Tree reports 2015

Wishing all my clients and friends a very successful New year may all your Endeavors be successful and you get time to enjoy life all the best for 2015 We will be available for consultation starting Monday 5th January 2015 looking forward to working with you on your projects for 2015

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas to all my great Clients and friends and tier families may your plates be full and your glasses never empty and may 2015 be all that you want :)

2014 Seasons Greetings

This year has been a very interesting and challenging year and I will take this opportunity to wish all my clients, colleagues and support staff a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Click hear for my 2014 Christmas Letter.

Tree health and Tree diagnosis

Landscape plants/Trees can be injured by biotic and abiotic agents. Abiotic or nonliving agents include environmental factors such as drought, Wet, Snow Physiological and other non-biological factors, such as insects, pathogens, nematodes, parasitic plants such as figs, Mistletoes and ivy and Viruses. Most of these problems are soil related abiotic disorders such as water deficits, aeration deficits (Soil compaction) nutritional deficiencies, specific ion toxicities, pH related problems and herbicide injury. Whether the cause is biotic, abiotic or both an accurate diagnosis is almost always needed to remedy the ailment. Some Symptoms signs could be twig die back, small or sparse leaf foliage and dropping leaves, too much or small flowers. If left to late the tree will die

Tree risk assessment and habitat trees

Tree risk assessments and habitat trees It is only natural that wherever trees are planted, wildlife and other plants are sure to follow. Trees provide shelter and food for a variety of birds and small animals, such as squirrels and beavers. Enhancing growth diversity, trees create an environment that allows the growth of plants that otherwise would not be there. Flowers, fruits, leaves, buds and woody parts of trees are used by many different species. Bacteria and fungi contained in tree parts cause decay which makes nesting easier for some birds and increases soil fertility and structure for furrowing by other land animals. Trees also provide shade, reduce water and air temperatures and contribute to the overall health of aquatic ecosystems by providing habitat, shelter and food for aquatic species such as turtles, otters, beavers and fish. Frequently, in urban areas, habitat trees and dead old trees are felled or severely cut back. This is because of fears that trunks or limbs could fall and kill or injure people or pets; or damage property. Because old trees often host colonies of termites (‘white ants’), people are afraid that these could damage buildings .Most termite species do not attack timber in buildings. The few species which attack sound wooden structures are usually the subterranean kinds that do not build visible nests. These may travel underground for up to 80 metres. Removal of a particular tree may have no effect at all in protecting a building from termites. Tree removal can give a false sense of security. Proper precautions and regular inspections at the site of the building are the best protection against termites. Because of their great importance to the natural environment, it is essential to plan to prevent problems that may arise with habitat trees. We should avoid locating buildings, paths and tracks near trees that may become dangerous. There are ways of avoiding dangers posed by old trees, other than the drastic options of lopping or removal. If a habitat tree is not close to buildings or places where people frequent, they should be totally protected. Cracks, crevices, notches and hollows. These are habitats and micro-habitats – breeding sites, shelter, refuge, and living quarters for a wide range of animals. Dead branches above the canopy. Some birds use these for roosting, sunning and preening. Good all-round vision gives protection against sudden approach by predators. Predators may also use these branches for these reasons, and to watch for prey. High, dead branches provide roosting and lookout sites. Tree risk assessments and safety audits around homes, offices and work sites need to be conducted by a Professional Independent Arborist; who understands the risk that trees pose to residents and workers. An Arborist such as Fred Janes at Angophora Consulting Arborist, is a level 5 arborist (AQF level 5) qualified in the latest techniques using the international Arborist associations Tree risk Assessments qualifications (TRAQ). Fred can provide professional advice on how to mitigate the risk and allay fears that you may have of your habitat tree/s.

Tree risk assessment tree safety audit

Tree risk assessments and safety audits around homes, offices and work sites need to be conducted by a Professional Independent Arborist; who understands the risk that trees pose to residents and workers. An Arborist such as Fred Janes at Angophora Consulting Arborist, is a level 5 arborist (AQF level 5) qualified in the latest techniques using the international Arborist associations Tree risk Assessments qualifications (TRAQ). Fred can provide professional advice on how to mitigate the risk and allay fears that you may have of your large tree. Sometimes trees that may look damaged or structurally unsafe with a defect in their trunks may still be sound, with the trees sealing over the wound. This wood, called reaction wood, in some instances is stronger than the normal wood of the tree. To determine the structural integrity of the tree advanced assessments may need to occur, such as an aerial assessment with an Arborist using a Elevated work platform (EWP a.k.a. cherry pickers) or a Picas Sonic tomography, to sound the tree. For any or more information please contact me by phone, e-mail or leave a message on face book and I will contact you (If you do contact by Facebook please leave a Phone number and best time to call).

BIZNET awards 2014

Good day Here are some photos from the BIZNET awards the first is when I got presented the Judges Encouragement award last Friday night at the Fairmont Resort Leura the last 3 are from the night when the finalist where presented their certificates for making the finals the last is when I got presented the Judges Encouragement award last Friday night at the Fairmont Resort Leura

Blue Mountains Business awards

Good day just got home from the blue Mountains business awards and before I go to bed I thought I would wrote/type this up while it is still fresh in my memory. The night was a black tie affair held at Fairmont Resort Leura to me it seemed a very flash affair I sat at a table of 11 other people 2 I had met slightly before so conversation was easy. the first entertainment for the night was by the Blue Mountains Musical Society do part of CATS by Andrew Lloyd Weber this was very entertaining little I know of musicals. The second was a dance group doing not sure what you called lets say break modern dance again very entertaining. The wards well I made the finals for two categories but did not win either. What I did get presented with was the judges Encouragement Award this was a very Pleasant surprise so thank you to the judges. The food was not all that good for main I had Salmon it was dry over cooked. Again I was a bit uncomfortable wearing Tie after awhile it started to annoy other than that a good night. Just a quick word of thanks to all those who support me those support staff IT, Web design, mechanic, accountant and others who do the bits I can not do or do not have time to my friends who support and encourage me true friends and to all my clients Thank you for the success this year.

Tree management

Good day Recently I attended a site to discuss the risk of a damaged tree while their the client asked my opinion on other native Iron bark trees Indigenous to the area as the client would like these trees removed and replace them with trees that do something such as fruit trees. I was a bit disappointed on this attitude which many seem to have so what do trees do do they do anything 1/ they produce Oxygen we need to breath, provide shade, slow storm water from washing away from soil, provide habitat to many of our native fauna and insects to save tree especially trees Indigenous to an area is also very important as so many people just want to cut trees down because they are big and inside a stupid meter rule

10/50 vegetation clearing - NSW Rural Fire Service

10/50 vegetation clearing - NSW Rural Fire Service

Treee assessments for habitats

Good day I keep talking about the benefits of trees here are two trees been used by birds as habitats. These trees are in a University campus near Bankstown How nice to see native birds living breeding in our suburbs

Tree health and beauty

After a very busy couple of weeks working long hours I just had a nice pleasant experience visiting Leuralla gardens at Leura meeting the owner who has the same passion for trees as I do and who is interested in retaining a large mature tree rather than just condemn the tree. It was nice to discuss the beauty of trees and our disappointed that many people just want to cut down trees for no other reason than they are big or they drop leaves or they move in the wind. The owner told me a story about an old couple about 80 years old sitting on a bench in the garden admiring a nice golden elm and when she came across them their comment was I hope Heaven is like this the owner comment was I hope there are trees in heaven my response if there are not I am not staying :) In the garden there are a couple of very young sequoia only 120 years old (live expectancy is 1100 Years +) Before we remove tree please consider the many benefits trees offer from shade/cooling social, ascetically pleasing and of course they produce oxygen you know the stuff we need to breath to keep alive

2014 Blue Mountains Business awards

Good day recently I entered two sections of the Blue mountains business awards BIZNET Excellence in Business ethics and Excellence in Innovation on Friday I received a e-mail advising that I had made the finals for both awards this year. the winners will be announced in late October.

Tree Risk and hazard Assessment Orange NSW

Good day this week I was asked to assess 3 very large and old English Elms out at Orange. The trees are located in Robertson Park in the Center of the shopping area. While some defects in the mid canopy was noticed and after discussions with the manager I was requested to conduct an Aerial assessment using their trailer mounted Elevated Work Platform (EWP) With the defects noticed from the ground I was also able to identify another defect in a branch not sighted from the ground (see last photo) With this information I was able to give a comprehensive report and Mitigation options to these trees.

Aerial inspections are a very good way to help identify any potential problems in large and mature trees trees are living growing and as they mature will develop defects and when these trees are located in and around people can be a hazard and when they fail and if someone or an assert is hit causing injury death and damage.

Contact Angophora Consulting Arborist to assess any tree and especially any large mature tree that you have so you can have the peace of mine knowing that your tree/s are safe and if necessary arrange an aerial inspection.

Tree health care

Good day what a welcome the rain that occurred over the last week at my place (Bullaburra) I recorded 80mm of lovely rain. With Spring (September) 12 days away the Weather will start to get warmer and won't our plants/trees and gardens love this. I notice just around the corner that the Cherry blossoms are in full flower. Now is the time to start thinking about fertilizing your plants/Trees and gardens do they need it. Consider the correct fertilizer for your plants remember that compost do not have all nutrients that trees/plants need and for some such as citrus trees you may also need to add Chelated Iron. For expert advice and soil improvement and fertilization of you trees/plants and gardens contact Angophora Consulting Arborist

10/50 VEGETATION CLEARING CODE OF PRACTICE FOR NEW SOUTH WALES

The Rural Fire Service has released it's paper on: "10/50 VEGETATION CLEARING CODE OF PRACTICE FOR NEW SOUTH WALES".
Give me a call if you would like to discuss how this impacts your property.

Good day Last night I attended another great night at a BIZNET function at Balance Springwood Family Practice and it was nice to listed to Kate Gunn's story about the issues she faced and over come getting her business going. It was also very nice to meet some new members and listed to everyone who attended their talks and say good day

Good day as part of assessing trees not only do i assess trees from the ground but occasionally I get asked to assess defects in trees canopy here i am assessing a defect at a defect approx. 13 meters above ground in a 32 meters tall Eucalyptus saligna Sydney Blue Gum. The defect is at a branch junction.

The new 10/50 vegetation clearing rule comes into effect tomorrow, giving people living near bushland another tool to prepare their homes for bush fire. The rule allows people in designated areas to remove trees within 10 metres of their home and underlying vegetation within 50 metres. You can check if it applies to your home at http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/1050-vegetation-clearing/tool - Police and Emergency Services Minister Stuart Ayres and Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons have launched the online tool in the Blue Mountains this morning.

New tree risk assessment quilifications

Good day about 4 weeks ago I attended the International Society of Arboricutural Tree Risk assessment qualification course today I am please to announce that I passed the course which included 100 theory questions and a performance based exam

HEDRA Conference 2014

Good day during the HEDRA conference the importance of tree around our homes was 1 topic discussed. Plantet ark did a recent survey and some interesting results where found. such as Australians would be willing to pay an average $35,000 more about 7% of cost of their home to live in a green neighborhood, Around a third 34% would pay an extra $100,000 or more to live in a green area about 2 thirds of Australians 65% would prefer to buy a home in a nature filled area. Trees also offer other benefits an area with trees is 7% cooler how much would that save during our hot summers. There is also the benefits to our health for social entertainment BBQ etc. Lets consider the benefits before we just remove trees

Good day yesterday Friday 18th July I attended Housing Engineering Design and research Association (HEDRA) Were Engineers, Arborist, Councils, Landscape architects, and others gather to discuss issues with the environment and of course this included trees. I found the topics discussed to be of interest and educational. The Keynote speaker was Walter Jehne who I was lucky enough to sit next to during the seminar with Dr Greg Moore the second speaker both had some very interesting topics and raised issues for discussion over the next week I will be posting more on what was discussed and the relaxants to us all.

Good day with the coming of the windy season it is always good to assess your trees for their structure and stability most people concentration on the roots system looking for soil or root movement but other stress,es can also occur such as Torsion which is the twisting of the tree and its branches causing branch failure or shear stress in the trunk (see photo) Torsional stress occurs when a branch/trunk or root twists leading to maximum stress near the perimeter. trees with asymmetrical crown or branches with asymmetrical foliage distribution may experience an uneven wind load, resulting in higher levels or torsion, recently exposed trees can also experience torsion stress that they are not normally exposed to high levels of wind this could be because they have had trees or building recently removed or in the sample in the photo the tree may have grown above other trees or structures. Torsion has not received a great deal of attention in tree mechanics, it is likely a significant factor, especially in branch failure

Tree risk assessments in School grounds

Over the past several months I have been very busy with assessing trees in school grounds from Emu Plains to Lithgow out at Oberon and Bathurst this all occurred after the tragic incident in Richmond earlier in the year when a young girl was killed and others injured when a tree branch fell. This project involved around 30 primary and High Schools at an average of 150 trees per school. During the assessment of these trees, most were in good condition but some of the concerns noticed were: • large dead trees, • trees with: defective junctions both trunk and branch • inclusions that were starting to fail, • hollow and decayed trees • The amount of dead wood in the trees. During this time I have also been commissioned by several councils, Sydney trains, private residents and National Parks as an independent Consulting Arborist to visibly assess trees and conduct Picus Sonic Tomography tests. In June SAI Global conducted the annual audit of my ISO qualifications and again was assessed to retain this level of competency. In February 2014, as part of my continual learning I attended a 3 day Tree Anatomy workshop. We looked at roots, branches and trunks and their different growth stages under a microscope. When assessing trees that are not well, this knowledge and experience will allow me to make a more in depth assessment of what is causing problems with your trees. In June I attended the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) course. This is similar to the Visible Tree Assessment (VTA) used in the past but provides a more accurate and quantifiable assessment of risk. On determining the likelihood and consequence of a risk, I will work with you to agree what to do to mitigate such risk and manage for these actions to be implemented. Discussions with several of my clients from councils and other agencies, it is clear that the TRAQ tree risk assessment procedure is the preferred process and I will be adopting this as my standard in future. Attending workshops and seminars such as these, reading research documents and journals, and networking with my peers and clients increases my knowledge and maintains my technical currency in this growing (pun intended) profession of Arboriculture. Looking forward to working with you again soon and please contact me by phone if you have any Arboricutural questions or need a quote.

Good day today 25th June 2014 I completed the international Society of Arboricuture (ISA) Tree Risk assessment Qualifications course (TRAQ) This training helps me to keep up to date with the latest practices methodology and procedures. This approach is Qualitative risk assessment using ratings of likelihood and consequences of an event to determine a risk level and evaluate the level of risk against qualitative criteria. what is assessed is target what the tree or parts of the tree can impact, Occupation rate of target area, Tree defects and conditions of the crown, trunk roots and root collar their fall distance and then on mitigation options. Then decision these options with the tree manager/owner's and then deciding on a course of action.

Trees heathy and Structurally sound

Good day recently I had the privileged of assessing a very large Angophora Costata Smooth bark apple as the resident was concerned about the safety of people who visit her. A very good example of a large tree providing shade/cool and what a very nice amenity tree to view for anyone who walks, drives, or visits this area

As part of our continuous education plan of keeping up to date with current practices and techniques on Monday 23rd June to Wednesday 25th June 2014 I will be attending a 3 day Tree Risk Assessment Qualification course Presented by International Society of Arborist (ISA) and Arboriculture Australia. Attending this course I will gain more skills, and Knowledge to add to my already vast experience and knowledge when assessing trees. This qualification is recognised nationally and International enabling me to deliver a higher professional standard to all my clients

Good day to you all I have been away for the past 10 days having my annual holidays having worked both Easter and Christmas for the past two years. The break was very relaxing and I am now ready refreshed to meet and discuss all my clients needs

Tree health

Good day another question I get asked is how can you tell when a tree is dead. This depends on the type of tree a native gum trees a eucalyptus, Angophora or Corymbia species is dead when the leaves are all gone are brown and the bark is peeling. An deciduous tree is dead when the leaves are gone their are no new growth buds for the next year small branches are brittle and dry. Conifers and pines if the needles are brown or are gone then the tree is also dead. But remember it is best to consult a professional Angophora Consulting Arborist to correctly determine the tree health as there could be other reasons why the tree has no leaves and the tree could be saved

Tree risk assessment

Talking about healthy trees and structurally sound trees today at a school I came across this as a very good example if a healthy tree been structurally un sound and needs to be removed. With the hazard the tree is also overhanging a basketball/cricket play area. Potential for injury or worst and damage to equipment and infrastructure this tree needs to be removed.

Good day the last couple of weeks have been very busy assessing trees around in many school grounds from Bathurst Oberon to Emu Plains after the incident when the girl was killed by a fallen branch identifying and potential risk in the school grounds. During this time I have been asked two question once when I was interviewed on the local radio station and again when I was contacted by phone from a reporter from a local Newspaper down south. Question 1 how can you assess a dangerous tree or branch. First there needs to be an understanding about the difference between heath and structural integrity. just because a tree is healthy does not mean it is structurally sound and visa versa. Structurally un sounds trees have defects such as hollows, decays, dead wood, poor branch/trunk junctions. Health is how vigor's the tree is the color, size density of the foliage and annual shoot growth. This needs to be determined by someone who has the experience and education so that the correct diagnosis is made and that 1 if any potential risk are identified and that no tree is incorrectly removed. Please contact me for more information

Good day Yesterday I conducted my first every radio interview and though a little bit nervous at times I believe I went well have a listen and let me know what you think http://www.biznet.org.au/resources/the-business-show/

Good day Getting excited next Monday 24th March 2014 just after midday 12 03pm I will be interviewed on 89.1, Radio Blue Mountains discussion Arboriculture this should be good please have a listen

Good day over the past two weeks I have visited many Schools from Bathurst to Parramatta and I have seen some very lovely beautiful trees and at the same time of I have seen some trees that do need some care speaking to Teachers and parents about trees I thought I would post this The reports/assessments are meant to minimise risk and also to have a record of the tree assets to programme their maintenance, and then replacement if they need to be removed to provide information for budgeting and improve the safety of students, employees and anyone who visits these sites. Most trees and shrubs in cities or communities are planted to provide beauty or shade. These are two excellent reasons for their use. Woody plants also serve many other purposes, and it often is helpful to consider these other functions when selecting a tree or shrub for the landscape. The benefits of trees can be grouped into social, communal, environmental, and economic categories. The trees in this area certainly add to character and beauty to this site Trees also diminish traffic noise, screen unwanted views, reduce glare and provide summer shade for the comfort of pedestrians and residents. And also provide seasonal interest and natural beauty through foliage and their interesting leaf patterns, flowers, bark, fruit and canopy

After the recent tragic incident where a young girl was killed and others injured by a falling branch the department of Education is requesting all schools to have their tree assessed by a qualified Arborist with current insurances. I have AQF Level 5 qualifications in Arboriculture, $20 mil public liability insurance and $10 mil public indemnity meeting and exceeding the criteria set out by the department

Good day recently I have had several other small companies ask what I do about late on non payment of invoices. First every client receives a quote with the project clearly outlined with the quote is my payment schedule this is normally 7days after report is submitted or completion of the project. The invoice does not state 7 day but ask for payment before a certain day (7days) I then wait 10 days of the fee is not received I send a e-mail outlining what will happen next after 7 days I send the invoice to a debt recovery company this has so far worked with all invoices paid, I hope this helps you please contact if you would like to see a sample of e-mail that I send

Good day Last week I attended a 3 day Tree anatomy workshop the first session we looked at roots and their different growth stages under a microscope. This will help when assessing trees that are not well giving a more in depth look at what may be a problem with your tree/s. Over the next 3 days we looked at many different trees/palms under microscopes to see how different each tree is and yet how similar On the last day we put some food dye into some water than sucked on the ends to draw the fluid through the stems to show the vascular system and how it works and how important correct pruning techniques are (see Photos) Attending workshops seminars such as this increases my knowledge maintaining and increasing technical currency in this growing (pun intended) profession of Arboriculture.

Support for a local hospital in Burma

I have recently become away of a hospital in Burma that was in need of support. I am happy to add my support to this project. The village is called Thabyu village, Kawa township, Yangon division.

Arboriculture Field and Office Administration Assistant We are a successful Consulting Arborist firm providing services to government utilities, local Councils and the private sector for over 8 years. As Consulting Arborists we actively contribute to shaping our environment through the maintenance and planning of urban forests. Due to continued growth are seeking a motivated person to join or team. The successful applicant will assist our Consulting Arborist in the field conducting arboriculture inspections. Activities will include data collection, safety support and the use of state-of-the-art inspection equipment. You will also provide administrative support in the preparation of reports and data logging. The ideal applicant will have the following skills and experience: • Be physicality fit • Strong work ethic • Ability to work in a team environment and follow directions • Basic public relation skills along with the ability to deal with the general public and good phone manner • Able to use Microsoft Office (intermediate level) • Adapt to change and able to work flexible hours • Hold a current drivers license • Hold a current Construction Safety Induction Card (Blue Card/White Card) or be prepared to gain this • Qualifications in First Aid and Protection Officer would be an advantage but not essential The position would ideally suit a local of the Blue Mountains looking for part-time employment and the opportunity to work outdoors. For anyone with a background in arboriculture and/or a desire develop a career in this field, the role would offer a healthy learning environment working alongside a highly respected expert. Please show your interest in the role by emailing your CV and details to info@angophoraarborist.com.au

Good day with the new year well on the way and as temperatures start to increase how do your trees look are they healthy or are the leaves starting to droop? Could this be the affect of hot weather and little rain or is more serious could your tree/s be affected by a pathogen/disease contact us today before it is to late for a consultation