Pro Arb

JANUARY 2015

AN EXCITING NEW EVENT

AN INTERVIEW WITH

SIMON ROTHERAM MD of Beechwood Trees CALCULATING LOADS David Vickers explains the calculations to make when rigging

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APPRENTICESHIPS

GREENMECH

Ryan Matthews from Glendale Managed Services features in our new apprenticeship series

Pro Arb takes a tour around the GreenMech factory in Warwickshire

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PRO ARB MAGAZINE 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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January 2015 | Volume 2 | Issue 1

WELCOME H

ello and welcome to the first edition of 2015. On behalf of all of us here, I’d like to wish you a happy and prosperous new year.

We see 2015 as a very important year for us.

We want to continue to grow the magazine so we can offer you more educational, inspiring and entertaining articles for you to use as a tool to help develop your business. If there's anything we're not including that you want to learn about, do let us know.

This year will see the introduction of many new articles within the magazine, starting with our Apprenticeships feature this month on page 24. We are promoting the benefits of apprenticeships within the industry. The fact that young people are getting into arboriculture can only be a good thing for the market, and this is something that we are keen to show you.

This leads onto recruiting. Pro Arb magazine works very closely with another Eljays44 brand – Horticulture Careers. January is a time when people think about changing jobs and when businesses look to take on new staff.

We have many jobs from the world of horticulture on the website, www.horticulturecareers.co.uk, as well as a section on jobs from the arboriculture sector. Do get in touch if you would like any further information.

Finally, you may know that we are on all of the social media outlets – come and join us on twitter @ProArbMagazine, Facebook by searching Pro Arb magazine and we are ProArbMagazine on Instagram, it would be great to see more of you following and liking us!

Have a great start to 2015.

JOE WILKINSON

Front cover image © Drivelink Training

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Welcome 06

NEWSBEAT

Five pages of news from the world of arboriculture over the last month

Business tips 12

HEALTH & SAFETY

13

SALES & MARKETING

14

TREE RIGGING

Jonathan Hazell starts the year off with tips on health surveillance

JANUARY 2015

Steve Clarke explains how sales is no longer a job for the sales team – it’s everybody’s job Dave Vickers explains the calculations needed to make sure you aren’t putting too much strain on your rigging system

19

Opinion 15

DON'T GO CHASING CARROTS

Jamie Saunders offers his opinion on how if a job looks too good to be true it all too often is

14

Features 19

AN INTERVIEW WITH SIMON ROTHERAM

This month’s interview features Simon Rotheram, Managing Director of Warwickshire based Beechwood Trees

24

APPRENTICESHIPS

26

SITE TOUR

28

A TREE FOR… ACIDIC SOIL

A brand new feature. This month we profile Ryan Matthews of Glendale Managed Services GreenMech, based in Warwickshire, opened up their factory shutters and allowed us in for a tour

26

We ask the nation’s tree nurseries to tell us their favourite tree for acidic soil

Latest kit 30

FOCUS ON CHAINSAWS

34

LATEST PRODUCTS: CLIMBING EQUIPMENT

A look at the safety features on most modern chainsaws

24

28

The top products needed for safety and support when climbing trees

37

ARB KIT

Regulars 41

CAREERS

42

DIARY & COURSES

43

THE ANCIENT TREE COLUMN

A monthly feature from The Ancient Tree Forum and The Woodland Trust. This month it’s the The Lonely Tree of Llanfyllin

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NEWS

NEWSBEAT GREENMECH HOSTS PRESS FOR DAY OF TALKS AND DEMONSTRATIONS GreenMech recently opened its Alcester factory to play host to a wide array of the media. Visitors were treated to presentations, a factory tour and demonstrations of some of their most popular equipment (see our feature on page 26).

Sales director, Martin Lucas explained that chippers are increasingly popular due to a combination of stringent regulation and the cost of landfill, as well as providing an ethical method of disposal. He went on to explain that features such as reduced noise levels, letterbox

opening for faster throughput and vertical feed rollers make GreenMech machines stand out from the crowd. GreenMech is committed to the dealer routeto market, it is represented by 16 dealers across the UK, as well as trading in 30 countries.

The factory tour provided everyone with the opportunity to witness the complete manufacturing process from the initial design to end product and finally, the product demonstrations showed the machines in action. www.greenmech.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF The Royal Forestry Society (RFS) has called on those travelling abroad to study woodlands or forests to apply for a Donald Randle Travel Bursary by 9 February 2015.

The Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF) is celebrating a new milestone in membership figures having recorded 1,500 at the beginning of 2015, the highest membership the organisation has had since its foundation in 1925.

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

TRUSTMARK CHAIR GETS MBE FOR SERVICES TO CONSUMER PROTECTION Liz Male, chair of TrustMark, has been appointed an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the Queen’s New Year Honours List 2015, in recognition of services to construction and consumer protection.

TrustMark is the national quality badge for reputable tradesmen in the home repair, maintenance and improvement market.

First launched in 2005, it now signposts millions of people every year to more than 14,000 firms who have been vetted and inspected and who commit to work to TrustMark’s Government-endorsed standards.

Liz Male was appointed nonexecutive chairman in January 2011. Since then TrustMark has developed significantly with new corporate governance, a strong board and improved standards covering technical competence, good trading practices and customer service. These were launched by the consumer affairs Minister, Jo Swinson MP, in April

2014. Liz Male said: “It is a huge honour to receive this recognition, TrustMark is a scheme I have believed in from the very start because it is a badge that is earned, not just bought. Every week I hear inspiring stories of TrustMark-registered firms which have gone out of their way to do great work for their customers.

They are the people who deserve our greatest respect and praise, and they are the firms I will continue to champion.” www.trustmark.org.uk

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NEWS

KILLER DISEASE PROMPTS LARCH FELLING IN LAKE DISTRICT

ARB ASSOCIATION JOINS GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PARTNERSHIP

A killer disease affecting larch trees has prompted a programme of felling in Cumbria. Work has begun to cut down 27 acres of trees at Whinlatter Forest to prevent the spread of ramorum disease.

The Forestry Commission said it wanted to stop the blight spreading to trees around its visitor centre and the only way to do so was by cutting down affected trees.

The infection, caused by a fungus-like organism called phytophthora ramorum, attacks larch trees and other plants, including rhododendrons and bilberries. Instances in the UK have increased since it was first

The AA has joined the Green Infrastructure Partnership (GIP), an initiative that aims to promote the value of green infrastructure, share research and crucially, influence decision makers.

Set up by Defra in response to the 2011 Natural Environment White paper, the GIP currently has more than 350 members and is growing.

spotted in 2002. South-west Scotland, south-west England and south Wales have also been affected. It has also appeared in other parts of Cumbria.

The commission’s forester for the area, Gareth Browning, said he was concerned the trees supporting the Go Ape high ropes course at the forest could be infected: “After we have completed the felling we will replant mostly with conifer trees or species which do not get ramorum disease,” he said. www.bbc.co.uk/news

TREE SURGEON ‘LUCKY TO BE ALIVE’ AFTER CHAINSAW ACCIDENT A tree surgeon is lucky to be alive after slashing his face with a chainsaw.

Mark Hamer, 45, was working for Birch Utilities chopping branches when he lost control of the blade – accidentally cutting his face and nose. A helicopter was called to airlift him from the industrial estate in Tenby, west Wales, where he had been clearing trees, to Morriston Hospital,

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Swansea, where he was treated for serious facial injuries.

Dyfed-Powys Police attended the scene and are working with the Health and Safety Executive to establish what happened.

An HSE spokesman said: “The Health and Safety Executive is investigating this incident. We are unable to comment further while inquiries are continuing.” www.southwales-eveningpost. co.uk

The membership is broad and includes landscape architects, planners, local authorities, Local Nature Partnerships, health campaigners, academics, arboricultural officers, ecologists, urbanists and many others active or interested in green infrastructure. www.trees.org.uk

QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE TREE CHOPPED DOWN ON CHRISTMAS DAY It was planted to honour the Queen during her Diamond Jubilee, but a beech tree was chopped down by vandals on Christmas Day. The Jubilee tree had been planted in 2012 at Netherton Park in the West Midlands, along with an Olympic tree to commemorate the London games and both had been targeted by vandals in the past.

Thugs have ripped off plaques from both trees bearing the words ‘planted by the Friends of Netherton Park to commemorate...’ with either the Olympic Games of 2012 or the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty added on to the end. It is believed that there is a problem

with anti-social behaviour in Netherton park, particularly littering and the incident with the tree was the latest in a cycle of crimes. www.expressandstar.com/news

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NEWS

GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES ANOTHER £2.3M OF SUPPORT FOR KEW GARDENS The government has declared a further £2.3m to support research at Kew Gardens. The latest announcement by the deputy prime minister, Nick Clegg, comes three months after he pledged £1.5m to continue the current level of funding for the Unesco world heritage site until at least April 2015.

The Royal Botanic Gardens had faced a £5m hole in its budget, which could not be filled without losing a sixth of its staff, mostly in scientific areas.

The funds mean the Royal Botanic Gardens has government support until April 2016 and will be able to apply for other loans to maximise their income.

Nick Clegg said: “Kew is so much more than a garden and green space, its reputation as a botanical research base and centre for science is worldrenowned. This funding will support scientists to continue their world-class work at Kew safe in the knowledge that this government supports their vital work and is committing funds to support it.”

WORK STARTS ON MANAGEMENT CENTRE AT WESTONBIRT ARBORETUM Groundworks have begun on a new Wolfson Tree Management Centre at Westonbirt Arboretum. The centre is being built in an effort to greatly improve the way the Forestry Commission looks after this internationally important tree collection. The new centre will also explain to visitors how the arboretum’s trees are cared for in a changing climate.

The first building to be constructed will be made out of wood primarily sourced from the arboretum through routine tree maintenance.

Simon Toomer, the Forestry Commission’s Director

of Westonbirt Arboretum said: “The Wolfson Tree Management Centre is a forward thinking venture which will make a real difference to the work of our tree team and give them the facilities they need to care for the national arboretum. It’s also great to have the opportunity to share what our expert team do and give visitors the chance to learn more about the challenges involved in managing a tree collection of this size and age.” The construction work is expected to be completed in autumn 2015. www.wiltsglosstandard.co.uk

www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/news

PLUMPTON COLLEGE LAUNCHES CONIFERS FOR COLLEGES Plumpton College in East Sussex has become the first to launch Conifers for Colleges in the South of England. Conifers for Colleges is their flagship education and research programme, bringing colleges and students together with specialist forest nurseries and leading forestry suppliers.

Students from Plumpton College planted the trees at The Woodland Enterprise Centre at Flimwell in the High Weald, a site for specialist woodland training and events. The project will be used to carry out research into the growth responses of the trees in mixed versus single

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species plantings. Jon Cornford, course leader for the foundation degree in forestry said: “This is a great opportunity for students to take part in research and we would like to thank the RFS and all of the sponsors for their interest in promoting research for future forestry students”.

Conifers for Colleges was launched nationally in November at Moulton College in Northamptonshire. Three other colleges also instigated the programme in 2014; Myerscough College near Preston, Northumberland College and Coleg Gwent in Usk. www.rfs.org.uk/news

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NEWS

ENTRIES INVITED FOR ‘SCOTLAND’S FINEST WOODS AWARDS 2015’ Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards 2015 has opened for entries and will once again recognise and reward those who use, promote, own or manage Scotland’s forests to deliver social, economic and environmental benefi ts.

The four categories in this year’s competition are The Schools Award; The Community Woodlands Award; The New Native Woods Award and The Quality Timber Award. Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards started the year with a new executive director, who will oversee this year’s programme. Angela Douglas was appointed in December, taking over from incumbent Peter Wilson, who stepped aside to fulfil other work commitments.

The first of 200,000 trees have been planted at the new Langley Vale Centenary Wood. The site is near RAF Headley Court, Epsom Downs and commemorates the centenary of the start of the First World War.

Angela is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Foresters and brings with her a wealth of directorial experience, having previously served as Scotland Director of the Woodland Trust for over a decade. She said: “I am delighted to be given this fantastic chance to recognise the very best of Scotland’s woods, their management, and all they can offer.” For full information on how to enter, visit www.sfwa.co.uk

RAIL EMBANKMENT TREE CUTTING IS WELCOMED BY MALVERN RESIDENTS Work to cut down trees on the railway embankment in Malvern has been welcomed by residents who say it has restored light to their gardens and reopened views of the hills.

The work, which has involved clearing vegetation from alongside the line running from Great Malvern station southward towards the Malvern Wells Common, has been carried out by Network Rail for safety reasons. People living close to the line agreed the work was long overdue. They were speaking in response to a resident, who criticised Network Rail for

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NEWS IN BRIEF

cutting the trees. Thirty years ago there was no vegetation at all on the embankments and residents had a wonderful view of the hills but over the last two decades or so there has been an invasion of self-seeded vegetation, mainly sycamore trees, dense bramble and bindweed, so the view and much of the natural light were lost.

Julian Burnell of Network Rail said: “This whole issue shows the complexity of our relationships with our neighbours. I’m delighted that some people have seen a benefit from our clearance work.”

A tree voted the most loved in Chelmsford as part of National Tree Week is under threat of being torn down to make way for a shopping centre revamp. Plans to turn the entrance to the High Chelmer Shopping Centre into a food quarter would involve cutting down a large London Plane tree, thought to be hundreds of years old.

ARBORETUM PLANNED TO HONOUR SALFORD’S FALLEN SERVICEMEN An arboretum to remember those who have died serving their country since the two world wars is being planned for Salford. It is estimated that about 100 members of the services from the city have lost their lives since 1945, having fallen in conflicts including Suez, the Korean War, Northern Ireland, The Falklands, and more recently Afghanistan.

Now the city is proposing a park of remembrance similar, but much smaller in scale, to the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, Staffordshire. City Mayor, Ian Stewart, the former president of the Irlam and Cadishead branch of the Royal British Legion, said: “We have been discussing for about 18 months the possibility of creating an arboretum. We are well on the way with talks with Broughton

House, the care home for ex servicemen and women, and with someone who is an expert in providing this type of memorial. It would be for the fallen outside of the First and Second World Wars.”

No location has yet been identified for the arboretum although one location could be Peel Park. Councillors are trying to secure funding for a £2m refurbishment of the facility, which opened in 1846.

The council has had a £54,000 Heritage Lottery Fund grant to research the history of the park. www.manchestereveningnews. co.uk

www.worcesternews.co.uk/news

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NEWS

PLANTING BEGINS IN BROMSGROVE BOTANICAL PARK The first trees in a new botanical garden at a Bromsgrove park in Worcestershire were planted during National Tree Week.

Bromsgrove District Council is transforming a rarely used grassed area at the rear of Sanders Park. The community arboretum will feature different trees with natural pathways, seating and wildflower areas for visitors to explore and enjoy.

The first trees of the new botanical garden were planted

by the authority’s portfolio holder for leisure and environmental services, Councillor Mark Bullivant. Councillor Bullivant said: “It was a real honour to plant the first tree of many which will make up our new arboretum and the fact that it was during National Tree Week made it even more tree-mendous. The arboretum will become an important part of this park now and for generations to come.” www.bromsgroveadvertiser.co.uk

EFFORTS TO PRESERVE SEEDS FROM ANCIENT TREE Seeds from an ancient New Forest tree earmarked for the king’s shipbuilding programme hundreds of years ago will be preserved as part of the world’s largest plant conservation programme.

A tree bearing the ‘King’s Mark’ – an arrow etched into the trunk – was one of the trees chosen to be included in Kew’s Millennium Seed Bank, made possible with funding from the People’s Postcode Lottery.

The New Forest National Park Authority identified the beech tree near Emery Down as one of five species to be included in Kew’s UK national tree seed project. Tree seeds collected as part of the project will be banked in the underground vaults at Kew’s country

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garden at Wakehurst in West Sussex to ensure the species are safe for the future.

New Forest National Park tree officer Liz Beckett is working with Kew to collect seeds from crab apple, whitebeam, beech, hornbeam, gorse and rowan.

The collections and associated data will be available to research organisations working on solutions to tackle the threats facing our woodlands.

NEWS IN BRIEF Dr Mary Barkham has been appointed as a forestry commissioner for England for a three-year term. Dr Barkham is an Oxfordshirebased independent consultant specialising in environmental research strategy, co-ordination and implementation and has 14 years’ leadership experience in UK research councils, mainly the Natural Environment Research Council.

The RFS has appointed three new members of staff. Zoe Knight has been enlisted as membership coordinator; Caroline Hukins has been appointed fundraising manager and Corinne Moss has joined as teaching trees project coordinator with responsibility for managing the development of the RFS Teaching Trees programme.

BUILDER FINED FOR FELLING TREES A builder from Old Bolingbroke, near Spilsby, Lincs, has been fined for felling two protected trees in a conservation area.

Terrence Batten was found to have felled a holly and cypress tree without necessary notification.

Boston magistrates Court imposed a fine and costs totalling £13,900 (£12,000 fine, £700 costs and £1,200 victim surcharge). Arboricultural officer Robert Taylor said: “In carrying out this work Mr Batten showed a complete disregard for the conservation area and the protection this affords trees within it. The level of fine reflects that this was a serious breach of the law, causing harm to the character of the area and distress to local people. Anyone planning to carry out work to trees that may be protected is

encouraged to contact the council first for advice.”

Trees within a conservation area are protected in the same way as a tree preservation order, but before carrying out work to a conservation area tree six weeks’ notice must be given to the council. www.skegnessstandard.co.uk/ news

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12/01/2015 14:52

BUSINESS TIPS

THE CONSULTING ARBORIST SOCIETY BS5837:2012 Peer Reviews

In the last two editions of Pro Arb, I have been exploring the work of the Consulting Arborist Society (CAS). The society promotes professional arboricultural consultants according to specific skills in which they have demonstrated competency. Last month I looked at the ‘Young Trees: Achieving Longevity in the Landscape’ course. This month, I will explore how tree reports written to BS5837:2012 are appraised.

These reports, under the banner of ‘Trees and Planning’, are often described as being the ‘bread and butter’ of the tree consultant’s work. The British Standard establishes the key components for a report. It sets out the requirements for a survey, assessing for future life expectancy and retention suitability. The role of the Tree Constraints Plan and Arboricultural Impact Assessment along with Arboricultural Method Statement, are detailed.

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However, because a British Standard can only make recommendations, there is no single template. Often, an arborist will create their own structure.

Some can be excellent, whereas others do not fully reflect the British Standard. How can one be sure that one’s template is to standard? While having a report returned by a local authority is an indication that more work needs to be done, acceptance by the planning department is not an endorsement.

It is possible to gain an insight into the requirements of an acceptable report, with the Consulting Arborist Society, and other training bodies, providing CPD training in this discipline.

Indeed, some higher education

A good tree report should fully reflect the British Standard, but sadly not all come up to scratch. Mark Chester outlines the key requirements for an excellent result

courses cover the topic, and students have successfully completed modules including the requirements of the British Standard. While these training opportunities are of value, the only way to fully assess a report is by peer review. This involves the report being assessed by a reviewer who has experience in the discipline.

A key aspect of a CAS report is the ability of the author to demonstrate that they can facilitate the successful retention of trees within a development. The following are key criteria: • The site needs to contain one or more trees whose retention is considered important (ie they will be of ‘A’ and/or ‘B’ category.

• Special arrangements need to be put in place to facilitate the retention. This may include no-dig hard standing, changing layout or other measures.

• There should be clear, titled plans, to scale.

• Tree data should be clearly laid out with arboricultural reasons for any works required.

• There should be clear recommendations and

These reports, under the banner of 'Trees and Planning', are often described as the 'bread and butter' of the tree consultant's work

conclusions. These should be appropriate to the stage at which the report is being written. For example, if writing a report for outline consent, one may be making recommendations. However, the wording within a Method Statement to accompany a detailed application should be specifying specific actions.

• The report needs to be written to accompany an actual planning application, and to have been accepted by the relevant local planning authority.

It may be necessary to submit more than one report in order to cover all elements. This CAS Competency received Lantra endorsement in May 2014.

For more details, contact Mark Chester at mark@ consultingarboristsociety.com

ABOUT MARK CHESTER Mark has run the Consulting Arborist Society since 2009. He also leads his own consultancy practice, Cedarwood Tree Care, and recently became Technical Director at PINE Technology Services. A graduate in Amenity Horticulture, he has been a lecturer and tree officer for several Midlands authorities. He is a Fellow of the Arboricultural Association and CUEW. www.tree-expert-finder.co.uk

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12/01/2015 15:02

BUSINESS TIPS

H

ow do you know if your health is being adversely affected by your work? What are you doing to ensure you and your colleagues go home healthy? Would you be able to defend a claim that you or your working practices had caused a deterioration in a colleague’s health?

The steps you would adopt to answer those questions are known as 'health surveillance' and are a legal requirement, as well as good practice.

By monitoring key measures for a number of hazards such as noise or vibration, allergens such as London Plane leaves, biological agents and other substances hazardous to health, you can identify the corrective action needed to minimise workrelated threats to your health.

The checks you put in place will be important for: • detecting hazards early and taking measures to prevent the situation getting worse • providing data to help to evaluate health risks • enabling you to answer any concerns that may be raised • highlighting poor workplace control measures or lapses in their implementation in order to improve risk assessment and control (the risk assessment should never be regarded as an end in itself) • providing an opportunity to train and learn, for example in the importance and use of protective equipment • evaluating how risk assessment needs to be revised because the cumulative impact of a particular task has not been properly considered.

When you risk assess a job you should be considering control measures that will reduce the

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!

HEALTH SURVEILLANCE

In the last issue of Pro Arb, Jonathan Hazell wrote about machinery maintenance in the context of health and safety at work; in this piece he switches the focus away from oily machines to you as the operator and your colleagues adverse impact on your health and welfare, as well as others who may be affected by the works that you carry out. But don’t let the fact that you are involved in a health surveillance programme override the implementation of effective control measures: everyone has different tolerances to hazards so a common level of exposure will not result in a uniform risk to your health and that of your colleagues.

Another positive benefit of implementing a health surveillance programme is encouraging you to be risk averse and not take chances with your colleagues' health.

It may be possible to identify individual thresholds for various inputs so individual control measures can be put in place.

Never forget that while a lot of symptoms may be cumulative, once damage has been caused

it might not be reversible so don’t monkey around and take unnecessary risks that could blight your later years.

Health surveillance may also be used to identify where more needs to be done to control risks. Where early signs of workrelated ill health are detected, employers should take action to prevent further harm and protect employees. In arboriculture, an example of a simple measure that could be taken might be to insist that London Plane are pruned after leaf fall to reduce the risk of respiratory problems caused by the dust on the underside of the leaf.

If you are going to introduce health surveillance then start small and target your programme: think of the obvious hazards that you are able to control (HAVS and noise spring to mind, as does exposure to hazardous substances like

herbicides or oils). Spend wisely, learn from the results and implement control measures that are appropriate and proportionate. Record what you do and monitor the improvements in the various outputs. These may be health related but they might also be financial. For example you could find that you need to eliminate a particular process and in doing so you save money without reducing your appeal to your customer, or your ability to charge for your service.

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

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

12/01/2015 15:04

BUSINESS TIPS

T

he world has changed – and we’re not going back. Sales is no longer exclusively someone’s job within a business, it’s fast becoming everybody’s job.

Buyers are now more informed than ever before; all the technical information, research, reviews and recommendations are available to them at the touch of a button.

Moreover, the answers they are seeking are often right in the palm of their hands thanks to smart phones and tablets.

No longer does the old school salesman have the upper hand in terms of information and knowledge. Gone are the days of the old ABC of sales, Always Be Closing, and that’s a good thing.

We have moved from a world of Caveat Emptor (buyer beware) to one of Caveat Venditor (seller beware). Not only does the customer have information available to them, but they have the means to communicate both good and bad experiences with the world in a heartbeat.

People today want a fair deal from people they like and trust.

Getting people to exchange what they have for something we have is a very natural occurrence. To sell today is to serve, to sell more

Always Be Closing

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ProArb Jan15 P13 Steve Clarke.indd 13

NOT YOUR JOB?

THINK AGAIN It's not just your sales team who need to be sales aware today, says Steve Clarke.

Taking a fresh look at how the rest of your staff interact with clients is crucial

you simply need to serve better.

To see an increase in sales, we must improve all round communication. All staff that have any contact with customers, no matter how remote, should learn the new ABC of sales – Always Be Caring.

Every business as I see it, now has three distinct sales teams: • The regular • The reluctant • The referral For your business to thrive, not just survive, you must have a strategy and tactical plan for each of these very different sales teams.

The regular sales team This would be considered our traditional sales force. It may involve retail staff, perhaps

Always Be Caring



business development consultants or telesales people.

I don’t believe we work in either the B2B or B2C space any more, (business to business, or business to consumer). For sales to soar try thinking about P2P instead: people to people.

Sales teams who start to find it tough to compete and win business often point straight to pricing or fierce competition – this is rubbish. They need to learn how to connect and engage with people at an emotional level. Very few people just buy on price. Of course we’re price sensitive, but it’s just one factor.

The reluctant sales team In this group are the staff who have even the slightest contact with your clients or prospects, including the finance team, admin staff or IT support. These people are very much in sales today.

They probably don’t realise it, but they can have a huge influence over sales, or worse, the lack of sales. People buy from people they like and trust. This group of people need to recognise that being in sales is not a dirty word.

If they believe your company, products and services are great, then would they suggest their own mum buys from you? Of course, they’d make a strong case and

For sales to soar try thinking about P2P: people to people recommend the best thing for her, right? Again, this needs to be explained, taught and practised, but the impact can be immense.

The referral sales team This is made up of your happy clients. These happy clients will make recommendations and referrals. These can come in the form of written testimonials, video clips, posts on social media; the list is almost endless, but it’s incredibly powerful, when worked with a strategy.

If you want to see sales and profits soar irrespective of the economy or your competition you must create and implement a strategy and tactical action plan for each of these three key areas. If you’d like help with this, just ask.

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 | January 2015 13

12/01/2015 15:09

TECHNICAL

UNDERSTANDING THE STRAIN YOU’RE UNDER

Do you know how to calculate how much timber to cut safely when dismantling a tree? Just how much can you load your system? In the first of a two-part series, Dave Vickers takes a look at how to calculate loads when rigging timbers

I

t’s easy to get carried away with cutting larger and longer and bigger pieces of timber when dismantling, which has the knock-on effect of increasing the loading through the rigging system. So how far can you push it?

The Health & Safety Executive made available a research report (RR668: Evaluation of current rigging and dismantling practices used in arboriculture) that was prepared by Treevolution and Brudi & Partner TreeConsult, and it worked through and analysed a series of rigging scenarios. At a fraction over 360 pages it’s not a quick read, but it does contain some very useful elements, such as what happens when you use the Humboldt cut instead of a basic felling cut, the forces involved and different types of

14 Pro Arb | January 2015

ProArb Jan15 P14 Dave Vickers.indd 14

setup (you can download the report at www.hse.gov.uk/ research/rrhtm/rr668.htm).

In this first article, we’ll take a look at how to calculate system loading using the log mass curves and charts, along with

Is your pulley block above or below the timber to be cut?

This makes a huge difference to the calculated loading – it’s surprising how big the numbers can get the species correction factors contained within the report. This data is also used in City & Guilds NPTC training and refresher courses for the Level 3 Award in Aerial Tree Rigging (CS41

has been superceded, although many within the industry remain unaware of the move away from CS units).

The report provides a series of tables and a graph that can be used to estimate (with varying degrees of accuracy) just how heavy a piece of timber is. Use the Log Mass Curves to roughly estimate the mass based on the mass of 1m sections of oak.

By weighing lengths of varying diameters, the result is a graph showing minimum, maximum and average masses, which allows the arborist to quickly guesstimate the mass of a section to be cut. For greater accuracy, the Log Mass Chart can be used to derive the mass of the section.

Knowing this figure mass for the wood to be cut away is just

part of the process as this is based on green oak; but what if you’re cutting poplar, beech or sycamore? The mass will be different and, of course, that will alter the final calculation, although using green oak usually provides you with enough of a safety margin anyway.

To produce a more accurate figure for your loading, turn to the Species-Dependent Log Mass Correction Factors, select the tree species and multiply the figure for the original mass based on green oak, with the correction factor just obtained.

Having done this, you need to apply a safety factor based on how you are using the rigging system – is your pulley block above or below the timber to be cut? This makes a huge difference to the calculated loading, and it often surprises course attendees just how big the numbers can get!

Realising that this article is only an introduction and possibly a ‘bit dry’ for many, in part two we’ll be looking at some real world scenarios, so take the opportunity to download your own copy of the RR668 research report at www.hse. gov.uk/research/rrhtm/rr668. htm and we’ll work through some examples.

ABOUT DAVE VICKERS Drivelink Training provides City & Guilds NPTC forestry and arboriculture short courses; founded

by Dave 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 http://facebook.com/drivelink to see what they’re up to.

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

12/01/2015 15:07

OPINION

DON’T GO

CHASING CARROTS! If an offer of work appears too good to be true then beware, because all too often it is, says Jamie Saunders, Managing Director of Trojan Tree Care in Kent

I

used to do a fair bit of contracting for one of the main consultancy firms dealing with tree related insurance work. With a good working relationship I was soon getting the bulk of work in my area and although the schedule of rates was okay, it was by no means lucrative. Then one day a couple of their managers came to see me at

my office, dangling a carrot. They were offering me all the work in my area but in return I would need to guarantee quick turnaround times and accept a 10 per cent cut on the schedule of rates. Knowing what this would do to my profit margin I suggested an alternative approach but didn’t hear any more.

I guess they had a similar response elsewhere, as a few months later they simply restructured the size categories on the schedule of rates to achieve their objective. I gave it six months but as I feared, we were just not hitting our numbers. At this point however they accounted for about a third of our turnover, and as I had made the classic mistake of having too many eggs in one basket I tried

to slowly redress the balance. This just brought things to a head and when they started getting pushy on turnaround times, I called it a day.

Unfortunately, an urgent need to fill a 10k/month hole in the diary coincided with the last sting in the tail of the recession causing a sharp downturn in late 2012. Despite a difficult six months, I believe it was the right decision to avoid what was slow but sure business strangulation and I was not surprised last year when I heard the firm that took over my workload with them had gone into liquidation.

From this I learned to be wary when someone dangles a carrot in front of me, as it’s likely meant to distract me from a strategically placed barrel they’re hoping I’ll fall over (and we all know what happens over barrels!) It also reinforced for me the vital importance of implicitly knowing my numbers, because without this knowledge, carrots are more tempting and barrels pretty much invisible.

Despite an obvious carrot being dangled, I recently did some sub-contracting for a very large local authority term contractor and within a month I had enough data to know it wasn’t going to work. Interestingly,

They were offering me all the work in my area but in return I would need to accept a 10 per cent cut on the schedule of rates

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ProArb Jan15 P15 Jamie Saunders.indd 15

they freely admitted that due to increasing difficulties hiring staff, they now subbed-out around half their work which follows a trend I see developing.

Large companies have always bought big commercial contracts but with a race to the bottom on rates, much of it is now unprofitable if not unviable for them to fulfil. Many are transferring these liabilities onto staff on productivity linked pay, or the next eager sub-contractor lured in by the same old carrot of implied potential for lots more work, while taking a hefty cut. Questioning the low rates will receive a response along the lines of, “Well, we obviously work at these rates, and look how big we are,” which belies a key truth. Without the high volumes of the big companies, low rates are deadly to small firms over the long term, so unless they have very serious intentions on the kind of growth required to bridge the void, they would in my opinion be better off leaving them to it and focusing on building a truly boutique business, charging good money for a quality service to a nice diversified group of loyal clients.

ABOUT JAMIE SAUNDERS Jamie Saunders completed an ND (Arb) after leaving school 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

Pro Arb | January 2015 15

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12/01/2015 10:25

Features 19

INTERVIEW WITH... SIMON ROTHERAM

24

NEW SERIES: APPRENTICESHIPS... RYAN MATTHEWS

26

SITE TOUR OF GREENMECH LTD

28

A TREE FOR... ACIDIC SOIL

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ProArb Jan15 P17 Features Cover.indd 17

Pro Arb | January 2015 17

12/01/2015 15:19

ATS Machinery

For all your arboricultural equipment needs

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

on-line shop at www.ats-webshop.co.uk

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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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12/01/2015 10:19

FEATURES

An interview with

SIMON ROTHERAM aerial demonstration undertaken by some of our tree guys. By taking part in these events we are continually scrutinising our performance to make sure the audience is unable to pick holes in what we do, and if they do we can act and improve upon any feedback.

Simon Rotheram, Managing Director of Beechwood Trees & Landscapes, talks to Pro Arb about how to run a successful company and his plans for the future

What percentage of your turnover is from the arb side of the business?

Arboriculture currently accounts for approximately 60 per cent of our turnover.

What is your role within the company?

I work alongside the managers to help steer the company in the right direction.

My main role is looking at our strategic vision and finding new opportunities for the business.

How do you recruit your arborists?

When a position needs to be filled we advertise on a number of different job sites, we have also found Gumtree gets a good response, in addition we get a lot of CVs via email which are held on file.

How did you first become involved with arboriculture?

I’ve always had a love for the outdoors. At school I worked for a local gardener every opportunity I got; weekends, holidays, you name it. They only covered small trees and hedges and I was curious to find out more about the ‘exciting’ side of arboriculture, so I enrolled on the diploma course at Warwickshire College.

How many arb staff do you have?

We currently employ around 30 staff, 18 of whom are directly employed on the tree side of the business.

How do you structure the arb side of Beechwood Trees?

We have a very good management team which consists of an operations manager and a HSEQ manager. These guys pretty much run the day to day stuff, they arrange the work and support the tree teams. A typical tree team consists of a team leader and second climber along with an apprentice – we currently have three apprentices studying at Warwickshire College who are progressing well.

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ProArb Jan15 P19-21 Interview Simon Rotheram.indd 19

And how is the arb side of the business performing?

We are continually developing the company as a whole, ensuring we are up to date with the latest innovations and changes in the industry. We like to put ourselves out there – recently we worked with the Arboricultural Association to deliver a training event for Network Rail, which involved me giving a presentation on the financial implications of being an ‘approved contractor’, along with the training requirements to become an arborist. This was followed by an outdoor

Do you offer any education programmes for your arborists?

All staff have appraisals and a CPD plan is agreed for the following 12 months. We use a competence matrix to ensure that all staff are qualified to complete the duties they are expected to perform, any competence gaps are highlighted and the training and assessment is arranged for them.

Do you think the UK’s arboriculture market is healthy?

We have found it has been on a plateau over the past few years, however recently we have noticed a bit more confidence in spending, possibly due to the increase in activity of the developers, construction companies and house builders.

Pro Arb | January 2015 19

13/01/2015 10:45

FEATURES What are the trends in the market?

I’m not sure it would be prudent as a business owner to highlight on here the market trends that I have identified! We have a vision where we are going as a company, which I’m sure wouldn’t suit other businesses.

But you always have to keep your eyes open for that next exciting opportunity.

What do you think are the main industry issues that need to be tackled?

I think the industry is generally doing okay.

A very high percentage of companies have five or less employees, and the AA and its Technical Officer Paul Smith have done a lot

of work in making the Arb Approved Contractor scheme more accessible to these companies. I think this has generally seen a rise in the standards in the firms committed to gaining or working towards Arb AC.

Are there any legislations affecting your business at the moment?

I don’t think we have been affected by any specific piece of legislation, Matt, our HSEQ manager, ensures that any changes are implemented within the business as required. Although we all moan about health and safety gone mad, there is normally a reason for its implementation, so we do all we can to ensure the safety of our workforce.

Is Arb Association membership worth it?

I believe in the old phrase ‘you only get out what you put in’, which is generally the case with membership organisations as a whole.

I am actively involved in the AA and sit on the Media and Communications Committee, which not only gives something to the AA but also keeps me up to speed with the industry. There are plenty of opportunities for members to get involved like this.

What more can be done in the UK’s arb market to make arboriculture a career choice?

I’m not sure there is a shortage of interest in the industry generally, but more could be done to provide a career path should arb be chosen. There is already a pilot scheme in place at the moment that addresses this, so it will be interesting to see the results.

"By taking part in events we are continually scrutinising our performance to make sure the audience is unable to pick holes in what we do"

20 Pro Arb | January 2015

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13/01/2015 10:46

FEATURES What do you like to do in your spare time outside of work?

‘Spare time’? Alongside running the business, I have a wife with a passion for horses and two young children!

I do like to keep fit but I’m getting a bit old for rugby nowadays. This year we took part in an event organised by Action for Charity called ‘Race the Sun’ which took place in the Brecon Beacons, we had to Cycle 45 miles, climb Pen y Fan (2,907ft) and canoe Pontsticill Reservoir (3km) – starting at sunrise and finishing by sunset – racing the sun! Fortunately we won, which means we don’t have to do it again, but there is talk of doing a similar event in the Lakes in 2015.

CONTACT Simon Rotheram Managing director Beechwood Trees & Landscapes Ltd Oak Farm Nursery, Brinklow Road, Coventry CV3 2AD

Tel 0800 328 7988 www.beechwoodtrees.co.uk

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ProArb Jan15 P19-21 Interview Simon Rotheram.indd 21

Pro Arb | January 2015 21

13/01/2015 10:48

Date: Tuesday 17 November 2015 Venue: Sandown Park Racecourse, Esher, Surrey

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12/01/2015 15:22

FEATURE

APPRENTICESHIPS

RYAN MATTHEWS GLENDALE MANAGED SERVICES

Pro Arb magazine is starting a new apprenticeship feature, in which we look to showcase a young person making their way in the industry. This week we feature Ryan Matthews, a 20-year-old arboricultural apprentice with Glendale Managed Services, which celebrates its 25th year in service delivery in 2015. We ask Ryan about his current role, why he’s chosen arboriculture as a career and his future plans

Tell us a bit about you...

My name is Ryan Matthews, I’m 20 years old and an arborist with Glendale’s North East arboriculture team.

What is your role within Glendale Managed Services?

My role covers all kinds of tree work, from felling and reduction to lifting and formative pruning.

I was originally employed as an apprentice while studying for my NVQ Level 2 Trees and Timber qualification and once I completed that, Glendale offered me a full time job. I’m now taking the Level 3 qualification.

And why did you choose arboriculture?

I’ve always liked working outdoors. Before getting the job at Glendale I volunteered

24 Pro Arb | January 2015

ProArb Jan15 P24 Apprenticeships.indd 24

as a lifeguard on South Shields beach and then worked for Sunderland City Council doing different horticultural tasks. This was where I gained an interest in landscaping so I started looking at the different roles I could do in the industry. That’s how I discovered arboriculture. It meant I could work outside and it involved climbing which sounded fun!

I was accepted for the apprenticeship and couldn’t believe how much I enjoyed my job. People don’t always realise how much is involved in arboriculture, it’s a lot more than just cutting down trees.

Where did you go to college, and what qualifications did you come out with?

Yes, I went to Kirkley Hall College in Northumberland. I completed my NVQ Level 2 Trees and Timber qualification there, which covered modules including land based

"I was accepted for the apprenticeship and couldn't believe how much I enjoyed the job. People don't always realise how much is involved in arboriculture, it's a lot more than cutting down trees" machinery, chainsaws, aerial rescue, tree felling, chipping and rigging.

What’s your favourite part of your job?

I’d definitely say the practical side of the job; I enjoy actually getting out there and doing the work.

I love getting to climb the trees and you’re never doing the same thing every day. One day I’ll be felling trees and the next day I’ll be planting them.

What’s your favourite piece of equipment to use?

It would have to be using the power tools, from the different chainsaws to the stump grinder.

DAVE CURRY, RYAN'S MANAGER AT GLENDALE...

“Ryan is a remarkable young man who walks to work every day.

He left school with average qualifications and he thinks he’s not academic, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Ryan is one of the brightest young men I have met and an exemplary employee who always gives 100 per cent. At Glendale we are committed to recognising potential and rewarding effort.”

I like it when we have a new piece of equipment to try out, too.

Do you have any future ambitions within the industry?

I want to continue what I’m doing at Glendale and keep stepping up. I can’t believe how far I’ve come already. I never thought I would be able to do my Level 3 but here I am.

Is there a structure development plan at Glendale Managed Services for you?

Yes, I’ve already progressed from my Level 2 to Level 3 and I’m adding to my NPTC (National Proficiency Tests Council) certificates so that I can go on to survey trees. When I first joined Glendale I knew absolutely nothing about the industry but now I know what I’m doing I can get out there and really get stuck in. I wouldn’t be where I am now without Glendale’s support. It is a great company to work for. www.glendale-services.co.uk

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12/01/2015 15:25

King Highway Products Ltd, Riverside, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7PX

P15_DEEPDALE.indd 3

12/01/2015 10:40

FEATURES

Site Tour

GREENMECH LTD Last December, Pro Arb’s Commissioning Editor Joe Wilkinson was invited to a press event to tour the factory of British chipper manufacturers, GreenMech

L-R: Hazel Honeybourne, Marketing Manager; Martin Lucas, Sales Director; Jonathan Turner, Managing Director

26 Pro Arb | January 2015

ProArb Jan15 P26-27 Site Tour Greenmech TW.indd 26

The day was informative and interesting and as well as finding out about the history of the company, Joe Wilkinson heard about its continual investment in making sure the business stays ahead of the competition.

GreenMech is based in Kings Coughton, Warwickshire and its chairman, Tony Turner, has been producing British-made machinery since 1963 when he founded Turner Engineering. In 1978, the company rebranded to Turner International Ltd and in 1989 the company became known as Turner World Mowers. Tony took the decision to launch GreenMech in 1993 to meet the needs of the amenity market.

Development and engineering has been the driving force behind the success of The Turner Group. They have manufactured flail mowers of all types, various forms of agricultural machinery, out-front cylinder mowers, stump grinders and many more landscaping appliances.

GreenMech was launched to produce British-made woodchippers as prior to this most machines in the UK’s market were imported. The company is committed to the dealer route to market and the split of distribution between the home and export market is 50/50. The UK market is covered by 16 dealers and 27 depots, giving it full national coverage. The business employs 80 people at its site in Kings Coughton, trades in 30 countries and has recently opened offices and warehouses in Germany and France.

The company's typical customers would be tree surgeons, landscape contractors, forestry workers, local authorities and arboretums, among others. Research shows that the most common times of year for them to be investing in chippers are in March and September.

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13/01/2015 09:06

FEATURES

The powder coating process in the factory

GreenMech defines a chipper as ‘a mechanical means that uses sharp blades to convert bulky wood waste into a more compact form’, and states that the machines give a breakdown ratio of six to one, meaning that woody waste that would

normally require six loads to transport and dispose can be taken in one. The market for chippers is an expanding one as a result of changing regulations regarding commercial incineration, the soaring costs of landfill, the logistics of disposal as well as the fact that using a chipper is a more eco-friendly solution. A typical chip box holds five cubic metres of chip, which works out at roughly 1.5 tonnes per load.

In recent years GreenMech has continued to invest in state of the art equipment, specifically in the areas of steel cutting and

folding, as well as the shot blast and powder coating system. The company is staying ahead of the game by creating a chipper with reduced noise. The new machines have a letterbox opening for faster throughput and GreenMech's patented Disc Blade System, ensuring low cost, long life and high efficiency.

All GreenMech chippers are made on their UK site for higher quality and cost control.

They have a superior tracking speed, allowing the job to be done faster and more efficiently.

After-sales and service is important to the company and they offer a two year guarantee with all hydraulic wood chippers and have an extensive team to support dealers.

Pricing remains competitive despite the high quality and specification and GreenMech strongly believes that customers choose their brands over others because they are well engineered and British built.

For more information on GreenMech products, contact Martin Lucas, Sales Director on 07788 411617 or visit the website at www.greenmech.co.uk

MOST POPULAR – ARBORIST 150 AT A GLANCE

• 50mm chipping capacity; • 26hp or 34hp Kubota diesel engine • Disc-Blade chipping technology • Twin hydraulic feed rollers • No-stress power control • 970mm x 790mm infeed hopper

which aids bushy brash reduction, coupled with a 150mm x 230mm letterbox-style infeed throat opening enables heavily forked branches to be fed in easily.

• RRP £15,175 + VAT

Assembling the Eco-Combi system

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ProArb Jan15 P26-27 Site Tour Greenmech TW.indd 27

Pro Arb | January 2015 27

13/01/2015 09:07

TREES

A TREE FOR

ACIDIC SOIL

Pro Arb asks the UK's tree nurseries which tree in their stock would suit a specific use. This month it's trees for acidic soil

Amelanchier lamarckii – Snowy Mespilus Amelanchier lamarckii is one of the bestselling trees at Provender Nurseries thanks to a long season of interest. From small elegant buds new leaves appear in shades of coppery red and are slightly hairy to the touch. The leaves turn dark green before giving a dazzling display of orange and red in the autumn months. Small white flowers appear in great numbers at the same time as the leaf buds open. In the autumn small purple black fruits appear which are very appealing to birds. Amelanchier lamarckii has a bushy spreading habit and is happiest in a moist but well-drained acidic soil. www.provendernurseries.co.uk

Quercus robur – Red Oak Quercus robur or the 'Red Oak' is a large, fast growing tree that thrives in lime free soils. With the classic spreading habit associated with oaks, it will grow in most parts of the UK and tolerates industrial locations. Larger leaves and a smooth grey bark makes it an ideal specimen tree. It will really begin to show its qualities with the onset of autumn with the leaves turning through red-brown to a rich ruby colour. Use as a single tree to add contrast to small coppice plantings or as a specimen in a large garden. www. colesnurseries.co.uk

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Quercus palustris – Pin Oak

Whilst suitable for all soil types, this species performs best in an acidic soil. Its main feature is its stunning autumn colours of deep orange, red and purple. The broadly pyramidal crown is formed of horizontal branches that give it a unique appearance in the winter.

Its regular form makes it a wonderful avenue tree in streets and parks but it also works well as a specimen parkland tree. It's a medium to large tree so needs plenty of space to develop in and whilst not as enduring as some oak species it is still good for 100 years or more. www.civictrees.co.uk

Acer x freemannii – Jeffers Red A cross between Acer saccharinum and Acer rubrum that inherits the best of both, this showstopper is far more reliable with its autumn display than Acer rubrum tends to be in this country and it is one of the first trees to turn in autumn. Mature height in the north of England is around 15 metres, but it has the vigour and potential to reach higher on a sheltered site. It prefers rich, well drained acid soils, but will also grow happily in neutral conditions if humus-rich. www. wykehammatureplants.co.uk

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Latest Kit

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FOCUS ON: CHAINSAWS

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LATEST KIT: CHAINSAWS

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ARB KIT

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LATEST KIT

FOCUS ON

CHAINSAW FEATURES: EXPLAINED A chainsaw has many features, all designed with user safety in mind. They may look menacing, not least thanks to Hollywood, but they have certainly changed with the times to make them as safe as possible. Here are a few tips to help you get the best from your machine blade is thrown upwards and backwards towards the user, their left hand will touch the chainbrake lever, activating the brake.

Anti/low-kickback chain Most of the chainsaws you find today will have anti-kickback or low-kickback chains. These do not eliminate kickback, but decrease the likelihood and/or intensity of it.

Replacing the chain • Check the user manual carefully.

• Make sure you buy a chain with the correct pitch, gauge and number of drive chains as fitting the wrong chain can be dangerous.

• If in doubt, get a professional to supply and fit it for you.

Cutting teeth If your chainsaw is not cutting easily or straight, its teeth could

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be blunt. A blunt chainsaw can be dangerous – inspect and sharpen teeth regularly.

Guide bar This is the long metal bar the chain runs around. These range in length according to the size of wood you need to cut. The longer the bar, the thicker diameter of log the chainsaw can cope with, but the more difficult it becomes to manoeuvre.

Chain brake Also known as the front handguard, the chain brake is designed to minimise the risk of injury from kickback. If the

Chain catcher If a chainsaw has a chain catcher, you will find it on the base of the machine, below the guide bar. It is designed to block the chain if it slips off the guide bar, preventing it spinning off and hitting your legs.

Throttle trigger and throttle lock-off Petrol chainsaws have at least two switches that have to be engaged for the chain to spin, both located on the rear handle. This is to prevent the chainsaw starting unintentionally.

The throttle lock is usually operated by the palm of the hand

gripping the handle and the throttle trigger is pressed with the index finger.

Trigger switch and lock-off button You will find the trigger switch and lock-off button on corded electric chainsaws. They work in exactly the same way as the throttle trigger and throttle lockoff switches on petrol machines.

Chain tensioning device Chains lose tension with use and require tightening. The tension of the chain should be checked every time you use the saw since if it is too slack it could come off during use. The chain tensioning device will either be a thumbwheel or a screw that you tighten with a screwdriver.

Petrol chainsaw vibration minimisers Power from the engine and tension from cutting cause vibrations that can be transferred to the arms and shoulders, which can become painful after a while. Some chainsaws come with dampeners or anti-vibration mounts to reduce this.

For information on relevant legislation visit www.hse.gov.uk

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12/01/2015 15:36

S W A S CHAIN

LATEST KIT

latest kit

Husqvarna T540 XP The Husqvarna T540 XP is the chainsaw for professionals. First class ergonomics combined with an optimal power-toweight ratio make this well designed machine a must-have for any arborist.

A customisable top handle makes the T540 XP particularly easy to use while the X-Torq engine makes it more powerful than ever in relation to its weight. The appliance also features a secondary eyelet for efficient operation when climbing. www.husqvarna.com/uk

EGO Power+

Cobra CS45E The Cobra CS45E electric chainsaw will tackle the most demanding jobs. With 2400W of power, and an 18”/45cm Oregon bar and chain, this model is one of the most powerful on the market.

Like all Cobra electric chainsaws, the lightweight CS45E weighs five kilograms, boasts a 13.5 m/s chain speed and has a 10m power cable. The machine comes with a quick chain tensioning system that eliminates any need for tools to tighten the chain. Just a quick rotation of the tensioning wheel and you'll be back in action without any down time. www.cobragarden.co.uk

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The EGO Power+ chainsaw is fitted with a 350mm (14”) Oregon bar which can make up to 100 cuts of four by four inch softwood per charge of the 2.0Ah 56V lithium-ion battery (supplied separately).

Operating at 6300rpm, the chainsaw has a kickback brake, tool free chain tensioning and chain scabbard as standard, as well as an easily visible oil level indicator. The D-shaped handle and a weight of just 5kg ensures easy manoeuvrability and maximum operator comfort and safety.

www.egopowerplus.com

Hyundai chainsaws Green-tech is now a supplier of Hyundai chaninsaws and has added two models to its portfolio, including the Hyundai HYC3816 38cc and Hyundai HYC4618 46cc two-stroke petrol chainsaws. The HYC3816 38cc is a robust, easy-to-handle chainsaw suitable for domestic estate and amenity applications. The HYC4618 46cc is versatile and robust and better suited for professional use. It is powered by a Hyundai 2.4hp easy start two-stroke engine and features a Walbro carburettor. It weighs 6.1kg dry. Both are equipped with worldrenowned Oregon bar and chain and have automatic chain lubrication and kick-back safety protection fitted. www.green-tech.co.uk

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LATEST KIT

Pellenc chainsaws

MTD GCS 410040 This MTD GCS 410040 petrol chainsaw is well priced and powerful. It has been designed to offer domestic users the performance levels of a professional chainsaw at a budget price.

It has a powerful two-stroke petrol engine that delivers plenty of torque and a fast work rate even on tougher cuts. The chainsaw comes with a 40cm bar and a 3.8in chain, making it ideal for sawing up logs for the fire as well as other work around the garden. It features automatic chain lubrication, further improving performance. www.lawnflite.co.uk

ECHO CS-620SX Designed for the professional user, the ECHO CS-620SX chainsaw has the cutting performance of a higher capacity machine. It has an impressive 15 per cent improvement in cutting performance over its predecessor.

This is due to its premium-grade high torque 59.8cc engine, which has an output of 3.32kW. This tool is ideal for felling large trees.

The CS-620SX has many impressive features including a dual-post chain brake handle for increased durability.

A semi-automatic decompression system ensures easy starting. Chain adjustment is easy thanks to side access tensioning.

Makita DUC302 The new STIHL MSA 160 T top-handled electric chainsaw delivers just what is needed when carrying out pruning operations and remedial work in trees.

Those attributes are the result of the STIHL brushless, electronically controlled motor, which drives the narrow ¼in Picco Micro 3 saw chain to deliver a powerful, clean and fine cut. The chain is low-vibration and low-kickback and when used with the ultra-slim STIHL Rollomatic E Mini guide bar they make a great team. www.stihl.co.uk

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www.etesia.co.uk

www.echo-tools.co.uk

Stihl MSA 160 T

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The C20, C15 and M12 hand-held chainsaws from Pellenc are the lightest in the world. With an unrivalled power to weight ratio and a standard assembly of Oregon ¼in chain specially designed for pruning, the C20, C15 and M12 cut cleanly and with precision. Extremely light, the Pellenc chain guide in steel and composite material allows these chainsaws to twist flexibly and prevent breakages in the case of accidental catching. Thanks to the electronic management of the oil flow, another Pellenc Patent, the consumption is a function of the consumed power.

Makita has introduced more tools powered by twin 18v lithium-ion batteries designed to deliver 36v performance whilst offering an economic solution for existing Makita tool owners. Within the new range is the 300mm DUC302 chainsaw, generating 800 watt output from the twin 18v batteries. This provides ample power to run the 3/8 in chain over the 300mm bar at up to 8.3m per second.

The battery warning indicators show the remaining capacity and when this drops below a pre-set level, the machine stops and indicates which battery requires replacement. www.makitauk.com

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12/01/2015 15:39

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LATEST KIT

G N I B CLIM ENT M P I U EQ t latest ki

Marlow Tree Access Harness This is the latest generation tree-climbing harness with every feature designed to meet the needs of even the most demanding professional tree climbers. The Marlow Tree Access Harness can be used alone for positioning operations where no fall arrest function is needed. It offers high comfort in suspension thanks to the ample surface area and the padding of the belt and leg-loops and front connection of waist belt and leg loops with spaced straps improve comfort in the groin area.

Components are in aluminium alloy. www.marlowropes.net

Stein Vega

Eiger pulleys ISC lightweight Eiger pulleys are made from high strength aluminium and fitted with tamper-proof rivets. They are fitted with bushings, which are ideal in lightweight applications. The RP281 has been designed with parallel side plates specifically for use with the RP280 singing tree rope wrench and the sterling rope tether, RT270. www.iscwales.com

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The Stein Vega work positioning harness ticks all the right boxes. Its stylish design offers durability, ergonomic comfort and practicality all in one. It is fitted with fully adjustable quick release waist and leg loops and a replaceable bridge. The new “U-Create” gear loop system allows you to personalise the harness tool loops to suit your climbing needs. The durable yet lightweight design of the VEGA ensures the harness will meet the demands of tree climbers everywhere.

www.steinworldwide.com

DMM carabiners All of DMM’s carabiners are designed with a specific function in mind and with a quick glance at the Thor’s impressive stats, it’s easy to see exactly what sets this ‘biner’ apart. Following the classic lines of the Spectre 2, the Thor’s meatier back means that it achieves a confidence inspiring 11kN gate open rating and offers an even more generous rope radius to help care for your rope. This ‘biner’ is truly versatile and if it’s extra security and robustness you are looking for, then the Thor is an obvious choice. www.dmmclimbing.com

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12/01/2015 15:41

LATEST KIT

Blue Tongue rope

Raptor Dead-eye Sling The Raptor Dead-eye tree rigging slings are made using our Raptor rigging rope construction.

Raptor dead-eye slings are high strength and the hard wearing cover has been treated with Marlow’s unique colour coded Armourcoat. Tests have shown that Armourcoat improves abrasion resistance by 30 per cent. The Raptor Deadeye Sling is available in 16mm and 18mm as standard, with pre-spliced 100mm protected eyes.

www.marlowropes.net

Edelrid X-PE rope Buxtons Ltd have worked with Edelrid to deliver a high quality arborist specific climbing kit supplied in a robust waterproof kit bag. The kit allows access and movement around the tree and includes the excellent Edelrid Tree Core harness featuring on the go bridge adjustment and quick release buckles.

Access is provided by 40m of Edelrid X-PE rope that feels great and is highly durable. Included are two swing cheek pulleys and Edelrid connectors that have a wonderful positive feel to the gate and great shapes that are ideal for putting together a VT-style knot system on the main line and side lanyard.

www.spaldings.co.uk

Petzl I’D S descender

www.buxtons.net

Stihl MSA 160 T The Spiderjack from Landmark Trading serves as a multifunctional, self-blocking rope control device in conjunction with double rope technique. The Spiderjack requires just one carabiner, which means the system remains very compact and efficient. As soon as the line above the device is pulled, the Spider turns from blocking into running position, which allows for easy ascent or adjusting of work positioning - even when there is little rope weight below to assist the rope in falling through. The ergonomic release lever redirects the rope, saving the climber’s hands from friction.

www.landmarktrading.co.uk

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Blue Tongue represents a quantum leap in tree climbing line technology. Made out of premium grade polyester, this 24 strand climbing line has been made for exceptional performance through mechanical ascent/descent devices as well as the traditional Arborist climbing techniques. The 11.7mm diameter provides the perfect balance between the weight of 11mm line and the feel of 13mm line. The highly vibrant colour guarantees exceptional visibility in the tree making it possibly the most vibrant and visible rope on the market.

The I’D S from Petzl is a self-braking descender with anti-panic function, multifunction handle that allows descent control, easier movement on inclined or horizontal terrain and positioning at the work station without the need to tie off the device.

The anti-panic function only activates if the user pulls too hard on the handle. The I’D S descender has an anti-error catch to reduce the chance of an accident and a gate that both helps prevent dropping the device and facilitates rope installation when passing intermediate anchors. www.petzl.com

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12/01/2015 15:42

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ARB KIT

ELIET shredders' patented Chopping Principle makes them unique.

Just like an axe, the blades chop the wood according to the direction of the fibres. The blades system makes thousands of chopping motions per minute and cuts all leafy and wet green waste without any problems. This makes ELIET shredders suitable for almost any kind of application. The blow chute ensures the chopped debris is deposited at your chosen location. In contrast to many other shredders featuring chip-discharge blowers, the PROF 5 can handle damp natural trimmings very well with little danger of blockage of the turbine. www.psdgroundscare.com

ARB KIT

A look at the latest products available Because of the R-Top's slow drill speed, there is no requirement to screen it off. You can also recover the shavings for biomass with the added bonus of effecting a stump removal in minutes.

R-Top is an attachment on an excavator so it has lots of other advantages. Aside from the fact that you can get to difficult to reach stumps, (for example near a wall or pond) you also have the advantage of being able to operate the equipment at an angle, for example on a railway bank, small river or ford. Wherever you can get the excavator, you can remove a stump. www.stumpdrillers.co.uk

Guy fixing kits from Green-Tech offer effective support for highly exposed trees and those requiring correction against leaning. Available in a range of sizes to suit most transplants up to 20m high, this set contains three S61 anchors attached to ratchet tensioners, three collar, clip and wire assemblies (6m) and three tensioner shrouds.

Wallenstein offers a range of over 35 different models of log splitter to suit all needs and applications. At the forefront are the new Wx540Eu and Wx640Eu models, both VCA approved for road use in the whole of Europe. The range starts with the tractor mounted versions and then the light domestic through to the heavy duty commercial models. www.wallenstein.co.uk

www.green-tech.co.uk

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ARB KIT

The QuadTrak 160 is a tracked 160mm chipper that comes with an optional turntable and tilt system making it good from any angle. Its innovative design allows the machine to be tilted for stability when working on slopes up to 30°, assuring correct flow of oil to the engine. A wide operating platform is positioned to give excellent visibility and good access to controls, allowing for safe and efficient tracking. High ground clearance of 240mm ensures easy clearance of hidden stumps and other obstacles over unknown terrain. www.greenmech.co.uk

The 900 Series from Carlton via Orange Plant is the best choice when maximum portability and minimal initial investment are considerations.

Design objectives for the 900 were ease of operation and low maintenance.

These have been achieved, resulting in a machine that is both easy to use and very reliable. The 900 Series utilises industry standard cutter teeth, making replacement simple and very cost effective. Its small size coupled with commercial grade construction and strong performance makes the Carlton 900 a perfect choice. www.orangeplant.co.uk

Oregon has seven types of “91” (3/8in Lo-profile) chains, each specialised for different applications, from ripping chain to the revolutionary Top-Sharp “Powersharp” chains that sharpen in seconds after dirty jobs. The 91VXL is the default choice for UK arborists, while the 91PX is favoured in many other countries. The difference? The 91VXL follows on from the popular 91VX but is actually a totally different cutter with a longer top plate. The 91PX retains the Chamfer chisel cutter of VX, but has added bumper drive links. www.oregonproducts.eu

Riko UK offers a vast range of forestry machinery including trailers, cranes and the unique Riko UK Fast Tow Forwarding Trailer, the only road trailer on the market designed to take a crane and features our unique hydraulic sliding load bed that ensures you achieve the correct axle loadings and tow hitch weight. There are also skidding grapples, forestry winches, mulching flails and stump grinders. For small woodland owners and conservation work, we produce a range of small forestry trailers and cranes for use behind quad tractors and ATV’s as well as the smaller Alpine tractors. www.alpinetractors.com

38 Pro Arb | January 2015

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13/01/2015 09:11

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ARB KIT

The Seppi Starforst tree shredder from Lamberhurst Engineering is a compact and powerful forestry mulcher with a particularly aggressive new rotor. Its newly developed, innovative three point linkage with self-aligning mechanism makes it easy to manoeuvre. The Seppi Starforst is strong and reliable for professional vegetation management such as rights of way upkeep, site prep, creation of fire breaks, road side maintenance and pipeline and power transmission clearance.

The 13PP is a compact machine from DANequip, primarily designed for contractors who need to deal with the occasional stump removal. Using the same cutter wheel and bearing set up as larger self-propelled models, this machine can access the narrowest of areas. The grinders have reliability built in, with the best design and highest quality components assembled by a dedicated team of engineering craftsmen and technicians with many years of experience. www.danequip.co.uk

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Safe-Eyes from Rockcroft are a goggle design with a rubber head strap. The ‘lens’ is a stainless steel perforated sheet which is set in a moulded rubber frame. Safe Eyes provide excellent peripheral vision with a good comfortable seal around the eyes. Originally developed for forestry work in New Zealand, they are equally at home being used in landscaping and other arboricultural works. www.meshsafetyglasses.com

For chipping wood on the move, the Wallenstein BXT picks up and goes wherever you need it. Ideal for keeping jobsites clean and tidy, contractors, arborists and municipalities can easily chip branches into vehicles and haul them away.

The self feed hopper is designed to angle the brush against the rotor and blades, pulling the branches into the chipper. At the heart of the Wallenstein BX Chipper is an oversize heavy duty rotor and reversible chipping blades. The large diameter rotor has a faster tip speed for improved chipping action and the heavy gauge steel keeps your momentum to power through 6in diameter tree trunks. www.wallenstein.co.uk

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The UK’s premier supplier of compact tracked access platforms for more than 14 years, Promax Access' range of superior quality specialist access platforms continue to exceed operator expectations. An innovative range of narrow and low ground pressure Spider Lift access platforms designed to pass through a standard doorway, path or gateway, these lightweight specialist access platforms can operate internally on pedestrian floors and outdoors on gardens and driveways without causing damage. www.promaxacess.com

Arblite Stretch chainsaw trousers from Severnside Safety offer Design C all round protection conforming to Class 1 20m/s EN 381-5 and come in EN471 high visibility yellow. The trousers contain a built-in waist belt and high back support, buttons for braces, top of front ripstop stretch material and hardwearing stretchy Kevlar middle section. www.sevsafe.co.uk

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13/01/2015 09:12

CAREERS

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

Call 01903 777 586 or email jorjia.nye@eljays44.com with your vacancy

CLIMBERS SEVENOAKS

Bartlett Tree Experts is a privately owned arboricultural company in the UK and Ireland and leader in the tree care industry. Applicants must have all relevant NPTC qualifications (minimum of CS30, 31,38, 39), a full UK driving licence and ideally C1+E, a proven track record in all aspects of tree work 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. For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk

TREE SURGEONS HIGH WYCOMBE

Our client provides landscaping and grounds maintenance services for industrial firms, for public sector bodies, for local authorities and for a wide range of private clients across the United Kingdom. They are currently seeking a tree surgeon to work on their landscaping division. The person will be self-motivated, experienced, have good communication skills, able to run their own crew, hold a full driving licence, be CRB checkable, hold a trailer and chainsaw licence (climbing preferred) and must be PA qualified.

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

ARBORISTS

TREE CARE MANAGER

Andersplus has an exciting opportunity for two arborists for seasonal work starting in early January to March 2015. The client carries out maintenance work following an annual tree survey. Work is based in NE London. The ideal candidates will have relevant experience and qualifications in climbing and chainsaw operations. You will be carrying out tree maintenance, including canopy reduction, branch removal for traffic accessibility, pollarding and generally making safe. CS30, CS31, CS39, CS40 and CS41 are required.

Gavin Jones Ltd is a multidisciplinary, award-winning and respected landscape contractor specialising in delivering exceptional customer service and sustainability of business and is seeking applicants for the position of Tree Care Manager within the business to undertake the management and development of arboricultural and forestry operations. You will be responsible for operational contract management of in excess of 15 direct employees and external subcontractors covering consultancy, arboricultural operations, site clearance and ecological/land based work to industry standards and best practice.

NORTH EAST LONDON

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

SURREY

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

UTILITY ARBORICULTURE SURVEYORS

TEAM LEADERS AND LEAD CLIMBERS

Utility Arboriculture Surveyors will carry out vegetation management surveys, conduct negotiations with the landowners, gain permission for works to be completed, provide data management and audit completed works. The ideal candidates will be flexible in style and thinking with an open, friendly personality.

They will have strong communication and relationship building skills, and will have a customer and client focus. Candidates will hold a UA5 qualification and ideally hold both the Basic and Professional Tree Inspection qualification. Applications from surveyors with previous operational expertise are particularly welcome.

Gristwood & Toms is looking for qualified and experienced Team Leaders and Lead Climbers to join our existing teams working across the Surrey borders and is offering a fantastic package to the right candidate, including excellent earnings potential, exceptional career development opportunities and industry leading training and development. In return, applicants must be highly motivated and able to demonstrate an extremely high standard of safety awareness and tree surgery skills, hold a clean driving licence (C1+E preferable) and possess arboricultural qualifications: CS30, 31, 38, 39, 41.

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

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

EXPERIENCED CLIMBERS AND GROUNDSTAFF

UTILITY ARBORISTS

City Suburban Tree Surgeons Ltd is a specialist arboricultural contractor based in south London with operations covering all of London and the South East. We currently have vacancies for experienced climbers and groundstaff in our Stockwell, Enfield, Croydon and Kent depots. Applicants must be highly motivated and able to work to an extremely high standard of both safety and quality and ideally hold CS30, CS31, CS38 and CS39. Driving licence C1+E and B+E, signing, lighting and guarding and first aid training are desirable qualifications.

BTS Group Ltd is currently recruiting for experienced Utility Arborists up to foreman level to work within the Reading area. We are keen to hear from individuals with extensive climbing and cutting experience, to assist with the clearance of vegetation surrounding power lines, in accordance with safe working practices and as training and certifications permit. You must have first aid certification, UA: 1,2.1, 2.2, & 2.3, CS: 30, 31, 38 & 39 and a full UK driving licence.

MIDLANDS

SOUTH EAST ENGLAND

SHENLEY

READING

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

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

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TECHNICAL

ARE YOU GOING?

COURSES January 21 SLG (BTS Group) Risby, Suffolk £180 21 Manual handling (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £50 21 Aerial rescue refresher (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £55 22 UA1 Assessment (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £146.15 23 Aerial chainsaw refresher (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £126 26 206 306 Assessment (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £143 26 Tree cutting with a chainsaw using free fall techniques (Arb For Training) Leyburn, North Yorkshire £280 26 309 (CS41) Dismantling/aerial rigging operations assessment (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £128 26 Chainsaw maintenance, cross-cutting and felling of small trees, (Kingswood Training Services) Shipbourne, Kent £975.25 26 Aerial rescue, climbing and use of chainsaw from rope and harness (Kingswood Training Services) Shipbourne, Kent £1,155.25 29 Aerial tree pruning (Arb For Training) Leyburn, North Yorkshire £320 February 2 201/202/203 5 day basic chainsaw (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £495 2 Lantra training skills for instructors(Arb For Training) Leyburn, North Yorkshire £580 5 205 power pole pruners experienced operators (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £104.50 9 201 202 203 Assessments (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £270 9 Loler training (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £290 9 Chainsaw maintenance, cross-cutting, felling and processing up to 380mm (Arb For Training) Leyburn, North Yorkshire £595 11 UA2 Re-Certification (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £166.15 12 MEWP (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £192.50 12 UA1 – Basic Electrical Knowledge (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £215 13 EFAW (BTS Group) Needham Market, Suffolk £65

EVENTS November 17 FutureArb (Eljays44) Sandown Park, Esher, Surrey. Free

42 Pro Arb | January 2015

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The

ANCIENT

ANCIENT TREE COLUMN

tree column

Each month The Ancient Tree Forum introduces us to an ancient tree from the UK. This month it's the...

Lonely Tree of Llanfyllin The ‘Lonely Tree’ is a 200-year-old Scots pine near the Welsh town of Llanfyllin. The tree came to national prominence in February 2014 when it was felled in hurricane force winds, but it has been a source of local pride for much

of its two centuries’ existence.

Known as the Lonely Tree due to its splendid isolation above the small town, it has been an integral part of many residents’ lives over the years. Local people would visit it to carve their initials, propose marriage or scatter ashes.

It was this affection for the tree that spurred the local community into an attempt to prolong its life. After a suggestion by ancient tree experts that it might be possible to save the tree by packing its roots with soil, nearly 30 tonnes was dug from the valley below and hauled a quarter of a mile up the hill over the

course of a month.

The theory behind the mammoth undertaking is that by recovering the exposed roots before they dried out the tree may be able to ‘phoenix’ or grow again from its trunk. Following the efforts in spring 2014 people are now hopeful that around a third of the tree will survive.

The tree has also received a new accolade, that of ‘Welsh Tree of the Year’.

Nominated and voted for by the general public during 2014, the tree will now represent Wales against trees from England, Scotland and 11 other European countries the conservation world’s equivalent of Eurovision, the European Tree of the Year competition.

The competition celebrates trees that tell a story and bring communities together, criteria that the Lonely Tree certainly fulfils, giving it a strong chance of winning.

Find out more about the European Tree of the Year contest and vote for the English, Scottish and Welsh trees from 1 to 28 February at

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Local people visit to carve their initials, propose marriage or scatter ashes Pro Arb | January 2015 43

Photos courtes y of Rob McBri de

www.treeoftheyear.org

12/01/2015 15:52

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