FAQS
Are you AQF Level 5 Qualified?
All of our consultants have a minimum qualification of AQF Level 5 in Arboriculture. This ensures that reports we produce are accepted by councils.
Most council set this qualification as the minimum requirement to produce reports that they will accept.
Are you members of any Association?
We are members of the Arboriculture Australia and ISA (International Society of Arboriculture). The leading industry bodies in our field.
As part of the membership our staff attend regular training and conferences to ensure they have the latest information and tools available.
What other Qualifications do you have?
Our staff are formally trained in tree risk assessment. They have qualifications in the use of the following tools;
- QTRA (Quantified Tree Risk Assessment)
- TRAQ (Tree Risk Assessment Qualifications
These two risk assessment tools are currently the most recognised industry tools for risk assessment.
Why are Reports Expensive?
In order to meet the requirements of council the reports need to be detailed and comprehensive. If the report is not satisfactory council may decline it and this could cause delays and further costs.
With experience in both government and private sector our staff have the experience to produce reports that meet all the necessary requirements and understand what is required.
DO YOU DO ROOT INVESTIGATION / MAPPING?
Yes we provide root Mapping or root Investigations. This is where we determine exactly where roots are and what size they are. This can be useful in putting forward solutions for developments. Root Mapping / Investigations is something we have a large amount of experience in.
Do you offer advice on trees?
Yes. We can arrange for one of our consultants to meet you and assess your trees. You may have insects attacking your tree or the tree may not be looking healthy. Our staff have vast experience in assessing all matters related to tree health and will be able to offer advice and recommendations.
Can you assess my neighbours tree?
Properly assessing the condition of a tree can only be done if we have access to the tree. If we do not have full access our assessment may be limited.
Do you offer Tree Planting advice?
We can assist you with species selection based on the requirements you are looking for in a tree. We can also provide guidance on correct planting and stock selection. It is very important that you only plant good quality stock. Poor quality plants will lead to problems down the track, which is not something you want.
Do you Write Reports to Cut Down Trees?
Arborist Reports are based on facts and evidence. If there is evidence that there are issues with a tree that may warrant the removal then yes. If however there is no evidence and facts that we can build a case then no.
As an example:
“Mrs Smith does not like her tree because it causes mess”
(this is not a valid reason for removal, council may grant permission for minor pruning)
“Mrs Smith is concerned about the tree falling onto her house”
(there needs to be evidence of defects or faults in the tree that have failed or are likely to fail with the potential to cause damage or injury. If this is the case and pruning cannot mitigate the situation removal could be a possibility).
Because the condition of a tree cannot be ascertained until our consultants have seen the tree, we offer a consultation service. We will then be able to advise you if a report is likely to give you the outcome you are looking for.
Why are Tree Roots Important?
The root system is like the branches of trees just flattened and close to the surface of the ground. Tree roots predominantly exist in the first 60cm of soil depth.
The larger roots are for support and ensure the tree does not fall over. These roots are referred to as the structural roots. The smaller finer roots are used for water and nutrient uptake. These roots are the feeder roots. In a nutshell the roots keep the tree alive and standing upright.
Damage to the root system can affect the health and / or stability of a tree. By cutting one large root you also loose all the smaller feeder roots that originate from this root.