Pro Arb December 2024/January 2025

PRO ARB

PROFESSIONAL TREE CARE FOR TREE SURGEONS

Doing Shropshire proud –meet The TreeMan Clive Hancox is an inspiration

sleeping stumps lie Dr Duncan Slater explains

Ready to mentor at Beechwood Simon Rotherham’s new skill

Back

Back

PRO ARB

DECEMBER

Anew year has arrived, but what are your plans for 2025? Pro Arb spoke to a number of industry commentators to see what their intentions are. Perhaps they are parallels with yours… please get in touch and we’ll include them in a future issue.

If you want to see what a great business looks like, then don’t miss the interview with Shropshire arborist Clive Hancox of The TreeMan Tree Specialist – it’s on page 12. He has the big work contracts, powerful kit and a great reputation, but what comes across is how much he gives back.

There are times when complete tree removal is the only option, which can come down to stump grinding as well. Yet, there are environmental benefits to leaving the remains and Dr Duncan Slater makes some compelling arguments on page 26, which you may also want to convey to clients.

If you’re one of the growing numbers who have involvement in tree planting, then check out NexGen Tree Shelters. British-made from wool and fully biodegradable, these are the sustainable choice – see page 38. Finally, professionalism within arboriculture is at the heart of Pro Arb and one firm we

feature on a regular basis is Beechwood Trees. Managing director Simon Rotherham has recently achieved a certification in mentoring – read about this on page 45. He’s focused on passing on his knowledge and it will be exciting to see the results of this in the months ahead. You can get in touch via proarbeditor@eljays44.com

MANAGEMENT

Eljays44 Ltd

EDITORIAL

Features editor –Rachel Gordon proarbeditor@eljays44.com

Content director –Nina Mason nina.mason@eljays44.com

Senior subeditor –Katrina Roy katrina.roy@eljays44.com

ADVERTISING

Commercial director – Luke Chaplin

luke.chaplin@eljays44.com

Tel: 01903 777 582

Sales executive – Lewis Everle lewis.everle@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 588

PRODUCTION

Design – Kara Thomas

Printed by Stephens and George Ltd

Published by ©Eljays44 Ltd

CIRCULATION

Subscription enquiries –Laura Harris laura.harris@eljays44.com

Pro Arb is published four times per year by Eljays44 Ltd. The 2024 subscription price is £50. Subscription records are maintained at Eljays44 Ltd, BizSpace, Courtwick Lane, Littlehampton, West Sussex, BN17 7TL, UK. Articles and information contained in this publication are the copyright of Eljays44 Ltd and may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publishers. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss of, or damage to, uncommissioned photographs or manuscripts.

Managing director – Jamie Wilkinson

jamie.wilkinson@eljays44.com

Divisional director – David Griffiths david.griffiths@eljays44.com

FOLLOW US ONLINE proarbmagazine.com

Follow us on Twitter @ProArbmagazine Like us on Facebook Proarbmagazine

Connect to our LinkedIn group Pro Arb UK

For careers in arboriculture and horticulture go to: horticulturecareers.co.uk

If you would like to send us press releases to post online, please email: content@eljays44.com

Tree Specialist/Donna Thomasson

ASPEN FUEL NEVER FAILS YOU

As alkylate petrol pioneers since 1988, you can be assured of highquality fuel in every can. Aspen alkylate petrol burns cleaner –resulting in equipment that starts easily, engines that won’t clog and fuel that doesn’t deteriorate over time.

Try our 2 or 4-stroke fuel risk-free with our money back guarantee.

Interview – Clive Hancox

The TreeMan Tree Specialist

Opinion – best practice in urban trees

Matthew Rowden believes the UK still has a lot to learn

Bartlett Tree Experts –cutting their carbon footprint

Dr Luke Hailey on lowering emissions

helping the horse chestnut

Fraser Green on the positive impact of silicon phosphite

The RFS Excellence in Forestry Awards

Celebrating fine examples from the West Midlands and East Anglia

Fund4Trees – on a mission to boost research

Russell Ball’s ongoing work with the charity that supports trees

Dr Duncan Slater’s Casebook

When it’s right to leave deadwood in place

PPE – fresh from Arbortec

Focus on Deep Forest chainsaw trousers and BreatheDry smock

time to choose an Isuzu truck?

Guidance on what arborists should look for

Rope care – top tips from Marlow

Invaluable advice on looking after and when to retire ropes

Wood chippers – GreenMech

Putting new machines through their paces

Product DNA – ECHO’s CS-2511WES

A compact rear-handled chainsaw

Tools for a winter tidy-up

New launches from Makita, Stihl and Birkdale

Meet the Supplier

Sapling protection from NexGen Tree Shelters

Timber cranes – case study

Guernsey Tree Services handles a dangerous job with a Liebherr

Access platforms

Opting for safety with a Hinowa Lightlift

Simon Rotherham ON mentoring

The Beechwood Trees’ MD’s now has an ILM certification

Safe working zones are a must

HSE takes action after serious felling accident

CTC RecruitmenT: proactive approach

Garry Jones on why this is the only way to build a career

Arb in Action –in association with Stihl

Showcasing incredible skills in the canopy

news ROUNDUP

FORESTRY FIRM

ENDORSES ASPEN FUEL

A forestry firm harvesting willow to make cricket bats, is using Aspen Fuel to power its machinery. CJ Ashby Forestry works in partnership with JS Wright & Sons, which is the oldest and largest company supplying cricket bat willow – this goes into making around 75% of the world’s cricket bats.

Aspen Fuel has been used for the past 15 years and owner Colin Ashby says it is used across his firm’s two and four stroke equipment. He says the switch was made from tradition petrol as this was not proving effective with chainsaws. He comments: “It’s easy to store, cleaner to use and provides a healthier environment for the operator to work in.”

He adds there has also been an end to headaches and sore throats which may have been connected to pollutants in traditional petrol. Aspen alkylate petrol is virtually free from sulphur, benzene and solvents and is also better for engine health. cricketbatwillow.com

SKIPINNISH OAK IS UK TREE OF THE YEAR

An oak tree in the Scottish highlands is winner of the Woodland Trust’s Tree of the Year competition for 2024.

The tree is situated in Lochaber and is named after a Scottish cèilidh band – it won the competition with 21% of the public vote.

The Skipinnish Oak, which is thought to be at least 400 years old, will now go on to compete in the European Tree of the Year competition in 2025. The tree is hidden within a Sitka spruce plantation, on the Achnacarry estate near Loch Lochy and is notable for its bark, which is rich in lichens and other clinging organisms.

This year, there was a focus on ancient and veteran oaks, with 12 nominees chosen from across the UK for their historical significance and ecological importance. These trees can live for more than 1,500 years and support up to 2,300 different species of wildlife. The UK has more ancient oaks than the rest of Western Europe combined.

Dr Kate Lewthwaite, citizen science manager, for the Woodland Trust said: “The Skipinnish Oak is a magnificent example of the natural heritage we strive to protect, and its recognition as UK Tree of the Year shines a light on the incredible biodiversity that our trees support.”

The runners-up for were the Darwin Oak in Shrewsbury, which secured a close second place with 20% of the votes, and the

1,000-year-old Bowthorpe Oak in Lincolnshire, which came in third with 14%.

The Skippinish oak was not known to modern tree experts until a chance encounter with the band, who play traditional Scottish music. The tree was spotted when they were playing for the Native Woodlands Discussion Group in 2009, which was meeting nearby. Once the tree was spotted, it was placed on the Ancient Tree Inventory.

Andrew Stevenson from the Skipinnish band said: “I’m delighted that The Skipinnish Oak has won Tree of the Year. The tree has held a special place in my heart since my father first described it to me, and the first time I saw it many years ago.”

The group have said they will compose a new song in honour of the tree, which they will debut next September at their biggest ever gig, at the OVO Hydro in Glasgow. woodlandtrust.org.uk

FUTURISTIC LOADER WINS DESIGN PRIZE

An electric and fully autonomous concept loader from Bobcat has won the Red Dot Design Award. The RogueX2 won in the Design Concept category in the awards, which is an international competition and has around 20,000 entries a year. Joel Honeyman, vice president of global innovation at Doosan Bobcat, says: “This award is a testament to the dedication of the Bobcat teams who are passionate about pushing design limits

FUNDING LIFT FOR LONDON BOROUGH’S OPM STRATEGY

The London borough of Haringey has implemented a programme to control Oak Processionary Moth (OPM), helped by a government funding programme. The Tree Health Pilot (THP) scheme, from the Forestry Commission and Defra, is testing different ways to tackle pests and diseases that impact on trees in England. Grants are now available for a number of tree health issues, including OPM – up to £100k can be awarded. OPM is particularly hazardous in areas of high footfall such as urban parks. Trees are at risk of defoliation and disease, while the public and animals can be affected by toxic caterpillar hairs that cause rashes,

and advancing innovation to redefine the machines of tomorrow.

“To build a smarter, more sustainable and connected future, we must ask the questions no one else has thought to ask before and invent new solutions that previously did not exist.”

The RogueX2 produces zero emissions and features a lithium-ion battery, electric drive actuated lift and tilt kinematics with no hydraulics. It was built without a cab and shows how work machines of the future can be suited to new technologies. The design includes wheels to optimise the electric battery run time, along with axial flux motors, which

breathing difficulties and eye problems. Before it received the funding, Haringey had no budget to deal with the problem and relied on chemical control and warning signs. After the grant, a programme was implemented, which included:

• The creation of an OPM management plan

• Surveying for infected trees across two seasons

• Introduction of nature based solutions to help manage OPM

• Coordination of activities with other stakeholders and group members

• Communication and engagement activity and biosecurity items, such as fence posts and signage.

Annabel Foskett, nature conservation officer says: “Working closely with stakeholders and partners, we achieved positive outcomes that highlight the strength of collaboration in tackling environmental challenges. The success of this project underscores the power of communitydriven efforts in making a real impact.”

Among the initiatives were signs that warned of the pest with the public told how to report sightings via Tree Alert, along with wildflowers being sown to attract natural predators such as birds and insects. An Action Management Plan also analysed data over two consecutive years and categorised sites into low and high-risk areas. new.haringey.gov.uk

give the machine great tractive effort.

The RogueX2 remains in research and development phase and is not commercially available. doosanbobcat.com

ALISON FIELD IS NEW RFS PRESIDENT

Alison Field has become the 77th president of the Royal Forestry Society (RFS) for a three-year tenure – she succeeds Ben Herbert. She is the former vice-president of the RFS, has been developing and expanding opportunities for forestry for more than three decades.

An RFS statement says this is “a significant time for the forestry sector as land owners, woodland managers and other industry professionals grapple with the challenges surrounding pests and diseases, climate change, unpredictable weather events, biodiversity loss, skills shortages and gaps in domestic timber supply.”

Field adds: “This period will be especially important for the future resilience of our forests. Our forests must adapt to thrive in the face of novel pest and disease attacks and unpredictable climatic events.In addition to making forests more productive and better managed, we must demonstrate their ability to function as ecosystems that are rich in wildlife and provide carbon sequestration, clean air and clean water.”

She is a Bangor University forestry graduate, and has spent nearly 50 years working in forestry, both in the private sector and for the Forestry Commission. rfs.org.uk

FINES ISSUED FOR ILLEGAL TREE FELLING

Several individuals have appeared in court for illegally felling protected trees. In East Yorkshire, David Wilcock appeared at Beverley Magistrates Court charged with cutting/destroying a cherry tree in Goole.

He pleaded guilty and ordered to pay a total of £6,119.00 – a £4k fine, £719 costs, and a £1,600 victim surcharge. The case was brought by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Planning Enforcement team after a report from a member of the public.

In West Yorkshire, Khalil Hussain pleaded guilty to a charge of contravening a tree preservation order, after having six large oak felled at a property in Shipley. The trees which were over 100 years old had a value of £250k to the local environment. Hussain was fined £1,666 and ordered to pay £3k in costs. He claimed he had not known that the tree orders were in place. No financial benefit came from the trees being felled, the defence argued, and it was not the defendant who arranged the felling, but he accepted responsibility as the owner. There were still 15 mature trees in the garden of the property and a further 31 had been planted.

In Newcastle upon Tyne, Usman Gohar and Stephen Maxwell felled a protected lime tree which had stood for decades. They were reported to the city’s planning department by a member of the public. Both men admitted the charge at Newcastle Magistrates Court and were each fined £666 and ordered to pay £226 in a victim surcharge and £600 in prosecution costs.

Cabinet member for Economy, Jobs and Skills, Cllr Dan Greenhough, said: “I hope this case sends a strong message that we will not hesitate to prosecute those who breach Tree Preservation Orders.”

NEW GUIDE SHOWS BEST FARMLAND TREE SPECIES

Forest Research and the Forestry Commission have launched a tree planting guide aimed at foresters and farmers, identifying the 33 best tree species suited to farmland planting.

The Tree Species Guide for UK Agroforestry Systems was developed by Forest Research and the University of Reading.

It states that among the best species are hornbeam, beech, goat willow and walnut. The guide will help inform farmers’ tree species selections based on the individual needs and conditions of the farm.

Trees on agricultural land provide benefits, including protecting natural resources such as soil, storing carbon, diversifying farm products with timber, fruits and nuts, and providing shade and shelter for livestock.

Hornbeam, for example, have great longevity and can produce specialised timber. Beech trees are also long-lived, provide timber and are suitable for upland farms as they require similar maintenance.

Walnut produces nuts and goat willow is suited to biomass and tannins. Every tree planted can absorb carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Forestry Commission chief executive Richard Stanford says: “Food production and environmental goals are under increasing scrutiny and effects of climate change are becoming apparent to us all. Agroforestry can

offer improved productivity from livestock and crops and help build resilience.”

Tom Breeze, senior research fellow in ecological economics at the University of Reading’s School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, adds: “Farming with trees is a great way for farmers to meet environmental goals without compromising food production, but the barriers to entry can feel overwhelming.

Drawing on years of research from the University of Reading, this guide aims to equip farmers with the practical knowledge and tools they need to get started.

Our goal is to make farming with trees more accessible, increase awareness of its benefits, and spark a conversation about how agroforestry can transform agriculture in the UK.”

There are a range of grants available to farmers to support planting and maintaining trees on agricultural land. forestresearch.gov.uk/publications/ tree-species-guide

FOOTBALL CLUB QUIZZED OVER FELLED TREES

Motspur Park FC, in South West London, has been called to a meeting with the local council after it was found trees were cut down without permission. The felled trees were found in Morden Park, next to land where the football club trains and plays.

Merton Council, which owns the park, has an agreement with the club to allow some autonomy in managing the site – this includes permission to install a changing block. However, it had not authorised the removal of any trees.

The Friends of Morden Park, a group of volunteers who help maintain the park, said it was home to hundreds of at-risk

species of flora and was a site of importance for nature conservation.

They are dismayed at discovering the felled trees and said they had not been consulted, as is standard practice when work takes place.

A Merton Council spokesperson comments: “The council granted Motspur Park FC permission to clear rubbish and scrub from a small area of land and arranged the provision of skips to make sure waste was properly disposed. The removal of trees formed no part of that agreement.”

The council said it had called for an “urgent meeting” with Motspur Park management to understand what had happened and that it would be seeking remediation.

are you ready to roll?

PRO ARB SPOKE TO A RANGE OF MOVERS AND SHAKERS TO DISCOVER THEIR PLANS FOR WHAT LOOKS TO BE A BOOMING YEAR FOR THE INDUSTRY – SEE IF YOU AGREE WITH THESE TRENDS…

For those working in trees – or supplying the kit – this looks to be a bumper year.

Many arborists are saying they have more work than they can keep up with. So, what is driving this increase in output?

Trees taken away – and replaced

There are multiple reasons. Firstly, many areas of the UK are seeing a rise in new home building with sites needing to be cleared of trees. Secondly, the increasingly unpredictable weather is leading to more storm damage, with trees falling on roads, railways and footpaths, leading to a rise in emergency clearance work.

Many arborists are saying they have more work than they can keep up with

The requirement to fell trees affected by ash dieback continues, with particular need where trees could again fall on roads or are in urban areas. Wetter weather is leading to a rise of serious tree disease, including Phytophthora ramorum, which impacts larch trees and honey fungus, affecting numerous species.

Those offering consultancy services are also finding there is a need for more surveys, such as to pave the way for development and to assess whether compromised trees need removing.

At the same time, there are vast amounts of tree planting going on and the government recently announced the formation of a Tree Planting Taskforce.

Labour pledged millions of trees would be planted across the UK and the taskforce will be chaired by forestry ministers from across the four nations. There is an Environment Act goal to achieve 16.5% tree cover by 2050 and the UK has less tree cover than most other European countries. Can arborists benefit from this? Time will tell if they can take a larger share of the planting pie.

Meanwhile, the country has some excellent nurseries and products – NexGen Tree Shelters is featured in this issue (see page 38). It is among the suppliers expected to benefit from the surge in planting because its product is made from wool and not plastic, and so is environmentally friendly.

A year to invest in bigger kit?

There is an ongoing trend to invest in larger and more powerful equipment. An arb firm may be relatively small in the number of employees, but it is no longer unusual to find they own an access platform and a number of powerful wood chippers. Tractors and skid steers are also useful for clearance work.

One example is Jude Ridler of the Isle of Wight-based Greenscapes Tree Care – he achieved widespread coverage when he invested in a huge grapple saw machine from Merlo Roto – others are expected to follow in his footsteps.

According to Caroline Woodward, director of marketing and communications, CMC Lift UK is looking ahead to an excellent year for a new launch – the S20. The first models are now in the UK from Italy. It offers a compact design and ease of transport, while being durable yet lightweight.

She says: “2025 is lining up to be an exciting year – find us at the Arb Show in May. The first CMC S20s arriving in the UK are being enthusiastically welcomed by their new owners, with more on the way in 2025. And what’s more, a new factory is on the cards for CMC Italy to keep up with demand.”

David Blackwood, sales director for GreenMech, comments: “GreenMech is optimistic going into 2025. After a challenging start to 2024, we are encouraged by a strong recovery in the second half of the year and believe that will continue. To capitalise on this, we’ve been working hard to ensure we

CMC Lift UK

continue to have the best products and right distribution partners both here in the UK and in export markets.”

Boost for battery

2025 could well be the tipping point year when more arborists choose battery over petrolpowered tools. Those with contract work may also find this becomes more of a requirement to meet reduce emissions.

Joerg Bauerle, product manager, for EGO Power Plus, says: “2024 was another exciting year for EGO, with the launch of our Pro X series for heavy-duty professional users. This momentum will continue into 2025 with the release of a range of new product lines. We’re especially excited to bring our CS1200E professional top-handled chainsaw to market, which we have developed specifically for arborists who need a lightweight and compact saw to complete pruning work. This is powered by industry-leading ARC Lithium battery technology and provides the optimum level of power to weight and 20 m/s chain speed.”

Employees to reap better rewards

Many arborists report they are finding it harder to recruit staff. More are taking on apprentices and offering training in-house, such as Beechwood Trees from Coventry (for more on Beechwood director Simon Rotheram and his mentoring certification, see page 42). Fortunately, many arb firms, as SMEs, will not be hit by the National Insurance hike. However, they may need to raise wages to attract staff and offer an improved range of benefits. Another interesting move is the Employee Owned Trust. Dan Pennington, managing director of highly regarded Connick Tree Care, says: “In 2025,

we will be looking to continue our success as an Employee Owned Trust and in order to partly address the shortage of trained arborists within the industry, also concentrate on offering employment opportunities to people who express a genuine desire to work within the arb industry through our fully funded training programme.”

Training provider Lantra is also expecting growth in its arb and forestry training programme. Mandy Maynard, head of arboriculture and forestry at Lantra, says: “Lantra has had a busy year updating all forestry and arboriculture suite to make sure everything is to the highest standards. I’d like to give a big thank you to all our verifiers who have helped with development of new training offerings.

“We have also been working hard behind the scenes to make sure we are continuously engaging with industry. This is vital to Lantra as our aim is to keep our industry safe and up to date. In 2025, we will be launching new tree-related courses, and we look forward to sharing details.”

Ready for the Arb Show?

With no APF this year, this should mean high levels of attendance at the Arb Show, which takes place on 16 and 17 May.

Beyond this, many brands are also focusing on social media to promote new launches planned for the year.

Camilla Brothers, who works in marketing for PPE specialist Arbortec, says: “2025 will feature the launch of new, cutting-edge products, crafted with industry feedback, developed in our advanced lab, and made at our factory in

many brands are also focusing on social media to promote new launches planned for the year

Portugal. Designed for durability and reliability, these are built to empower arborists and forestry professionals.

“We continue to support the arboriculture and forestry sectors through training sponsorships, ambassador collaborations, and sustainability initiatives, nurturing and inspiring the professionals and enthusiasts who care for our natural world. We’ll also be attending events across the UK in 2025, connecting with industry professionals, showcasing products, and sharing expertise”

Competition set to increase?

Pro Arb will continue to feature the UK’s amazing arborists – as well as the many superb products and equipment that keeps them at the top. It is clear there are a number of highly ambitious firms that will be challenging the small clique of firms that have held onto local authority and other large contracts.

One to look out for is London’s Thor’s Trees and as managing director, LawrenceThor Stephen says: “As we move into 2025, we are really excited to begin expanding our commercial/contract division to provide the public sector the same level of service and expert tree care we offer to our private clientele”

The gloves are off and as far as the arb sector is concerned, this looks highly likely to be a year to watch.

David Blackwood, GreenMech

Mandy Maynard, Lantra

Lawrence-Thor Stephen and Thor’s Trees

Learning from THE

TreeMan

CLIVE HANCOX’S BUSINESS IS BUILT ON A TRUSTWORTHY SERVICE, GREAT KIT AND AN ENDURING PASSION FOR TREES, WHICH HAS

BEEN

A WINNING COMBINATION FOR OVER 20 YEARS

They are community champions with a talent for all matters tree-related –and any arborist looking to run a successful business can gain huge insight from owner, Clive Hancox.

He remains based in Shropshire, the area where he grew up, and TreeMan Tree Specialist is headquartered in Shrewsbury. The firm has a team of six, including Hancox, who work on the frontline as arborists. There are four experienced workers and two apprentices. Hancoxs partner, Hannah, is also a director who is responsible for business operations.

A range of services are on offer, including some – as the name suggests – which are more specialist. This includes dangerous tree removal, conservation work, woodland management, forestry and tree inspections. Seasoned logs are also available, which are made on the premises and delivered to customers. Planting is a further service, which involves working with a local nursery.

The TreeMan Tree Specialist works with a wide range of clients, from local authorities to commercial sites, factories, contractors such as

Balfour Beatty and many homeowners. Hancox has invested heavily in equipment and this is a big differentiator, allowing him to take on major projects such as widescale ash dieback removal and forestry clearance.

I’ve always bought on quality and could see that mechanisation would be increasingly important

Emphasis on equipment

This includes a Valtra 200hp with Botex forwarding trailer and igland nine-tonne winch on the front. He also has an IM R crawler tracked access platform – this can reach 23m and has a 12.5m outreach, a TP 260 wood chipper and a Norwood sawmill. He also has three Iveco tipper trucks and comments: “We have tried vans but they just don’t last. The Iveco is built like a small lorry and much better suited to what we do. I’ve always bought on quality and could see that mechanisation would be increasingly important.”

Meanwhile the access platform is also rented out. “It’s a great asset to us and means we can take on certain types of work where climbing is not safe. Previously, we’d hired, but it reached the stage where it made sense to buy. Even so, at almost £100k it was a significant investment and so hiring it out with an operator is a benefit.”

There were no family connections with trees and Hancox says his early ambition was to be a professional boxer. He had won a number of fights in his teenage years and was an up-andcoming talent. But life took a different turn.

“A family friend who had a forestry business offered me weekend business. I realised how much I enjoyed being in nature and getting to know about equipment and the versatility of timber.” Although he continued with boxing, Hancox realised this was not his calling. “Like

a lot of young men, I wanted to go out with mates for a beer, see girls and enjoy life – the discipline of a professional career in sport did not appeal and so I chose to work full-time in forestry.”

He says forestry provided useful experience but there were shortcomings. “There was a lack of opportunity and I can remember in 1981 being paid £8 a day – I realised I need to get more training and so chose to go to college to become a tree surgeon – this was a chance to develop more skills and to move into a better career.”

Learning the ropes

Hancox went to Holme Lacy College in Hereford, which he attended part time, so that he could continue working. At this college, he achieved the City and Guilds Levels 1, 2 and 3 in arboriculture and horticulture. “It was great training and I did well because I wanted to learn and had the discipline from the boxing experience. I remember one tutor telling me I’d made the right choice and as he ran a tree firm, he even offered me a job. It was a chance to gain the qualification to work as a tree surgeon, but there was also teaching in tree biology and identification. This sparked my interest, and I think it’s something that should be a focus in current courses.”

Hancox also studied for a craftsman qualification at Nantwich College. After achieving his tickets, Clive worked for a number of tree surgery companies in Shropshire and developed his climbing skills. He also worked on and off in Germany which provided more experience. “A friend also doing this put my name forward. Again, it helped me learn more about different techniques, kit and tight time constraints.”

On his return, he worked for a Shropshire arb firm that held local authority contracts, however,

Over the years, I’ve seen how business comes in from recommendation, so looking after customers is always a good policy

the business went under and he was approached to work directly for Telford & Wrekin Council. “This was a good move – they sent me on a number of courses and I worked with some great colleagues. But, I knew I did not want to become too comfortable. I wanted to push myself, rather than just plod along – I needed a challenge.”

So, The TreeMan Tree Specialist was born and over the years, it has built an enviable reputation for looking after its customers, including those who may be more vulnerable.

“I hate to see older customers being over charged and it can give the tree surgery sector a bad name. We will always try and offer them a fairly priced service and on occasion, I will fit in a job while I’m doing a bigger one close by – and only charge a cup of tea and a few biscuits. Over the years, I’ve seen how business comes in from recommendation, so looking after customers is always a good policy.”

He adds the business is built on trust. “We always communicate with customers and check if they are satisfied. Simple things like taking the time to clear up properly make a big difference.”

Hancox also cares about his local community and is involved with a range of initiatives such as community nature groups; charity fundraising; as well as being the sponsor for local youth football team Broseley Youth Sports. He’s also been involved in constructing forestry schools and installing many bird boxes.

Concern for conservation

“If you work with trees, you can be seen as someone who’s handy with a chainsaw. But, I’ve always loved nature and getting involved in conservation projects. We recently planted 3,500 bluebells and 2,000 snowdrop bulbs in Rough Park, Telford, which will look spectacular in spring.”

Hancox says being in nature is the way to unwind from a stressful work day, taking his two dogs out whatever the weather. He has two sons, Shay who works for the business and Jack who has recently finished working in Jersey and is now working in Australia.

In total, he has over 40 years’ experience in working with trees, across a range of areas, and now having his own company. He says that he’s “been lucky” in avoiding serious injury and continues to climb trees when needed. But he continues to seek out new opportunities.

“I always like passing on information and I’m considering doing some teaching, perhaps even setting up a facility. I’m also building timber tables – proper, big and rustic ones, which will be made to order.” At the age of 58, the TreeMan has no plans to slow down.

URBAN TREES why we have a lot to learn

WHEN IT COMES TO CITY PLANTING IN THE UK, MATTHEW ROWDEN BELIEVES THE KNOWLEDGE SHOWN BY OTHER COUNTRIES – AS WELL AS THE VICTORIANS – SHOULD BE UNDERSTOOD AND ACTED ON HERE

There can be a certain irony to our industry – while it is populated by some of the most skilled and brilliant people, the focus on the wider perspectives of tree care can be too narrow minded.

Arboriculture covers such a broad spectrum and it can be interesting and even lucrative. But, too often, arborists shy away from projects such as planting, tree protection, and ground protection, preferring to stick to climbing and cutting. Many were outraged by the felling of huge quantities of trees in Sheffield a few years ago, but not many understood exactly why, or how it happened, and indeed that it was completely avoidable.

Benefits of trees in cities

It’s long been known that trees are incredibly important within cities, helping to reduce temperatures caused by the albedo effect of concreted areas – this relates to the reflectivity of a surface. A surface with a high albedo reflects a lot of solar radiation from the sun back into the atmosphere, while a surface that has

a low albedo reflects little solar radiation, absorbing it instead. Trees can improve air quality, reduce pollution, provide shading, shelter and improve the mental health of the urban population.

Some of these effects are easily explained – the vast amount of water released into the atmosphere by transpiration helps to cool the city area alongside the shading, whilst the bark of certain species such as London Plane (Platanus x hispanica) can sequester pollution and soot from exhaust emissions.

The impact on people’s mental health is another matter altogether. So, whether trees are receptors (like telephone masts) for vast connections of human consciousness, or

too often, arborists shy away from projects such as planting, tree protection, and ground protection, preferring to stick to climbing and cutting

whether they just make the area look nicer, it is not fully understood why trees improve the mental health of the populace. Ultimately, all studies generally point to trees in the urban environment being a net asset.

Northumberland Avenue: a Victorian legacy of trees and people in harmony

Northumberland Avenue, central London

What went wrong in Sheffield?

Where issues begin, however, is when trees and the surrounding structures come into conflict. The obvious case was Sheffield between 2014 and 2018, when vast numbers of healthy street trees were felled. Many of the street trees were causing contact damage to the road surfaces and pavements, necessitating their felling to prevent trip hazards and vehicular damage. The question that arises from this is, however, was this damage foreseeable? The answer, unfortunately, is that it was.

The majority of tree roots occupy the top 600mm of soil and are opportunistic by nature. The perfect circular radius of rooting area as drawn in BS5837:2012 is, unfortunately, a gross simplification. These roots will push between layers where there is warmth and condensation (namely the layers between the sub base and the tarmac of a road), and can exert enough lifting pressure to tear apart tarmac, block pavings and masonry. Without enough space for the roots to grow, the trees can never reach their full potential, but can be incredibly destructive in the process.

One may assume that this knowledge was missing back when many of the urban trees in Sheffield were planted or when the surfaces were installed? Well, actually, no. It was already there.

Why the Victorians got it right

The Victorians fully understood the importance of rooting areas – an example is Northumberland Avenue in central London. The road area was excavated with large tree pits, backfilled with topsoil, and then the road area covered with what we would now call a raft. Trees thrive on this avenue with no contact damage to road surface and huge amenity value to the populace.

The same is true worldwide: the vision of Lee Kuan Yew – the first prime minister of Singapore – back in the 1960s transformed the country from a boggy little outpost in the Malacca strait into what is now a haven for expats.

Trees thrive, not just on reclaimed soil that should be far too contaminated with salt water, but on the sides of buildings where they have been deliberately planted to enhance the cooling effects of trees within the city.

Green infrastructure was considered at the first stages of the planning process and incorporated into the designs. Pioneer species were planted on the reclaimed land to establish a micro-organism network, to then incorporate secondary and tertiary species in tree pits on the land to create a humas layer and creating an urban woodland. The ‘supertrees’ are now a must-see attraction while visiting Singapore.

Good practice in the Middle East

Dubai is another notable example. From an ecologically disastrous project that has decimated the sea life, there are now semi mature trees growing on reclaimed land that should be saline desert.

Green infrastructure was considered first and foremost at the planning stages, with tree pits dug and topsoil backfilled, cloud seeding and irrigation. The Ottomans understood this too in the construction of Sultanhmet Park, Istanbul. There are avenues of Oriental planes abutting the Blue Mosque with the white marble surfacing still intact and generations of trees having grown in the pits that were part of the original design. Clearly, the Emiratis and the Singaporeans understand, as did the Victorians and Ottomans, the importance of incorporating trees into urban environments and using the right engineering approaches.

So what happened with Sheffield? The trees were most likely there before the structures and surfacing, so one can only assume that it is entirely because of the laziness and incompetence of those who built the infrastructure, that over 5,000 trees have been felled so far.

Work for arborists

This brings me to where this affects arborists and why we should be planting trees; not just cutting them down or pruning them. Tree surgeons need to understand the importance of proper planning, planting, aftercare, irrigation and support. It is necessary that we all understand how trees can be incorporated into urban environments with the mantra, of “the right tree in the right place”. The ability to plant and retain valuable trees in built up areas is what makes arboriculture such an asset, and the knowledge of how to implement those engineering solutions can be profitable business. As arboriculturists, planting shouldn’t just be left to landscape architects, engineering to ground workers, or other protection measures to outside contractors: we can and should do it all.

Matthew Rowden ProfDipArb ABC L6, NatDipArb BTEC L3 has over 20 years’ experience within arboriculture and runs Rowden’s Tree Consultancy and Training rowdentreeconsultants@gmail.com

Singaporean buildings: living walls and green infrastructure incorporated into buildings

Side entrance to the Blue Mosque: the Ottomans planned trees into their construction

The supertrees in the Gardens by the Bay – this is reclaimed land and the photo is 12 years after planting took place

Cutting the carbon footprint

step by step

BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS IS TAKING A SCIENTIFIC APPROACH TO LOWER ITS EMISSIONS – DR LUKE HAILEY EXPLAINS THE KEY AREAS THE COMPANY WILL FOCUS ON

The UK division of Bartlett Tree Experts recently started the journey towards calculating our carbon footprint. To describe this in straightforward terms, it means working with an external carbon auditor to quantify the annual greenhouse gas emissions currently created during our activities, which will allow us to work out how to reduce them.

Indirect emissions

While it is relatively easy to work out the emissions from directly fuelling machinery and vehicles, and electricity usage at our premises, the greater difficulty lays in calculating indirect emissions. These originate from activities like purchasing goods and services required to carry out work, employees commuting, business travel, and the fate of any waste produced. The scientific evidence for the climate crisis is solid, though some still doubt it. A point our auditor made was: “So what if it isn’t real?” as there are many other benefits to these actions outside of reduced greenhouse gas emissions, such as quieter and cleaner electric equipment.

Bring on the battery power

Beyond this, consumer demand is going green and will force the hand of industry. High-profile

clients, for example, have already asked us to only use battery tools on their sites.

The plant health care side of our business may pose interesting challenges and potential benefits. Plant health care practices can increase the chance of trees sequestering any ‘embodied carbon’ expended in their production and care. This is however very hard to quantify.

A potential challenge is the use of fertilisers, which are a key part of our plant health care practices as correct soil nutrition is essential for plant health.

Green waste could even play a role in carbon sequestration

Making use of organic

However, conventional synthetic fertilisers can be carbon-intensive. Thankfully, we already use many organic products, and any necessary applications are prescribed based on the results of detailed soil analysis to avoid over-application. We already recycle green waste as mulch, reducing fertiliser use and improving nutrient retention.

Green waste could even play a role in carbon sequestration. Biochar is essentially clean charcoal and its production and burial has been proposed as a way to capture and store atmospheric carbon long-term, emulating coal deposits.

Trees and other plants take up atmospheric CO2 and use the carbon in their tissues, but nearly all of this is released once they die and decay. Pyrolysis for biochar can produce energy, fuel gases, and other useful byproducts.

Benefits of biochar

Biochar, if produced correctly, can also benefit plants growing in amended soils. It functions uniquely in the soil, increasing nutrient retention while also opening up the soil texture, traits which are usually mutually exclusive in the major natural soil components, i.e. clay and sand respectively.

I do wonder if there is enough available area as we can only apply so much, typically 5% volume, so perhaps biochar may also be sequestered elsewhere by deeper burial. I look forward to helping to reduce our emissions and seeing innovation in the industry and beyond. This is certainly a very interesting point in human history to be alive!

Luke Hailey, PhD, is the lead diagnostician and a researcher at the Bartlett Tree Experts Research Lab which services the UK and Ireland. He identifies tree and shrub issues and helps guide their management. His current research focuses on honey fungus management. bartletttree.co.uk

A helping hand for

Fraser Green

ISA certified arborist, Fraser Green, has seen excellent results with Silvanus, a silicon phosphite product to be used for tree health and especially on horsechestnut trees. Green, who is from Stockport and owns consultancy Green Tree Healthcare, says silicon phosphite offers an alternative to chemical treatments, some of which are being withdrawn for being environmentally unsustainable.

horse-chestnuts

WITH WETTER WEATHER, TREES FACE INCREASING THREATS FROM DISEASES AND PESTS – FRASER GREEN ADVISES THAT SILICON PHOSPHITE CAN PROVIDE SUPPORT, WHICH IS ALSO MORE SUSTAINABLE THAN CHEMICAL TREATMENTS

silicon phosphite offers an alternative to chemical treatments

He has been using silicon phosphite for almost 20 years and comments: “Working in the North West, where unprecedented rainfall has been recorded in recent years, it has been clear to see the detrimental effect of climate change on horse-chestnut trees. Some 80% of threats to trees come from the soil and recent waterlogging has confirmed this.”

Diseases affect horse-chestnuts

Bleeding canker and phytophthora as well as leaf miner and caterpillars are all significant threats to horse chestnuts. “There isn’t anything quite like the benefit of helping a tree

to strengthen itself against these threats. Silicon phosphite helps to boost the tree’s natural defences – instead of trying to eradicate the problem, I’m helping the tree to manage it.” Silicon is a natural element which makes up almost 90% of the earth’s crust and is required by every plant species. Once

absorbed, it is deposited in the tree’s roots, bark, water pathways and leaves. The core property is strengthening the tree’s cell walls and helping it to create a tough outer coating with extra leaf hairs and a thicker waxy cuticle. Green will make an initial inspection by checking the foliage and trunk, also looking at

the root flare and soil level. He says sometimes the soil level can be too high and there is no root flare which with the wet weather reduces airflow.

Pest control

Combatting pests such as caterpillars and aphids also matters and he says the approach should be to strengthen trees. He suggests a rudimentary soil test to identify macronutrients and the soil pH is a good starting point – using silicon phosphite is beneficial to the soil as well as the tree. “It’s important to accept these pests will forever plague our trees, there’s no getting rid of them. However, by making the tree less attractive and susceptible to pests, it’s possible to prolong tree life.”

How to apply

Tackling water damage

Flooding and waterlogging, has led to a rise in phytophthora (water moulds) along with stress hormones in the horse-chestnuts, triggering spores to attack. Soil around the tree was air spaded to decompact it, and a trunk and scaffold spray using the silicon phosphite applied twice a year. “I have an analogue soil penetrometer and found that the soil needed to breathe, so I tackled this early on. Areas around the crown that were defoliating early, and signs of leaf miner were recorded, so the tree has been consistently treated to reduce this. I do use an insecticide to control the leaf miner, but the silicon helps to limit the resulting leaf damage.”

There’s less need to use insecticides following five years of silicon phosphite treatments which is cost-saving for me and the customer

Continual monitoring and maintenance will always be needed to protect the tree, but this is manageable and the silicon phosphite has been an integral part of the improving the tree’s health.

“There’s less need to use insecticides following five years of silicon phosphite treatments, which is cost-saving for me and the customer. More importantly, I’m helping the tree to protect itself rather than it being reliant on chemical treatments which are not sustainable.”

For more information visit: agrigem.co.uk/product/silvanus-5l

He applies silicon phosphite to the tree as a foliar spray and a trunk drench and suggests anything not absorbed by the tree has a positive effect on soil health. “What is not immediately absorbed by the tree often sits in the soil which means the tree can still access it later.”

Green has been treating one horsechestnut in the centre of a Manchester suburb for years and believes the combination of silicon phosphite, traditional fungicides and fertilisers has worked well.

“Bleeding canker is a problem in this area, and I’m treating other trees for it. Thankfully this special tree that sits alone in the centre of the community is faring well and, through more than five years of effort, is now in good health.”

Geoweb® Tree Root Protection

PRODUCT INFORMATION

• Geoweb is the original Geocell co-invented in the 1970’s by Presto Geosystems.

• Geoweb TRP was the first Geocell used and approved for tree root protection applications in the world.

• Patented Atra Key connectors. Fastest, safest, most cost-effective connection mechanism.

• Project specific design available.

• Geoweb is available from 75mm to 300mm depth.

GET EXPERT ADVICE, SPEAK TO GREENFIX TODAY

Greenfix are pleased to offer a CPD approved Guide to Tree Root Protection seminar which can either be hosted online or in person.

To book a CPD contact us on the details below.

GEOWEB CASE STUDY

• Geoweb TRP 200mm deep system, New ECO Dwelling, Liff, Angus.

• Temporary use for demolition, construction traffic and 60 ton crane loadings.

• Fully designed the Greenfix engineering team.

• Clean free draining infill to allow percolation of water and maintain aeration.

• After the building work the Geoweb was recycled, and the stone infill re-used on other areas of the site.

Greenfix is the leading designer and supplier of soil stabilisation and erosion control systems in the UK.

Celebrating woodland winners

A RECENT RFS AWARDS EVENT , RECOGNISED THE BEST OF BRITISH FORESTRY FROM ACROSS THE WEST MIDLANDS AND EAST ANGLIA

The Excellence in Forestry event took place at Calke Abbey, Derbyshire and saw 10 woodlands receive gold and silver awards, across five categories – multi-purpose forestry, timber production, small woodlands, education and community woodlands.

Held by the Royal Forestry Society, the awards rotate annually around five regions across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. In 2024, the awards were for entrants from East Anglia, Midlands, North West Midlands and Nottinghamshire & Lincolnshire Divisions.

According to the RFS: “The awards reflect the evolving landscape of forestry as landowners and woodland managers seek innovative methods to combat the climate crisis, biodiversity loss and the increasing risk of pests and diseases.”

It was noted that sustainable practices such as continuous cover forestry (CCF) were a common theme in this year’s competition. This year, two awards also celebrate the trailblazing approach of woodland managers who had passed away in the last year.

All of this year’s winners

Gold – Hole

Farm

Small & Farm Woodland of The Year – sponsored by FSC Owner, Robin Carver, sadly passed away this year. Carver purchased the farm with his wife, Rose, in 1982, but decades of farming large fields, removal of hedges and poor ploughing practice meant the land and soils were in a desolate condition. To remedy the situation, he planted 43,000 trees across

17Ha, 10,000 shrubs and over eight miles of hedges. The aim was to restore and safeguard the farmland and its soils.

Gold – Morton Hall Estate

Charles Inglis, Robin’s son-in-law and successor, said: “By their own admission they made many mistakes, but by their energy, enthusiasm and a willingness to try new ideas, they have transformed the landscape. The woods achieved their objective, by massively reducing the damage being done to the soils, creating some fabulous wildlife habitat and producing trees that they could be proud of in the relatively short period of 40 years.”

The Duke of Cornwall’s Award for Resilient Multi-Purpose Forestry –sponsored by Savills and TreesPlease Bill Mason, the owner Morton Hall Estate, died suddenly in June this year. He was a long-standing proponent of CCF, a sustainable method of timber production that involves selectively thinning trees to create a diverse forest structure and continuous canopy cover. As one of the earliest adopters of CCF, Moreton Hall Estate was recognised for demonstrating the successful results of over half a century of this approach to forestry. The judges, referring to Bill Mason’s family and forester Josh Robinson, said: “There was clear evidence that despite Bill Mason’s unexpected death, the next generation is ready and able to take up the reins.”

Bill Mason’s daughter, Andrea Mason commented: “Bill would have been –and the family are – delighted for the woodlands to have been awarded this prestigious prize as its criteria fully align with our management goals. Bill was a forester to his core and he loved to share his knowledge. The family will continue to manage these woodlands in Bill’s stead, using sciencedriven, CCF-led silvicultural approaches to deliver multi-faceted resilience.”

Silver – Thomas Cook of Sennowe Forest

The Duke of Cornwall’s Award for Multi-purpose Woodland Cook is another early adopter of CCF, creating an uneven-age, multi-species forest that relies primarily on natural regeneration.

“The advantages of continuous cover forestry are many, principally disease resistance, wind resistance, fire resistance, climate resistance, adaptability to markets and higher timber yield,” he said. “It is also ecologically beneficial and protects and fosters wildlife of all forest species.”

Silver – Normanton Hall

Small & Farm Woodland Award

The award was presented to John Machin who manages the 2.38 Ha of plantations which the judges praised for the choice of species, standard of maintenance and for blending with the surrounding landscape.

“These woods are already providing additional wildlife habitat and are laid out with rides to allow access for local walkers,” the judges commented. “They are also used by the local forest school with children involved with various woodland activities.”

Hole Farm

John Machin, Normanton Hall

Robin Carver, Hole Farm

Thomas Cook, Sennowe Forest

Morton Hall Estate

The family of Bill Mason

Bill Mason and Josh Robinson

Gold – Sotterley Estate

The Bede Howell Award for Excellence in Silviculture, sponsored by Tilhill Recognising excellence in timber production, this category had the highest number of contenders with tough competition between the top entrants. The category required timber production to be the primary aim. The award was presented to the 160 Ha Sotterley Estate for its magnificent plantations of mature oaks.

Judges praised Sotterley Estate’s foresters, Miles Barne and Julian Bachelor for their “laser-focus” on the production of high-quality oak timber and meticulous attention to detail. “Here, we saw oak silviculture at its best,” the judges said. “Miles’ focus is on fastgrown quality oak sawlogs grown on a shortened rotation, and there is no shortage of takers for his magnificent mature oak. We were left with very little room to find any fault in the silviculture at Sotterley and the future crops look assured of achieving the highest prices.”

Silver place for the Bede Howell Award went to Fring Estate for its impressive output of various forest products and its innovative experimentations with species selection and placement.

Gold - Great Wood Farm

Early Years Centre

The Education & Learning Award, sponsored by Forestry Journal and PEFC

The award recognises community and education and highlights the need to get children and young people engaged in nature and forestry. It was noted the importance of the country’s woodlands is only set to grow in the coming decades. Nurturing this interest at an early stage in children’s education will be vital for fostering the future generation of foresters and woodland managers.

Great Wood Farm Early Years Centre is a nursery based on a farm in Lincolnshire and surrounded by 150 acres of woodland owned by Forestry England. The judges commented: “It was evident that despite children appearing to be ‘everywhere’, the cleverly organised activities gave children a real sense of freedom and responsibility – for themselves and for each other –whilst building a respect for their environment and helping them to understand their role in its future.”

Gold – Astbury Mere Country Park

The Community Woodland of the Year Award, sponsored by The Woodland Trust This category celebrated two woodlands for their commitment to serving local people. Gold went to Astbury Mere Country Park in Chester, an ex-quarry that was originally intended for industrial use in the 1980s before local people came together to form a community group and fight the decision. The end result was that half of the site was gifted to the trust and since then, it has become an important part of the local community.

Silver was awarded to The Boston Woods Trust, an ambitious project that has vastly improved the quality of green space in and around the town of Boston.

Silver was awarded to Branch Out Forestry School in Shropshire which earned top marks for its links with the community, knowledge of the natural environment and creative curriculum.

The Excellence in Forestry Awards will return next year, and will cover the Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset and Dorset and South Western regions. rfs.org.uk

Branching Out Forest School - Toni Pettitt

Edward Brun, Fring Estate

Great Wood Farm Early Years Centre

Great Wood Farm Early Years Centre

Sotterley Estate

Miles Barne and Alison Field

Boston Woods

Astbury Mere Country Park

The Boston Woods Trust

©Photo Landscan, UK

Branching Out Forest School

Standing up for urban trees

RUSSELL BALL FOUNDED CHARITY FUND4TREES BACK IN 2011 AND AS HE REPORTS,

IT

IS NOW STRONGER THAN EVER

Russell Ball is currently planning the 2025 Fund4Trees Ride for Research event, an event bringing together riders from the arboriculture, forestry and landscape sectors. This year, it took place in Brighton. Next year, will it be in a northern city? Those who want to take part in the event should keep a close eye on the website and social media.

A number of arborists – including Simon N’Jie of Artemis and Mike Connick of Connick Tree Care – have taken part in these rides over the years, which bring in most of the charity’s income. These 10-15 mile events have been held across the UK, including a more challenging London to Paris, with sponsorship from friends, businesses and the public.

Consider giving

Ball is keen to encourage other forms of giving via a regular sum ‘donate a job’ being given each month – i.e., £10, a little more than the price of two coffees – or ‘donate an hour’ where a regular PAYE amount is passed on to the charity.

He says he was motivated to help urban trees as they “give so much” and because he saw they were becoming increasingly threatened. The idea came from “a casual conversation

with Dr David Lonsdale at the Arboricultural Association Conference about what could be done to boost research into urban trees.”

Sadly Dr Lonsdale passed away earlier this year. Fund4Trees’ purpose is to support research into urban trees and to provide study bursaries to advance this area.

A strong team

The charity is now well established and Ball works with a team of fellow trustees: Mick Boddy (tree consultant, Martin Gammie (tree consultant) Colleen O’Sullivan (senior tree officer with the London Borough of Camden) and Mike Connick (who founded Connick Tree Care) and Simon N’Jie (Artemis Trees).

The charity also has a Research Advisory Committee which is chaired by academic Professor Rob MacKenzie, along with Jon Banks (lab manager at Bartlett), Jon Heuch (tree consultant), Jeremy Barrell (tree consultant), Andrew Hirons (Myerscough lecturer), Keiron Doich (forestry researcher) and Mark Gush (RHS environmental scientist).

Supporting research

The committee decides which applications for funding can proceed through a rigorous vetting process. “Research is based on three interlinked themes – planning for trees in green infrastructure, ensuring tree establishment and those leading to the delivery of multiple benefits to society and the urban environment.”

The charity’s patron is Robert Penn, a journalist, broadcaster and conservationist who co-founded Stump up for Trees, which aims to plant a million

trees in the Brecon Beacons. He has taken part in a number of Fund4Trees bike rides too.

Alongside this, the charity also supports visits to schools. “We work with primary schools and choose a number to hold eco workshops, following guidance from local tree officers,” says Ball. “We also have huge gratitude to Barcham which provides trees to be planted at these events.”

Fund4Trees’ purpose is to support research into urban trees and to provide study bursaries to advance this area

Ball has been interested in trees and nature since he was a child and was hooked on TV wildlife programmes. He has studied to an advanced level with a degree in Botany and a Post. Grad. Diploma in Landscape Management.

He has early experience too at the sharp end of arb, from working as a contractor and has also been a tree officer and consultant.

He remains involved in consultancy and running the charity, with a key focus being to “educate on the need to care for trees beyond the initial planting and over the vital first few years.” He is also planning to ensure there are ongoing strong connections built between research establishments, universities and colleges so knowledge can be developed and shared.

Arborists who are keen cyclists should check out the website, and kindly look to support the charity which has tree wellbeing at its heart.

For more information, contact russell@ fund4trees.org.uk or visit fund4trees.org.uk

Russell Ball and Simon N’Jie

Dr Duncan Slater’s Casebook

LEAVING DEADWOOD AND TREE STUMPS IN PLACE AS OPPOSED TO CHIPPING THEM BRINGS CONSIDERABLE ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS – AND ARBORISTS SHOULD LOOK FOR OCCASIONS WHEN NOT TIDYING UP IS THE RIGHT POLICY SAYS DR DUNCAN SLATER

Arboricultural practice and knowledge keep expanding – it is an exciting sector to work in – or, in my case, to teach. One area of recent expansion is the interaction between arborists and ecologists. On a trip to give a talk to the Swedish Tree Conference at Växjö in 2019, I had a free day and chose to wander into a local nature reserve. I got to see a lot of tree work that had been enacted to birch, spruce and willows, to create micro-habitats – including making snags, crude pollarding by stem snapping, cavity creation and much retention of lying deadwood.

So much work was evident on this site that the walk through this landscape of deliberately damaged trees looked rather extreme to me at times. But, Swedish conference members reassured me this project was led by highlevel and well-informed ecologists, directing what the arborists were to do to create new habitat there.

Do not tidy up

Along a similar thread, it was enheartening to see a key message put out by the Arboricultural Association after Storm Arwen (in 2021), asking woodland and park owners – and arborists involved in tree work – not to tidy up all the storm damaged trees. It emphasised the value of deadwood habitats and how much of this broken and fallen wood can be kept on-site to improve site biodiversity. It is clear arborists and consultants have a stewardship role – this becomes obvious when they advise on the retention of good quality trees on a site, how best to manage these, and which to plant for future generations to benefit from. That stewardship role is expanding into advocacy for and creation of deadwood habitat – this is great to see and has my full support.

That stewardship role is expanding into advocacy for and creation of deadwood habitat

Educating customers

Having worked initially for a domestic tree surgery company, I can understand where the mentality comes from to ‘tidy up’ sites, after trees are felled or pruned.

Working in small domestic gardens, the clients wanted this ‘tidy up’ approach to tree work – and we complied, which involved much effort at times!

And, of course, the industry is equipped with machinery and techniques to achieve this – from brooms and leaf-blowers to stump grinders and chippers. What is more, any waste from a tree felling can be cut up, chipped or otherwise converted and taken away.

it’s not ‘waste’, as deadwood left in-situ has massive potential for life

Only, it’s not ‘waste’, as deadwood left in-situ has massive potential for life. Those that have studied soil science will know that a gram of soil may contain millions of microbes, including 60,000 different bacterial species and many hundreds of fungal species too, along with protozoans and other microbes.

Deadwood goes through a succession via decay and deterioration that probably provides similar levels of site biodiversity and a high density of living organisms –many of which we know little about, as shown by Professor Lynne Boddy in 2021.

It is understandable there is a need for a total ‘tidy up’ in a situation where a tree has to be removed because of a contagious disease, such as sooty bark disease, or an exotic insect infestation like Asian longhorn beetle. Or it could be the tree is in a highly urbanised setting or formal garden. But the whole of the country is not urbanised, nor a garden – and it is great to see more arborists leaving woody arisings from tree work in-situ, in parks, gardens and woodland areas.

The image shows willow, crudely pollarded and incorporating splits and tears, as part of ecological management of trees in a nature reserve on the outskirts of Växjö, Sweden

Getting creative with deadwood

The creation of artificial snags has become common practice across Europe, although research and guidance need to develop to improve the ecological benefits these can bring to sites. For instance, my own research of the interactions between woodpeckers and snags shows that creating snags in low-use areas of a park or gardens leads to a heightened use of that resource.

or their stem breaks in a storm. It is now becoming common practice for arborists to create snags, to retain standing deadwood in parks, gardens and woodlands

Returning to the Swedish Tree Conference this year, Dr Iben Thomsen of Copenhagen University gave a brilliant talk on making cavities for nesting birds and roosting bats, allowing for longevity of these features. There are ample opportunities for arborists to get creative with this sort of work and learn lessons from previous attempts at micro-habitat creation by others.

The classic division in deadwood is between ‘standing deadwood’ and ‘lying deadwood’. In these cases, the process of

The Victorian ‘stumpery’ at Biddulph Grange, Chester – used for growing fern specimens

decay succession, what micro-habitats are available and the fauna that utilises these two types of wood is different.

As standing deadwood will naturally become lying deadwood at some point – unless it is a stump – it is a matter of retaining some standing deadwood for a good length of time. It makes sense for a snag not to be too tall. Larger diameter trees should also be selected for snag creation.

There are other good opportunities to give the wood chipper a rest for a while and to create features with branches, stems and stumps. In Victorian times, the creation of ‘stumperies’ was common, as some garden owners were avid fern collectors. And, an array of decayed tree stumps makes for good fern growing conditions.

A more modern version of the stumpery – the ‘log pile’ – is created by part buying multiple stem sections, to promote the colonisation of this feature by stag beetles and other invertebrates (as shown in work by the People’s Trust for Endangered Species in 2024).

A modern ‘stumpery’ of many sections of tree stem, partially buried into the soil on a woodland site

Branches can be arranged to make a ‘dead hedge’ – the denser the better. This gives great opportunities for a range

of wildlife to live in this linear barrier feature. Some ecologists and arborists are even working on the imitation of veteran trees, using bundles of branches, twigs, soil, fungi and moss, to create habitat that might support some of our rarest xylophagous creatures, as with work at Royal Holloway.

A lying log can double-up as a bench or as a crude climbing frame for kids, as well as an ecological resource as it decays and decomposes.

A dead hedge created entirely from stems and branches of felled trees, creating a barrier between parts of the site, but also a linear habitat for much wildlife

Lesson learnt

It is good to see this ecological practice developing in arboriculture – and I encourage arborists to become more creative and to engage with this trend, as it is much needed to help counter the on-going biodiversity crisis in the UK – as evidenced by the State of Nature in 2023.

In life there is always death – but, when it comes to trees, when there is death there are many opportunities to bring new life. Deadwood, snags and old logs are a major life support system for our endangered biodiversity. We should be avoiding tidying them up, where we can – or transport them to other suitable sites locally.

Dr Duncan Slater is a senior lecturer in arboriculture at Myerscough College, Lancashire. He is also a co-ordinator of Arbor Day UK (#ArborDayUK) – an action group that seeks to put new trees and woodlands back into the landscape. One day, at least one of the trees planted by Arbor Day UK will go through its full lifecycle – and hopefully that tree will not be ‘tidied up’ upon its demise, so it provides deadwood habitat for the many organisms that need it. dslater@myerscough.ac.uk

As the image above shows, nature provides snags when trees die standing up,

ALL TERRAIN AND ALL ELECTRIC KIT

THIS NEW LAUNCH OFFERS AN EXCITING RIDE WHILE BEING ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY

Agrowing number of arborists are finding an ATV is highly useful for a range of jobs such as gathering and transporting logs – as well as providing off road thrills.

The Powerland Tachyon – distributed by BOSS ORV – makes this possible without producing emissions thanks to its electric motor – direct drive hub motors help the vehicle achieve up to 50hp and 210Nm of torque at each wheel. Features include a vehicle diagnostic app, 12v lighter socket, 5v USB socket and 4x4/4x2 driving modes.

The direct drive motors ensure a smooth and quiet ride and it also comes with advanced suspension ensuring strong

traction and stability as well as overall rugged construction.

The Tachyon is said to be one of the fastest ATVs available – the top speed is 85 kmph –and is road legal with tractor homologation. It can also be used with an e-trailer to transport loads across challenging ground.

The 11kw battery can be recharged in six hours and the Tachyon’s regenerative braking technology extends battery range, while the hill descent control system allows for a controlled downhill ride. It has a range of up to 110km on a single charge when in eco mode. There is a maximum carrying capacity of 650kg – including the rider – and can tow up to 585kg, and fitted with a front winch.

Powerland originates from Goa, India and is a specialist manufacturer of ATVs, which was founded by entrepreneur Tej Naik. Initially developed for the Indian agricultural sector, the models are now exported globally. The company has focused on electrification since 2019. It is an expanding business and is expecting to increase its workforce to more than 500 over the next three years.

ALLVEHICLESTERRAIN

It has a range of up to 110km on a single charge when in eco mode

Dealers are available across the UK and can be found via the BOSS ORV website under the ‘dealers’ page. The most recent to join as an approved dealer is J&R Agricultural Engineering, based in Looe, Cornwall – it will also cover the south Devon region.

The company has over 30 years in the industry, specialising in the ATV, UTV, tractor and machinery sales and repairs. It is also distributor for the Corvus off-road vehicle range.

The Tachyon was exhibited for the first time in the UK at the Lamma Show in January 2024 at the NEC in Birmingham – the event showcases agricultural machinery.

BOSS ORV is the sole distributor in the UK for Corvus, Faunamaster, Paxster and Powerland. The company is headquartered in Staffordshire.

For more information visit: bossorv.co.uk

J&R’s Jonathan Philp and Richard Trengrove show off the striking Powerland Tachyon

CHECK OUT DEEP FOREST CHAINSAW TROUSERS AND THE BREATHEDRY WATERPROOF SMOCK FROM ARBORTEC

Chainsaw trousers with unmatched durability

Deep Forest trousers put safety first and are created in heavy-duty fabric, making them ideal for arborists and foresters working in the toughest environments.

Arbortec believes safety and comfort should never be compromised, which is why these chainsaw trousers deliver on both fronts. It incorporate the latest technology to manufacture a product that meets and exceeds industry standards, using the same stretchy Polyamide and Spandex mix found in the Breatheflex Pro Freestyle.

According to one customer review: “I couldn’t wait to get my hands on these things when I first saw them. The covered zippers are a great feature. The higher abrasion resistant material and added knee protection will definitely make these trousers last longer. The zip off gaiters is also

awesome for someone that doesn’t like gaiters, but for me I like them. Arbortec is where it’s at!”

With its heavy-duty construction and innovative design, Deep Forest chainsaw trousers are trusted to perform no matter how demanding the job. The trousers are available in either black, lime or red and in Design A and C.

Extreme weather, no problem –this jacket goes beyond

WORK WEAR WITH STYLE AND STAYING POWER KIT

The BreatheDry waterproof smock is a lightweight technical garment with an array of features that have been created by Arbortec with the arborist in mind. The breathable jacket conforms to EN343 Class 4 standards and incorporates an increased back length to shed water. It features a high collar with a waterproof zipper, inner placket, and neck protector.

Other features include three waterproof pockets, and all seams are taped to increase weather resistance. Inside the collar is a large adjustable hood that has been designed to fit over a climbing helmet. The hood has a wired peak, bungee volume adjuster drawcord, and a large hook and loop storm flap. The jacket also has a number of ventilation ports for comfortable working.

According to one customer: “The Arbortec smock is extremely high quality, and their customer service is equally as good. Thank you for all the help – highly recommended.”

Maintenance

The fabric has a solid structure that stops water from passing through the membrane. The fabric breathes by absorbing and dissipating sweat through the diffusion of water vapour molecules. When the membrane becomes clogged, the garment will stop performing to the best of its ability. If the membrane becomes clogged with dust and dirt, it is likely to allow moisture in and leak.

Arbortec recommends washing the smock with NikWax TechWash following the guidelines on the NikWax packaging, to clean off the grease and grime, followed by a re-wash with NikWax TX. The BreatheDry waterproof smock is available in black and high visibility orange, yellow and lime green.

arbortec.com

MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE

WHAT SHOULD ARBORISTS BE LOOKING FOR WHEN SELECTING A NEW VEHICLE? PRO ARB SPOKE TO ISUZU TRUCK UK ABOUT WHAT BOXES NEED TO BE TICKED

From sole traders to large businesses with extensive commercial fleets, for those working in the arb industry, making the right decision when it comes to vehicles matters.

Isuzu Truck UK has become a mainstay for many arb businesses and has a range of vehicles specifically designed to meet the demands of the industry, from its 3.5-tonne ‘Grafter’, through options at 5.5, 6.5 and 7.5t – and with heavier weight options at 11 and 13.5t.

for those working in the arb industry, making the right decision when it comes to vehicles matters

Isuzu has established working partnerships with a number of bodybuilders across the UK, supplying rugged tipper bodies with an array of features designed to support all types of arb work. However, no matter the quality of the body, it still needs to be mounted to a chassis that is up to the job.

Suited to single owner operators

For many arb businesses, particularly single owner operators, the trusty Isuzu

N35 ‘Grafter’ is that vehicle. A versatile, reliable and highly manoeuvrable option, it offers outstanding payload capacity with the ability to tow up to 3.5t in most specifications, making it ideal for pulling chippers to site.

Featuring a strong but lightweight chassis, the Grafter is equally at home on winding country lanes as it is on tight city streets and provides a proven solution capable of handling intensive work, day after day.

Available on a short or long wheelbase, with a range of power options and either a manual, automatic or automated ‘Easyshift’ transmission, a Grafter mounted with a specialist arb body can offer a payload capacity of around 1,100kg, making it well suited to the rigours of green waste collection.

“Isuzu dominates this sector because its trucks are rugged, reliable, can turn on a sixpence and deliver outstanding payload capacity, which is everything an arb business is looking for,” says Pete Dugdale, sales and marketing director at bodybuilder Brit-Tipp.

“We’ve been building arb tippers for close to 40 years, so we know what works. Over that time, we’ve progressed to using an anodised aluminium finish, which offers strength and longevity, while remaining lightweight and compact – which pretty much sums up the Isuzu chassis it sits on.”

No matter what option is chosen, Isuzu Truck offers a three-year unlimited mileage warranty

A standard arb tipper body can include features like collapsable box sides and rear barn doors, perfect for use with a chipper and for hauling green waste, alongside a separate tool storage pod, and for larger trucks, a rear mounted crane.

When a larger truck is needed

For businesses operating larger trucks – often councils and local authorities – the 7.5t Isuzu N75 range is the most popular option. With the choice of either a 3.0 or 5.2L diesel available, delivering 150 or 190 PS respectively, these models maintain a compact footprint on the road and a lightweight build. The N75 can deliver up to an extra 750kg payload capacity versus many rivals, an advantage for large tree removal, for example, and a major reason it is the truck of choice for many.

No matter what option is chosen, Isuzu Truck offers a three-year unlimited mileage warranty, which includes 24/7 roadside assistance, as well as access to the Customer CARE team – a dedicated liaison who ensures both the vehicle and the support they receive from the national dealer network is second to none.

Isuzu operators have their say Bartlett Tree Experts

A global business, Bartlett Tree Experts offers a full range of arb tree care services for residential and commercial customers across the UK, Ireland, Canada and the United States.

The business is an Isuzu Truck customer for 20 years and the company operates both 3.5t and 7.5t vehicles in its 60-strong UK fleet, that is almost exclusively supplied by the Japanese manufacturer.

“We’ve been coming back to Isuzu for nearly two decades now. They’re reliable, hardy, manoeuvrable and practical – we’ve even had some in the fleet for more than 14 years that are still going strong,” says Richard Trippett, division manager for Bartlett Tree Experts.

“The chassis are ideal for our needs and have allowed us to work closely with TGS Group to refine the bodies, using a lighter design to maximise payload and performance.”

This collaboration has allowed bodybuilder, TGS Group, to develop a rugged, lightweight tipper featuring split rear barn doors and a large toolpod directly behind the cab. It has also developed a specialist dropside body for plant healthcare treatments, with two large water tanks, a pump and spray hose, plus injection tools for targeted treatment and care.

Working seven days a week, averaging around 20,000 miles annually, the company expects to keep its Isuzu vehicles in operation for eight to 10 years.

Glendale Countryside

Starting out as a forestry, tree harvesting and consultancy business in 1985, Glendale Countryside has since grown to offer an extensive range of landscaping, grounds maintenance and woodland management services to customers nationwide.

for,” says Stuart Darbyshire, commercial director for Glendale Countryside.

Most recently, the company specified 10 of its new Isuzu Grafters with an automatic transmission, owing to the stop/start nature of some of its work in more urban areas.

A Cut Above

An arb and forestry contractor providing services for residential and commercial clients across Surrey and Hampshire, A Cut Above operates a 15-strong fleet, including a number of 3.5t Isuzu Grafters.

The vehicle’s custom arb tipper bodies from Southern Vehicle Bodies include split rear barn doors and collapsable sides that convert the body into a flatbed for transporting larger equipment and loads.

“We’ve been specifying Isuzu vehicles for six years now; in fact we’re still using the first 3.5-tonner we purchased back in 2018.

The Grafter is a favourite of our drivers thanks to its exceptional manoeuvrability, with a small turning circle that’s ideally suited to the tight spaces we work in every day,” says Andrew Phipps, managing director of A Cut Above.

The company has worked with Isuzu for more than a decade and utilises the 3.5t Grafters with a tipper body, used for hauling equipment and green waste to and from site.

“The Grafters are ideal for the work we do; they’re robust, reliable, and durable, with an impressive payload capacity, which is what we need day-to-day. We also get great support from the team at Isuzu, who have always understood exactly what we are looking

“We choose the long wheelbase option to maximise loadspace, while the chassis lends itself perfectly to the tipper bodies we use. This combination consistently delivers outstanding performance across the fleet.”

Averaging 20,000 miles a year, A Cut Above keeps its Isuzu trucks in service for at least a decade – a testament to the vehicles’ reliability and the repair and maintenance support the company receives from its local Isuzu Truck dealer.

For more information visit: isuzutruck.co.uk

Rope care climbers take note

PAUL DYER , TECHNICAL MANAGER WITH MARLOW ROPES HAS GUIDANCE ON HOW TO CARE FOR THESE ESSENTIAL TOOLS –AND WHEN TO RETIRE THEM

Ropes are essential tools in arboriculture and proper care and timely retirement of them are crucial for safety and performance.

Keep ropes clean and dry

• Avoid dirt and debris Always keep your ropes off the ground to prevent dirt, grease, and chemicals from damaging the fibres. Use a rope bag or tarp when outdoors.

• Washing If your rope gets dirty, wash it in cold water with mild soap. Avoid using harsh detergents. Rinse thoroughly and air dry away from direct sunlight.

Store ropes correctly

• Avoid sunlight and heat Store your ropes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat, which can weaken the fibres.

• Use rope bags Store ropes loosely flaked in a rope bag to protect them from dirt and damage.

Carry out regular inspections

• Visual and tactile checks After each use, inspect your rope for cuts, abrasions, flat spots, and stiffness. Run your hands along the rope to feel for any irregularities.

• Look for damage Check for extremely fuzzy areas, discoloration, or visible core. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to retire the rope.

• Avoid harmful substances Chemicals and abrasives can be damaging – keep your ropes away from chemicals, acids, alkalis,

and other harmful substances that can degrade the material.

How to thoroughly check your ropes

Use this checklist to ensure thorough inspections of your ropes:

Visual inspection:

• Check for cuts, nicks, or abrasions.

• Look for flat spots or areas where the rope has been crushed.

• Inspect for extreme fuzziness or fraying.

• Check for discoloration or fading.

• Look for any visible core fibres.

Tactile inspection:

• Run your hands along the entire length of the rope.

• Feel for any stiff or hard spots.

• Check for areas that feel unusually soft or thin.

• Ensure there are no lumps or inconsistencies in the rope's texture.

Functional inspection:

• Test the rope's flexibility by tying and untying knots.

• Check the rope's elasticity and stretch under load.

• Ensure the rope maintains its shape and does not flatten excessively when loaded.

Signs it’s time to replace your ropes

Ropes do not last forever, and knowing when to retire them is vital for safety. Here are some general guidelines: After severe falls or damage

• Immediate retirement – if your rope has been involved in a fall with extreme loads or shows significant damage, retire it immediately.

KIT TOP TIPS: ROPES

Based on usage frequency

• Frequent use (weekly): Retire ropes after about one year of frequent use.

• Regular use (few times per month): Ropes used regularly should be retired after one to three years.

• Occasional use (once per month): These ropes can last four to five years.

• Rare use (one to two times per year): Ropes used infrequently can last up to seven years.

• Never used: Even if never used, ropes should be retired after 10 years. Signs of wear and tear

• Visible damage: Retire ropes with cuts, flat spots, extreme fuzziness, or if the core is visible.

• Stiffness and discoloration: If the rope feels unusually stiff or shows significant discoloration, it is time to replace it.

Regular inspections, proper storage, and avoiding harmful substances can extend the life of your ropes. Arborists should always err on the side of caution and retire ropes when in doubt about their integrity.

By following these guidelines and using the inspection checklist, you can ensure that your ropes remain reliable and safe for use. Remember, a well-maintained rope is a climber's best friend and knowing when to retire it can make all the difference to your safety and success.

For more information: marlowropes.com/ performance/rope-care-advice/

WOOD CHIPPERS

WORKING IN PARTNER S HIP KIT

GREENMECH WOOD CHIPPERS ARE MAKING A VALUABLE CONTRIBUTION TO BOTH AN ARB FIRM AND A FORESTRY OPERATION

The Heart of England Forest

Sussex Tree Specialists

The Horsham-based firm, which is part of the STS Agricultural Group Company, is undergoing rapid growth. It has recently taken ownership of a trio of GreenMech wood chippers. Chief operating officer Darren Regan says the pair of EVO 165D’s and an EVO 205 SAFE-Trak are well regarded for performance, safety and back up support.

The company provides tree care services to residential and commercial clients across East Sussex, West Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire and London.

Regan joined the firm in 2023 and is working with managing director Matthew Bell. He says: "We're looking at how we can play our role in supporting diverse and productive woodlands, helping others within the sector, and expanding our offering."

The group invested in the EVO 205 SAFE-Trak, delivered by dealers GA Groundcare. Regan adds: “Our previous chipper was forever breaking down and the EVO 205 presented itself as more capable and in-line with what we were trying to deliver. It is constructed with quality components and materials giving us not only reliable chipping performance in the field, but also – as a British manufacturer – the peace of mind that parts and support is available locally should we ever need it. Even more importantly, this machine excels when it comes to health and safety.”

this machine excels when it comes to health and safety

The EVO 205D SAFE-Trak is fitted with GreenMech’s track-based system, allowing ground clearance of up to 530mm and offering unbeatable safety when traversing slopes or challenging terrain. “They’ve listened to the industry and know exactly what’s needed. GreenMech clearly have the same appetite for safety as we do, the machine is packed with features.”

The Heart of England Forest (HOEF) has charity status and covers habitats in Warwickshire and Worcestershire – it aims to address the loss of ancient woodlands in a region historically covered by the Forest of Arden. Work is now being bolstered followed by the purchase of an Arborist 150D Max from GreenMech. This is providing usable woodchip for projects across their 7,500 acres of forest habitat. As the only woodchipper on their fleet, the purchase is compact yet powerful enough to tackle coppicing projects and pruning works.

HOEF is looking to create and manage a 30,000 acre forest with the aim of restoring forest cover, biodiversity and people’s connection with nature. Ian Hayward, a senior forest ranger, says: “In the summer, we’re access mowing our trail networks, looking after our young trees or conducting biodiversity surveys. Then in winter, it’s tree planting and maintenance, including coppicing and selective thinning – which is where our new GreenMech woodchipper comes in. We opted for the Arborist 150D Max – diesel-powered, capable of processing all the by-products from our forestry work.”

the team find its straight-forward operation a positive feature

The 150D Max is the latest addition to GreenMech’s Arborist range. Powered by a 25hp Kubota diesel engine, the Arborist 150D Max utilises GreenMech’s disc-blade chipping technology and ‘No-Stress’ in-feed system to offer a reliable, durable performance.

Hayward adds: “We received training and the team find its straight-forward operation a positive feature. As the forest grows, the amount of maintenance will increase the demand for the Arborist 150D Max with things like selective thinning needed more frequently and can turn the top end brash into woodchip for use on our woodland trails.”

A POCKET POWERHOUSE

THE REAR-HANDLED ECHO CS-2511WES OFFERS A COMPACT SIZE BUT PROVIDES A POWERFUL SOLUTION FOR A RANGE OF JOBS

Unrivalled in terms of power to weight ratio

• The CS-2511WES weighs only 2.6kg and has a power output of 1.11kW. In terms of power to weight, no other chainsaw can compete. It retains the same ergonomics and benefits of the CS-2511TES (top handle) in a new, rear-handle form. The combination of being lightweight and powerful means getting through work with significantly less fatigue.

ECHO CS-2511WES

Rear-handled chainsaw

product dna

Many applications

• Because of its ultra compact size and precision, the versatile CS-2511WES is well-suited to any work that involves trimming, cutting firewood, pruning, wood carving – including fine work – and other tree care tasks. It is available with either a 30cm (12”) bar with 3/8” pitch or 25cm (10”) carving bar with 1/4” pitch.

A professional grade engine

• The 25cc engine has an output of 1.1kw – it comes with ECHO’s Easy Start spring-assisted system to allow starting with ease every time. The model is designed and manufactured in Japan to the highest standards and the two-stroke engine provides powerful cutting with low emissions and noise levels.

Handy for hedgelaying

• Hedgelaying is a traditional skill which involves partially cutting down young trees so they can lie at an angle, while still growing from the base. It results in hedges that are thick and healthy, compared to a standard trim, and creates better livestock containment and wildlife habitat. For arborists who have hedgelaying skills, the CS2511WES is an ideal tool for the job.

For more information: The RRP is £449 (incl. VAT) and full specifications are available at: echo-tools.co.uk/products/ chainsaw-cs-2511wes-30rc or visit echo-tools.co.uk to find out location of nearest dealer.

TIDY TOOLS TO TACKLE WINTER MAINTENANCE

TAKE ON A RANGE OF JOBS WITH THESE RECENT LAUNCHES TO KEEP OUTDOOR SPACES LOOKING PRISTINE

Looking trim with Makita

Makita has added two handy tools –a brushless pole hedge trimmer and two standard hedge trimmers – to its XGT range. The cordless 40VMax XGT UN001G brushless pole hedge trimmer from provides a lightweight and powerful option to cut thick branches.

The 40Vmax XGT Li-ion battery and thick shear 600mm blade provide performance suited to professionals and features include an adjustable blade angle as well as a reverse function to clear jams.

This model has been specifically designed for heavier load applications. and features a sharper three-facet obliquely ground blade (double sided rough cut type). The UN001G also provides up to 4,000 cutting strokes per minute. With its three speed design, the trimmer offers a maximum cutting diameter of 20mm.

The angle of the head can be adjusted in six steps between 45o upward and 70o downwards. A new lock-off lever mechanism has been added as an additional safety feature and the machine also features an auto power off function to prevent accidental start-up if it's left unused for a period of time.

In addition, the tool is significantly lighter than other trimmers currently available on the market at just 4.7kg - 5.9kg, which means cutting larger branches overhead is easier and more convenient.

The inclusion of a grease nipple and the fact oil can be supplied with a grease gun, without removing the bolt on the

oil supply port, makes maintenance hassle free. Finally, when not in use, it can be folded down for easy transport and storage.

“The UN001G brushless cordless pole trimmer represents everything Makita is known for: performance and quality,” says Kevin Brannigan, marketing manager at Makita UK. “It is IPX4 compatible and has been designed to help professionals tackle thick branches, even at height, with ease from ground level. Efficient and effective, it’s another high-performance addition to our expanding 40VMax XGT range.”

to quickly and easily clear the blade in the event of a branch jam.

Cordless champions

Makita has also launched two powerful cordless hedge trimmers to its range of 40VMax XGT grounds maintenance tools. The 500 mm bladed UH020G and 600 mm UH021G both deliver highly efficient and effective cutting and have been designed for ease of use.

As part of Makita’s XGT 40VMax platform, these hedge trimmers deliver both high performance and excellent run times. Using a 4.0Ah battery, the UH020G and UH021G will achieve run times of approximately 110 and 105 minutes respectively before needing to swap the battery. The fast recharge times achieved by Makita’s XGT batteries means the 4.0Ah battery will be ready to use again in 45 minutes.

The UH020G and UH021G deliver 4,200 cutting strokes per minute and have a maximum blade opening of 20mm – they will cut branches up to 10 mm in diameter. The new hedge trimmers feature

In addition, the UH020G and UH021G have been engineered for user comfort and ease of operation. Both have a lightweight design with the blade guide bar manufactured from aluminium to improve the balance and reduce user fatigue.

The two machines also feature a redesigned switch lever on the handle that is easier to press in any orientation for simpler control. For safety, the UH020G and UH021G have an electric brake, anti-restart function and a double layered housing to minimise vibration.

makitauk.com

Makita UH020G

Makita UH020G

Stihl premieres new vacuum shredder

The SHA 140 vacuum shredder is the first of its kind in the manufacturer’s batterypowered tools system. It is designed for professionals and is the most powerful in the STIHL lineup, offering 15% improved suction power compared to the petrol SH 86.

It is described as ideal for the autumn and winter months, by making light work of collecting and shredding leaves and green material. The variable speed trigger provides the operator full control to match

Quality in spades from Birkdale

A quality shovel is a standby in the van and Birkdale’s new Sitemate range is well worth investigating. The new additions are the heavy duty professional double shovel holer, micro shovel, Irish pattern long handle shovel, D-handled fencing shovel and the manual fence post auger. Each tool has been developed with practicality and efficiency in mind, and the range helps to make work such as fencing installations as simple as possible.

The heavy duty professional double shovel holer provides efficient removal of soil to create holes for fence posts. 1600m in length, it has been designed to offer enhanced leverage and grip, making soil and stone removal effortless.

The scissor action handle provides greater closing power and a fully adjustable blade pitch enables the user to adjust the soil removal capacity, as they work to deliver deep, narrow, vertical sided post holes.

the power output to the task at hand, whether that is working around flower beds, or utilising the boost mode to collect damp leaves. The reinforced suction tube can be

in operation, eliminating the requirement for hearing protection.

It features an adjustable shoulder strap and the 55l collection bag sits at the operator‘s side without impairing movement. The robust metal buckle openings are able to withstand tough working conditions, while the large opening leads to quick and complete emptying with minimal effort. Ventilation openings can be used to deliver constant suction power, regardless of the fill level or the degree of dust and dirt in the bag.

The handy Micro Shovel is available in a square or round mouth option, and is an ideal tool for digging or shovelling with precision and accuracy in tight spaces. With a reinforced fibreglass shaft and soft grip handle, the shovel combines comfort and practicality.

The Irish pattern long handle shovel is a versatile option, suitable for a wide variety of general landscaping and

Easy transport and storage have also been factored into the design, with fast and toolfree removal of the catcher bag and suction tube to make dismantling the tool effortless. With the recommended AP 300 S battery, the SHA 140 has a working time of up to 60 minutes.

stihl.co.uk

groundwork. Featuring a comfortable grip hardwood shaft, hardening steel socket and a V-shaped blade, angled for ergonomic digging and scooping, the shovel is highly durable and effective.

Also new to the range is the D-handled fencing shovel. With the addition of the ‘D’ handle, the shovel provides an enhanced grip, leverage and comfort along with greater scooping capacity. The shovel incorporates a threaded plug at the top of the handle, allowing the handle tube to be filled with cement to add desired weight.

The manual fence post auger, made from high-grade carbon steel, provides maximum speed, strength and quality. Ideal for drilling holes for fence posts, as well as planting shrubs and trees, it offers a fast and accurate method for producing 150mm diameter holes in all types of soil conditions. Further, a removable steel handle means it is convenient to store away. birkdales.com

STIHL SHA 140 vacuum shredder

Sitemate range by Birkdale

meet the supplier IN HARMONY WITH NATURE

NEXGEN

IS LEADING THE FIELD BY LAUNCHING A TREE SHELTER THAT DEGRADES NATURALLY ONCE ITS VITAL TREE PROTECTION ROLE COMES TO AN END

As more arborists offer tree planting services, it is important to ensure young saplings get off to the best possible start. Traditionally, this has meant using plastic, but there is now an alternative – NexGen shelters offer the necessary long-term protection while being environmentally friendly. The tree shelters are made from an innovative mix of over 60% British wool, a biodegradable polyol (made from ethically sourced cashew nutshell liquid and castor oil), and a custom polymer.

NexGen developed this engineered biocomposite material with its unique combination

of British wool and biodegradable resin to protect the tree for the required minimum of five years. All resin components are biodegradable and pass the PBT test for not being persistent, bio-accumulative or toxic in the environment. As they break down, nutrients are released into the soil, further supporting tree growth.

Being made largely from British wool means NexGen is a revolution in tree shelter development. The company was founded by managing director Gary Hurlstone and he explains that 2025 will be a pivotal year for NexGen, including international exports. “We’ll be expanding production from our solar-

Being made largely from British wool means NexGen is a revolution in tree shelter development

powered factory in Norfolk, are working with the major distributors and are now focused on getting the message out to the market.”

Hurlstone, who studied industrial design, has long-standing knowledge of the tree shelter market. This came from his father, engineer Graham Hurlstone, who invented the Tubex tree shelter in the mid 1980s. Hurlstone worked in the Tubex factory when young at its manufacturing facilities in south London and later when it moved to Aberdare in Wales.

school holidays and my mid-twenties at Tubex and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.”

A major disruptor

“Dad and I had many conversations about the use of plastic and how it could be reduced, but it was a different time. Plastic tree shelters had a huge positive impact on the survival rate of trees being planted worldwide. However, we now better understand the long-term impact of plastics being left in the countryside. Technology and manufacturing processes have moved on in the last few years, and the industry needs to embrace alternatives to support the demand to sustainably plant more trees.

He says: “Most of my latter career was in the IT industry, but I did spend time working during

“Retaining an interest in the sector, I started investigating the use of wool as a sustainable tree shelter material – there were many years of research and development. Eventually, in 2020, I set up NexGen and spent four years on research and development and building the business."

Hurlstone explains that it was when living

Gary Hurlstone

in Wales that he became aware of the large amount of wool that didn’t get to market. “Welsh hill sheep farmers get less money for a fleece in relation to the cost of sheering a sheep. Given the fantastic biodegradable properties of British wool, he saw this as the ideal material to base his alternative to single-use plastic tree shelters."

Hurlstone has since brought on board a number of investors, including British Wool, and the business is now poised to accelerate rapidly. The shelter has undergone extensive lab and on-site testing on a number of planting sites across the UK and Europe, with its efficacy overseen by scientists, foresters and landowners.

Supporting the environment

Hurlstone points out that although there are now other alternatives to plastic, these may not have the same longevity as NexGen.

“Young trees need protection as they grow over their first five to seven years. After this, if sufficiently established, the plastic shelters should be removed. The problem is that all too often, this does not happen and so the plastic remains in the countryside – it’s thought around 700 million have been used. It’s not unusual to see them 20 or 30 years after they were first installed.”

NexGen tree shelters –which are largely keratin – break down into the soil, typically after around five years. This is a benefit to the land as it continues to provide nourishment for the tree.”

The shelters are also robust and come with a five-year warranty. In terms of the cost, Hurlstone

explains that NexGen costs around double the price of a typical plastic tree shelter. But, the key point is there is no further cost, where as a plastic shelter should be collected and

The shelter has undergone extensive lab and on-site testing on a number of planting sites...with its efficacy overseen by scientists, foresters and landowners

transported to a recycling facility where it is washed and processed. “The end result is that NexGen actually works out less expensive in the long term,” he says.

He adds that removing plastic tree shelters can also be unpleasant hard work. “I’ve done it – the land can be inaccessible or overgrown, and it’s highly inefficient. Of course, if it’s a small planting scheme on land that can be easily reached, then it’s not a problem –but when many thousands of shelters need removing, it’s impractical and this is why it often doesn’t happen.”

Arborists who want to find out more about NexGen shelters should check out the website, and the products were also exhibited recently at the 2024 APF and Groundswell. In addition to tree shelters, hedging guards and vole guards are also available.

For more information visit: nexgen-ts.com

Benefits of NexGen tree shelters

• Made from 100% British wool

• Have passed industry standard ecotoxicity tests

• Are pollution-free guaranteed

• Let in the right level and spectrum of light to promote healthy plants and strong, balanced growth

• Create a nourishing micro-environment for the sapling

• Can be easily pushed down into the soil, sealing off the base to protect young plants from grazing animals and harmful herbicide and pesticide sprays

• Are proven to last at least five years (depending on location, tree canopy, soil and microbes)

• Need no collection, cleaning or recycling

• Support mosses and lichens on the surface of our shelters to help create and sustain rich biodiversity

• Change colour over time to blend into the natural environment with no loss of performance

• Supplied with ties made in the UK from British mild steel, which slowly rust and degrade in the soil. Replacing the use of nylon cable ties, NexGen’s ties can be released and refastened easily, and deer, sheep and rodents cannot bite through them.

KIT TIMBER CRANES

A JOB WELL DONE

In November 2023, Guernsey, which is the second largest of the Channel Islands, was badly hit by Storm Ciarán.

Winds of over 100mpn battered the landscape, damaging buildings and over 70 trees were blown over. Even today, clean-up work continues and a recovery fund was established for nature restoration projects.

GUERNSEY TREE SERVICES WAS RECENTLY CALLED OUT TO REMOVE TWO HUGE AND DANGEROUS TREES –WITH THE HELP OF A LIEBHERR CRANE

Among the trees affected were a 25m Monterey pine and a 20m Monterey cypress – while they remained standing, they were increasingly unstable. What is more, they were located in a perilous location, were they to topple over. The States of Guernsey, the island’s government, took advice from local tree consultant, Phil Collenette, who recommended the felling because of the potential dangers.

It's increasingly being used for work on trees that are too unsafe to be climbed – it’s a far more efficient way of working

Guernsey Tree Services was engaged to remove the trees and owner Ric David explains why this was the only option: “These two trees had been monitored for many years because they overlooked a playground, a car park and a residential

care home in the Saumarez Park area. The storm made the situation even riskier; so we brought in a team of six arborists and a crane with an operator to do the work. It was initially thought the work would take four days, but the team managed to complete it in three.”

The trees were among the largest Guernsey Tree Services had felled in its 12-year history. Outer branches were removed first before the trunks were cut.

Ric David comments:

“Having the crane made a big difference – it has a 35m telescopic boom – and it's increasingly being used for work on trees that are too unsafe to be climbed. It’s a far more efficient way of working."

Some of the wood will be chipped, with the remainder to be used in the park as part of its landscaping.

Ric David, from Guernsey, set up the business when he took over another firm, Wakefield Tree Services in 2013 – he renamed it Guernsey Tree Services in 2021. He has worked as an arborist in 2008 and studied at Merrist Wood College in Surrey, where he gained the necessary tickets and he continues as the firm’s lead climber.

For more information: guernseytrees.gg

TAKING THE HIGH GROUND ON CLIMATE CHANGE

WITH EXTREME WEATHER INCREASINGLY AFFECTING THE UK, AN ARB FIRM HAS CHOSEN A NEW TRACKED SPIDER BOOM FROM HINOWA TO OPERATE EFFECTIVELY AND SAFELY

Lincolnshire Tree Services has invested in a Hinowa Lightlift 17.75 Performance IIIS tracked spider boom, which it sees as an effective way of managing the increasingly challenging working conditions resulting from climate change. In recent years, climate change has triggered more frequent of periods of heavy rain, creating increasingly unstable ground conditions - the extra traction delivered by the Hinowa will also help operatives reach more of the trees it needs to work on.

The company says the new machine is the best in its class, favouring it for compactness, reliability and ability to reach a large areas of tree canopies from just one position.

Storm damage work

Director Louise Allenby says: "The Hinowa performs well over poor and wet ground, so we'll still be able to do work in the most difficult conditions. This is important as we do an increasing amount of storm damage work, which is also related to climate change."

The company’s new Hinowa is replacing an older version of the same platform, which it had used since 2017. "We selected the Lightlift 17.75 because it is so compact that it can get into all the awkward spots we need to work in," says Allenby. "Also, Hinowas are so reliable that they are the go-to platforms."

KIT ACCESS PLATFORMS

dieback in Lincolnshire also makes working from the Hinowa essential.

Linda Betts, key accounts director for Access Platform Sales, the UK and Ireland distributor for Hinowa products says: "Hinowa always ensures its platforms have plenty of power and are engineered to perform well in difficult conditions. Climate change is certainly a factor in these design decisions.

The company's first preference is to work from platforms - it also operates a truck-mount platform - because it is safer than conventional rope access. The increasing prevalence of ash

"Hinowa has designed its spider booms from the bottom up to support tree specialists. Robust steel boom sections, an unrestricted 230kg basket capacity and highlyresponsive proportional controls help deliver the precision and reliability tree surgeons need across challenging terrain."

An accessible option

The model has a maximum working height of 17.06m and an outreach of up to 7.5m.

Meanwhile, the platform is just 790mm wide, 4529mm long and 1998mm high when stowed for tracking, allowing it to be moved though most garden gates and archways and along garden paths. The tracks can also be extended to 1086mm to support tracking across slopes or the sort of wet and unstable ground which operatives are increasingly encountering. There are also a number of smart features, including twin-speed tracking and one button set up and stow, plus safety features that prevent the platform from being used in potentially risky conditions.

Diesel and electric

Lincolnshire Tree Services selected the bi-energy version. It has a powerful diesel engine and can be operated on 110v mains electric power for working in indoor areas or where noise/emissions need to be eliminated.

The company is a local authority approved contractor and works for large estates, landscaping specialists, a wide range of businesses and domestic customers.

Enjoy the familiar features of the FSI B31 stump grinder, with the added benefit of increased power. At 38 horsepower, the B31-980 delivers exceptional power while maintaining its compact 74 cm width.

Taking it to the next level

SIMON ROTHERAM , MANAGING DIRECTOR OF BEECHWOOD TREES , NOW HAS AN OFFICIAL MENTORING QUALIFICATION – HE TELLS PRO ARB ABOUT THE BENEFITS IT WILL BRING TO THE BUSINESS

Following a year of study, Simon Rotheram, is now the proud holder of the ABM – Introduction in Business Mentoring certificate.

This is his first formal qualification in mentoring, although he comments: “I’ve had the privilege of not only leading a talented team but also supporting and developing individuals to reach their full potential. Arboriculture is a dynamic and evolving sector and the importance of mentoring cannot be overstated.”

What is mentoring?

Many companies ensure more junior staff in particular, benefit from guidance from someone more senior. This can be taken further by introducing a formal programme where a mentor teaches and advises someone less experienced and oversees their professional development.

“Mentoring has become a cornerstone of our company culture, and it has been a deeply rewarding journey for me, both personally and professionally,” says Rotheram.

He explains: “My journey into mentoring began organically. Early in my career, I recognised the profound impact that guidance and support from experienced professionals could have. Inspired by those who helped shape my path, I committed to paying it forward.”

Rotheram trained for the certificate half a day each week, attending tutorials at Coventry

University. Leading an expanding business is demanding and this was a big commitment, but he says: “This certification has equipped me with advanced skills and knowledge, enabling me to provide even more effective support to my team. Moreover, it has opened doors to new opportunities, allowing me to offer mentoring services to local businesses in need.”

To date, Rotheram has provided mentoring to other firms free of charge – including other arborists. “I’m not looking to work with firms that would be direct rivals, but certainly would with those that are not.

“Providing this mentoring for free has been incredibly rewarding, as I can see the tangible impact of my guidance on the growth and

Arboriculture is a dynamic and evolving sector and the importance of mentoring cannot be overstated

success of these businesses. We’ve been approached by other tree surgery companies seeking advice and guidance. Sharing our knowledge and seeing other businesses grow

and succeed is immensely gratifying. Building a community of arboriculture professionals dedicated to growth and excellence has enriched my own professional journey and fostered a spirit of collaboration in the industry.”

Rotheram says he would consider offering mentoring as a fee-based service in the future, but for now, he is simply enjoying passing on his knowledge.

Who should be mentored?

Mentoring needs investment in terms of time and effort from both parties – the mentor and mentee. It also requires careful planning to be effective, with regular sessions and agreed outcomes. Rotheram says key to effectiveness is “identifying team members with a growth mindset. This is the first step in our mentoring process. We then focus on

providing comprehensive training programmes and development opportunities tailored to individual needs – one of the greatest rewards of mentoring is witnessing both personal and business growth.”

He adds that he is inspired by Jim Rohn, an American entrepreneur, author and motivational speaker. “He is someone I greatly admire and he once said, ‘Success is nothing more than a few simple disciplines, practiced everyday. “This philosophy resonates deeply with me. A growth mindset is crucial in achieving success, and the mutual benefits of mentoring are profound. Not only do mentees thrive, but the process also continually challenges and inspires me to improve.”

Challenges exist

Any firm thinking of embarking on mentoring needs to be clear on any obstacles that may exist. Rotheram points out: “Balancing my primary responsibilities with mentoring can be challenging. You may also need to deal with issues like addressing individual learning styles and overcoming initial resistance to change.

“Yet, the long-term benefits are immense. Seeing the confidence and skills of mentees grow is a testament to the effectiveness of our mentoring approach. Overall, the obstacles are far outweighed by the rewards.”

He continues: “Looking ahead, we aim to formalise and expand our mentoring

programmes at Beechwood and beyond. My vision is to create a structured platform that not only nurtures talent within our company but also has a broader impact on the arboriculture industry.

the mutual benefits of mentoring are profound. Not only do mentees thrive, but the process also continually challenges and inspires me to improve

I hope to leave a legacy of growth, development, and continuous improvement, and this is helped by the fact we already have our own Training Academy. I’m inspired by the belief that mentoring is a powerful tool for achieving both personal and professional success.”

He describes mentoring as being a “transformative experience for myself and our team at Beechwood. It underscores the importance of a growth mindset and continuous development and I’d encourage others in the arb industry to embrace mentoring and foster a culture of growth and collaboration.”

COULD ‘HELP TO GROW’ HELP YOU?

Simon Rotheram funded this course via the government-backed Help to Grow scheme. “It’s well worth investigating and is aimed at smaller companies that want to improve existing or new skills, with the aim of achieving business growth.

The scheme is based around two programmes – Help to Grow: Management and Help to Grow: Digital.

The funding for Simon’s mentoring course was secured via the Management stream. Companies need a minimum of five employees –and a maximum of 249 – to apply. A firm must also have been trading for at least a year.

Training is provided at over 50 locations across the UK and is designed to fit alongside existing work commitments – it comprises both face to face and online learning. Applicants must agree to completing all sessions.

WHAT IS THE QUALIFICATION?

The Association of Business Mentors (ABM) is the professional body for business mentors and the training was provided by Agile Group –the qualification is recognised by the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM), which provides the accreditation.

This course was specifically developed by Agile to enable new mentors to start their journey in this field with confidence.

Agile Group specialises in coaching and mentoring and has successfully trained in excess of 2,500 learners in coaching and mentoring, providing mentors with the knowledge, skills and behaviours to help their SMEs flourish. Rotheram says he is now planning to take the next level and move into yet more advanced mentoring in 2025.

For more information, please visit: beechwoodtrees.co.uk

Acase brought by the Health & Safety Executive highlights the need for employers to insist on strict protocols when engaged in tree felling work.

Safe working zones essential when felling

A tree worker was left paralysed from the stomach down after being trapped under a felled tree. The contractor, Gerald Hayward, who traded as G H Hayward Forestry Contractors, and from Blandford Forum, Dorset, had been engaged on an ash dieback clearance programme. He made a cut in a tree that resulted in falling in the wrong direction and landing on a nearby worker.

The 69ft (21m) ash tree landed on a 61-yearold man, who was then 58, at the Fonthill Estate in Salisbury, Wiltshire, which covers some 9,000 acres, in January 2022. He was standing in a nearby bridle path, and suffered eight broken ribs, a broken pelvis, two broken ankles, a collapsed lung and internal bleeding.

Hayward pleaded guilty at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court to breaching the Health and Safety at Work Act and was fined £1,000 in addition to £1,000 in costs. The injured worker, from Frome in Somerset, was placed in an induced coma for two weeks and then spent

TIPS FOR SAFER FELLING

• Ensure no people are within a zone twice the tree height from the intended felling area.

• All contractors should wear hi-vis gilets or jackets to ensure they can be seen by each other and members of the public.

• Proper risk assessment should be undertaken before any felling with clear decisions made about the felling direction. Be aware that weather conditions, any obstacles and terrain can impact on this.

• If a tree is already in poor condition, be aware that there can be an increased risk of injury from falling branches.

EMPLOYERS MUST ENSURE THERE IS ENOUGH SPACE TO PROTECT WORKERS WHEN TREES ARE

BEING FELLED AS A RECENT COURT CASE SHOWED

four months in hospital. The HSE conducted an investigation and said Hayward had “failed to implement a safe working zone around the tree as it was being felled.”

The zone should be at least twice the size of the tree and only the felling operator is permitted inside it. The so-called danger zone is an area to the front and rear of a tree, where the tree is most likely to fall either during or after the sink and felling cuts have been made.

The HSE said the tree fell in an “unintended direction” as the cut made “did not leave a functioning hinge”, which is when a portion of the trunk is kept intact to help guide the tree’s fall. When carried out properly, a tree worker should make a sink cut – this is a triangular cut

made near to the base of the trunk in the side of the tree that the tree is intended to fall. It should be made at an angle of approximately 45 degrees. A felling cut is the horizontal cut

Ensure no people are within a zone twice the tree height from the intended felling area

made into the rear of the tree, just above and towards the sink cut. The felling cut should stop before it meets the sink cut to create a hinge.

The falling action of the tree is controlled as the portion of the tree that has not been cut through creates a hinge. This allows the felling direction and the rate of the fall to be controlled.

HSE inspector James Hole says: “This was a serious incident that has led to an individual sustaining life-changing injuries, meaning he is now unable to work and requires lifelong care.

“Mr Hayward failed to create a safe working zone around the tree while it was being cut down – this is a standard working practice for tree felling in woodland. He failed to implement the correct control measures and a safe system of work.

“Had Mr Hayward done this, then this incident would have been prevented and the individual would not be paralysed and facing the rest of his life without the use of his legs.”

This HSE prosecution was brought by HSE enforcement lawyer Gemma Zakrzewski and supported by HSE paralegal officer Gabrielle O’Sullivan.

Take control of YOUR arb career

GARRY

JONES , WHO HAS NEWLY JOINED CTC RECRUITMENT , EXPLAINS

WHY TAKING

A PROACTIVE APPROACH IS THE BEST ROUTE TO WORK SUCCESS

The world of arboriculture offers a world of work opportunities –and this goes far beyond climbing or operating a wood chipper.

Garry Jones has recently joined CTC Recruitment as business operations manager and is a seasoned professional, having worked in talent acquisition and development for many years, most recently for an environmental consultancy.

“I’m really excited about my new role and there are some exceptional opportunities available right now. We are not just an agency, and are here to give advice, whether it’s in person or via our website where there is a range of guidance.”

Think ahead

There are many arborists who are working on a sub-contracted basis. This may well be a preferred option for a number of years, but there are also pitfalls. As Jones says: “A climber may well be on a good day rate and have flexibility. But there are no promotion opportunities or benefits. It can be a precarious lifestyle, and injuries as well as long-term back and shoulder problems are sadly all too common. There certainly are advantages to working on an employed basis, but also, having a clear plan about your next steps are important.”

He adds that a shortage of arborists has led to employers offering higher pay rates and improving benefit packages. Many arborists choose to work in this sector because they wanted a job that was largely outside, enjoyed nature and wanted to escape the restrictions of the classroom. But they may well find their attitude to learning changes once they gain skills and want to develop these further.”

Jones explains: “There’s plenty of scope to move from so-called ‘blue collar’ roles into ‘white collar’ and the practical experience is invaluable and can be essential.”

Train to gain

Many arborists will already have attained a Level 2 qualification from college. Moving into a more technical area will require taking a Level 3 or Level 4 and if you already have this then we would highly recommend gaining the Lantra Professional Tree Inspection certificate. “Of course, any training in an investment but many colleges offer part-time courses and there

a shortage of arborists has led to employers offering higher pay rates and improving benefit packages

are also private training providers that offer intensive ones. If you can go on and get to Level 6, then this really is the gold standard but generally a Level 4 is a great start.

Consultancy work involving tree surveys is expanding as the UK experiences a development boom. Working as a local authority tree officer can also be a satisfying career, involving a mix of external visits and being office-based.

Jones adds: “We have roles all over the UK, many for local authorities and for private companies too. We also have ones in more specialists areas like multi-disciplinary practices, where there is a focus on ecology, and even in colleges.”

Indeed, many colleges offering arboricultural courses will favour those who have worked ‘on the tools’ as a professional tree surgeon. “It really is a case of setting aside the time to get those extra qualifications and deciding if you enjoy communicating and mentoring – if so, then moving into education could be well worth considering.”

Look at the temporary route

CTC Recruitment also specialises in temporary roles and this can also be a route well worth considering. “We’re experts in this area and provide a complete service for employers. We handle the payroll and pay the tax and NI and for the employee, this is a chance for them to ‘try before they buy’ as the employer will often look to offer a permanent role after an agreed temporary contract of around three to six months. This can also be a great way to gain experience, and we have plenty of available positions, so there can be good job security.”

The opportunities are out there and as Jones concludes: “You are responsible for developing your career and it is always a good idea to be thinking ahead. We’re on hand to provide information – you can then make plans and make it happen.”

CTC Recruitment

CTC Recruitment is always pleased to take applications from anyone who is looking for help or advice on the next step in their arb career, so please do get in touch and we will add your details to the register to hear about arboricultural roles. Contact: admin@ctcrecruitment.co.uk ctcrecruitment.co.uk

# ARB IN ACTION

JN TREECARE IN ASSOCIATION WITH

WESTCOTT TREE SERVICES

This image shows Charlie Westcott of Westcott Tree Services felling the stem of a dismantled Beech tree.

Fareham-based JN Treecare sent us this photo, from recent work, close to a rail line. You can find out more about the business by checking out the previous issue of Pro Arb, when we interviewed founder Jack Newcombe.

MARTIN LENNON

Thanks to Martin of Preston, Lancs for this photo. He runs Arboricultural & Forestry Support Services, for the trees and timber sector, and is a specialist in health and safety, quality assurance, site inspections, auditing and training and assessment.

In each issue of Pro Arb, on our website and the Instagram page, we feature images of the UK’s most talented arborists – why not join them?

HOW TO TAKE PART

You can email a single or number of high-resolution images (over 1MB in size) to: proarbeditor@eljays44.com

TELL US WHO YOU ARE

Let us know your name and business –if you’re a sub-contractor, you can tell us who you were working for.

TELL US ABOUT THE JOB

You can provide us with a few brief details of the job and if you wish, the kit – or if you prefer, let the picture do the talking!

EVERYONE’S A WINNER

Stihl will choose one photo for the prize, but making the final cut is still a great achievement. Enter as often as you like.

TROY GIEFER

Pro Arb’s readership has a wide reach and this comes from Arkansas, USA. It shows Troy after dropping an 85ft pine tree. This was part of taking down a total of 21 pines, which were infected with pine bark beetle. He points out this was a good effort as he is an amateur arborist!

PRODUCED IN ASSOCIATION WITH STIHL, PRO ARB IS PROUD TO SHOWCASE SOME OF THE UK’S FINEST ARBORISTS DOING WHAT THEY DO BEST

WESTCOTT TREE SERVICES

CORNWALL THIS ISSUE'S #ARBINACTION WINNER

WINNER

PRIZES

STIHL FLEECE JACKET, STIHL MSA 300 T-SHIRT, STIHL BOXER SHORTS, STIHL WORKER SOCKS, LOGO CIRCLE WINDCHEATER, ORGANIC STIHL T-SHIRT (ORANGE)

Charlie Westcott, who runs Westcott Tree Services, has recently moved to the Truro area of Cornwall. This image shows him dismantling a Scots Pine.