Pro Arb February 2017

FEBRUARY 2017

AN INTERVIEW WITH

DUNCAN ARMSTRONG ASPEN TREE CARE

TOP TEN TIPS

BUYER’S GUIDE

CHAINSAW CHAINS VARIETY SHOW WHY TOWER HAMLETS IS PUSHING DIVERSITY

DEALING WITH

ASH DIEBACK

ARB HEALTH HAND ARM VIBRATION SYNDROME

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CONTENTS

PRO ARB MAGAZINE February 2017 | Volume 4 | Issue 2

Welcome 06 AGENDA

Do you think the AA should introduce an approved list of individual climbers and tree surgeons?

08 NEWS

A roundup of industry news

Business 13

AN INTERVIEW WITH

16

PESTS AND DISEASES

17

CONSULTANTS AND TREE OFFICERS

Duncan Armstrong, Aspen Tree Care

Bartlett Tree Experts gives advice on black root rot

Jonathan Hazell discusses the working relationship between tree officer and consultant

19

GREENING THE GLACIER

Rick Milsom explains his tree choices for a project in Southend-on-Sea

20 TOWER HAMLETS COUNCIL

Pro Arb visits Tower Hamlets to find out how the council takes care of its tree stock

W

WELCOME

elcome to the February edition of Pro Arb. After two and a half years, we at Pro Arb have decided it's time to make some changes. We have established this magazine as the go-to publication for industry information since starting from scratch in September 2014, and now it's time to push forward and become a journal that doesn't just create nice-to-read features, but must-read features.

The changes won't be drastic, and they will improve on what we currently offer. e will look to involve more information on legislation, the installation of trees in larger landscape projects and the products and services available to this industry. You will see these changes as of next month, so keep your eyes peeled and let us know what you think.

In this issue, we have a great interview with Lewes-based Duncan Armstrong on page 13, in which he tells all about his route into arboriculture and how his company involves communities in

tree work. We also pay a visit to Tower Hamlets Council to see how it deals with its tree stock, and we have a fantastic feature on hand arm vibration syndrome, a condition that could have serious conse uences for your staff. ee page for information on how to control the risks, with the help of Andrew Turner from the HSE. That's it for this month, see you next month for our new and improved issue.

Enjoy the read.

JOE WILKINSON

24 HAND ARM VIBRATION SYNDROME The warning signs of HAVS and how best to lower the risk

26

TOP TEN TIPS

Expert tips on dealing with ash dieback

Kit 28 TOOLBOX

Landmark Tree Surgery gives the details on its preferred equipment

30 WHICH WOULD YOU BUY? Chainsaw chains

33

LATEST KIT

37

ARB KIT

41

TRADING WITH

Climbing kit and footwear

Global Recycling

Regulars 42 CAREERS 43 WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM ANCIENT TREE COLUMN

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ALL ENQUIRIES Tel: 01903 777 570 Eljays44 Ltd 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3DA EDITORIAL Commissioning Editor – Joe Wilkinson joe.wilkinson@eljays44.com Director – Lisa Wilkinson lisa.wilkinson@eljays44.com roduction ditor usie uff susie.duff@eljays44.com Editorial Reporter – Joe Betts joe.betts@eljays44.com Editorial Assistant – Max Dodd max.dodd@eljays44.com Subeditor – Charlie Cook charlotte.cook@eljays44.com ADVERTISING Business Development Manager – Jamie Wilkinson jamie.wilkinson@eljays44.com Sales Executive – Jessica McCabe jessica.mccabe@eljays44.com Horticulture Careers – Liam Colclough liam.colclough@eljays44.com

PRODUCTION Design – Kara Thomas, Fay Pritchard, Mandy Armstrong Printed by Pensord Press Ltd Published by ©Eljays44 Ltd CIRCULATION Subscription enquiries: emily.maltby@eljays44.com Pro Arb is published 12 times per year by Eljays44 Ltd. The 2017 subscription price is £95. Subscription records are maintained at Eljays44 Ltd, 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3DA, 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.

FOLLOW US ONLINE www.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 www.horticulturecareers.co.uk Every week we send out ‘Pro Arb: The Tuesday Recap’, in which we highlight the most popular news stories from the last week. If you aren’t subscribed to The Tuesday Recap but would like to be, please email Amber Bernabe at amber.bernabe@eljays44.com If you would like to send us press releases to post online and potentially feature in The Tuesday Recap, please email Joe Wilkinson at joe.wilkinson@eljays44.com

MANAGEMENT Managing Director – Jim Wilkinson Director – Lisa Wilkinson Business Development Manager – Jamie Wilkinson

Pro Arb | November 2015

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AGENDA

AGENDA PRO ARB ASKS INDUSTRY INSIDERS “DO YOU THINK THE ARBORICULTURAL ASSOCIATION SHOULD INTRODUCE AN APPROVED LIST FOR INDIVIDUAL CLIMBERS AND TREE SURGEONS?” In last month’s Pro Arb we explored what the future could hold for arboriculture. It was suggested to us that the Arboricultural Association should set up an approved list for individual climbers and tree surgeons.

We asked you to have your say...

SARAH POOLEY-DODD Quality manager, Treefellers

uali ca io s do mea a someo e ca ca y ou e jo believe that the current ualification scheme within the industry doesn t assist any employers or clients. lot of operatives manage to pass the T or the T awards training certificate, which means they are safe to carry out the activity, but not that they re capable of doing their ob which is a different thing altogether. t would be good for all parties because at the moment the ualifications don t mean that someone can do their ob. agree that something needs to be introduced, but not necessarily another rb pproved list.

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Pro Arb | February 2017

SIMON N’JIE

Managing director, Artemis Tree Services e you o o a i e ie a com a y could c ec suc a e is e a d see e le el you e a think that having an individual list would be a good idea, as it would allow anyone in the country to check how ualified you are. This would mean that when you go for an interview, a company could check the register and see the level you re at. uch a database should show varying degrees of ualification, from newly ualified tree surgeons straight out of college right up to the top. This gives clients more of an understanding on who they re using. t the moment there s nothing available like that.

MIKE EVANS

Managing director, Acme trees i e cos s is ould i ol e i seems u ecessa y a d m o su e a i ould ac ie e

t sounds like a lot more paperwork which small businesses are already struggling to manage. specially with the additional costs this would involve, it seems unnecessary and m not sure what it would achieve. ustomers are employing the company, not the employees themselves, and businesses and large corporations already ask for employee certificates. t sounds like another money making opportunity with little benefit to anyone.

STEVE BONES

Development manager, Wilby Tree Surgeons e a e oo ma y lis s mem e s i s a d uali ca io s i jus co uses i s o clie s ersonally don t see what benefit that it would bring to the industry. t the moment they are promoting the egister of Tree ork peratives it works to encourage highly trained, flexible and skilled arboricultural individuals and workforces.

There is no need to create additional lists for the sake of it. f we have too many approved

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lists, memberships and ualifications then it ust confuses things for clients. think that is a lot more relevant at the moment than the Arb Association taking on additional approved lists.

DOMINIC BLAKE

Consultancy manager, Advanced Tree Services “It would help in the employment process, although it could hinder the employer in terms of wages” On face value I don’t think it would be a bad thing. It would allow greater scope for people to go off into freelance, as at the moment to be Arb Approved they would need to be part of a company that is an approved contractor.

It would also add an extra kudos to your workforce if you employed people who had the ualifications. That s something you could advertise for clients to see. t would certainly help in the employment process in regards to selection, although it could hinder the employer in terms of wages. t s one of those things in that if someone becomes an rb pproved climber or tree

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surgeon, then they are going to be expecting a higher wage that they may not get.

DAVID FORD

Director, David Ford Tree Care “Employees on the list could earn money, but they could also demand higher wages” think there could be an approved climber list, why not? I think there’s a shortage of skilled tradesman, so in that sense it would help an employer with the recruitment process. t could also make things clearer for clients to see what level each employee is at. n the one hand, if you have employees on the list you could potentially earn money, but on the other hand it could mean employees demand a higher wage and therefore cost the company more. t s di cult to say whether it would be a good idea or not.

NEXT MONTH

BRUCE BLACKMAN

Director, Complete Tree Care “Who would determine who is able to get on the list, and what factors would they be considered by?” m not sure how it would work the rb ssociation s list system is built on safe systems of work, so it s company orientated. ven with changing that to make it more focused on individual people m still somewhat sceptical. ho is going to determine who is able to get on the list, and what factors would they be considered by? ther systems that have been endorsed by the Arb Association such as the R2 have had a similar idea. m not too sure what happened to that, probably because it was so complicated and it was too much administration for people. ust think it makes things a bit too di cult and over complicated.

Pro Arb asks: Is the industry doing enough to promote arb as a genuine career path?

Have your say: joe.wilkinson@eljays44.com

Pro Arb | February 2017

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NEWS

NEWSBEAT

A roundup of all the latest arboriculture news from around the UK. For more stories visit www.proarbmagazine.com

DART INTERNATIONAL UK PREPARES FOR FIRST DEPLOYMENT TO AFRICA

AA WELCOMES VISIT FROM MEP MOLLY SCOTT-CATO

Now in its third year, the Disaster Arborist Response Team (DART) International UK is currently preparing to mount its third operational deployment.

Building on the success of previous operations to Vanuatu

On Thursday 5 January the Arboricultural Association (AA) welcomed the Green Party Member of European Parliament for the South West, Molly Scott-Cato, to The Malthouse.

The meeting proved to be worthwhile for both sides, as Molly was not initially aware of the work of the association and its presence in the local area, which the AA recognises as further confirmation that they must do more to raise public recognition of the organisation and its work.

CEO Stewart Wardrop and senior technical o cer, Simon Richmond, introduced Molly to the mission of the AA, as it continues to build relationships and spread awareness of the skill and expertise of the profession.

and Northern Samar, and sponsored by Fletcher Stewart/ Stein, the charity is sending a team of four volunteers to Sierra Leone. The DART team will be working alongside Rory’s Well, a Gloucestershire based overseas development charity that operates in the Pujehun district of southern Sierra Leone.

Like DART it’s a volunteer based organisation, delivering water aid and other projects to address malnutrition and high infant mortality in 17 communities. www.dartinternational.co.uk

GREENMECH ISSUES STATEMENT ON JENSEN SERVICE GMBH DISPUTE British chipper manufacturer GreenMech has issued the following statement concerning its dispute with German manufacturer, Jensen Service GmbH: “GreenMech’s patent infringement action against Jensen in the German Patent Courts, to protect its ‘Safe-Trak’

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Pro Arb | February 2017

European Patent, has been successfully concluded.

Jensen has stopped production of its ‘X’ track.”

The South West MEP was fully supportive of these goals and the association’s aim to educate the public on the importance of trees where they impact people’s wellbeing, and of their proper management.

A statement on the AA website says that it was pleased to hear that trees were one of the top 10 things on her list of issues to address when she came into o ce, and that they will look to assist her and work together wherever possible to help olly fulfil her goals. www.mollymep.org.uk

www.greenmech.co.uk

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

02/02/2017 10:41

NEWS

MAKITA LAUNCHES TWIN 18V (36V) CHAINSAW Makita has launched a new DUC353Z twin 18V brushless motor chainsaw, which it says

sets new standards for cordless chainsaws and matches the logging performance of similar sized petrol powered saws.

The new saw offers the many values of cordless machines which have become recognised through the industry: zero emissions, quiet operation, total control and high levels of e ciency and safety as standard.

The Makita 36V direct-drive

brushless motor has a rated output of 1,100W, similar to a 32cc petrol machine, and comes fitted with identical cm length bar and a chain speed of 20m per second.

Trials have shown that two fully charged 5.0Ah batteries will deliver over 60 cuts through 5in diameter timber, at least 7m of cutting per charge.

On hearing the news, Professor O’Hara said: “I’m very pleased and honoured to receive the 2016 Silvicultural Prize from the Institute of Chartered Foresters. I’m also gratified that the ournal Forestry gave me the opportunity to present the science to challenge the status quo regarding emulating nature with silviculture.”

he eld ouncil has revealed plans to create ‘urban woodlands’ by planting 7,500 trees. The authority, which is facing fierce opposition to its roadside tree felling policy, is working with the Trees for Cities organisation to develop sites in three parks in the south east of the city.

The trees will be planted in Kenninghall Bank, Fox Lane Recreation Ground and Pipworth Recreation Ground.

The council says it will plant hundreds more trees – including more mature heavy standards – across the city as part of its usual community forestry programme.

www.charteredforesters.org

www.thestar.co.uk

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INSTITUTE OF CHARTERED FORESTERS AWARDS KEVIN O’HARA 2016 SILVICULTURAL PRIZE The Institute of Chartered Foresters is delighted to have awarded Kevin O’Hara, Professor of Silviculture at the University of California, Berkeley, the 2016 Percy Stubbs, John olton ing and dward arfitt Prize for Silviculture – for advancing our knowledge of the growing and cultivation of trees.

Professor O’Hara has received this prestigious award in recognition of his paper

entitled ‘What is close-to-nature silviculture in a changing world?’, published in Forestry.

The editors believe this to be an outstanding paper which demonstrates a strong knowledge of the subject.

The paper has provided a real challenge to the policy and practice of the subject.

COUNCIL TO PLANT 7,500 TREES IN SHEFFIELD

HELENSBURGH’S TREES COULD BECOME PART OF SCOTTISH NATIONAL COLLECTION Much admired trees that line many of Helensburgh’s streets could become part of the National Tree Collections of Scotland.

That’s the hope of the Helensburgh Tree Conservation Trust, which has commissioned a new management plan to look at how best to look after more than 1,800 street trees around

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the town. The convener of the conservation trust, Iain Duncan, believes the addition of one of Helensburgh’s greatest assets to the National Collection would be a major boost for the town.

Mr Duncan said: “The National Tree Collections of Scotland are very interested in our street trees, and that’s one reason we need an

up to date management plan.

“They would like to adopt

Helensburgh’s trees as part of the collection, which in my view would be a very positive thing for tourism and publicity.

“Most of the National Collection is in big estates, large parks or substantial gardens – it doesn’t yet have any street trees or urban environments.” www.helensburghadvertiser.co.uk

Pro Arb | February 2017

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NEWS

PETERSFIELD TREES FOUND TO BE WORTH MILLIONS A survey last summer carried out by about 40 volunteers listed, measured, mapped and categorised more than 800 trees in etersfield. n initial valuation has suggested that the trees are worth millions of pounds.

The survey was coordinated by an expert in the effects of pollution and climate change on

LI SHOWS STREET TREES ARE CRITICAL IN URBAN AREAS

The Landscape Institute (LI) has submitted evidence to a National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) consultation ‘Air pollution: Outdoor air quality and health’ to make the case for the role of urban trees in supporting healthy urban communities.

Professor Alan Simson, Professor of Landscape Architecture and Urban Forestry at Leeds Beckett University School of Art, Architecture and Design, said: “The NICE consultation does not acknowledge the role street trees play in healthy communities as much as it could, and more research should be carried out into how street trees influence air uality. www.landscapeinstitute.org

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trees, rofessor ndy offatt, who works at Alice Holt woodland research centre. He said: “It took about 40 minutes to survey each tree, and projections from the survey suggest that there are some 60,500 trees inside the etersfield parish boundary.

“Among the trees surveyed there were 70 species, with

oak being the most common, followed by elm and ash.

“A preliminary valuation suggests they are worth many millions of pounds, but there are signs that in the built up areas in particular, about a quarter of the tree crowns are in a poor state.” www.horndeanpost.co.uk

delighted to team up with Opitz.

This exciting new project will give us the opportunity to merge our extensive landscaping expertise with Opitz’s impressive environmental agenda.”

An investigation has been launched to find out who is responsible for chopping down 200-year-old ancient beech trees in Caerphilly, South Wales. nvironment o cers have begun work after the “devastating” discovery last week. The high branches were left sprawled across the ground as the trees were seemingly brought down with a chainsaw.

Natural Resources Wales, the enforcement authority investigating the felling, has launched an inquiry.

www.wilkinsoncox.com

www.telegraph.co.uk

WILKINSON COX LTD SIGNS NEW CONTRACT WITH OPITZ The largest tree spade in Europe, responsible for transplanting more than one million trees, has signed a contract with a new agent for the UK and Ireland.

Wilkinson Cox Ltd clinched the deal with Opitz to run its UK interests, including responsibility for securing new commercial business opportunities and utilising its expert project management function.

Nigel Fox, co-founder of Wilkinson Cox, said: “We’re

200 ANCIENT BEECH TREES ILLEGALLY CUT DOWN

SADIQ KHAN ASSIGNS £25K TO PLANT TREES IN BARNET PARKS Sadiq Khan has put aside £25k to plant new trees across Barnet.

Over the next two months, a range of organisations – including Trees for Cities and Groundwork London – and thousands of volunteers will plant trees in every London borough. The mayor of London has started a programme to make London ‘one of the greenest cities

in the world’ by assigning £750k to plant more than 40k new trees across the capital. Included in the project is the ‘avenue creation’ in four parks across Barnet with large-growing trees chosen to increase cover, create shade and improve air quality. The sites, which will be worked by London Wildlife Trust and local friends

groups in the chosen areas, have been chosen due to their histories of vandalism. www.times-series.co.uk

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02/02/2017 10:42

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BUSINESS

An interview with

DUNCAN ARMSTRONG ASPEN TREE CARE Duncan Armstrong speaks to Pro Arb about his journey into the industry, what he’s learnt about starting a business, and why he strives to involve communities in tree work

How did you get started in arboriculture?

I started in 1999 by doing some work with the East Sussex Countryside Rangers. Around that time I had just started doing my basic ualifications while working part time to earn some money. fter completing the course took a couple of years out of the industry before returning to college in 2002 to further my education. I worked for Worthing Borough Council for about three or four years and then started my business in 2006.

I enjoy the combination of the hands-on work with a scientific element to it What attracted you to the industry?

I was drawn to doing conservation work and did a biological degree. When I started the work realised that cracking that particular nut was di cult, but with the skills had thought may as well start doing something practical. began a forestry course which I really enjoyed and saw that as a realistic career opportunity.

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I enjoy the combination of the hands-on work with a scientific element to it. The fact that it s a fairly new science as well means there is still lots to find out and discover.

Why did you leave Worthing Borough Council to start your own business?

I always wanted to start my own business. hen you leave college you re extremely green so needed to find a ob where could get some practical experience. was uite fortunate that I landed on my feet – the guy I did my forestry course with was the lead climber with the council.

He told me to come down for an interview.

After a while of working together as a team we began planning a business together. worked with him for about two years on a business plan which never transpired. left the council after that and he stayed. It was still useful to have done the business plan to have in the back of my mind, and it was a very useful learning curve about why not to start a partnership.

This is true in arboriculture particularly, maybe because there are so many di culties and pitfalls. ot least of which is agreeing who is bringing the work in and how much of it,

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02/02/2017 10:48

BUSINESS

how valuable it is, and how you divide the spoils. e does still work for me but it s much easier to work as individual entities and ust set up on your own.

In the gang I like to have people who are capable of dealing with customers, making their own decisions, writing risk assessments, and identifying problems that even I might not have seen What is your day to day role? t changes every day, different hats suppose. enerally it s supervising work. m lead climber but will work on the ground, field phone calls, and organise and generate work. do consulting as well so do a lot of organising reports and doing surveys. t the moment m talking to the green spaces manager for orthing omes, a social housing group that provide work for. m trying to iron out a bit of a tricky method statement so what do day to day does vary.

number of trees, or particularly if can convince someone to plant new trees, that gives me a lot of satisfaction. really en oy introducing the people work with to new techni ues or ways of doing things. lthough to be honest, these days there s a guy working for me who is king of the kit. e started off making everything out of washing line and inventing things. e s brilliant at saying, why don t we do it this way o try and keep an open mind as much as can.

What has been the biggest challenge of your career so far? tarting a business and dealing with things when they go wrong ne of my better skills is being fairly calm under fire which isn t always such a great thing because sometimes m a bit too relaxed . m fortunate that we haven t had any ma or accidents although we have had a few

near misses. m a firm believer in using s we use a lot of cherry pickers, but you still have things happen and that s always di cult. m not so bothered about people not paying on time or always having work. e had a baby months ago, and he came at a time where had a bit less work. felt very fortunate that was self employed because could take time off.

Do you get involved with any of the associations? n did my evel arb diploma. y tutors and some of the people on the course were really enthusiastic about the rb ssociation. was encouraged to go along to their outh ast which was useful, and met a few people there and oined. The way they encourage students did the trick for me. aren artin became the around that point and she was revolutionary. t needed a bit of a kick up the backside and she

What’s the structure of your team? n a day to day basis there are three of us, but like most small companies we have a group of people who can work for us on a short term basis. n the gang like to have people who are capable of dealing with customers, making their own decisions, writing risk assessments, and identifying problems that even might not have seen. t s always useful to have two or three pairs of eyes.

What do you enjoy the most about your job? bviously it s popping my head out of a beautiful canopy of autumn foliage with a brilliant blue sky up above especially if don t have to prune it with a chainsaw, which is always nice. t s also a really good feeling to explain something particularly well to somebody who may not have understood a situation properly. f can roll them back from wanting to get shot of

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BUSINESS

did just that. She came from more of a business perspective and set a lot of things in motion which are just getting better and better.

I’ve been to a training course and a couple of conferences which are particularly good for networking. I learned from talking to a number of people that taking the steps to become an approved consultant was really what I wanted be aiming my sights at.

If there’s a working group that actually involves the people that live there and we get them involved in planting trees, less of them get vandalised

Do you do a lot of networking with others in the industry?

It’s always useful to meet others, but because everyone is so spread out you don’t meet so many like-minded people in the industry. We are quite lucky in Brighton because we have a little informal gang of us tree surgeons. Every Christmas and in the summer we meet up socially and that’s quite helpful. do find that there s uite a few that get to my age, start getting a bit bored and decide to move on to something else. I want to stick with it, but I think if you do, you probably want to plough ahead with more academic stuff and become more established as a consultant.

I’m ready to do that as soon as I get a bit more work in, which will be a consequence of the right marketing. Something that is lacking is a good course to help small businesses to market themselves, especially about how to market yourself online which is a bit of a dark art. In a small business you have to be a master of so many different things.

I would like to get a bit more consultancy work, which means I probably need to get some further education. I’m very interested in garden design and have done a little bit of work for clients when they’ve asked for it. One of my contracts is for Sussex Square in Brighton, where I work for the head gardener doing all the surveys and tree work. He does the design work for the garden, so I enjoy picking his brains and asking about the secrets of being a designer. He told me that

So what do you want to do next?

I’m trying to expand to having another team.

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knowing masses about horticulture is one part of it, and simply having a good eye is another.

Is there anything that you’re particularly passionate about?

When providing work for housing groups, I hope to involve more of the residents and tenants in planting schemes. If there is a working group that actually involves the people that live there and we get them involved in planting trees, less of them get vandalised. It also means there is a vested interest to plant more trees.

It really does get me out of bed in the morning to build on my experience and knowledge base of planning strategies. It’s a great feeling to meet people and get involved in the community. You don’t get too much of that by just doing tree surgery.

CONTACT Aspen Tree Care, 3 Heath Stables, Spital Road, Lewes BN7 1LS Tel 01273 479 058 Email aspentreecare@hotmail.co.uk Web www.aspentreecare.co.uk

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02/02/2017 10:50

BUSINESS

BLACK ROOT ROT Bartlett Tree Experts advises on black root rot, from the warning signs to its most common victims and what to do about it

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lack root rot (Thielaviopsis basicola) is a fungal root rot pathogen affecting many plant species, but is most commonly found on Ilex, especially I. crenata (however I. aquifolium and I. cornuta are resistant). Herbaceous plants are also susceptible including Begonia, Dahlia, Geranium, Poinsettia, Cyclamen, Gerbera and Pansy. This disease favours wet soils at temperatures greater than 12°C. It’s thought to be spread by sciarid flies although widespread movement can also come via imported soil or plant stock.

Symptoms Below ground, roots exhibit characteristic blackened areas and significantly reduced growth. These characteristic black lesions on the roots contain the spores by which

the pathogen spreads. Once the disease is established in the root system, above ground symptoms may appear which are consistent with root loss and root decline such as stunted growth, branch dieback and yellowing throughout the crown. Symptoms will be similar to

An application of potassium phosphite will enhance plant vitality and promote the plant’s own naturally occurring defence systems other root rot pathogens, physical root damage or soil compaction.

Occasionally diamond shaped lesions have been observed at the base of heavily infected plants.

Black root rot can also affect seedlings, infecting the seedling whilst still emerging from the soil.

Management Plant and soil removal is the only viable remedial treatment for this pathogen.

No fungicides are registered for control. Maintaining a soil pH below 5.6 can reduce disease severity.

Consider an application of potassium phosphite to enhance plant vitality and promote the plant’s own naturally occurring defence systems. This may be of benefit in situations where damage is limited however little effective control should be expected from this approach.

For biosecurity reasons avoid moving material off site. Twigs and leaves should remain on site and be burned, buried or composted.

Disinfecting pruning tools by rinsing in alcohol or a solution one part bleach to nine parts water will reduce the chance of spreading any diseased material. Also important is removing all leaves and soil from footwear, clothing and vehicles.

Promote plant vitality by mulching, irrigation and soil nutrient management, where necessary, following a soil analysis.

ABOUT BARTLETT Emma Schaffert is a research technician at the Bartlett Tree Research Laboratory.

Jon Banks is a plant diagnostician for Bartlett Tree Experts.

He is undertaking a PhD into drought stress in Acers.

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02/02/2017 10:01

BUSINESS Jonathan Hazell advises on how consultants and tree officers can best aid each other, and support clients in the process

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wo common scenarios for a consultant are to provide a report for the planning authority to work on a protected tree, or to support a planning application. The tree o cer will decide if work can proceed upon a protected tree, and they will be consulted on a planning application.

This open and transparent approach makes it simpler for the tree officer to decide if a site visit is required before a decision can be made It always makes sense to try and submit a piece of work that makes the recipient’s life easier – not necessarily more comfortable, but easier. Your written work and illustrations must be digested easily and support your desired outcome as logical and reasonable, however di cult the regulator may find that position. As planning authorities lose their arboricultural expertise it makes more and more sense for the consultant’s report to offer a comprehensive and reasoned

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WORKING TOGETHER

CONSULTANTS & TREE OFFICERS ustification in plain nglish, to help the non-specialists in the department come to their decision.

The planning authority must be notified of an intention to work on a tree in a conservation area, including any work that may influence the roots. o ustification for the work is re uired under the regulations, but it will help the tree o cer come to a decision if a summary of why the consultant thinks the work is ustified is included. hotos can be very useful to illustrate your client’s thinking. This open and transparent approach makes it simpler for the tree o cer to decide if a site visit is re uired before a decision can be made.

For a tree under a T , reasonable ustification for the proposed work is re uired, and it will help the tree o cer if the application is well thought out and presented. The tree o cer will want to visit the site and

consider the proposals before agreeing that they are a reasonable and proportionate response to the situation, so make your proposals clear.

When considering a planning application, the tree o cer is a consultee rather than the decision maker.

If trees have been identified as being a material consideration, then it’s reasonable to expect the application to include a report that will demonstrate how the development is to proceed without causing harm to the retained trees, and how the trees and the

It will help the tree officer if the application is well thought out and presented built form will coexist in harmony as a sustainable landscape. The consultant’s report and a site visit will allow the tree o cer to make an informed comment on the application, be that to object, support or be neutral. Good reasoning to justify the proposed works will build the author’s

reputation with the tree o cer, and so incrementally build the level of confidence and trust that the tree o cer has in them. This will pay dividends, as the tree o cer will find it simpler to come to a decision over a well written report compared with a few pages of doggerel, and the author may be more confident in predicting the tree o cer s decision, in turn giving their client more confidence in their abilities.

ABOUT JONATHAN HAZELL Jonathan Hazell’s career began on the tools with the Ealing tree gang in 1980.

Senior roles in the public, charity and commercial sectors followed and in October 2011 Jonathan established his own arboricultural consultancy practice. www.jhazell.com

Pro Arb | February 2017 17

02/02/2017 10:05

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BUSINESS

GREENING THE GLACIER In June 2014 Rick Milsom, arboricultural officer at Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, was tasked with planting semi-mature trees on white paving in the centre of Southend. Rick takes us through his planting choices and the process of bringing green to the town centre The white paving that initially filled the area had been laid on what thought to be various old roads, pockets of what could be called soil, and a concoction of who knows what else. The site was also uite exposed and popular with skateboarders. hat could go wrong There was a potential minefield of problems with this pro ect from the outset. ost of the trees that were already planted hadn t grown well, but some planting in other parts of the site seemed to be doing alright, so knew there must be some viable soil lurking beneath.

Trees t had previously been decided that four large steel planters, x m, were to be placed as part of this scheme. ur ob was to fill them with an unspecified number of trees. These planters worked well because they gave us a volume of soil we knew the trees could use, along with companion planting. great man once said don t put a tree in a hole . think people were expecting me to say that we need m2 tree pits filled with topsoil, and to stick the trees in and hope for the best.

The tree pits we actually needed were x m, with some kind of cell system. ome of the pits had to be made smaller due to underground services, but we worked around them. e bold, thought, tell them what we need. They didn t laugh. aybe a wince, but no laughter. set about doing a planting design and some research into the sundries and cell systems, on which reen lue rban advised. rimarily looked at similar sites and found out what was growing well there. d already decided on leditsia triacanthos unburst for the planters no thorns and an interesting form, plus thought they should take to the dry, sunny conditions. They didn t have to be large trees

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either, as could plant more for instant impact six in total. fter a bit more thought, cer x freemanii utumn la e came to mind hybrid vigour and tough. hat else would grow well know i uidambar. ut where could get six each of these at this time of year with cm girth a estic Trees came up trumps for me. hilst walking around the nursery noticed some magnificent multi stem ercidiphyllum we have a few in outhend that never seem to grow into large trees. have a rule of not impulse buying, but in this case, took a chance and got two. ur contractor Tree Fella planted the trees.

They re hefty lumps when this si e so it s important to account for this and make sure the right machinery is at hand.

Results Two years have now passed. The trees are doing well and have put on up to mm of new growth all apart from my impulse purchases, the ercidiphyllum. They re struggling, but it s uite obvious why when you look at their natural habitat. o, a lesson learned is never make a snap purchase and always enlist the help of people who have done this before. used to read a lot of ames erriot books, and he always said his ob was made up of triumphs and disasters.

This pro ect was much more a triumph than a disaster, and the difference these trees have made to the area is incredible.

The white paving had been laid on various old roads, pockets of what could be called soil and a concoction of who knows what else

ABOUT RICK MILSOM tarting out as an apprentice, ick ilsom has worked in horticulture and arboriculture for years and is currently an arboricultural o cer at outhend on ea orough ouncil. www.southend.gov.uk

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02/02/2017 10:55

BUSINESS

TOWER HAMLETS Pro Arb takes a trip to the London Borough of Tower Hamlets to discover its diverse range of trees and future planting plans

All photographs © Tower Hamlets Council

The London Borough of Tower Hamlets is rich in history. It’s a diverse area that covers the majority of the East End as well as redeveloped dockland areas such as Canary Wharf, and a multitude of parks and open spaces. The borough provides the capital with much trees and greenery.

This is demonstrated perfectly in Victoria Park where, as recently as October last year, it was voted in the top ten Green Flag Awardwinning parks in Britain. The park, which is managed by Tower Hamlets Council, is home to more than 4,000 trees spread across 86 hectares. The team who looks after these trees must take a large amount of pride in its winning the Green Flag People’s Choice Award in 2012, 2014 and 2015.

The borough, located north of the River Thames, is known for its mixture of urban and green environments, which includes some of the tallest buildings in London alongside green areas such as the magnificent ueen Elizabeth Olympic Park. There are plenty of trees for the 275,000 residents of the borough to enjoy, including the unique ‘green bridge’ which links two parks across a busy main road, built in a way that allows trees and grass to grow on top of it.

Succession planting d uckton is the senior arboricultural o cer at Tower Hamlets Council. Ed is one of the key people overseeing the tree population as part of the borough’s ‘Clean and Green’ team, and within its tree population there are a remarkable number of species that Ed manages.

We asked Ed to tell us more: “We have roughly 25,000 trees in the borough. The majority of these can be found within our parks and open spaces – I would say around 20,000 of them. We have a lot of maturing or

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BUSINESS

over-mature trees, so our main objective for now is to preserve and maintain our existing stock and ensure that existing levels of canopy cover are retained.

“One way that we’re trying to achieve this is by succession planting. When one tree has to be removed we try to make sure it’s replaced so that we’re not reducing our numbers. It can be di cult sometimes because ideally we want to be planting more trees, but it’s important that we focus on retaining what we have.

Without more funding it’s the best that we can do.”

In order to help achieve its goal of maintaining its current population, the team must try and make sure its stock stays in a healthy condition. As and when necessary this means the council may employ specialist contractors when specific tree maintenance is required.

Funding As is often the case, funding is an issue at Tower Hamlets. In the past the council has used partnerships with organisations such as Trees for ities to boost their planting, but this

isn’t something the council can consistently rely on for support.

Ed explains: “We’re managing to match rates of decline with replacement planting, but the extent to which we’re able to do this is determined by the resources available.

We do have a planting fund but we sometimes have to draw from that to make up for shortfalls in maintenance. This is especially the case since a lot of diseases started coming in.”

Within the borough there is a real contrast between financial sectors, such as anary Wharf, and more deprived areas, meaning there is a significant disparity in wealth distribution. Ed tells us that the council attempts to draw wealth from financial sectors and use it to maintain trees in other areas. o how does the council find additional funds for planting? “Unfortunately we have to rely heavily on external funding. For example we’ve received another grant from the Greater London Authority (GLA) this year.

“The problem with relying on external funding is that it’s out of our hands. Up until now the Forestry ommission has been funding our work on the oak processionary

moth, which needs to be carefully controlled to stop it from affecting the health of our oak trees. However, from this year we’ll need to start financing that ourselves, which puts even more pressure on our planting budget.”

Non-native trees Tower Hamlets prides itself on having a diverse range of trees, featuring varieties that come from all over the world. Such is the mixture of trees that there are a number of popular ‘trees of the world’ trails around its parks, where visitors can see an assortment of the golden bamboo, originating from outheast hina, the honey locust native to North America and more.

A wide range of trees means the area gains a wide range of benefits, not only as it attracts tourists but also for the likes of nature and biodiversity.

We ask Ed about this: “We’ve had a real push to re-establish and broaden the range of non-native trees such as our poplars. It’s something that makes Tower amlets different and a place where people want to visit to see them. It makes the area stand out and it’s something we’re very proud of.”

We’re managing to match rates of decline with replacement planting, but the extent to which we are able to do this is determined by the resources available

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1

Ed Buckton in the Island Gardens on the Isle of Dogs

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Victoria Park

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Mile End Park

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Mile End Park

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With so many non-native trees, how do they fit in with their ritish counterparts think they bounce off each other, d says. istorically the borough has relied heavily on the ondon plane, a tree that people know and love. bviously the plane is a brilliant tree for its robustness and tolerance to pruning, and it s also a good one for air pollution and climate change, so the non native trees are by no means replacing them. owever, we are focusing on trying to establish those foreign species.

Valuing trees f you take a look at the interactive tree map available on the council website (www.towerhamlets.gov.uk , you can see there is an even distribution of green space throughout the borough. The conservation strategy for the council was redrawn in , mapping out a ten year plan for the future. t was decided that creating an interactive map showing T s, conservation areas and trees where work is planned would be of significant benefit to both members of the council and residents. The map is regularly updated to show any changes in the area and has become a great resource for all interested parties.

The new conservation guide admits that previously a limited appreciation of the integral importance of the local streetscape including trees led to gradual disintegration of the townscape in some areas. t s highlighted as an aim within the borough to think more about the importance of street trees.

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Tower Hamlets prides itself on having a diverse range of trees, including an assortment of the golden bamboo, originating from Southeast China, and the honey locust native to North America The team at Tower amlets recognises the significant value of trees in urban areas, as they are now an important component for planned developments. n example of this can be found at the hapel ouse state at the south end of the sle of ogs. ere the council has created a garden city with houses set into the landscape and street trees specifically chosen to give the area a special character. e ask d about the value that trees add to the borough There s not a lot of garden space in central ondon so the parks are key places for our residents to relax and en oy nature. There are so many values that trees

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Mile End Park

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Victoria Park

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Victoria Park

add in terms of improving air uality, providing shelter and shade, and generally improving the appearance of the borough. re there any particular challenges to planting trees in this urban area There has been a lot of training recently in the best practice of tree planting so we don t have any issues with tree establishment, d says. The main challenges that we face are when our trees are damaged by the likes of vandalism. hile at the moment tight budgets mean that the team at Tower amlets is having to focus on ust maintaining its current level of trees, it s clear that they aim to improve on that by adding to their non native range. f the ideas come through as planned, green spaces in Tower amlets, like ictoria ark, could be up for many more awards in the future.

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BUSINESS

HAND ARM SYNDROME Hand arm vibration syndrome is a condition that employers need to be aware of and take responsibility over to prevent their staff suffering. Pro Arb talks to Andrew Turner, HM Principal Inspector of health and safety at the HSE, about the syndrome and what precautions can be taken to combat it

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and arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is a condition caused by vibration damage to the fingers, arms and hands. Workers in the arboriculture industry are vulnerable to this syndrome due to the prolific and necessary use of vibrating tools and machinery.

Andrew Turner explains that the condition is disabling, but it is preventable: “This condition can affect the victim s blood system and their soft tissue. The end result is that one way or another they will no longer be able to use their hands and arms in the way they would expect to.”

Regulations On 6 July 2005 the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations came into force with the aim of reducing risks to workers health.

These regulations are still in place

today and must be complied with by employers. Schedule 1 of the regulations focuses on hand arm vibration syndrome and the limits that employees should be exposed to vibration on a daily and weekly scale.

Andrew gives a brief explanation of the regulations: “There are four main parts that an employer must comply with. The first of these is to carry out an assessment of the likely exposure to vibration.

Secondly they must implement control measures to reduce that exposure. Next they must provide information, instructions and training to the employees likely to be affected. Finally, they must record the outcome of their control measures and monitor the exposure levels.”

Suggested control measures include using low vibration

Under the regulations it is the employer’s responsibility to protect staff from HAVS, which means employers have a legal duty to their staff to take every possible action to prevent them suffering from the condition 24 Pro Arb | February 2017

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alternative tools or finding substitute methods for completing a ob. Felled material could be transported to an area where it can be dealt with by large machinery rather than handheld tools. Andrew also highlights the importance of training staff to use tools correctly as this can significantly reduce the risks.

To monitor an employee s exposure levels, it s important to understand the limits that they must not exceed. Within the regulations there are two guideline figures. The first is an exposure action value which is 2.5m2 per second. t this level, employers should introduce measures to reduce exposure.

The second is an ‘exposure limit value of m2 per second which should not be exceeded.

These figures are known as the vibration magnitude . mployers should be able to find out what this is for individual tools within the specifications.

The website contains a vibration calculator which is an easy way to work out exposure.

We ask Andrew how employers can utilise the tool: “There are two columns you need to complete: the vibration level of the tool and the trigger time. This will work out a value in points. You can add various tasks to the sheet throughout the day; for example you may use more than one vibrating tool. The sheet will help you to find a points value over the course of the day, providing an idea of the amount of exposure an employee is dealing with.”

Precautions Under the regulations it is the employer s responsibility to protect staff from , which means employers have a legal duty to their staff to take every possible action to prevent them suffering from the condition.

Andrew says his top tip for avoiding HAVS is to ensure that you re using the right tools for a job: “The tools we have available now all have varying levels of vibration that they emit.” Does this mean you should always simply choose the tool that emits the least vibration t s not as

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BUSINESS

simple as that – if you use an underpowered tool, you will need to use it for twice as long. A correctly powered tool will do the job faster, meaning there will be less exposure to vibration.

“It’s also essential that you maintain tools correctly. You should make sure that all blades and cutting parts are kept sharp, and replace parts when they are worn out. A lot of tools will have vibration mounts which you should make sure remain intact and operational.”

Andrew also suggests rotating obs if you have the staff to do so. Sharing tasks is a great way to reduce the exposure staff are getting to vibration.

Other tips to avoid the condition include storing tools so that the handles are not cold when anyone uses them. You can also encourage blood circulation in hands and arms by keeping warm and exercising fingers during work breaks.

Symptoms It’s inevitable that in this profession you will be working

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with vibrating tools. Even by taking all of the available precautions, there is still a risk of injury. It’s important that both employer and employees are trained to recognise the symptoms and warning signs of HAVS so that it can be prevented at an early stage.

Andrew explains what you should keep an eye out for: “The main warning sign is that when you finish using a vibrating tool you feel a tingling feeling in your hand. This is a strong indication that you have been exposed to a level of vibration that will cause long term damage.

“Another thing is that when you take your gloves off and notice the tips of your fingers have gone pale, this is an early sign of vibration white finger F. F will affect the oints in your hands and in serious cases can cause severe pain and reduce your grip strength. Andrew warns that even if the colour in your fingers returns it should not be dismissed, as this is still an indication that you are causing yourself damage.

The condition can affect the victim’s blood system and their soft tissue. The end result is that one way or another they will no longer be able to use their hands and arms in the way they would expect to

ABOUT ANDREW TURNER Andrew Turner is HM Principal Inspector of health and safety at the Health and Safety Executive. www.hse.gov.uk

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BUSINESS

DEALING WITH S P I T N E T P TO

Wayne Elwell of About Trees shares his top ten tips on dealing with ash dieback We’re starting to see a substantial amount of common ash with signs of ash dieback (ADB), and year on year for the foreseeable future it’s likely to become more commonplace. The trees, owners and risks both real and perceived must be dealt with. As professional arborists we should be able to identify and put in place management strategies to ensure our customers are well informed, and have options that they can choose from. We can manage the risk and take a holistic approach.

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POSITIVE IDENTIFICATION

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ASSESS THE RISK

This has to be where we begin – if we can’t ID it, what recommendations can we offer pring is an ideal time to spot the signs of , primarily wilting growth and possibly even bark lesions. ou may see scars on the main stems they are darker in colour to the surrounding wood and often centred on a small shoot that has also died. esions are generally uite rare in ash and so this is the telltale sign. Take a look at surrounding ash trees and the difference will be apparent browning on the leaf stalk and discolouration on the underside of the leaf yellow to brown .

ext we need to make a udgment call on the extent of the infection and assess the risk it poses. The best current advice is from the Forestry ommission. t states ublic safety is likely to be one of the biggest management issues for owners of ash trees in woodlands, parks and roadsides etc. as the disease kills or weakens trees over the coming years. Trees in areas with high levels of public access need to be monitored carefully for risks to public safety, and some felling or pruning of dead or dying trees is advisable if risk assessments show they are a ha ard.

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TREES IN AREAS WITH HIGH LEVELS OF PUBLIC ACCESS NEED TO BE MONITORED CAREFULLY FOR RISKS TO PUBLIC SAFETY, AND SOME FELLING OR PRUNING OF DEAD OR DYING TREES IS ADVISABLE IF RISK ASSESSMENTS SHOW THEY ARE A HAZARD

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GAIN KNOWLEDGE

Not all of us are involved in the forestry side of operations, but we can learn something from the investigations that have been carried out by Defra and the Forestry Commission. We know that younger trees are most susceptible to ADB and are killed rapidly. This is useful knowledge when assessing an entire site and can help to dictate timescales for when sites should be re-monitored.

REDUCE THE RISK

Can we cure ADB? In short it seems the answer is no, but we can put into place measures to help reduce the risk of further spread. This focuses efforts on reducing the level of spores present. As we know, fungi for the most part like damp conditions, therefore if we can help increase light levels and airflow into densely planted areas at risk this could be beneficial.

The most effective option in reducing the spread of the spores is to remove all ash leaf litter from around the trees in the autumn and winter.

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DEAL WITH ARISINGS

What do we do with them? Current advice seems to contradict itself a little, but my interpretation is with regards to the removal of arisings, unless a Statutory Plant Health notice has been served the wood/timber can be removed. The leaf matter should not be removed from site. I’d go with a cheap incinerator (dustbin type) and burn them.

INFECTED URBAN AND VETERAN TREES

Advice on the Forestry Commission’s website is most pertinent to us. “There should not be a presumption to fell these trees.

Veteran trees in particular can provide many important environmental and social benefits, even when dead. ny work on a tree should be undertaken after a risk assessment, which should consider age, condition, the number of other trees in the locality and their species, the potential risk of further infection, and the danger to the public. The cost of taking or not taking action is also likely to be a factor in any final decision. hat it s trying to say is that a dead tree is still a tree, it’s still valuable, still provides a wealth of habitat and is still a wondrous thing to look at.

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10

STREET AND PARK TREES

Large mature trees in open surroundings can survive and sometimes escape infection for many years. Urban situations help these trees because the dark, damp woodland environment is clearly not an issue, and secondary damage by bark beetles and basel infections are less likely in the urban environment.

RESISTANT TREES

A study based on the infections in Denmark show that there is a 1% resistance to ADB amongst ash trees; these trees show less than 10% dieback in their crowns. Using these figures for ritain this means there could be some . m disease-resistant trees in the countryside. But that’s not many, so we really should refrain from becoming a little too chainsaw happy when around ash trees.

APPROACHING ADB

As an industry we shouldn’t see this as a cash cow situation; I feel we need to move our industry forward and strive to make the general population aware that we as arborists are educated and trustworthy professional tradespeople. This is our chance to build a relationship with clients and offer decent, honest advice. I’m not afraid to put my hands up to a client and say we need more ualified advice on this to suggest a visit from a consultant would be a wise move.

WORK SAFE

Ultimately, we’re dealing with dead or dangerous trees. This is what we do, right? Climbing or working from a MEWP on an ash tree dead from ADB carries the same risks as any other dead tree job. So, as always, take care and work safe.

ABOUT WAYNE ELWELL About Trees Ltd is a dedicated tree care company that provides tree care and full arboricultural services to clients throughout Kent, Sussex, Essex and London.

This year will be About Trees’ 10th year of trading. www.abouttrees.co.uk

Pro Arb | February 2017 27

02/02/2017 10:09

FEATURES

TOOLBOX Pro Arb visits Landmark Tree Surgery i u ey o ou a ou e eam s i a d mac i e y o c oice

d

Chippers We run three Forst ST8 and two XT6 models, one of which is tracked for ease of movement. The reason we use Forst is for the exceptional backup service we receive from the distributor, Redwood Global. As well as this, every model we run is incredibly reliable and high powered.

PPE We have strong brand loyalty to Stihl products due to the good relationship we have with our local supplier.

The PPE they supply is also highly durable and does everything we need it to.

Climbing equipment We allow our climbers to select their own equipment, working with a variety of belts, often favouring Teufelberger Treemotion. We commonly use a single rope system, ran between two people with single rope access. In the line of ropes we use a range of New England products alongside Prussock and rope grab systems.

28 Pro Arb | February 2017

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Commercial vehicles We run a range of commercial vehicles, opting for Mitsubishi Canters, Ford Transits and four Mercedes Benz Unimogs. We have used and trusted Unimogs for 20 years and are very familiar with their operating systems and maintenance regime. They’re also highly versatile machines, allowing us to run timber cranes and chippers off of them.

Firewood

FEATURES

We tend to use a lot of Posch firewood products as we produce a lot of firewood, with sales around 1,800m3 during the winter months.

We also run Riko cone splitters for breaking wood apart to make it more manageable for us to deal with. We have found that Riko products are also incredibly durable.

Stump grinders We own two Vermeer machines, both of which are tracked, making them easy to manoeuvre. We also have two Bandit pedestrian stump grinders, the smaller of which incorporates a 360° turntable for ease of use. Both Vermeer and Bandit provide excellent aftercare which is essential for us.

Shredders

Chainsaws

Green waste composting is something we do frequently, using a powerful 30m3 Seko shredder to grind down arb waste for use as biomass. The compost we create can then be reused on many of our sites.

We use Stihl for the most part, ranging from the 150 to the range, as all of our staff are familiar with their design.

We’re also currently running a small number of 360 and 560xp Husqvarna saws with 12-16in bars as an alternative to test their longevity.

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02/02/2017 11:06

WHICH WOULD YOU BUY? CHAINSAW CHAINS Pro Arb rounds up options for your chainsaws

Stihl Picco Super 3 (PS3) Lengths available 12in, 14in, 16in Chain material Galvanised steel teeth with induction hardened chain track Pitch 3/8in Picco Profi e mm a e Lubricating features Stihl Oilomatic lubrication system Price from £20.35 www.stihl.co.uk

Husqvarna X-CUT SP33G Lengths available 13-18in Chain material Steel Pitch 0.325 per inch Lubricating features Oil channels to distribute oil to the rivets, oil holes to carry the oil along the bar Price from £24 www.husqvarna.com/uk

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KIT

Dolmar Oregon Lengths available 10-29in Chain material Steel Pitch 0.325 per inch Lubricating features Makita branded bio/non bio oil Price from £14.40 www.makitauk.com

Northern Arb Supplies Rotatech Chainsaw Chains Lengths available Any Chain material US Steel Pitch Dependent on type of chain Lubricating features Oil reservoir tie links, oil carry holes in every other drive-link down full length of the bar Price from £5.76 www.rotatechsawchain.co.uk

Timberpro Timberpro Chainsaw Chain Lengths available 16-20in Chain material Steel Pitch 0.325 per inch Lubricating features Oil channels Price from £12.99 www.timberpro-uk.com

NEXT MONTH: xxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx

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02/02/2017 10:17

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KIT

CLIMBING EQUIPMENT latest kit

DMM RPM Shackle Assembly

Petzl Avao Sit Fast • • • • •

Wide, semi-rigid waist belt and leg loops give excellent support Lined with breathable perforated foam Self-locking double back buckles for quick and easy adjustment Load distributing ventral attachment point Five pre-shaped equipment loops with protective sheath Price £142.18

• Short compressed length suits applications with restricted headroom • Progress capture and release: short components with a friction cord • Relatively low elongation 10mm PES cord and ball bearings in sheaves ensure e cient hauling • Dual control with Prusik ready to install top and bottom • Shackle assembly: expands rigging capabilities Price from £504

www.petzl.com www.dmmprofessional.com Marlow Ropes Ltd Venom Climbing Rope • 11.8mm climbing line for both mechanical devices and traditional climbing methods • Spliced or sewn, 25m, 35m or 45m available • Multiple twisted polyamide (nylon) cores • Energy absorption design and high abrasion resistance • Factory spliced and sewn terminations supplied with serial numbers for regulator compliance Price POA

www.marlowropes.com

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AUS OX BLOCK • Integrated friction bar used for manoeuvring loads • Allows the rigging professional to handle loads with greater control • Replaces standard hand line blocks, parted blocks and various snatch blocks ffers a working load limit of up to 2,500lbs • Can be used to create a 4:1, 5:1 or 6:1 mechanical advantage Price from £203.94

www.aus.co.uk

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02/02/2017 10:34

KIT

FR Jones and Son Stein Vega Work Positioning Harness ffers durability, ergonomic comfort and practicality Fitted with fully ad ustable uick release waist and leg loops and a replaceable bridge ew reate gear loop system allows you to personalise the harness tool loops to suit your climbing needs rgonomic design with a large back support hainsaw mounting points Price £186.26

Climbing Technology Quick Tree Two movement uick attachment release system losure system with additional fi xing lever am lever mechanism completely integrated into body oveable lever keeps device open to facilitate rope insertion elf cleaning cam with three depressions Price from . www.frjonesandson.co.uk

Sorbus International Tree Core

TreeKit ART SpiderJack 3

Two easy glider buckles on the hips for symmetrically ad usting rgonomically cut padding for wear comfort entral textile tie in eyelet d ustable sliding kit increases freedom of lateral movement Triple lock buckles allow leg loops to be fully opened and ad usted Price .

elf locking rope control device for running double rope orking load of kg ertifi ed in accordance with EN 358 Two rope cams with mm and mm eighs g ecure locking position Price £282

www.treekit.com

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www.climbingtechnology.com

www.sorbus-intl.co.uk

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02/02/2017 10:38

unfogable mesh eye protection

www.meshsafetyglasses.com 0845 2222 039

Secateurs, hedgeshears and the world’s finest pruning saws in superb, tempered Japanese steel KST 230

KST 217

Silky Fox Saws

KST 103

Foxley Estate Office, Mansel Lacy, Hereford HR4 7HQ

Hayauchi 490

Pocketboy 170

Tel: 01981 590224 Fax: 01981 590355 enquiries@silkyfox.co.uk

Visit silkyfox.co.uk to find your local stockist

Download the FREE Pro Arb app today

AN INTERVIEW WITH

1 Go to the App Store

TOP TEN TIPS

2 Search ‘Pro Arb’ 3 Download the free app 4 Choose and download your issue HalfpageAppPA.indd 1

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FEBRUARY 2017

DUNCAN ARMSTRONG ASPEN TREE CARE

BUYER’S GUIDE

CHAINSAW CHAINS VARIETY SHOW WHY TOWER HAMLETS IS PUSHING DIVERSITY AN INTERVIEW WITH

DEALING WITH

DUNCAN ARMSTRONG

ASH DIEBACK

ASPEN TREE CARE

FEBRUARY 2017

BUYER’S GUIDE

CHAINSAW CHAINS

VARIETY SHOW

ARB HEALTH HAND ARM VIBRATION SYNDROME

TOP TEN TIPS

DEAL ING WITH

ASH DIEBACK

ARB HEALTH HAND ARM VIBRATION SYNDROME

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WHY TOWER HAMLETS IS PUSHING DIVERSITY

02/02/2017 11:50

1 02/02/2017 11:50

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02/02/2017 12:11

FOOTWEAR KIT

latest kit

Integra Boot Fusion The Fusion boot is a combination of the highest quality components. It’s made of water repellent leather, including a waterproof liner with a double density polyurethane and rubber sole.

The Fusion also features an innovative fibreglass toe cap, pierce resistant composite midsole and padded collar. Combining the best features of multiple products, these highly effective and fully waterproof safety boots have a heat resistant sole unit, breathable lining and strong ankle protection. The toe cap keeps the boot structure light whilst offering maximum protection. These boots are also highly slip resistant and SRC accredited.

www.integraboot.com

Skyland Equipment Haix Protector Ultra New for 2016 from Haix, the Ultra chainsaw boot is a light and comfortable boot designed for ground and climbing use. It has class 2 chainsaw protection and a Gortex inner lining making it 100% waterproof but also allowing the foot to breathe. Available in lime green and signal red colours.

www.skylandequipment.com

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FR Jones and Son Pfanner Matterhorn chainsaw boots (class 2)

The Pfanner Matterhorn chainsaw boots incorporate the unique Vario Support System (VSS) in the heel area, providing excellent support and shock absorption especially when walking on steep terrain. When walking on even ground or driving a vehicle, the VSS insert in the heel can easily be removed. Manufactured using the highest quality leather, the durability of this exceptional boot is further enhanced with the application of ceramic coated discs on the front surface area. The ceramic discs provide protection against wear and abrasion and are highly heat resistant. The Vibram mountaineering sole provides excellent grip, with the narrow outer sole aiding effortless walking. www.frjonesandson.co.uk

Meindl Meindl Woodwalker FPA tested according to EN ISO 20345, class 1, SB and EN ISO 17249. For simple to medium terrain conditions. Cut protection safety boots with excellent wearing comfort thanks to the MFS system, uses memory foam to optimally adapt to your feet. High quality, 2.8mm thick waterproof leather and fully leather-lined. High traction levels due to a 6mm deep Duo-Dur sole with PU wedge. Steel toe cap. Four triangle hooks, four eyelets and deep hooks. Shaft height 21cm, weight 2,200g (size 43). Care with Meindl Sportwax and Wet-Proof. www.meindl.co.uk

Workware Haix Black Eagle Safety 50 The Haix Black Eagle Safety 50 is a well styled safety boot and comes with everything you would expect from Haix. Kevlar lightweight mid-sole insert to prevent penetration, metal free yet still flexible. The protective toe cap is made from lightweight composite material to the highest requirements. The Black Eagle Safety 50 is waterproof and breathable thanks to the three-layer GoreTex laminate, which helps to optimise the climate comfort. At the back of the ankle the boot has been sculptured, so when kneeling down the boot does not dig into the leg.

The PU cushioning sole has a modern lightweight construction, excellent thermal insulation, none marking sole, resistant to oil and petrol.

Good grip on all terrains, ideal for indoor and outdoor use. www.workware.co.uk

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02/02/2017 10:29

KIT

Christie Elite Nutreelite

MultiOne UK MultiOne Mini Loader 6.3+ • • •

tippin oad it a ift ei t of m p diese en ine it a top speed of m ydrostatic direct dri e motors • Se f e e in do e te escopic oom • ydra ic oi coo er and m ticonnector • C rap ic disp ay it pro rammed ser ice tac ometer o r meter f e a e maintenance i t i t indicator and ot er indicators Price from www.multione.co.uk

• F y coated P ferti iser for forest trees • Safe for root contact • tritiona enefits it added p osp ate stim ate root ro t • a nesi m to en ance p otosynt esis and p ant ener y • pro ides co era e for trees Price £6 www.christie-elite.co.uk

ARB KIT

A roundup of the latest products Ryetec Industrial Equipment Ltd XYLOG 600 • Comes in fi ed p ant or mo i e • Se f contained nit it o dec c eaner and oadin e e ator • in infeed e ts ens re t isted tim er is easi y fed to t e Ore on ar ester c ainsa • Contains a t sp itter it a tomatic a e ead ic se f

centres on t e o onitored operation y on oard comp ter system • Po ered y p diese en ine it optiona a ternati es of P O or e ectric Price PO www.ryetec.net •

Severnside Safety Supplies Forestry & Chainsaw First Aid Kits • Pro ides i antities of dressin s o es and eye as • Comes a ai a e in a standard first aid o da • so a ai a e in t e acti e ran e first aid o da • ipped it a protecti e padded inin • i isi i ity rip resistant materia • Comes in ot oran e and reen Price www.sevsafe.co.uk

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02/02/2017 11:12

THIS SPRING IT’S TIME TO BLOSSOM WITH...

www.

.co.uk

IT WORKS

FOR EMPLOYERS Do you have a vacancy available? You’ll want to ensure that you find the right person to fill the role. So what do you do? Do you post the vacancy on a job board and hope for the best? Or do you use a service that actively works with you to ensure that you’re getting the right applicants? At Horticulture Careers we are on hand to help you from the initial posting right up until your vacancy is filled.

WHY USE HORTICULTURE CAREERS? OVER 25,000 (AND GROWING)

JOBSEEKERS VISIT OUR SITE every MONTH OVER 48,000 EMAILS ARE SENT TO CANDIDATES EVERY MONTH DEDICATED ACCOUNT MANAGER TO ACTIVELY HELP YOU FILL VACANCIES FEATURED ROLES INSIDE

PRO ARB MAGAZINE

visit the website at horticulturecareers.co.uk call LIAM today on 01903 777 574

SEND AN EMAIL TO LIAM.COLCLOUGH@ELJAYS44.COM

IT WORKS FOR JOBSEEKERS

It’s time to think about the future. In a climate where it’s becoming more and more difficult to build and sustain a career, you need to stay ahead of the competition. Horticulture Careers is more than just a job board; offering free CV advice, and actively helping to match your skills with suitable roles, you won’t find a more personal service anywhere else. Remember, it’s a career, not just a job.

WHY USE HORTICULTURE CAREERS? JOB BOARD UPDATED DAILY WITH THE LATEST VACANCIES FROM ALL OVER THE UK

Simple to use, Just register your details and begin applying for vacancies Opt into our weekly jobs mailer to keep updated on the latest roles Free CV advice and job matching. Just get in touch and we will be happy to help.

official job board: Horticulture Careers Full Page .indd 1

02/02/2017 12:12

KIT Spear and Jackson 8071RS Telescopic Bypass Lopper

GreenBlue Urban RootSpace

• ardened and tempered C car on stee ades for astin s arpness and d ra i ity • P F coated ade for r st resistance and smoot er c ttin • nc des t ist and oc te escopic a mini m and es t at can e tend p to mm in • a compo nd c ttin action pro ides o er e tra c ttin po er compared to standard pi ot oint oppers Price from

• Tree pit design which simp ifies t e p annin and insta ation process • andscape professiona s can com ine root mana ement str ct ra soi components aeration and irri ation • o e ro nd s rface ri e a ai a e • ertica ard is a so pro ided in a sin e pac a e Price POA

www.spear-and-jackson.com

www.greenblue.com

Timberwolf TW 230DHB • Rotor speed of • in oodc ipper e • ydra ic feed • F y ardened do Price POA

rpm ipped it

ota diese en ine

ed sided ades and ra ed road c assis

www.timberwolf-uk.com

FR Jones and Son Stein Rigging Bag Kit • o e it s pp ied in a • Stein in ert a • mm n is raid ri • mm and mm • Stein stain ess stee p Price £358.80

d ra e it a rap o erin de ice in ine n is raid m ti s in ey

www.frjonesandson.co.uk

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KIT

Hardmet Landforce Ltd CHIP 235 towable woodchipping machine Platipus D-MAN System • Strong, compact and lightweight cells with unique cup for water storage • Cells can be connected and stacked to build up and protect large planting areas • Catchment water can drain underneath • Distinctive letterbox style wire tendon anchor point system • D-MAN cells are placed 30cm below the base of the rootball Price POA

• 9in capacity towable woodchipping machine • Powered by a Deutz 61 HP air cooled engine • Twin hydraulically operated in-feed rollers • Latest designed automatic control system Price POA www.hardmetlandforce.co.uk

www.platipus-anchors.com

Husqvarna Technical arborist helmet Avant 500 series • More than 150 attachments available • Certified ROPS safety frame and FOPS canopy • Six-way joystick and self-levelling system • Available in diesel and LPG • Three cab models available Price POA

• Lightweight and ventilated • Approved for working at heights • Unique harness adjustment • Features two wheels that centres the head in the helmet for best balance Price £120 www.husqvarna.com/uk

www.avant.co.uk

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02/02/2017 11:13

TRADING WITH GLOBAL RECYCLING

Pro Arb speaks to Dean Embling, sales consultant at Global Recycling, about the product ranges it supplies to the forestry and arboriculture industries and why it focuses on service above all else Can you tell us a little about Global Recycling?

The company initially started as a recycling equipment retailer, also supplying to the forestry and arboriculture industries. We went onto selling a large range of slow and high speed shredders for the waste and paper sectors. We now supply to a wide range of different customers in a variety of industries.

What are the key values of Global Recycling?

We pride ourselves on our service.

Other areas we consider of high importance are providing in depth information to all of our customers and a fast, helpful backup service, which is key to our business and sets us apart from other companies. We also keep between £800k and £1m worth of parts stocked, enabling us to provide a fast repair service.

How do you market the business?

The majority of our business is generated from word of mouth – our reputation precedes us.

We run a great proportion of our marketing online, as we see this as the most effective method.

Using social media for marketing

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Trading With Global Recycling.indd 41

is of paramount importance to us; we use Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, along with frequent posting on forums such as Arb Talk.

What are the main products you supply?

Bandit is a company which features in a large number of our product ranges, and we also supply a number of Farmi Forest products including woodchippers, winches and trailers. We supply a range of hand fed and whole tree chippers from 6in to 36in capacity, and stump grinders also make up a significant proportion of our stock. Forestry mowers and mulchers along with high speed shredders are also some of our key products. Jo Beau is a range we’ve recently introduced, in particular chippers running from in to in in six different models as well as its stump grinders. If it’s used in the forestry and arboriculture industries, we almost certainly supply it.

Have you anything new coming in the next few months?

We’re attempting to expand the number of larger sized chippers we offer, as we can see there s an increasing demand for larger feed sizes. In the long run,

Dean Embling

our main aim is to further improve the quality of our service. We have 10 highly skilled mobile engineers around the UK that enable us to provide a faster response to those who require our services, and we plan to further expand this as our business continues to grow.

Do you offer warranties?

We’re currently working on providing a comprehensive three year warranty with Bandit across all of their products for the future.

Currently the Bandit range we provide comes with a five year gut warranty, meaning that the inner components of the equipment are fully guaranteed.

Do you offer a trade discount?

Yes, we look to provide a discount on any order of multiple products.

How do you ensure the quality of the products you supply?

We visit all of our manufacturers every year. We check each machine that is delivered to us to ensure that quality standards are met and Global Recycling is ISO9001 registered, meaning that we follow all regulations.

CONTACT Global Recycling Ltd Units 5 & 7, Ruston Road Grantham, Lincolnshire NG31 9SW Tel 01476 568 384 Email sales@globalrecycling.eu Web www.globalrecycling.eu

Pro Arb | February 2017 41

02/02/2017 11:07

CAREERS

For full details on all jobs, please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk

Call 01903 777 574 or email liam.colclough@eljays44.com with your vacancy

LEAD CLIMBER

CLIMBERS

Our client is an established horticultural and arboricultural contractor, maintaining prestigious commercial and residential grounds and gardens throughout Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and North London. The client is known for providing an exceptionally high level of service. They are looking to recruit a full time experienced tree surgeon to work as lead climber, leading a team of three to four qualified climbers/groundsmen. The work will involve a large amount of climbing and would be a great opportunity for someone with between five to 10 years of climbing experience. The ideal candidate will be a hard-working and diligent climber with experience leading a small team and managing both small and large projects.

Bartlett Tree Experts is the world’s leading scientific tree and shrub care company. From its nearly 100 offices worldwide, Bartlett helps both residential and commercial customers maintain beautiful, healthy trees. Bartlett is recruiting climbers for our offices across the UK and Ireland. Applicants must have all relevant NPTC qualifications (minimum of CS30, CS31, CS38 and CS39) a full UK driving licence (ideally with C1+E), a proven track record in all aspects of tree work and the ability to demonstrate excellent climbing and tree surgery skills.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk

ARBORIST REPRESENTATIVES

SKILLED ARBORIST

Bartlett Tree Experts is the world’s leading scientific tree and shrub care company. From its nearly 100 offices worldwide, Bartlett helps both residential and commercial customers maintain beautiful, healthy trees. Bartlett is recruiting arborist representatives for our offices across the UK and Ireland. Applicants must have a depth of experience in a commercial arboriculture environment, technical and tree work competencies/ certification, experience of staff management and excellent customer care, good communication skills, the ability to think strategically, good IT skills and a full driving licence.

Our client is looking for a skilled arborist to join its team on its estate based in Wallingford, Oxfordshire. The ideal candidate will have excellent knowledge of tree and fungus identification, climbing experience, and experience in implementing tree work specifications, completing health and safety checks and completing site risk assessments. The successful candidate will hold the relevant arborist qualifications as standard which include the NPTC units CS30, CS31, CS32, CS38 and CS39.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk

HERTFORDSHIRE

NATIONWIDE

NATIONWIDE

WALLINGFORD, OXFORDSHIRE

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02/02/2017 11:21

The

ANCIENT TREE

ANCIENT TREE COLUMN

column

Each month we feature an ancient British tree.

This month the Ancient Tree Forum introduces us to...

The Craigends Yew, Renfrewsh ire This tree is one of the largest and possibly oldest examples of a layering yew (Taxus baccata) in Scotland. These are yews which have chosen to lay down their branches as they grow, which then root and send up new stems.

Eventually, as the central stem dies back, these can become remnants of the

original tree, with identical DNA. ittle is known about the history of the tree, which grows by the iver ryffe at Houston. The Craigends House was originally built nearby, in 1479; could it years old, but it is di cult to age be an original planting t could be around the tree by its girth as this has been exaggerated by the out-falling stems. In 1890, the girth was measured at 6.4m and it is now recorded as 8.68m.

The Craigends Yew is a very imposing, multi-stemmed tree which one could describe as octopus-like, the stems stretching outwards and downwards where some have layered around the main trunk. The largest of the new stems is 1.3m in girth. The crown spread is about 40m from west to east, with some pruning having reduced the measurement. It’s unclear as to why the tree is so multi-stemmed. Other famous layering yews have a distinct trunk, whereas this one is growing more like a tree that was cut or coppiced in

It could be ars around 600 ye is it old, but diff icult to age the tree by its s girth as this ha ted been exaggera ing by the out-fall s em st

the distant past.

The tree hosts quite a few epiphytes such as ferns, grasses, mosses and lichens. There is loss of bark to the main stems; we don’t know if this is caused by vandalism and tree climbing or through age or other factors. There are also signs of fires having been lit under the tree.

The Craigends Yew was entered for the Tree of the Year competition after a local woman contacted the Woodland Trust, wanting help in her quest to get more recognition for the tree by locals. A footpath runs alongside it and through a housing estate, but the tree is almost obscured from view by a large Atlas cedar, and a sign once put up is now illegible. The tree came second in the competition for the Scottish Tree of the Year and as a result of the publicity there has been a lot more local interest. A new information sign is being made, and it is hoped that the tree’s future has been secured. hotographs and words by udy owling, lead voluntary verifier for the Ancient Tree Inventory, Woodland Trust and recorder for TROBI (Tree

Register of the British Isles).

The Ancient Tree Forum champions the biological, cultural and heritage value of Britain’s ancient and veteran trees, and provides advice on their value and management at www.ancienttreeforum.co.uk

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01/02/2017 14:25