Pro Arb April 2015

PESTS & DISEASES HOW TO MANAGE OPM

APRIL 2015

SANDOWN PARK NOVEMBER 17

AN INTERVIEW WITH

TRACY CLARKE TIM MOYA ASSOCIATES

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PIECES OF ARB KIT SHOWCASED

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i-TREE PROJECT

LONDON’S LARGEST EVER TREE SURVEY APPRENTICESHIPS

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PRO ARB MAGAZINE April 2015 | Volume 2 | Issue 4

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 Production Editor – Susie Duff susie.duff@eljays44.com Subeditor – Toby Wilsdon toby.wilsdon@eljays44.com ADVERTISING Business Development Manager – Jamie Wilkinson jamie.wilkinson@eljays44.com Account Manager – Dean Lawrence dean.lawrence@eljays44.com Sales Executive – Amber Bernabe amber.bernabe@eljays44.com Horticulture Careers – Laura Harris laura.harris@eljays44.com Accounts – Lisa Woollard accounts@eljays44.com PRODUCTION Design – Kara Thomas, Amy Downes and Alan Wares Printed by Pensord Press Ltd, Gwent, UK Published by ©Eljays44 Ltd CIRCULATION Subscription enquiries: jessica.garrard@eljays44.com Pro Arb is published 12 times per year by Eljays44 Ltd. The 2015 subscription price is £95.00. 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.

MANAGEMENT Managing Director – Jim Wilkinson Director – Lisa Wilkinson Business Development Manager – Jamie Wilkinson 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 Jessica Garrard at jessica.garrard@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

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WELCOME

elcome to the April issue of Pro Arb magazine. April is an exciting time, as well as being my birthday month, spring is in full flow, lambs are being born and the weather is improving, thus people’s moods are lightening and your potential clients are spending more money while carrying out a spring clean. It’s just a good time of year.

Last month, we heard of the devastation caused in Vanuatu by Cyclone Pam. The Disaster Arborist Response Team (DART) swiftly made the journey to help with the clean up. They do valuable work and represent the British arboriculture industry in such a great way. But to continue doing this fantastic work they need sponsorship.

Visit www.dart international.co.uk to donate to a worthwhile industry cause.

This month I have had the pleasure of

visiting the offices of Tim Moya Associates, in the heart of the Harlow countryside. I met Director Tracy Clarke and we found out about the role of arboricultural consultants, and specifically planning, which is Tracy’s area of expertise. It's a topic the industry should know more about (you can read the interview on page 25), and it's widened my knowledge of yet another diverse subject this industry is involved in.

This month we have also confirmed our attendance at The Arb Show, The Arboricultural Association’s trade exhibition based at The National Arboretum in Westonbirt. It’s a first for us. We attended as visitors last year, but we will have our own stand this year (5-6 June 2015) where you will be able to pick up a copy of Pro Arb and meet the team. There will be more about the show in next month’s issue.

We hope you enjoy this edition, have a great month.

JOE WILKINSON

Pro Arb App Pro Arb is available FREE on your mobile device. Simply go to the App Store, search for ‘Pro Arb’ and download the app!

@ProArbMagazine Pro Arb Magazine Pro Arb UK www.proarbmagazine.com

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Caledonian Forestry Services Ltd Would like to invite you to our annual Open Days @ East Third Farm, Tullibardine, Auchterarder, PH3 1NJ On the 8th & 9th May 2015 Web: www.caledonianforestryservices.co.uk Email: vic.cfs@outlook.com

This year we will be joined by TRP our local VALTRA Dealers with New & Used tractors on offer!

Take the perfect opportunity to discuss your needs, optimize your production and get the most from your Caledonian Forestry Machine!

You can also look forward to live demonstrations of: The full range of PALAX Firewood Processors, The KESLA C645S CHIPPER KESLA Timber Trailers & Loaders, Cone & Log Splitters Not forgetting our latest Harvester Conversion & Caledonian Forestry Guarding

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Welcome 06 NEWS 12 ASSOCIATION NEWS

Business tips 13 R2

Lantra expands on the benefits of the R2 register

14 INDUSTRY CODE OF PRACTICE

APRIL 2015

Jonathan Hazell explains the new Industry Code of Practice from the Arboricultural Association

Opinion 16 LOCAL AUTHORITY TREE OFFICERS Rick Milsom casts light on street trees from a local authority's perspective

18 PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

Jamie Saunders asks whether arborists are too nice for their own good. Should they be more like other trades?

19 THE FUTURE OF TREE VALUATION A two-part piece by Jon Heuch on past and future systems used to value amenity trees

Technical 20 MECHANICAL ADVANTAGE

David Vickers advises on using pulleys to increase your lifting power and control

21 PESTS AND DISEASE

Bartlett Tree Experts' new series on pests and diseases, this month looking at Oak Processionary Moth

19

25

30

Features 25 AN INTERVIEW WITH TRACY CLARKE

This month’s interview features Tracy Clarke, director of arb consultants Tim Moya Associates in Harlow

28 APPRENTICESHIPS

We take a look at three apprentices at Christopher Hoare Tree Services

30 I-TREE

Keith Sacre on London's largest ever urban forest survey

Latest kit 35 A FOCUS ON STUMP GRINDERS

David Murison on buying versus hiring stump grinders

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38 LATEST PRODUCTS: TREE PROTECTION

The top products needed for protecting trees

40 ARB KIT

20

Regulars 47 CAREERS 48 BOOK REVIEW 50 DIARY AND COURSES 51 ANCIENT TREE COLUMN

42

The Ancient Tree Forum and The Woodland Trust on the Ankerkwycke Yew

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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

WOODLAND TRUST BUYS NATIONAL TREE MAP FROM BLUESKY An aerial photography firm has helped a national charity develop its work with trees.

Bluesky of Coalville in Leicestershire has sold its National Tree Map to the Woodland Trust.

The map, which details more than 280 million trees across England and Wales, will help the trust assess tree cover in different areas and identify where more trees should be planted.

Dr Nick Atkinson, senior conservation advisor at the

Woodland Trust, said: “The data the government has used to calculate statistics about woodland cover only includes areas of woodland above a specific size.

“We already know from our initial assessment of the Bluesky

National Tree Map data that this significantly underestimates total tree cover.”

Created from Bluesky’s aerial photography, colour infrared data and height datasets, the National Tree Map database provides details of the location, height and canopy size for all trees that are three or more metres tall.

The data will be used alongside mapping within the Trust’s Geographical Information System.

highest standards using the latest industry equipment and techniques and provide valuable experience for foresters of the future.”

National green services provider Glendale helped pupils at Belper School and Sixth Form Centre in Derbyshire to plant 350 whips, or young tree saplings, in order to create a scheme which displays wild harvest, wild wood and yearround colour. The project began on Wednesday 11 March.

The trees were donated by the Woodland Trust as part of its Free Trees initiative, in which around three million trees will be given to schools and community groups to plant over the next four years.

The trees will act as lasting memorials to those involved in or affected by the conflict, 100 years after the first world war began in 1914.

Andy Trott, contract manager at Glendale, said: “Community projects are a core part of the work Glendale does and it’s great to be involved in a scheme which will create a legacy for future generations, while acting as a poignant tribute to those affected by the war.”

www.rfs.org.uk

www.glendale-services.co.uk

www.leicestermercury.co.uk

HOCKERIDGE EXPERIENCE FOR ARBORISTS OF THE FUTURE A partnership between Capel Manor College in Middlesex and the RFS has been rolled out to help train the next generation of arborists.

Throughout 2015, students from the college will be gaining hands-on supervised work experience within the RFS’s Hockeridge and Pancake Woods on the edge of the Chilterns.

The students are working with Honorary Warden Jonathan

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Saggerson and the RFS’s Andrew Woods to a woodland management plan which includes tree surveys, inspections and felling programs in line with the RFS’s commitment to promote education and good practice.

RFS Education Manager Phil Tanner said: “Hockeridge and Pancake Wood is well used by walkers and others locally.

By working with Capel Manor we can manage them to the

PUPILS PLANT 350 TREES IN COMMEMORATIVE SCHEME

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NEWS

AMEY ARB APPRENTICE AMY IS A CUT ABOVE THE REST Amy, 21, from Liverpool works as an advanced apprentice in arboriculture for Amey Plc, based in Liverpool. Amy began the apprenticeship in the autumn of 2014 and works as part of a team covering the maintenance of trees across the Liverpool area.

Amy is one of only a handful of female arboriculture apprentices. She explained her reasons for the career choice and why the apprenticeship is

perfect for her, saying: “Following school I studied arboriculture at Myerscough College. I have always had an interest in the outdoors and green spaces and it seemed like a really interesting subject area. I attended a careers fair in Liverpool and spoke to Amey about a possible apprenticeship opportunity.

“What I love about my role is that it combines practical, physical activity with knowledge I have studied at college.

AVONDALE SWITCHES TO GREENMECH AND THEIR SAFE-TRAK TECHNOLOGY Avondale Environmental Services was established in 1992 to provide arboriculture services. Since then, it has expanded to provide a range of land and vegetation management solutions for high risk industries such as rail, construction and highways. To cope with the change in demand it turned to GreenMech and their SAFE-Trak products.

Avondale’s core business for the first eight years was primarily grounds maintenance and tree work for local authorities and housing associations. With the development into other areas owner and managing director Andy Back purchased four GreenMech SAFE-Trak 19-28 woodchippers to replace their old machines. “We hired a GreenMech SAFE-

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Trak 19-28 for a particular job,” explained business development manager Paul Coutts-Smith, “and all the operatives were really impressed with its ability to access the toughest of work sites. The SAFE-Trak also tackled high volumes of difficult bushy brash with ease, making the decision to switch to GreenMech relatively straightforward.

“The variable track and tilt capability of these machines enables safe operation on nearly all terrains.” Avondale’s SAFETraks are primarily used on Network Rail’s infrastructure in Kent and surrounding counties. www.greenmech.co.uk

“It’s funny sometimes seeing the reaction of the public who really don’t expect to see a young female high up in a tree with a chainsaw.”

Myerscough College’s workbased tutor in arboriculture, Mark Goucher commented on Amy’s progress: “Amy is an exceptional apprentice. Her hard work and dedication are something for others to take note, as I have no doubt she will go far within the industry.” www.myerscough.ac.uk

CONTRACTOR FALLS 30FT AND PINNED TO GROUND AFTER BRANCH SNAPS A contractor plummeted 30ft and was hit by a falling branch after it collapsed under him.

The 28-year-old was trimming a three tonne tree for Northern Powergrid in woodland outside the grounds of Whitworth Hall Hotel, Spennymoor, County Durham, when the branch on snapped.

He fell to the ground, landing under the branch, which pinned

him to the ground, trapping him for several minutes.

Firefighters, paramedics and the Great North Air Ambulance Service arrived at the scene shortly after 9.45am and the man was airlifted to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough with suspected broken ribs and wrists. www.thenorthernecho.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF British tree surgeons are to be sent to Sumatra to teach local orangutan rescuers tree-climbing skills.

Orangutans are endangered and need help as they get stuck in limited forest where surrounding trees are felled for logging or palm oil plantations. www.telegraph.co.uk Drivelink Training and Ropework UK has entered a collaboration to bring funded chainsaw training to Wales. The funding is available through the Focus On Forestry First programme, providing up to 75% of tuition costs on ground-based and aerial courses. www.drivelinktraining.co.uk

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NEWS

MAJOR SPONSORSHIP ANNOUNCED BY STIHL AT THE NATIONAL ARBORETUM

Westonbirt – The National Arboretum and STIHL GB are proud to announce a five-year agreement which sees the power tool brand sponsoring a stunning Treetop Walkway.

A key element of the National Arboretum’s ambitious growth plans, the STIHL Treetop Walkway will add an exciting

new dimension to visitors’ experience of trees. Launch of the partnership was marked with a tree planting ceremony carried out by two figureheads of the global STIHL Group: Hans Peter Stihl and Dr Nikolas Stihl.

Due for completion in late 2015, the STIHL Treetop Walkway will take the vision of Westonbirt’s

NEWS IN BRIEF An Estonian oak tree in a football field has left UK trees in the shade by scooping the European tree of the year award with almost 60,000 votes. The highestscoring UK tree in the competition was the Major Oak, in Sherwood Forest Country Park, which is associated with Robin Hood. www.theguardian.com The Arboricultural Association has announced that Alan Parker has been appointed as a trustee to the Association’s board. Alan started his career as a Tree Officer following completion of a forestry degree at Aberdeen University. www.trees.org.uk

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founder to a new level, with the serpentine route offering a new dimension to visitors’ experience of trees. Reaching as high as 13m above the ground, the walkway will also provide an all accessible route into Silk Wood – an ancient, semi-natural woodland that is home to a stunning combination of native and

exotic trees from towering cedars, through to the vibrant national Japanese maple collection and one of Britain’s oldest trees – a 2,000-year-old small leaved lime.

Commenting on the latest phase of its sponsorship, STIHL GB managing director, Robin Lennie said: “We have been proud to be associated with the National Arboretum since 2005 and this progression of our partnership heralds an exciting phase for this truly special environment.”

Speaking at the tree planting ceremony Simon Toomer, director of Westonbirt, The National Arboretum said: “We are very pleased to see our partnership with STIHL go from strength to strength. STIHL’s sponsorship of the new Treetop Walkway at Westonbirt will allow us to give our visitors an even more fascinating view into the world of trees, their biology, care and maintenance.” www.stihl.co.uk

ORANGE PLANT BRINGS CARLTON STUMP GRINDERS TO NORTHERN IRELAND AND THE REPUBLIC WITH M.LARGE TIE UP Orange Plant, the European Partner for Carlton Stump Grinders, has appointed M.Large as its Irish dealer. M.Large will stock and sell the products from their headquarters in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

Orange Plant’s managing director Joanna Chapman said: “We are delighted that a company as respected and established as

M.Large will be representing our range of Carlton Stump Grinders.

After an initial meeting, it was evident that this partnership could bear fruit for both parties, with Michael committing to taking stock of machinery within a week.

We are all really excited about the opportunities his company will bring.” www.orangeplant.co.uk

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NEWS

RECORD 20,000 STREET TREES PLANTED ACROSS LONDON A total of 20,000 trees have been planted across London, more than 1,000 of them in Ealing, as part of the Mayor’s Street Tree Initiative. On 4 March, the 20,000th tree since 2008 was planted on the capital’s pavements by Matthew Pencharz, the mayor’s senior advisor on environment and energy The initiative, in partnership with the Forestry Commission and Groundwork London, is part of the mayor’s commitment to maintain the city’s status as one of the greenest and leafiest. The aim is to brighten up congested major roads, keep the air clean, the city cooler, and enhance the environment.

Mr Pencharz said: “This is a fantastic scheme that has improved the aesthetic of busy streets across the capital. The

20,000th tree symbolises the amazing work carried out by local businesses, boroughs and individuals passionate about improving their area.”

Craig Harrison London manager for the Forestry Commission added: “The Mayor’s Street Trees will improve London’s landscape now and for generations to come – not only making streets more attractive but providing other benefits such as shade and air quality improvement.” www.getwestlondon.co.uk

ALIEN BUGS IN SHIPS’ CARGO TO DESTROY ENGLISH WOODLAND Alien bugs are coming into the country as larvae hidden in wood packaging because importers are not doing enough to stop it.

The Forestry Commission called on importers to comply with tough new regulations at

British ports. It said it feared importers were trying to bypass the regulations because they cost them time and money but the results could be disastrous for our natural habitats.

Already the authorities had had to lay waste to 2,000 trees in an area of Kent after larvae of the Asian Longhorn beetle escaped from wood docked at a nearby port.

Strict international regulations state wood packaging must be treated and marked as such. www.westerndailypress.co.uk

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PLANTING PROGRAMME PUT ON HOLD IN SOUTHWARK Australian developer and Elephant and Castle regeneration partner Lend Lease wants to plant more than 1,000 trees on the streets around two Southwark estates.

Residents of the Rockingham Estate and the Lawson Estate have complained after some of the trees appeared outside their homes without prior notification.

Martin Gabriel of the Rockingham Estate said: “People in the area are furious at the cavalier way they have been treated and their opinions given no value. This is not the way to engage with the community.

They are people who deserve respect not contempt.”

Councillor Karl Eastham said: “I am disappointed that Lend Lease does not appear to have undertaken any meaningful consultation work before planting these trees and that

residents are disappointed at what could have been a very positive exercise.”

Councillor Mark Williams, Southwark’s cabinet member for regeneration, planning and transport said: “We are aware some residents have raised concerns. I am pleased Lend Lease has agreed to pause the programme while we go back and make sure we get this right.” www.london-se1.co.uk

TREE CHOPPER HUNTED AFTER ATTACKS ON SWANSEA TREES A hunt has been launched for what a council is calling “the phantom tree chopper” after an apparent vendetta against seafront trees.

Three trees have been vandalised on the Swansea Bay promenade in the last few weeks.

The attacks follow similar incidents in the same area and at the same time of year in 2012 and 2013.

Swansea council is also reporting that a few pine trees have mysteriously been planted in the same spot.

A council spokesman said: “The phantom tree chopper has returned. Two hawthorn trees and one field maple have been vandalised since the start of the month. The field maple has been completely removed and the hawthorns were attacked with a saw below ground level. They’ve now been safely removed by Swansea council’s parks team.”

The vandalised trees, standing up to nine feet tall, had only been planted at the end of February. www.walesonline.co.uk

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NEWS

OXFORD RESIDENTS’ FURY OVER TREES CUT DOWN BY WESTGATE DEVELOPER A heritage group that planted two trees near the Westgate Shopping Centre in Oxford four decades ago has criticised a developer for felling them without prior warning.

Oxford Preservation Trust director Debbie Dance said the group was ‘disappointed’ to discover the 44-year-old plane trees had been chopped down.

Mrs Dance said: “We are disappointed they have not talked to us about any of the trees they cut down as we were the ones who planted them in 1971.

“We would have liked the developer and Oxford City Council to have been more proactive in considering us in all this. What they have left is not very distinguished and the replacement trees will only have a lifespan of about 15 years.”

Now the trust has called for one ‘beautiful’ big tree to replace those cut down.

Nicola Quinion, a spokesperson for the Westgate Oxford Alliance said: “While we appreciate the contribution the trees have made to the streetscape in certain streets within Oxford, the redeveloped Westgate will regenerate a large part of the city centre and create significant economic benefits for the local economy.”

She added that trees would be replanted to feature in new public squares around the edge of the development.

The Trees and Design Action Group (TDAG) is a pioneering group of individuals, professionals and organisations from private and public sectors dedicated to increasing awareness of the role of trees in the built environment. The registered charity is inviting support for its work by donating via Virgin Money Giving www.tdag.org.uk Children from five different primary schools got their hands dirty when they planted more than 60 native trees. The trees were planted in the ground of Merryhills Primary school, Enfield, as part of the ‘Be an Enfield active ranger’ competition. www.enfieldindependent.co.uk

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The final one of 50,000 new trees has been planted as part of a Sheffield City Council scheme to create the ‘next generation of woodland.’

The last planting took place at Longley Park with students

from Sheffield College’s Hillsborough campus. Tim Shortland, council community forestry manager, said: “These 17 new woodlands will maintain the city’s woodland legacy.” www.thestar.co.uk

NATURE FIGHTING BACK AS TREES AFFECT MOBILE RECEPTION Trees planted by network providers to offset the construction of mobile masts back in the nineties have grown so tall that they are hindering reception.

A survey by EE has discovered that almost a third of its 36,000 masts are affected by trees and it appears there’s nothing they

can do because they are neither allowed to chop down the trees nor increase the height of the masts.

Networks are currently seeking to increase the height of these masts, with the government pledging to review existing rules.

There is even support from the Countryside Alliance, which aims to improve coverage in rural areas though local opposition could still derail construction plans.

So the next time you can’t get any signal, don’t blame your provider – blame trees. www.mobot.net

www.oxfordtimes.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF

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50,000TH NEW TREE FOR SHEFFIELD

TREES PLANTED THANKS TO £60,000 UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL GIFT Hundreds of new trees will be planted across Bristol over the next three years thanks to a University of Bristol grant.

The university is pledging £60,000 for the project run with the help of the Bristol Tree Forum, which works in partnership with Bristol City Council to protect and enhance urban trees across Bristol.

Dr John Tarlton, a member of the Bristol Tree Forum

explained: “Trees are extremely important in an urban environment. They reduce air pollution, flooding, traffic noise, the urban heat island effect and atmospheric CO2 as well as increasing biodiversity.

“Unfortunately, cuts to council expenditure have meant that street trees lost due to disease and other elements, and are not being replaced. www.bristolpost.co.uk

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YOURS FOR A TENNER

YOURS FOR A TENNER A DAY

With our new finance scheme a brand new Isuzu 3.5t Grafter can cost you as little as £70 per week (excluding VAT, deposit and upfront costs).

To find out more, give our team a call on 0845 226 7983, visit us at isuzutruck.co.uk or email info@isuzutruck.co.uk

Offer available until 30th June 2015. This promotion is for business purposes in England, Scotland and Wales and is subject to credit acceptance and any qualifications in government or company policy. Finance example - Hire Purchase deal. Cost price £17,700 + VAT, road fund licence, first registration fee. Full VAT, road fund licence and deposit – £1,770. Balance £15,930, payable by monthly instalments of £303.33 over 60 months. VAT charged at the current UK rate at time of acceptance. Administration fees of £100 Document Fee and £100 Option to Purchase Fee are payable on all transactions. Alternative profiles are available on request. Written quotations are available on request from Isuzu Truck Finance. Isuzu Truck Finance is a trading title of BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions Ltd, Northern Cross, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 4HL.

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NEWS

ASSOCIATION NEWS A roundup of what’s happening at the Arboricultural Association RAISING THE PROFILE

NEW TRUSTEE CO-OPTED The association is delighted to confirm the co-option of Alan Parker to the board from 25 February 2015. Alan, who started his career as a tree officer following completion of his forestry degree, has spent the last 20 years implementing complex IT and business process improvement initiatives for government and commercial organisations.

As a member of the board, Alan will bring expertise and insights into the use of technology and e-commerce at a time when the association is reviewing its infrastructure to best support its growing membership base and service offering. www trees.org.uk

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In January, the association was accepted into the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Gardening and Horticulture, giving it the opportunity to demonstrate the value of arboriculture straight to the heart of Parliament. Former AA

president Lord Framlingham spoke on the value of trees to the House of Lords on 15 January.

A key question is which government department takes responsibility for urban trees; Communities, Defra or another?

TRAINING: DON’T MISS THE COURSES 14 April Arboricultural Knowledge.

Tonbridge, Kent 18 April Midlands Single Rope Technique workshop.

Rugeley, Staffordshire 6-7 May Arboricultural Consultancy.

Hinckley, Leicstershire 7 May Basic Tree Inspection.

Ponteland, Northumberland 15 July Becoming Tender Ready.

Enfield, Middlesex The AA is constantly trying to improve its training programme and

2015 is no exception with a large number of new courses available.

It is essential that you book early, however. As a general rule of thumb we need a minimum number of bookings, a month before the course date, so that we can avoid cancellation and moreover disappointment.

So please get in early and book your place online now. www.trees.org.uk/trainingevents/Training

3ATC CLIMBING COMPETITIONS The 3ATC Climbing Competition sponsored by arbjobs is back for another year after a hugely successful 2014. The competition is a great way of helping to spread awareness and encourage more students into the world of arboriculture.

29 April 3ATC Northern.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park 20 May 3ATC Southern.

Bicton College 5-6 June 2015 3ATC UK Open.

Westonbirt and UKCCC Final.

Booking forms and further info at 3atc.trees.org.uk/

ARB SHOW

Interest in the new look Arb Show 2015, sponsored by STIHL, continues to grow. It takes place on Friday 5 and Saturday 6 June at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum in Gloucestershire.

There are plenty of new names alongside established companies showcasing the latest climbing gear, equipment and machinery, tools, insurance, training, IT and technology. The event will feature more visitor attractions than ever including workshops and hands-on demonstrations, family attractions, recreational tree climbing, an axe racing arena and more. The show is open to members of the public and includes discounted entrance to Westonbirt. Visitors can make it a two day trip with camping space and facilities just down the road.

Find all the latest information at www.trees.org.uk

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BUSINESS TIPS

skills, experience and training as well as their current job grade.

R2 presents graded jobs in a progressive structure. R2 members have to achieve certain criteria at each level and must apply to be quality assured before they can progress to the next.

Each job level has prerequisite qualifications and training as well as experience in the industry and practical tasks to be undertaken on the job.

To record these achievements, the R2 software has the capability to upload images of training and qualification certificates.

Significantly, there is also a facility

R2: COMPETENCE MATTERS

“competence involves a mixture of training, qualifications and practice over time” R2 is an online tool allowing you to demonstrate competence to potential customers in terms of skills, knowledge and experience

T

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It has long been recognised that competence involves a mixture of training, qualifications and subsequent practice over a period of time. The Register of Tree Work Operatives (R2) seeks to address this situation by showcasing arborists’ competence in terms of their

4.0

Experienced Worker (Ungraded)

ree care businesses and arboricultural operatives are being encouraged to demonstrate competence through skills and experience, not merely through a fist full of tickets. This is thanks to a new online skills register for the industry.

There has been a tendency in recent years for those starting their careers in the arboricultural industry to become focused on collecting various certificates rather than the development of true competence.

There has been no means of differentiating between those who have just completed their training, and those who have spent several years building up critical experience in this field.

for keeping record of the time worked in the industry.

Tree workers are able to build a portfolio of tasks they have undertaken in the workplace by recording them for each job.

These include practical tree work tasks such as felling. It is not sufficient to have the appropriate certificate of competence; the operative must demonstrate the skills on several occasions.

For example, the Tree Worker (Aerial) grade specification states:

3.2 3.1 2.2 2.1 1.0

Master Tree Worker Senior Craftsman Tree Worker Craftsman Tree Worker Tree Worker (Aerial)

Tree Worker (Ground) Entry Level Tree Worker

“Fells and processes small trees to include using basic assisted fell techniques.” In practice this means that on five separate occasions, the registrant safely fells small trees of less than 380mm diameter at felling height. On at least two occasions, the registrant installs and directs the assisted felling of trees using a rope or winch.

In addition to technical tree work, there are other skills that operatives must achieve including time keeping, presentation and team leading skills.

“It has been critical to get feedback from practising arboricultural operatives about the typical roles, job titles, qualifications and training required within the sector to achieve that grade, along with relevant taskspecific experience and the typical time served,” explained Tony Lane, arboriculture consultant and R2 management committee member.

Evidence of work being completed to a suitable standard to meet the requirements of the scheme will need to be confirmed by an appropriate witness.

This could be the supervisor, manager or even the customer, depending on the nature of the skill being endorsed.

R2 is proud to be supported by Makita, our platinum sponsor.

ABOUT R2

For further information about R2, or to register please visit www.r2register.co.uk.

You can follow R2 on Twitter @R2_Online

Pro Arb | April 2015 13

01/04/2015 13:28

BUSINESS TIPS

THE ARB INDUSTRY’S CODE OF PRACTICE Not a law enforcement app, but a vital source of safety information for arborists.

Jonathan Hazell outlines why you must read ICoP: Tree Work At Height

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n February the Industry Code of Practice for Arboriculture: Tree Work at Height (ICoP) was published by the Arboricultural Association with the assistance of the HSE and sponsorship and support from City and Guilds NPTC and Stihl, for which I for one am extremely grateful.

The foreword, written by the HSE states: We commend the document to all arboricultural businesses as a source of information that will help managers and arborists to plan their work and operate safely.

So that’s an obvious steer – follow this guidance.

Early in the introduction, the narrative places the ICoP in context. In the hierarchy of esteem it sits below an Approved Code of Practice, which gives advice on how to comply with the law, but it stands above task specific industry good practice guides.

The code of practice provides

recommendations and guidance pertaining to the planning, management and undertaking of tasks and operations.

In its 38 pages of text the ICoP seeks to encourage and promote a mindset that will deliver a consistent approach to tree service delivery. It recommends six key principles to be adopted when planning tree work operations and explores each in great detail over 35 pages. The six principles are: a) defined standards of good management practice b) consistent application of safe systems of work c) informed and adequate supply, selection, use and maintenance of work equipment d) correctly defined roles and responsibilities e) trained and proficient personnel f) effective planning, supervision and auditing.

the ICoP seeks to promote a mindset that will deliver a consistent approach to tree service delivery The language is commendably precise throughout and when exploring the guiding principles, defines three clearly identifiable roles as well as the distinctions between them: • the responsible person, who is ultimately legally responsible for all activities under their control • the competent person, who is responsible for ensuring operations are managed and

undertaken safely and that the work environment is controlled • the proficient operator, who will be skilled, knowledgeable and experienced in the performance of specific tasks.

The third and fourth parts of the ICoP are by no means makeweights. The summary of legislation in part three is very thorough and should guide the reader to more research if required and the bibliography in part four is as current as it could be. The appendix is a list of the terms used in the ICoP and their particular definition in relation to their application to tree work at height.

I will be making great use of the ICoP when preparing documents for tree service delivery or monitoring tree work and I would encourage others to download the text from the AA www.trees.org.uk/Helpbecoming-an-ArbAC#icop and adopt it in the context of their own area of work. Some of what I have read was well known to me already as good industry practice. Other pieces of advice and guidance I can dimly recall, but there were ideas, concepts and language that I read for the first time and which I will be able to use on behalf of my clients, for which I am truly grateful.

Go on, download your copy now and make proper use of it!

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

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01/04/2015 13:29

BUSINESS TIPS

LISTEN UP –

IT'S STORY TIME! Steve Clarke on converting prospects into customers through stories they can relate to

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here is nothing more natural than listening to or delivering a compelling story. A story that is intriguing and one that creates excitement, particularly one that stirs up the emotions.

Why is that important to you?

The vast majority of buying decisions are driven by emotion.

That’s certainly true in landscape design and build, whether you’re involved in the delivery of products or services.

From a very early age most of us have been exposed to stories by our parents, grandparents, teachers, etc. We’d sit on the edge of our seats hanging on every word.

As adults, when we talk to friends and family we naturally share stories. When you tell people about an interesting situation that arose during your day or while on holiday, it’s not very likely you’d just detail the events in a dull monotone fashion, is it? I expect not.

One of the secrets of top sales people the world over is effective storytelling. I don’t mean in the 'never let the truth get in the way of a good story' sense.

I mean compelling, anecdotal, real life experiences with other customers and clients that can be shared with your prospects.

I'm talking about engaging stories

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full of emotional attachment that spell out the benefits to the listener.

Here’s a format that will help you. Try using, 'feel, felt, found'.

It’s fairly safe to assume that most people are more interested in themselves and their problems than hearing about how wonderful your products and services are.

The thing that will fully engage people and allow them to freely discuss their problems in more detail in order for you to help them is hearing that you know how they 'feel'.

They want to hear that other people you’ve helped 'felt' just like they do.

Then you can explain through your story what those other people 'found' that helped them solve whatever the problem was.

So instead of bashing away at all the features of your latest

product, gadget or gizmo, tell people about clients just like them who have solved problems similar to theirs. This is how you will capture their interest.

Stories should focus on the drama, the emotion, the pain and the difficulties before you helped.

While emotion will drive a buying decision, pain is very often the catalyst to motivate change. People are motivated to move away from pain towards pleasure.

Pain is a bigger driver than pleasure alone. So start your story with a painful situation then lead people to your solution.

Stir up people's emotions before reassuring them that others felt just the same and then leading them to the 'found' and the happy ending.

Don’t waste too much time saying what you actually did.

You’ll know they are interested because guess what, they’ll ask you!

Make some notes of all the key benefits of your products or services. Now think back to various situations where your product or service positively impacted another person or company. Spend some time building emotions and feelings into these situations until you have compelling stories.

When you’re with your friends you naturally trade stories, we all do. Selling is no different, be yourself. To sell more, sell less if that makes any sense.

In my experience, when using stories in general conversation, it is better to have your stories natural and unrehearsed rather than highly polished. Every feature has a benefit and every benefit has a story.

For your top ten marketing tips guaranteed to help you boost sales in 2015 visit www.eurekasales.co.uk ABOUT STEVE CLARKE An exceptional sales mentor and sought after motivational business speaker who built his last UK business to £30m in annual sales in just eight years, sold out and retired at 45. Now he helps businesses around the world generate more leads, more sales and more profits. www.eurekasales.co.uk

Pro Arb | April 2015 15

01/04/2015 13:30

OPINION HEALTH & SAFETY

TREE PLANTING AND STREET TREES As an arboricultural officer for Southend-on-Sea, Rick Milsom is perfectly placed to cast light on the work of tree officers working for local authorities

A

s part of routine street tree management, some trees inevitably require removal at some stage for whatever reason and it is usually desirable to replace them.

We have various species of tree which have been historically harshly pruned and that are now somewhat problematic to manage. The worst of these are silver maples (Acer saccharinum).

They produce profuse basal and epicormic growth and decay rather rapidly at these old ‘topping’ points, with Polyporus sqaumosus being an often seen coloniser. As we know, the best treatment for a topped street tree is getting rid of it.

Obviously there is a distinction between pollarding and topping, so I am talking about trees that were mature when pruned, leading to

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large diameter cut surfaces. Crown reduction is fine as long as the species is suitable and the form of the tree lends itself to this treatment.

There are a few other challenges we have at present.

One in particular seems to be the decline of many of our Sorbus species. The mountain ashes are faring particularly badly and the whitebeams not a great deal better. It may be they don’t like our rather dry climate in Essex so are always growing under stress.

If that doesn’t finish them off, Nectria Canker and Fireblight are also problems.

more common lime in the streets.

I have no problem planting street trees which bear fruit as long as they are not something ridiculous like Pyrus communis ‘Beech Hill’, which for some reason has been planted in some locations alongside Pyrus calleryana ‘Chanticleer’ (a non-offender) but

“I can’t abide seeing choking ties or loose trees flopping about or broken stakes” So after bemoaning the above what are we going to replace all these with and what actually makes a good street tree?

We need something that is going to establish well, not need too much nurturing and carry on growing with some degree of vigour. A common maintenance problem is basal and epicormic growth. It tends to all happen at once and sometimes needs removing three times a year, so no

consideration is required when siting trees which may drop fruit on paths.

Talking of fruit, we have noticed that many of the cockspur thorns do not establish a very secure root hold although they continue to grow. This is a bit of a problem as they become top heavy and start to fall over. At the other end of the spectrum is Robinia. These grow at an astonishing rate and require regular staked tree maintenance.

This leads me to my pet hates, which are seeing neglected staked trees or planting that is too deep. I can’t abide seeing choking ties, loose trees flopping about or broken stakes. Any tree planting programme needs to take account of future maintenance and particularly watering, so it’s wise to not plant a greater number of trees than you can realistically maintain.

Quite obvious really but watering can be expensive on a large scale.

We generally plant containerised trees 10-12cm or 12-14cm girth in 45L pots. These are fairly easy to handle and store but some can be a bit weighty depending on what they are potted in. There is no great problem in storing containerised trees for a while as long as you have the room, and can water them if necessary. I actually can’t remember the last time we planted a bare root tree but we do occasionally plant root balled stock.

We have planted many species over the years and there are hundreds to choose from. I am particularly interested to see what a lot of cultivars are like when they are mature and how they differ from the species.

ABOUT RICK MILSOM Starting out as an apprentice, Rick has worked in horticulture and arboriculture for 30 years, and is currently an arboricultural officer at Southend-on-Sea Borough Council.

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01/04/2015 13:30

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01/04/2015 11:45 01/04/2015 11:46

OPINION HEALTH & SAFETY

TOO GOOD FOR OUR OWN GOOD Jamie Saunders brings personal experience to bear and compares favourably the levels of professionalism in the arb industry

S

ince Christmas I have handed over much of the day-to-day running of my business to my right-hand man in order to manage a house build project at home. I was looking forward to it as a welcome change of focus because I sometimes get a little bored with the same old repetitive processes involved in running a tree contracting business. It’s been a challenge living with my wife and our three children in two rooms with no heating bar a log burner and a couple of electric radiators.

Although we are past the worst, I’m looking forward to getting back to working on the business again.

The reason I mention this is that the process has opened my eyes to the massive difference in culture and level of professionalism in small to medium-sized contractors in the construction industry as compared with the arb

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industry. I have often heard clients comment on how reliable and professional we are compared to their fencers, painters or plumbers but I’d never really given it much thought. But after seeing firsthand just how much of a laid back approach these various trades take toward customer service, despite dealing with reasonably large sums of money, I wonder if we haven’t made a rod for our own backs. It wasn’t that I was dealing with cowboys either. A few

apple tree but they are getting three quotes so I’m obliged to go back and pay someone to type it up and send it out on nice headed paper or an emailed PDF. It has to be scheduled in but they want to know what time you’ll be there and will be indignant if you don’t

“Is it the work of industry bodies like the AA helping drive up standards or is it a supply and demand issue?” property developer friends gave me their contact lists and the work itself has been superb but the approach was the same from all of them, so I had to accept it and take my pick.

I guess most people do the same and so there is no impetus for them to sharpen up. For example, I pay someone in the office to answer the phone and make appointments. I’ll drive there in a sign written van with corporate uniform for up to an hour’s round trip. The job may be just a £150

call ahead to say you’re stuck in traffic. Risk assessments, wildlife assessment, pesticide records, the list goes on, all for £50 profit!

Contrast that with chasing up a quote to get a text saying “Structural timber works as per drawings to include fascias and soffits £6800, labour only.”

Trying to get enough proper written quotes to compare like with like is akin to herding cats, so in the end, you just have to go with your gut feeling but I know that I would be out of business pretty

quickly if I tried that approach in this industry. I feel we have shaped customer expectations to the point that anything less than first class is not good enough for the same people who will accept far poorer service from other trades without a second thought. Is it because we are just nicer, customer orientated people? Is it the work of industry bodies like the AA helping to drive up standards or is it simply a supply and demand issue? I don’t know but I have a feeling that for those inclined to do so, transferring the level of professionalism taken for granted in this industry across to the building industry would yield a very handsome return.

ABOUT JAMIE SAUNDERS Jamie Saunders completed an ND (Arb) before establishing Trojan Tree Care at age 19. The company, now in its 15th year, is based in Sevenoaks, Kent and provides a quality arboricultural service to commercial and residential clients across the South East. Follow him @trojantreecare or read his blog at www.trojantreecare.co.uk/our-blog

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01/04/2015 13:31

OPINION

VALUATION OF AMENITY TREES In the first of a two part series, arboricultural consultant Jon Heuch considers the past and the future of the monetary valuation of trees

U

ntil around 2006 if a UK based arborist had been asked to provide a monetary valuation of a tree there would have been only one approach, based on what is known as the Helliwell System.

Adopted by the Tree Council and Arboricultural Association it has been modified and tweaked on a number of occasions but still retains the same methodological framework proposed in 1967.

However by 2006 things had changed. Professionals who had used the Helliwell System had expressed concerns with both the theoretical structure of the system and its practical outcomes.

While acknowledging that placing trees on a linear points scale allowed the relative worth of trees, groups of trees and woodlands to be compared, the Helliwell System provided no theoretical background

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to justify why particular factors were chosen, nor the weight given to each. Furthermore, there was no supporting evidence and no transparency to justify the translation of the calculated Helliwell points into a monetary value. If the original value had been soundly justified it might be possible to argue that there was some sound reasoning behind the system, but there is not. It appears that the conversion factor value is based on the proverbial foundation of quicksand.

This problem is compounded when one considers that the system has now been in place for over 40 years. Annual modifications to the monetary value of a Helliwell point are

two; thus upgrading two factors by one step leads to a fourfold increase in value. In addition, the trump-like nature of choosing a value of zero for any one factor leads automatically to an overall value of zero. Some users were concerned about the subjectivity in assessing particular factors, but this merely reflected their lack of awareness that valuation provides a subjective professional opinion, not a measurement.

“It appears that the conversion factor value is based on the proverbial foundation of quicksand” announced but who is on the committee that decides these things, when they meet and what they talk about is not shared. A vague suggestion that the retail price index is taken into account clouds the issue as the reasons (if any) for linking tree value with retail prices is not known.

In practical terms, Helliwell uses stepped values for each factor with several factors doubling between steps – e.g. from 0.5 to one to

This issue raises a variety of issues with regards to professional practice as many arborists can provide a Helliwell value using the simple ready-reckoner that the system provides after a one day training course. However, they are most unlikely to be able to justify that value in an adversarial situation with that training alone.

In my experience, the need to consider a monetary valuation of amenity trees most commonly

arises in two circumstances – compensation and public policy.

Compensation covers a variety of circumstances including statutory compensation from compulsory purchase or other legislation such as civil aviation; a civil action following damage by a third party; and insurance claims.

Compensation is not a form of punishment, however. Claims should not be pursued with an idea that a disincentive for change or further damage needs to be established. It should, if successful, merely put the claimant back in the situation they were in before the claim arose.

Public policy issues arise in a variety of circumstances, for example, considering the space best left aside for trees in urban areas; considering how many trees, what types of trees and what size of trees are best used; deciding the size of the tree maintenance budget within a council; or supporting public relations efforts to ‘sell’ the value of trees to the public. These are different, yet related, issues. One valuation method may or may not be appropriate to provide estimates of value.

These issues will be covered in greater depth in the next article.

ABOUT JON HEUCH Jon Heuch is principal arboricultural consultant at Duramen Consulting.

He has worked as a tree officer for and as a consultant to several councils in south east England. www.duramen.co.uk

Pro Arb | April 2015 19

01/04/2015 13:32

TECHNICAL

USING MECHANICAL ADVANTAGE ...TO OUR ADVANTAGE “Give me a lever and a place to stand and I will move the earth.” Dave Vickers of Drivelink Training explains how Archimedes’ boast is relevant to arborists Using ropes and pulleys is common in the arboriculture and forestry industry, whether for rigging, vehicle debogging or assisting with a fell.

There appears to be some mystique about using ropes and pulleys to create mechanical advantage and during rigging refresher courses I often find that people hadn’t realised they could set-up a system that would allow them to lift branches despite using a portawrap/flying capstan device; or that they could use a similar set-up when felling to

gain greater control over the tree being felled.

In this short series, we’ll be going through mechanical advantage, how to set-up rope and pulley systems to create it, how we can implement it in real world scenarios and how to ensure safety when using it.

Hopefully this series will be of most use to those who wish to undertake the Emergency Treeworks, or Assisted Felling courses/assessments, but I also hope it is of wider use to the industry.

The climber (circled) has tied the rigging to the piece to be cut and lifted. Because the set-up shown is using a Portawrap device at the base of the stem, we can’t use it to lift as its function is to add friction to the system.

To provide the lifting element, a second system (red rope) has been set-up to provide a mechanical advantage of 4:1.

Once the climber has completed his cut, the groundsman with the yellow helmet pulls on the red rope (yellow arrow).

This pulls the rigging line down (white arrow) and the other groundsperson can take up the slack by pulling on the rigging line (red arrow). This system has the effect of hauling the branch upwards, using mechanical advantage and when it snaps off the hinge, it can be lowered safely via the rigging line.

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What is Mechanical Advantage?

When we hold a rope to pull something along, we bear the full weight of that load, plus any friction. We can use pulleys to help us, however. How we set these up is of key importance as they have different roles to play, affecting the system as a whole.

Take an example where we want to lift a branch that has a mass of 100kg. Our climber rigs a pulley to a fixed top anchor point, so one end of the rope is attached to the branch and the

other to my 75kg mass. As soon as the climber severs the branch, the 100kg load comes on to the line, lifting me into the air. All I do is reduce the impact when the branch hits the ground.

The fixed top pulley offered no mechanical advantage and served as nothing more than a fairlead for the rope. If we had set-up a 2:1 system, however, my 75Kg could have lifted that 100Kg load and theoretically I would have balanced a load of 150Kg. But as we only used one fixed pulley there was no mechanical advantage.

Lesson #1: fixed position pulleys offer no mechanical advantage, simply helping us to pull loads using a more ergonomic position.

Mechanical advantage can be defined as the ratio of output force to the input force applied to a system. With our fixed position pulley, one unit of input force gave one unit of output force, so my mass of 75kg (0.75kN) resulted in an output force of 0.75kN – the lifting action on the branch. As the branch was applying 1.0kN downward force, this meant that I was going to be lifted up.

In the next instalment, we’ll begin to take a look at how we can set-up a system to create mechanical advantage.

ABOUT DAVE VICKERS Drivelink Training provides City & Guilds NPTC forestry and arboriculture short courses; run by David Vickers, a City & Guilds NPTC approved trainer and assessor, qualified teacher with a BA (Hons).Ed. and QTLS. Drivelink Training provides training from basic maintenance to dealing with windblown trees, from basic tree climbing to rigging / dismantling. Visit www.drivelinktraining.co.uk to find out more.

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01/04/2015 13:32

TECHNICAL

PESTS & DISEASES: OAK PROCESSIONARY MOTH female sex attractant pheromone of OPM, can provide an indication of population size and distribution, although it is unsure if this is an accurate reflection of the breeding population.

Dr Glynn Percival and Emma Schaffert give a rundown on OPM and how to manage it The Oak Processionary Moth is a defoliating pest of English, Sessile and Turkey oaks although the caterpillars will also feed on the foliage of hornbeam, hazel, beech, sweet chestnut and birch.

Infestations are common in urban areas, forest edges and amenity woodlands and were first identified in London in 2006.

While caterpillar feeding on trees can be predominantly an aesthetic issue, OPM also represents a risk to human health.

The older caterpillars are covered in irritating hairs that contain a toxin and contact with these hairs can result in skin irritation and allergic reactions. These hairs readily break off, get carried through the surrounding air and if inhaled can result in respiratory problems such as asthma or even anaphylaxis.

OPM eggs are laid from July to early September, deposited to make a plaque covered with greyish scales overwintering on branches. The first stage larvae hatch in April, so egg plaques

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should be monitored from March onwards to identify first stage larvae, which are the main targets for insecticide applications.

Oak processionary caterpillars are found from April to June. There are six stages during the larval lifecycle, with the larvae getting

OPM Management Strategies Surveying for the presence of OPM is a key criterion. Symptoms include characteristic skeletonised leaf feeding damage, clusters of larvae on shoots feeding on the underside of scaffold branches and on stems, followed by nest formation. Nests can be found anywhere on the tree and removal, while essential, is labour intensive, time consuming, exposes arborists to the health risks of OPM and expensive. Full PPE is essential as exposure to the OPM toxin is

“Infestations are common in urban areas, forest edges and amenity woodlands” progressively bigger between moults. The larvae feed in groups and congregate in communal nests made of white silk webbing spun under a branch or on the trunk. The larvae typically follow one another head to tail in long ‘processions’, giving rise to the name.

Adult moths can be seen from July until September. They have a wingspan of around 30-32mm with grey forewings suffused with white and darker grey markings that provide excellent camouflage against the bark of oak trees. Use of pheromone traps baited with the

sensitising. Control through nest removal alone is not an effective management option.

Soap and horticultural oil treatment provides an organic and environmentally acceptable option for control, however, its has limited resilience against heavy rain which necessitates the need for several repeat applications.

Diflubenzuron (Dimlin Flo), is an insect growth regulator. Insects that absorb diflubenzuron cannot form their protective outer shell and die during moulting. Importantly it is non-toxic to honeybees, ladybirds,

beetles, spiders and any type of sucking insects. OPM takes seven to ten days to die following spraying, but where used it has been shown to provide excellent long term control.

Bacillus thuringiensis var kurstaki (BT) is a highly selective biological insecticide that acts on larvae after being ingested. This is only effective if applied at least twice in the early stage of larval development. BT is not an effective eradication option, but could be considered when treating near watercourses, as it is not toxic to aquatic organisms.

Deltamethrin is a broad based synthetic pyrethroid insecticide that provides rapid, effective control, 100% mortality within two hours of spraying. The disadvantage is that collateral damage (death of nontarget insects) will be high.

A strategy adopted by Bartlett Tree Experts is to use deltamethrin in the first instance to achieve total control, followed by deltamethrin with diflubenzuron to prevent the pest re-establishing.

ABOUT BARTLETT Dr Glynn Percival is the plant physiologist and technical support specialist for the Bartlett Tree Expert Company Ltd and manages its UK research and diagnostic laboratory based at the University of Reading.

Emma Schaffert has been a Research Technician for the Bartlett Tree Research and Diagnostic Laboratory since 2011

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01/04/2015 13:33

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01/04/2015 11:25

Features 25

AN INTERVIEW WITH... TRACY CLARKE

28

APPRENTICESHIPS – CHRISTOPHER HOARE

30

i-TREE – MODELLING URBAN FORESTRY

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01/04/2015 14:04

FEATURES

An interview with

TRACY CLARKE This month Pro Arb caught up with Tracy Clarke, from Tim Moya Associates, a specialist arboricultural consultancy, to find out about what the company offers, her views on education within the sector and future plans for the business

Tell us about the history of Tim Moya Associates (TMA).

TMA was started by Tim Moya in 1989, initially as a tree contracting business and he provided consultancy advice alongside this as his knowledge and experience developed.

How is the company structured?

There are three directors, including myself. I am responsible for leading the consultant team and I am one of the principal arborists within it. To help the efficient flow of work and work to people’s strengths, the arboricultural team is separated into specialist areas including pre-planning, post-planning and tree risk management. Over the past couple of years we have diversified into ecology consultancy and this is growing well.

So who do you do work for?

We provide professional consultancy services for a range of clients in the private and public sectors including developers, property managers, landowners, local authorities as landowners and as planning authorities.

In 2008 during the recession, we made a conscious decision to diversify our client services to reduce the risk to our business from the construction industry. It has been very hard to do this with the economic climate over the past five years, but I’d say we’ve done really well.

And how did you start in the industry?

I decided to study arboriculture because I wanted a job that would give me opportunities to make a difference to the environment. I left college in 1996 and was offered a temporary job with a local authority in Sunderland helping to manage the tree stock. From there I worked as a tree and landscape officer at Epping Forest District Council, where I learned a lot about trees and

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FEATURES the planning system, which has been invaluable. I’ve worked for TMA for ten years and been a director for the past three.

So what does your work involve?

In pre-planning work, we provide tree surveys to assess the quality and value of trees and provide information on design constraints.

Our approach is to assess the proposals in relation to trees in the context of the site. We research planning policy and other contextual matters to ensure we can contribute in a way that informs decision makers.

In post-planning work we get involved in detailed design work before a contract is tendered. Our involvement in detailed design is key since it is often the stage where the decisions are made about what goes where, how it is done and what the costs are. We need a presence at this stage to get the best outcome for our clients, both in terms of making sure their planning obligations are met and so that they can safely retain important trees. Our site work involves working with the contractor and overseeing the key activities around trees.

If a 10 house development was considered for a site with a couple of 200 year old trees, would you find a solution to keep those trees and continue with the build?

Trees are material consideration for any planning proposal. Our job is to assess the trees and advise on their sustainability. Are they worthy of retention? If they are likely to be viewed as important by the local authority, we advise on their retention and offer input to

A TMA Tree Protection Plan

26 Pro Arb | April 2015

ProArb Apr15 P25-27 Interview Tracy Clarke.indd 26

“The challenge is to develop from being considered as technicians to consultants. We have to earn the recognition and acceptance we think we deserve” make the development work around the trees. Sometimes we can achieve retention and sometimes retention is unsustainable. In such circumstances we will try to mitigate tree loss by proposing new trees.

Do you think it’s getting better because developers understand the importance of trees to society?

Yes I do think they see that trees add value to their schemes. There is still a lot of work to be done in raising the profile of arborists in the development and construction industry so that we are accepted as integral members of the professional team alongside architects, structural and civil engineers and landscape architects. For arborists the challenge is to develop from being considered as technicians to consultants. So we have to earn the recognition and acceptance that we think we deserve.

Do you get involved with the industry associations?

Yes, I’ve recently been elected onto the Council for the Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF) and I’m hoping to do some good work for them. I’ve also been the treasurer for the East Anglian branch of the Arboricultural Association for a number of years. One of the things I am currently involved with for the ICF is reviewing education in the industry at higher levels and providing feedback on skills gaps in arboricultural graduates.

Do colleges need to push students into finding a specialism within the industry?

Possibly. In our company we have areas of specialism where people focus their interest and skills in different areas. Most arboricultural courses focus on the subject of arboriculture rather than what is needed in a graduate to fit the skills of the jobs available in the industry. For example skills in IT, GiS, marketing, sales, and project management, are invaluable in the work of a consultant.

What is your experience with taking people from college?

We’ve got some fantastic graduates working for us. However my experience is that graduates vary significantly in their enthusiasm and interest in developing a career in the industry. Many graduates have no knowledge of the work we do.

We employ at any level but we will look at people coming from college because we like to offer them an opportunity to develop their career within TMA. Finding people who are qualified and experienced to carry out a senior level role in our business is very difficult, partly due to the lack of people and project management skills needed to do this level of job. It’s rare to find a good employee who fits with the business, can do the job and is enthusiastic about developing their career.

But when you do, you want to look after them and hang on to them.

How do you get your work?

We pride ourselves on quality and providing value for money. We don’t employ a marketing person so a lot of the work comes through recommendations and our reputation. We’ve had some long standing clients who value our

A site where we were preparing a drainage channel underneath a no-dig construction road, using an air spade to remove soil

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01/04/2015 13:35

FEATURES

Several examples of tree protection methods we have employed on projects during demolition and construction

A TMA soft landscape scheme proposal

approach, which is very rewarding because we can be creative in the work we do for them.

Is there a tender process?

We do actively search for and submit tenders.

We have recently been successful being on the consultant framework providing planning advice for Kent County Council. It is really time consuming and we aren’t in the fortunate position of having staff employed directly for that job so it’s led by a director and we all contribute detail as required.

What do you think of the standard of tree care in the industry?

In terms of newly planted trees it’s heartbreaking to witness substantial tree

failures in new landscaping schemes. The industry recognises this problem and Keith Sacre of Barchams trees has recently made huge steps to promote improved standards in the quality of plant material, implementation and aftercare. When we get involved in the protection of existing trees on development sites, we have evidence of them surviving very well. Under-resourced local authorities can’t get out to monitor every site granted consent for development so I genuinely think if we weren’t involved the outcome for tree survival would be far worse.

Do you take on apprentices at all?

I have considered it since the value apprenticeships can have for individuals

and industry is well known. It is something that TMA would be very interested in exploring further.

What’s next for the company?

We are excited to be developing 3D modelling of trees to enable us to work collaboratively with other professionals in the construction industry. We are transferring the critical dimensions of trees we have surveyed into 3D tree models which can then be delivered as an element of the site model developed by the architects and accessible by all. The organic features of a site is not something that is well developed in 3D modelling software for the construction industry and as a profession we really need to do this if we are to be involved as part of the consultant team in the future. The potential to develop this further for our use in other areas of the work we do is significant.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I race BMX nationally and regionally, I love doing crossfit and yoga too. Nothing beats being outside whether it’s sports, gardening or walking the dogs.

CONTACT

Tree protection installed on a site as recommended by TMA

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ProArb Apr15 P25-27 Interview Tracy Clarke.indd 27

Tim Moya Associates, The Barn, Feltimores Park, Chalk Lane, Harlow, Essex, CM17 OPF Tel: 0845 094 3268 Email: info@tma-consultants.co.uk www.timmoyaassociates.co.uk

Pro Arb | April 2015 27

01/04/2015 13:35

FEATURE ASSOCIATION APPRENTICESHIPS INWITH

CHRISTOPHER HOARE TREE SERVICES LTD

Pro Arb is keen to highlight the great young talent in our industry. This month, we speak to three apprentices at Christopher Hoare Tree Services

timber. When I left I had managed to obtain my CS 30, 31 and 38.

What is your role within the company?

Jack Hoare, 16 Jack Hoare: When I’m not studying at college I act as a groundsman for a domestic team.

Why have you chosen arboriculture as a career?

JH: I like being outdoors and getting hands-on with my work and it’s fun to be part of a team, all working together to achieve a task.

Luckily I’ve been given a lot of advice from my dad. As director of CHTS he recommended that I should do an apprenticeship so I could learn the industry from the ground up and follow in his footsteps.

WS: First and foremost it’s my love of the outdoors. Being in the fresh air and battling against the elements feels good to me and it keeps me fit and healthy.

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Will Shannon, 18

Troy Pugh, 20

Will Shannon: My primary role is groundsman within a domestic team and I am also a trainee climber.

Troy Pugh: I am a groundsman and trainee climber in the utility section of CHTS.

I enjoy working as a member of a team and pulling together to get the big jobs done at the same time as being conscious of my own developing abilities and having the freedom to work as an individual. Nothing beats the adrenaline that you get from climbing and using heavy machinery.

Did you go to college? If so, where did you go and what qualifications did you get?

JH: I am still attending college at Sparsholt three days a week, studying level one woodland skills. Next year when I am old enough I intend to study level three arboriculture.

TP: I’m a hands-on kind of person so getting to work in the outdoors was one of the biggest appeals of working in the industry.

Working in the utility section of our company means that I get to spend most of my days surrounded by beautiful countryside and farms.

WS: I went to Sparsholt College and studied level two trees and timber. I left college with my CS30 and 31. College also gave me the opportunity to retake and pass my English and maths GCSEs. TP: I went to college at Sparsholt and studied level two trees and

What is your favourite part of your current role?

JH: Being new to the industry, every day on site is a new learning experience. I get to work with some really experienced tree surgeons so taking their knowledge and putting it to practical use is definitely the most satisfying part of my role.

WS: Climbing and limb walking.

That’s what really gets my heart pumping – in a good way. I enjoy the ground work I do as well though, it gives me a chance to watch some of the experienced guys we’ve got here at CHTS and is really useful for picking up tips.

TP: I enjoy using the chainsaws we’ve got at CHTS. No two jobs are the same so it’s important to have the right tools for whatever job we undertake. Climbing is another thing I really enjoy here and I’ve managed to pick up some really useful tips from the people around me.

What is your favourite piece of equipment to use?

JH: Because of my age I have to be under direct supervision when using most of our equipment or

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01/04/2015 13:36

FEATURE

plant machinery. I like using the chainsaws when I can.

WS: My Husqvarna 357 ground saw. It’s my personal saw that CHTS issued to me so I’m very protective of it. I am responsible for cleaning and maintaining it properly.

TP: Definitely the Stihl brush cutter. It’s hardly a subtle piece of kit but it’s amazing how quickly it can clear an overgrown area and gives you a real sense of accomplishment to see it tidy.

What are your ambitions within the industry?

JH: Firstly I want to complete my apprenticeship. I want to keep working my way up through the company and eventually hope to gain the knowledge and

“I hope to gain the knowledge and experience to step into my dad’s shoes and run the company”

experience to step into my dad’s shoes and run the company. I know this will take a long time and involve a lot of hard work.

WS: I’d like to focus on my climbing over the next couple of years and possibly enter some competitions and represent CHTS. We entered a team into the Arb Show competition in 2013 so I’d love to try the speed climb event. In the future I’d quite like to

work abroad, still in the industry, maybe Australia. The trees there can grow really big. I just want to keep testing myself as best I can.

TP: For now I just need to keep learning and gaining as much experience as I can but in the future it would be nice to become a site supervisor or surveyor.

Is there a structured development plan at Christopher Hoare Tree Services for you?

JH: Most definitely. When I have finished my apprenticeship I intend to continue working as a groundsman at CHTS and work towards becoming a climber and one day a team leader. All of us get encouraged to further our development here so I have attended some Arboricultural

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Association workshops and hope to become a fully qualified tree surgeon.

WS: All of us at CHTS, not only the apprentices, are continually encouraged to develop ourselves by attending training courses and workshops. By working with experienced individuals and teams I’ve learned a lot. I hope over the next couple of years I can show that I am capable of becoming a team leader and passing the knowledge I’ve gained on to the next set of apprentices.

TP: I think that everybody at CHTS is pushed to further their knowledge of the industry. I am looking forward to some training next year and hopefully becoming a well established utility arborist within the company.

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01/04/2015 13:36

FEATURES

i-TREE ECO: MODELLING THE LUNGS OF OUR CITIES Following on from last month’s article on quantifying the benefits of trees to cities, Keith Sacre gets specific about the internationally recognised London i-Tree Eco Project

Who and what are RE:LEAF? The RE:LEAF partnership includes The Mayor of London, The Tree Council, Trees for Cities, The London Tree Officers Association, Groundwork, The Forestry Commission, The London Orchard Project, the London Wildlife Trust, The Woodland Trust, The Conservation Foundation, The Trust for Conservation Volunteers and Natural England.

RE:LEAF is a partnership campaign led by the Mayor to protect the capital’s trees and encourage individual Londoners, businesses and organisations to plant more trees. The Mayor also wants to protect London’s woodlands and associated wildlife and make London a greener, more attractive city.

Follow the project at : • www.facebook.com/pages/ London-i-Tree-Project • www.twitter.com/ LondoniTreeProj

30 Pro Arb | April 2015

ProArb Apr15 P30-31 iTree TW.indd 30

In the last article, Kenton Rogers from Treeconomics wrote about the importance of not only recognising the benefits of trees but of quantifying them using a systematic approach based on sound, peer reviewed science.

Treeconomics has been involved since the outset in several major projects across the country where i-Tree software has been used as the tool to express those benefits. I have been fortunate to work with Kenton on some of these initiatives including the one I’ve been asked to write about here, The London i-Tree Eco Project.

The importance of the London project cannot be overestimated in terms of its international profile and appeal. London is home to eight million people and it is one of the iconic global cities. The fact that it is conducting the largest ever urban forest survey using volunteer, citizen science has

International experts came to offer specialist support

not gone unnoticed, sparking interest in Europe and further afield.

The high profile nature of this project was reinforced last spring when Greg Ina and Scott Maco from The Davey Tree Expert Company and Dr David Nowak from the USDA Forestry Service agreed to come to London to offer specialist support for the project, over and above their normal extensive offering.

Dr Nowak is the lead researcher from the US Forest Service charged with developing the i-Tree tools while Davey is recognised as the leading disseminator and support service supplier for i-Tree in the world.

“The importance of the London project cannot be overestimated in terms of its international profile” The internationally recognised experts intend to be in London when some of the headline figures are announced at this year’s London Tree and Woodlands Awards ceremony on 27 May. One of the aspects of the project that fascinated the Americans was the extensive use of volunteers to collect the necessary tree data. Around 300 volunteers were trained by Treeconomics and Jim Smith of the Forestry Commission. As experience is key, each team also included a professional tree warden or tree officer.

Social media was used to great effect in recruiting the volunteers, who came from all walks of life. This social network will continue to be used for the dissemination of results and to continue to engage the volunteers, many of whom would like to be involved in further projects.

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01/04/2015 14:07

FEATURES

What is the London Tree And Woodland Awards?

The London Tree and Woodland Awards has been held since 2008 with the aims of celebrating the work of individuals, communities and professionals to protect, improve and expand the capital’s tree and woodland cover; inspiring others to manage their trees and woodlands, and raising the profile of London’s trees and woodlands and the need for management.

For more information see www.forestry.gov.uk/londonawards Around 300 volunteers took part in the citizen science project

Jake Tibbets, tree officer for Islington and chair of the London Tree Officers Association explained: “The volunteer resource that helped deliver the i-tree survey will be galvanised using social media into the first London wide network where volunteers, professionals and tree owners such as councils can share knowledge, experience and skills. One of the main aims will be to up-skill and enable volunteers to deliver their own events and projects such as further i-tree surveys, planting and educational events. It is hoped that through this scheme the public can start to develop more of a sense of ownership or guardianship over London’s urban forest and engage in its care and management in new ways.”

At one of the training sessions, Sir Harry Studholme chair of the Forestry

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ProArb Apr15 P30-31 iTree TW.indd 31

Commission turned up unannounced, not as an additional inspirational speaker but as a volunteer. I asked him why he was there and what made him volunteer.

His reply was interesting and a ringing endorsement for the London i-Tree project.

“London has an enormous and under appreciated asset in its trees. They frame its cityscape, lining its streets and beautifying its parks and gardens. Much more than this, they perform important functions such as absorbing pollution and carbon, influencing storm water runoff as well as providing shade. Of course those of us involved with trees know this, but the chance to evaluate this and communicate it to a wider audience makes the London i-Tree an incredibly exciting project.”

The London Tree and Woodland Awards on 27 May is an event of international

significance in terms of recognising and quantifying the benefits of trees. It will be a day to celebrate partnerships, endorse altruistic professional support services and one to embed the quantification of the benefits of the urban forest within the current and future political discourse at local, national and even international level.

ABOUT KEITH SACRE Keith has over 20 years’ experience in local government as a nursery, parks and operations manager and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Foresters and a chartered arboriculturist. He has an MSc in arboriculture and urban forestry, and is currently a trustee of the Arboricultural Association and the Trees and Design Action Group (TDAG).

Pro Arb | April 2015 31

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FOCUS ON

LATEST KIT

STUMP GRINDERS This month, David Murison explores the benefits of buying as opposed to hiring stump grinders

Stump ‘n’ grind Many contractors in the arboricultural industry have found that hiring equipment like stump grinders works well on small projects but on larger jobs, the benefits of buying are outweighed by the cost of hiring.

High quality stump grinders aren’t easy to find, especially in remote places and many businesses are now buying stump grinders online.

The Rayco RG25HD is the largest model in the Mini WorkForce line up. This unit is powered by a 25hp Kohler Command engine featuring electric start and a Donaldson dual element air cleaner. The RG25HD is self propelled, making it the best choice for hills, trailer ramps etc and its large tyres roll over chip piles and obstacles easily. The narrow profile of the RG25HD allows it to fit through 30in gates with handlebar adjustment allowing the operator to change the height depending on the conditions. An electromagnetic clutch engages the cutter wheel at the flip of a switch.

As with all Mini Work-Force models, the RG25HD has a powder coat finish and two year warranty.

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ProArb Apr15 P35 Focus On stumpgrinders TW.indd 35

Focus On Bigger Projects The major benefit of buying rather than hiring a stump grinder is that you’ll be able to use the machine at your convenience and on more jobs than you could consider when hiring, with or without an operator.

The Vermeer SC30TX focuses on ease of operation. Its compact design offers intuitive controls, minimal service points and the performance of a machine that gets the job done. The modified operator presence handle design is now manufactured with a harder exterior to improve wear and appearance.

The Kohler ECH740 twin cylinder, electronic fuel injection engine performs well during cold weather and provides improved fuel economy over comparable carburettor petrol engines. The AutoSweep function monitors engine speed and automatically adjusts the cutter wheel sweep rate.

The hydrostatic ground drive and hydraulic cutter wheel drive eliminates belts and pulleys, reducing maintenance time and cost. Ground disturbance is minimised by long tracks that spread the machine's weight and provide improved stability on bigger projects.

These machines allow you to offer powerful solutions to contractors looking at clearing wooded areas, regardless of the size of the stumps in the way. The type of projects you’ll be able to take on will make up for the price in a matter of months.

Equipment you can rely on When you hire this sort of equipment, you can only hope that the teeth are in good condition and that it runs as efficiently as when it was new.

You will have no way of knowing whether the previous user treated it properly or whether they messed things up.

It’s far better to buy a stump grinder in order to have a little peace of mind with regard to whether or not it works. If it does work well, you’ll get the job done a lot faster than if you were to hire something that is only working at half speed.

Even attachments won’t be worth the money if you don’t get them running at full power.

There are many good quality ones on the market with very comprehensive backup.

Your company’s best options You will no doubt have to spend a little more initially than you did when you were hiring, but when larger projects that you couldn't previously handle start coming in, you’ll be cashing out in no time.

When choosing your stump grinder, it is wise to go for mainstream companies who manufacture machinery you can count on to clear away even the biggest stumps in a matter of hours.

ABOUT DAVID MURISON David Murison has worked at Acle Garden Machinery in Norfolk for the last nine years.

Acle Garden Machinery is a dealer for DMM, Petzl, Stihl, Vermeer, Sherrill, Arbortec, Marlow, Aspen, Silky, Workware and Stein.

Tel: 01493 751659 www.aclegardenmachinery.co.uk

Pro Arb | April 2015 35

01/04/2015 13:37

LATEST KIT

S R E D N I R G P STUM latest kit Vermeer SC30TX DANequip 25SP At only 28in (710mm) wide, the DANequip 25SP pedestrian stump grinder has the advantage of fitting through most confined places. A set of narrower wheels comes with the machine, reducing the width to 26in (670mm). The 25SP is compact and well balanced, making it easier on the operator to use. The engine is a 25hp (747cc) Kohler Command, with electric start and low oil pressure alert as standard. The 36cm diameter cutter wheel is 12mm thick, using just eight standard teeth, producing more than enough cutting force while keeping running costs down.

The SC30TX from Vermeer offers great performance with a compact design. Its ease of operation makes it an ideal machine for both tree care or rental companies.

The SC30TX features a 27hp Kohler EFI engine that performs well on cold starts and increases fuel efficiency. It has excellent torque for challenging ground conditions and stubborn tree stumps. The horizontal shaft design allows for easier access and maintenance due to the elimination of drive belts. The AutoSweep system monitors engine speed and automatically adjusts cutter wheel speed to reduce engine and structural stress.

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FSI stump grinders

Predator Power P38RX

FSI is a Danish-made range of stump grinders with innovative design, exceptional build quality and class leading performance. Its range of pedestrian, self-propelled, excavator/ skid steer/tractor mounted machines has a model to suit every application.

The ST20’s innovative turntable design means the top of this machine slews effortlessly on bearings so all your effort goes into the stump while the braked wheels remain stationary.

Predator Power has designed the P38RX with access in mind. At only 26in wide and with 38hp, the P38RX is the narrowest stump grinder available on the market for its power output. While the proportional radio control allows superb manoeuvrability through the tightest garden gates, the power output delivers results on larger sites too. With the P38RX, operators can now tackle both residential and commercial stump grinding contracts with just one unit. www.predator-mfg.com

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Carlton 4012D The Carlton 4012D series from Orange Plant is a self-propelled unit designed to deliver maximum cutting power in hard to reach areas. Hydraulic steering offers unmatched manoeuvrability and the machine is driven by a powerful two speed hydraulic drive system.

Features include a working width of 35in and like all Carlton Models, the 4012D uses high capacity tapered roller bearings on the cutter wheel, providing long life and the ability to purge grease without damaging the seals. www.orangeplant.co.uk

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It has been used in such iconic sites as the Royal Air Force Bomber Command (London), Dortmund Square (Leeds) and for the award-winning Llanelli SUDs scheme.

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Brilliant Little Planet Biodegradable Tree Spiral The Biodegradable Tree Spiral, also known as a biodegradable tree guard and tree protector, is widely used to protect new trees and hedges against damage. Research has shown that doing nothing can lead to a loss of 35% of young trees. The brilliant thing about biodegradable tree spirals is that since they eventually fully biodegrade, there is no need to collect and dispose of all that plastic. This product is made of starch biopolymer and has a functional lifespan of two to four years depending on the environmental conditions. www.brilliantlittleplanet.co.uk

38 Pro Arb | April 2015

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Green-Tech gtEco-Dek

Boddingtons Acorn Treeguard

Manufactured from aluminium, the new gtEco-Dek is an open grille system allowing essential water, air and nutrients to pass through to the tree’s roots. The gtEco-Dek grille boasts a nonslip, ribbed finish, is lightweight for ease of installation and is fully recyclable. Virtually maintenance free, once installed the aluminium will generate a protective oxide film coating over time, providing additional corrosion resistance.

Acorn Treeguard is a 12mm square plastic netting, identical to Shelterguard tree shelters but without the polyethylene lining.

Plastic mesh tree guards are designed for protecting small trees from damage caused by animals ranging from rabbits to deer. The Acorn Treeguard mesh guards are particularly suitable for the protection of evergreens which often grow too rapidly in an enclosed shelter, becoming top heavy and unstable.

Plastic mesh tree guards allow the tree to grow in its natural climate without inhibiting sunlight or rainfall.

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01/04/2015 09:54

ARB KIT

Truncator sawhorse If the thought of cutting up your next load of logs sounds too much like hard work then take a look at the Truncator – a revolutionary new sawhorse. Designed and developed by Richard Bowness, a retired builder from the Lake District, the Truncator’s patented log-cup tipping mechanism lets you position the cups apart to get the required log length, then tip straight into a trailer, tractor bucket or wheelbarrow. Fully height adjustable with folding legs for easy storage. www.truncator.co.uk

Stein Werewolf boots Tough, comfortable and lightweight, the Stein Werewolf is an eye catching hybrid climbing boot with a new approach to chainsaw safety specifically designed for tree climbers. Toughness comes from a high quality leather that is Silicon impregnated during tanning to give waterresistance. Fitted with the Stein bed-liner, which offers bio-mechanical support to the foot, the anatomical shape of the bed-liner helps to distribute pressure and absorb shocks. The boot features a Vibram Werewolf sole which offers superb grip on all kinds of surfaces. The tough midsole and forepart cradle system ensures support and confidence when climbing but also offers flexibility. www.frjonesandson.co.uk

ARB KIT

A look at the latest products available Carbon Gold Tree Growth Enhancer and Tree Protector Carbon Gold’s biochar-based tree care products increase transplant survival, minimise drought stress and induce systemic resistance to pests and disease.

Research has shown that biochar is effective at protecting against Phytophthora, honey fungus, grey mould, powdery mildew, apple scab and horse chestnut leaf miner.

Ideal for aiding drainage, decompacting waterlogged soils and stabilising soil moisture, they allow trees to grow healthy root systems in the harshest conditions. www.carbongold.com

Reipal TreeJack TreeJack is a tool for controlling the direction in which a tree falls. Designed and manufactured in Sweden it uses a robust gearbox and expanding strut to support and then push over a leaning tree. With six sizes to suit any woodland, it can be used on sloping ground or windblown trees. In situations where trees need to fall away from roads, power lines or boundaries, it provides a reassuring safe zone. The tool is used in conjunction with a normal gob and crosscut, but with a wider than normal hinge it supports the tree during cutting then winds it over for a safe fell. www.orionheating.co.uk

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BANDSAW MILL LM29. An excellent sawmill for those who prefer a bandsaw to a chainsaw. This sawmill can handle timber up to 72,5 cm (29”).

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UK distributor of TREE-JACK. For safely felling leaning trees or working close to hazards

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LOGOSOL UK, The Sawmill, Abbey St Bathans, Duns, Berwickshire TD11 3TX Phone: 01361 840389 E-mail: enquiries@logosol.co.uk

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ATS Machinery

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For all your arboricultural equipment needs

public liability • personal accident • employers’ liability commercial vehicles • professional indemnity

01403 891580 We are a main Stihl dealer and have been for over 25 years. We supply all types of equipment to the arb trade from climbing ropes and harnesses to kit bags and safety clothing.

We have an on line shop and a large retail outlet near Horsham catering to the needs of commercial tree surgeons in and around the south east area. Our on site workshop covers repairs and warranty for everything we sell.

ATS Machinery Ltd Selehurst Farm Brighton Road Lower Beeding Horsham RH13 6NQ

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For a quote or information please call us on 01604 492644 or email sales@trustinsurance.co.uk Trust Insurance Services Limited | Trust House Moulton Park | Northampton | NN3 6AP

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ProArb Apr15 P41 Four ads 2.indd 41

27/02/2015 16:24

01/04/2015 09:29

ARB KIT

Logrite Hookaroon A tool for picking up logs on the ground, grabbing hold of timber in a sawmill or saving your back when the logpile needs moving. Logrite has redesigned a traditional tool by using the strong and lightweight aluminium shaft from its Canthooks plus the tough rubber hand grip, then added a solid replaceable hardened spike.

The result is a quality tool that does not rot if left outdoors and comes in three lengths to suit your height or work. The 30in model sits comfortably in the hand and is the right length to spike logs at ground level with no effort or bending.

Makita EY2650H25H petrol pole saw The EY2650H25H professional pole saw from Makita extends telescopically to lop off branches up to 5m above ground with ease. The pole expands from 2.7m to 3.9m.

The 25.5cm guide bar carries a 3/8in pitch 1/2in chain that will run up to 21m/s. Powered by a 25.4cc version of the Makita MM4, with a 4-stroke engine developing 1.03hp.

Weighing just 7.2kg the new Makita EY2650 pole saw is substantially lighter than other similar tools available, is comfortable to use and is supplied complete with shoulder strap harness, safety goggles and engine and chain oil. www.makitauk.com

www.orionheating.co.uk

Marlow Whoopie Extreme and Mini Whoopie slings The Marlow Whoopie Extreme and Mini Whoopie tree-rigging slings are manufactured from high strength, lightweight Dyneema SK78 yarn.

Whoopie Extreme is five times lighter than its equivalent strength standard Whoopie Sling, yet 40% stronger. Lighter handling coupled together with high strength and low stretch make this the ultimate tree-rigging sling. The Mini Whoopie is small enough to be carried as an emergency rescue sling. www.marlowropes.com

Husqvarna Combi Can Husqvarna has forever been committed to keeping chainsaw users fuelled and ready to take on the toughest jobs. To prevent spills and waste, the Combi Can has a mechanism that automatically cuts off the flow of petrol once the tank is full. Additionally, both filling spouts are equipped with a mechanical lock to prevent unexpected leakage, saving both money and the environment.

Carrying and refuelling with the new Combi Can has been ergonomically improved and made easier than ever with the comfortable transport handle. Rotation of the two spouts is possible, meaning less chance of damage during transportation. www.husqvarna.com/uk

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CHAINSAW POWERED WINCH

8000 POUNDS OF PORTABLE PULLING POWER Model 400MK2 The Lewis Winch pulls 4000lbs straight line and up to 8000lbs using the optional Snatch Block, with a variable line speed of 60 to 80 ft/min.

High-performance post driver for fencing jobs, road signs, farming, forestry, vineyards – for any driving job. The HYCON Post Driver is easy to use. Place it on the post and activate the trigger, or if you cannot reach up, place it on the post and activate it by the remote valve.

With high power it gets the job done fast day after day. In all weathers. Because it is hydraulic there is no maintenance. Additional applications are setting up crash barriers, all kinds of steel profiles, anchoring, tent stakes etc. er Ltd Quickfenc rm Fa Moorgate Dinckley Blackburn BB6 8AN

Everything you need to mount the Lewis Winch to your chainsaw comes in the box, including Universal Mounting Kit (Fits all chainsaws), Direct Drive Mounting Kit, 150 Feet 3/16” Aircraft Cable and Instruction & Parts Manual.

Winch weight w/o cable = 22lbs/10kg Suggested chainsaw size = 3-7 HP/50-90cc Safety Features - Clutch and Hand Brake Disconnect clutch to free wheel the cable.

Use hand brake to control cable & load speed.

£895 including VAT 07966285240

Quick Fencer Ad Apr15.indd 1 ProArb Apr15 P43 Four ads3 2.indd 43

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5% discount for PRO-ARB customers please quote PRO-ARB

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WJGreenAd.indd 26/03/2015 15:25 1

24/03/2015 12:18 01/04/2015 09:30

ARB KIT Timberwolf TW 230DHB chipper The larger and more powerful chipping rotor is one of several features that distinguish the TW 230DHB chipper, which also comes with opentop funnel, wide rollers, extra large throat and quad-force rollers. The new TW 230DHB is a clear step up in terms of throughput, strength and serviceability. Extra strength has been designed into every critical component ensuring top level performance and safety. All service items have easy access and the central greasing systems ensure down time is kept to a minimum. The TW 230DHB chipper went on sale in September and immediately became a winner with demand exceeding supply.

Stump Beaver tree stump grinder The Stump Beaver tree stump grinder from Geko Engineering is a quality attachment suitable for use on most micro and mini excavators. Designed and built by Geko, it fills a gap in the small plant/tool hire market. The Stump Beaver is a serious competitor to walk behind stump grinders, offering the user benefits of safe, effortless and vibration free operation. www.timberwolf-uk.com

Rock Croft Mesh-Specs BX eye protectors Rock Croft’s Mesh-Specs BX are eye protectors designed not to fog or mist, no matter how arduous the work or the weather, as the usual plastic lenses have been replaced with a stainless steel mesh allowing free circulation of air. Similar to most standard safety glasses the Mesh-Specs BX are impact rated ‘F’ and compliant with British and European standards. In addition to Mesh-Specs BX, Rock Croft’s Safe Eyes are a goggle design with a rubber head strap, ideal for tree work. Originally developed for forestry work in New Zealand, they are equally at home in landscaping and other arboricultural works.

www.gekoengineering.co.uk

Treehog lifting slings Treehog introduces the latest addition to its climbing range with a new series of round lifting slings. Available in various lengths from one to eight metres and colour coded to indicate the working load limit (WLL) from one to five tons, each is manufactured to the European lifting sling standard BS EN1492-2:2000. These strong polyester constructed slings offer flexibility and ease of handling, they are softer than others on the market, helping to preserve more delicate surfaces thus providing the ideal solution to your lifting requirements. www.arbortecforestwear.com

Palax Active Mobile Take your firewood processor where it needs to go with the Active Mobile from Palax. Despite its compact size this powerful bit of kit ensures firewood production is effortless and convenient. Crosscut up to 11in diameter logs with ease thanks to the hydraulically driven feed roller and four-ton cylinder. The lateral motion of its crosscut handle means the operating ergonomics of the machine are excellent, while cutting is effected by means of a 13in saw-bar and a chainsaw. Thanks to its fully opening protective net, the Palax Active is quick and easy to service. www.meshsafetyglasses.com

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www.caledonianforestryservices.co.uk

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01/04/2015 13:08

ARB KIT Hypro FG45 felling grapple The Hypro FG45 felling grapple is well suited for handling anything from standing trees to fallen logs. It can be mounted on all cranes equipped with a rotator, and with its automatic tilt function can also be fitted to 360° excavators, which has proven popular with groundworks and utility contractors. It uses a hydraulic chainsaw to fell trees up to 45cm in diameter and is also available as an energy-wood felling grapple, which is equipped with a special shear blade to cut anything from small shrubberies to 35cm thick trees. www.oakleafforestry.com

www.tpchipper.com

TP 230 Greenline wood chipper and high tip trailer system The TP 230 Greenline is a system consisting of a TP 230 PTO wood chipper and a 7m³ high tip trailer, meaning you can chip and collect in one operation, using only one tractor. The wood chipper is mounted on the hitch of the high tip trailer in the chipper’s three-point linkage, but can also easily be mounted directly onto the tractor. The system is perfect for daily green area maintenance and is compatible with tractors from 50 to 120hp. Equipped with three sturdy knives, the TP 230 is built to handle limbs up to 230mm in diameter.

Plantoil Chain Saw Oil Plantoil is probably best known for its Chain Saw Oil – a rapidly biodegradable and ecologically compatible lubricant. It does not harm forests or waterways and using Plantoil Chain Saw Oil ensures that chainsaw operators are not subjected to the health risks associated with mineral oils. Based on rapeseed oil, a renewable resource and naturally more effective as a lubricant than mineral oil, Plantoil Chain Saw Oil offers reduced fling, lower consumption and is more than 90% biodegradable within 21 days. Available throughout the UK, it is available in 5L cans (box of four), 25L drums and 205L barrels.

Wallenstein WP630 wood processor The motorised, towable WP630 is Wallenstein’s entry-level wood processor. Featuring an adjustable 4-way knife, this unit takes your woodlot from log to pile in literally seconds. Logs

www.wallenstein.co.uk

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

ProArb Apr15 P40, 42, 44-45 Arb Kit.indd 45

up to 900kg can be winched easily onto the processor thanks to the hydraulic winch with 15m rope length. The floating stabiliser holds logs in position to prevent rolling while cutting.

www.plantoil.co.uk

Pro Arb | April 2015 45

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ALL MATERIALS The New Prof 5 Shredder • • • • Makes easy work of branches, wet green waste and mixed leafage 4 Season shredder is effective in all conditions Smooth and easy suction feed system Produces easily compostable BioTech™ chips

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PSD2700 - ELIET ProLandscaper Adverts 58x90.indd 1 ProArb Apr15 P46 Classified.indd 46

ALL YEAR 13/03/2013 12:38 01/04/2015 09:33

CAREERS

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

Call 01903 777 570 or email hortcareers@eljays44.com with your vacancy

ARBORIST SALES REPRESENTATIVES

SKILLED CLIMBER

Bartlett Tree Experts have vacancies for arborist sales representatives in the UK. The company provides customer focused tree care and pest and disease management. We are looking for candidates who have a depth of experience in a commercial arboriculture environment, ideally with a Level 4 Arb qualification or equivalent. Successful candidates will have experience of staff management and excellent customer care. Applicants must have good communication skills, the ability to think strategically, good IT skills and a full driving licence.

Bartlett Tree Experts is recruiting a skilled climber for our Suffolk office. Bartlett is a privately owned arboricultural company in the UK and Ireland and a leader in the tree care industry. Applicants will need relevant NPTC qualifications (CS30, 31, 38, 39), a full UK driving licence (ideally with C1+E) and the ability to demonstrate safe and competent climbing and tree surgery skills. In return Bartlett Tree Experts offers in house and industry based training and provides all equipment and PPE. We offer a competitive basic salary (based on qualifications and skills) with additional incentive schemes and company pension scheme.

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

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

GROUNDSPEOPLE

GROUNDSPERSON/ NEWLY QUALIFIED CLIMBER

ACROSS THE UK

CAMBRIDGESHIRE AND NORFOLK Our client is one of East Anglia’s premier environmental services providers who has a requirement for good, qualified groundspeople to work on various projects across Cambridgeshire and Norfolk. Ideally they are looking for experienced staff with at least 2 years behind them and also; NPTC CS30, 31, 38, Full clean driving licence (B+E or Pre 97 an advantage), First Aid

SUFFOLK

SURREY

Bartlett Tree Experts is looking to recruit a groundsperson/newly qualified climber for our Guildford office. Applicants should have; the relevant NPTC qualifications (ie CS30, 31, 38, 39); a full UK driving licence; the ability to demonstrate safe and competent climbing and working practices. In return Bartlett Tree Experts offers in house and industry based training and provides all equipment and PPE. We offer a competitive basic salary (based on qualifications and skills), with additional incentive schemes and company pension scheme.

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

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

EXPERIENCED ARBORIST

UTILITY ARBORIST PROJECT MANAGER

Our established client is currently seeking an arborist to undertake all duties within the Winchester and Westbury areas. The candidate will have excellent knowledge of tree and fungus identification and must have recent climbing experience. The duties will include implementation of tree work specifications, completing health and safety checks and all site risk assessments. Experience in arboricultural operations with competency certification in brushwood chippers required. The successful candidate will hold the relevant arborist qualifications.

We have an exciting opportunity for utility arborists and project managers in the Midlands and Essex area. We are offering a competitive salary, semi-annual bonuses, company pension, company stock options and other benefits.

LONDON

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

UK-WIDE

The utility arborist project manager will work in liaison with the contract director to ensure overhead power line arboricultural work is completed within a geographical area utilising a team of operational staff. To ensure work is completed to the highest possible standards in terms of safety, environment, quality, customer service and profitability.

You will be involved in all aspects of Forestry/Landscaping Maintenance including grass seeding/cutting, weeding, pruning, turfing, planting, felling, spraying, fencing and all other general forestry maintenance operations. You will be expected to carry out practical skilled maintenance and new work operations to set standards and schedules. You will be using petrol and diesel fuelled machinery such as strimmers, mowers, hedge cutters and chainsaws. You will be involved and carryout regular maintenance checks on vehicles and machinery. You will work as a team and follow instructions from your site supervisor/foreman.

The candidate will ideally have some, but not necessarily all, of the following: NPTC Utility Arboriculture Units 1, 2.1, 5.1 and 5.2; holds a full, valid driving license; LANTRA Basic or Professional Tree Inspectors Qualification; 3-5 years experience in similar job role; practised and strong negotiation and influencing skills; ability to prioritise workload and balance demands from numerous sources to ensure that all stakeholder needs are met; ability to build and maintain strong working relationships; understanding of working around and with electricity in accordance to health and safety precaution; experience of leading teams and or coordinating the work of others; excellent customer service skill; results driven; excellent organisational, communication and planning skills.

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

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

SITE OPERATIVE LEICESTERSHIRE

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

ProArb Apr15 P47 jobs TW.indd 47

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01/04/2015 13:54

FEATURE

PRO ARB BOOK REVIEW Paul O'Hara of Summerfield Books looks at the most informative reads for arborists in our regular feature PESTS & DISEASES. Diseases and Disorders of Forest Trees Gregory and Redfern £24.50, The Stationery Office

Although not dealing specifically with trees grown in the garden or a utility context and being published some time ago, Diseases and Disorders of Forest Trees (1998)

by Gregory and Redfern provides useful background information on several common diseases and disorders affecting both plantation and single site grown trees.

If you want to improve your knowledge of insects there are several general guides and identification books to choose from at varying levels of difficulty.

A useful and affordable reference to keep in the office is the The Royal Entomological Society’s Book of British Insects (2011).

Written with amateurs, students and professionals in mind, the treatment is authoritative and comprehensive. It lists all genera of insects found in Britain but is not too detailed or technical and there is some illustration. It also indicates which species are subject to legal protection.

Tree Pests and Diseases Gary Watson £15, Arboricultural Association

Collins Photo Guide to Pests, Diseases and Disorders of Garden Plants (Fourth edition 2014) Stefan Buczaki, Keith Harris and Brian Hargreaves £19.50, HarperCollins

BEST PRACTICE.

While dealing with garden plants in general, this updated edition provides useful information on many common and garden tree species, including a useful A-Z key to symptoms with entries for individual species as well as trees in general.

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Soil Management For Urban Trees Bryant C Scharnebroch, E Thomas Smiley and Wes Kocher £8, International Society of Arboriculture

A Comprehensive Guide to Insects of Britain and Ireland Paul Brock £28.00, Pisces Publications

The Royal Entomological Society’s Book of British Insects Peter C Bernard £32.50, Wiley-Blackwell The Diagnosis of Ill health in Trees

by Strouts and Winter, profiled in the last issue could be usefully complemented by two useful and relatively inexpensive photographic guides produced by the The Arboricultural Association – Fungi on Trees (2011) and Tree Pests and Diseases (2013), both by Guy Watson.

2nd ed (2012). The illustrations are excellent and descriptions concise. However, a new guide by Paul Brock is proving something of a competitor. A Comprehensive Guide to Insects of Britain and Ireland (2014) is a full colour photo guide and offers a modern layout.

It also includes inset distribution maps alongside the descriptions.

The book is slightly larger than Chinery's one, has a flexicover and is more expensive.

For some years, one of the most popular pocket field guides for insect identification has been Michael Chinery’s Insects of Britain and Western Europe

The ISA produces a series of best management practice (BMP) guides, which provide practice guidelines and help interpret the ANSI A300 standards. The Tree Risk Assessment guide (2011) and associated standard the Tree Risk Assessment Manual (2013) are perhaps the best known in the UK. A recent addition to the BMP guides is Soil Management for Urban Trees (2014). A second edition of the BMP guide, Tree Planting was also brought out in 2014.

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

01/04/2015 13:39

FEATURE

NON-FICTION. The Man Who Plants Trees Jim Robbins £10.95, Spiegel and Grau

Following in the footsteps of Jean Giono’s 1950s classic The Man Who Planted Trees is Jim Robbins’ book The Man Who Plants Trees (2015). It’s the story of David Milarch, a farmer and co-founder of the Champion Tree Project in the US, who has been cloning some of the world's oldest and largest trees to protect their genetic heritage.

The Body Language of Trees Klaus Mattheck €91 (approx £69 +p&p), Forschungszentrum

Karlsruhe GmbH Claus Mattheck's long awaited new edition of The Body Language of Trees has now been published and will be in stock at the beginning of April.

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

ProArb Apr15 P48-49 Books TW.indd 49

Professor Oliver Rackham

In the February issue I highlighted Oliver Rackham’s recent book The Ash Tree (2014). Sadly Professor Rackham died recently, aged 75. Few people have had such an influence on our current view of the history and ecology of woodland and landscape, both in this country and abroad. His ideas provided an important challenge to Forestry Commission practices in the past and he has been an able ally to the conservation movement in Britain.

To get a flavour of Rackham’s writing style, ideas

and interests read The History of the Countryside (1986). It is one of his most popular books and like all of his work it is written in a nontechnical and readable style. The illustrated version of this is also very good but sadly not currently in print. Secondhand copies can sometimes be obtained. In similar style and still in print is Trees and Woodland in the British Landscape (1990). Other titles by Oliver Rackham include • Hayley Wood: Its History and Ecology (1975). Rackham’s first book.

• The Last Forest: The Story of Hatfield Forest (1989). Currently out of print although secondhand copies are available.

• Ancient Woodland: Its History, Vegetation and Use in England (1980), enlarged in 2003. A large work that draws together much original information and includes ideas from Rackham’s studies in SE England.

• Woodlands (2006), was volume 100 in the New Naturalist series and Rackham's last major work.

Hardback copies of the first printing are available. Print on demand from the publisher Harper Collins is also possible but generally pricey. An inexpensive paperback version of Woodlands (2012) is also available.

Treesource was established in 2000 and taken over in 2014

by Summerfield Books, a family run business specialising in the supply of books on botany, forestry and related natural history. Both Treesource and Summerfield Books are owned by Paul and Christine O'Hara. www.summerfieldbooks.com

Pro Arb | April 2015 49

01/04/2015 13:40

ARE YOU GOING? COURSES April 13 13 14 16 20 20 20 21 21 22 22 23 24 24 27 27 27 28 29 30 May 5 6 6 6

6 20

Access a Tree using a Rope and Harness and Aerial Tree Rescue Operations. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £556 Brushcutter/Strimmer ITA. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £220 ROLO for Arborists. Arb Association, Ilminster, Somerset. £110 (member) £150 (non member) MEWP. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £192.50 206 306 Assessment. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £143 UA2 Recertification. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £166.15 Chainsaw Maintenance, Cross-Cutting, Felling and Processing up to 380mm. Arb For Training, Leyburn, North Yorkshire. £595 Woodchipper Experienced Operators. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £104.50 UA5 Recertification Refresher. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £166.15 201 202 Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £230 Professional Tree Inspection (three day course). Arboricultural Association, Ilminster, Somerset. £425 (member) £495 (non member) ROLO for Arborists. Arb Association, Wokingham, Berkshire. £110 (member) £150 (non member) Professional Tree Inspection Retake. Arb Association, Ilminster, Somerset. £120 (member) £142 (non member) 201 202 Assessment. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £143 UA 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 Training. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £246 201/202/203 Five day basic chainsaw. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £270 Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue. Arb For Training, Leyburn, North Yorkshire. £545 UA5 Recertification Assessment. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £166.15 UA 2.1,2.2 and 2.3 Assessment. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £122.15 Arb AC Preparation Workshop. Arboricultural Association, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire. Free

307 (CS40) Aerial Pruning ITA. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £192.50 308 Aerial Cutting of Trees Using Free Fall Technique. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk. £330 UA5 Training. BTS Group, Needham Market, Suffolk Arboricultural Knowledge. Arb Association, Ponteland, Northumberland. £110 (member) £175 (non member) ROLO for Arborists. Arb Association, Tonbridge, Kent. £110 (member) £150 (non member) Arb AC Preparation Workshop. Arb Association, Leicester, Leicestershire. Free

50 Pro Arb | April 2015

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WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

01/04/2015 13:51

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...

Ankerwycke Yew

On 15 June 2015 it will be 800 years since King John sealed the Magna Carta. Some accounts say that this historic event happened by the Ankerwycke Yew, while others say it took place on the other side of the

River Thames at Runnymede.

Either way, this special tree, also said to be the place where Henry VIII had his first liaisons with Anne Boleyn in the 1530s, is expected to be visited by thousands of people from the UK and around the world when the sealing of the Magna Carta is

celebrated this summer.

In anticipation of this year’s anniversary, Ted Green, founder of the Ancient Tree Forum asked a group of members and arboriculturists to visit the tree in late 2013 and debate what measures could be taken to protect it from the pressure of so many visitors. All agreed that the tree warranted a quality oak board walk to prevent further compaction of the soil and damage to the tree. On the same occasion, a root radar scan was carried out to establish the location of the tree’s roots. The National Trust is now considering putting in a board walk in the longer term and meanwhile Ted Green has arranged for mulch

Photo courtesy of Brian Muelaner

from the Crown Estates, Windsor to be used to protect the root zone.

“Suggestions about the age of the Ankerwycke Yew range from 4000 to a mere 1500 years old,” explained Ted Green. “If it’s 4000 years old, it’s in a league with Stonehenge for age. Even if around 1500 years, it has international importance as the only remaining living thing to have witnessed the sealing of the Magna Carta, which heralded the beginning of freedom under the law for the English speaking world. The National Trust and government bodies have an excellent and undisputed reputation for their care of our national built heritage and we would like to see green monuments like the Ankerwycke Yew – our oldest and most special trees –

given the same care and recognition.”

The Ankerwycke Yew is close to the ruins of St Mary’s Priory near Wraysbury. There is a small National Trust car park nearby at Magna Carta Lane, Ankerwycke.

The Ancient Tree Forum champions the biological, cultural and heritage value of Britain’s ancient and veteran trees and it gives advice on their management at www.ancient-tree-forum.org.uk.

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