiarity with a broad range of current arboricultural issues and past case histories, provide a good basis for our preparation of high quality Expert Witness presentations; undertaken in accordance with current Civil Procedure Rules.

Tree Surveying

We are able to commission and manage a wide range of tree surveys, forexample where an inventory is required of simple tree data, e.g. dimensions, species, number, age class and GPS position.