Pro Arb May 2015

AN INTERVIEW WITH

MAY 2015

DARREN KILBY & ANDY TOMS GRISTWOOD & TOMS

19

PIECES OF ARB KIT SHOWCASED SALES LESSONS

FROM STEVE CLARKE – VIA AN ATHENS CABBIE

SANDOWN PARK NOVEMBER 17

EXCLUSIVE

OUR INSIDER GUIDE TO THE ARB SHOW 2015 APPRENTICESHIPS

PLUS...

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PRO ARB MAGAZINE May 2015 | Volume 2 | Issue 5

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. 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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W

WELCOME

elcome to the May issue of Pro Arb. We are now entering the time when trees are beginning to show their full glory – the blossom has been and almost gone, magnolia have had a wonderful year for flowering and now the glorious new leaf colour is lighting up our landscape.

This month I’ve been out and about again, meeting new people and hearing differing points of view – it was a pleasure to meet Andy and Darren from Gristwood & Toms and find out all about the company. I was also given a tour of their HQ and huge recycling centre which was most interesting.

This month’s issue is packed full of educational features and business tips to help you

run your business as efficiently as possible, see Jonathan Hazell’s advice on creating a lasting impression with clients on page 12, plus Steve Clarke’s lateral view on how you can get better results in terms of selling yourself and your business.

So this is our issue before The ARB Show, the Arboricultural Association’s yearly event. It’s at its new home at The National Arboretum in Westonbirt this year, and I for one am very much looking forward to it. Pro Arb magazine will be there, please do come and visit our stand to discuss the magazine and we would love to hear your comments. We are on stand T13 and will be there on both days. Take a look at our guide on page 28 if you’re still undecided as to whether you will be attending this year.

Enjoy this issue, have a great month.

JOE WILKINSON

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

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

Pro Arb | May 2015

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Welcome 06 NEWS 10 ASSOCIATION NEWS

Business tips 12 CLIENT READY PRODUCT

Jonathan Hazell explains another of his business mantras and why impressing your client is about how you present yourself and your work.

MAY 2015

13 SHOWCASE YOUR SKILLS

Lantra show us what the R2 register looks like and how it operates.

15 SALES LESSONS

Sales and marketing guru Steve Clarke tells us how he got a sales lesson from an Athens taxi driver.

Opinion 16 VALUATION OF AMENITY TREES

In the second of his two-part series, Jon Heuch explains the difference between how we value trees today in comparison with the past

18 THE TREES THEY ARE A CHANGIN'

Arboricultural officer Rick Milsom talks about how tree fashions have changed over the years.

Technical 19 MECHANICAL ADVANTAGE

David Vickers continues his series on using pulleys and ropes to your advantage.

15

16

20 PESTS AND DISEASES

Bartlett Tree Experts start a series on pests and diseases. This month, we take a look at Horse Chestnut Leaf Miner

Features 22 AN INTERVIEW WITH ANDY TOMS AND DARREN KILBY

This month’s interview features Andy Toms, Managing Director and Darren Kilby, Head of Sales and Marketing at Gristwood & Toms

26 APPRENTICESHIPS

20

We meet three apprentices at Ringrose Tree Services

28 THE ARB SHOW

Our show guide to the Arboricultural Association’s event at The National Arboretum, Westonbirt

19

Latest kit 34 A FOCUS ON CHAINSAWS

David Murison advises sticking to the big names

36 LATEST KIT: CHAINSAWS

Our pick of the best chainsaws available

38 ARB KIT

Regulars 42 CAREERS 43 ANCIENT TREE COLUMN

This month The Ancient Tree Forum takes a look at the Major Oak

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NEWS

NEWSBEAT

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

MERRIST WOOD EMPLOYS NEW CURRICULUM LEADER FOR ARBORICULTURE Merrist Wood College’s arboriculture department recently appointed Sally Schuck into the exciting new role of curriculum leader for arboriculture.

The newly promoted lecturer has only been with the college for three months, delivering lectures to arboriculture students at all levels.

Sally initially studied horticulture at college, however her aptitude for climbing and love of trees meant that she soon decided to specialise in arboriculture.

After leaving college, Sally ran her own arboriculture business for nine years, alongside her teaching career.

She is currently studying for an MSc in arboriculture and urban forestry and hopes eventually to gain a PhD. Merrist Wood offers a wide range of arboriculture courses including full time diplomas and short chainsaw and climbing courses. www.merristwood.ac.uk

BARTLETT TREE RESEARCH LAB FUNDS PHD STUDENTSHIPS Funding for PhD studentships has become scarce yet with UK trees under threat from potentially devastating pests and diseases, research is needed more than ever.

For this reason the Bartlett Tree Research Laboratory has recently funded three PhD Studentships at the University of Reading.

Honey fungus remains the number one killer of UK trees. Luke Hailey will evaluate the potential of fungal and bacterial biocontrol agents such as Trichoderma and Bacillus in combination with

plant defence activators such as phosphites to aid the management of this soil borne disease.

Biochar has been shown to significantly improve the healthy and disease resistance properties of trees. Emma

Schaffert will investigate the potential of Biochar to enhance drought tolerance and improve transplant survival rates of trees following planting.

Urban landscapes are hostile to trees through soil compaction, drought, elevated pollution, salinity etc. Jonathan Banks will develop a blueprint for stress tolerance in ornamental trees by evaluating changes in compounds such as proteins and metabolites associated with drought tolerance in plants. www.bartlett.com

GLENDALE LAYS GROUNDWORK FOR NEW APPRENTICESHIPS Green services specialist Glendale is spearheading the development of a new nationwide apprenticeship scheme for the arboriculture, horticulture and forestry industries.

The company is partnering with Bartlett Tree Experts and leading industry names including the British Association of Landscape Industries, the Forestry Commission, the Arboriculture Association and the Horticulture Trades Association, to develop draft standards for the new apprenticeship scheme.

The standards, known as Trailblazers, have been developed as a result of a government review that found key areas of the existing apprenticeship programme required substantial improvements.

John McKenna, regional manager at Glendale submitted its new standard to the Department of Business Innovation and Skills for assessment on 7 May. www.glendale-services.co.uk

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07/05/2015 11:16

NEWS

‘SHOCK AND ANGER’ OVER LARCH DISEASE APPROACH IN FOREST Forestry Commission Scotland has been met with ‘shock and anger’ over the appearance of the Galloway Forest Park amid efforts to tackle larch disease.

With vast swathes of – albeit infected – greenery removed, leaving a sea of brown stumps and dead pine needles, visitors to Galloway’s famous national park over Easter were horrified at the changed landscape.

But the Commission says it has had to tackle the

devastating Phytophthora ramorum (larch disease) problem aggressively, adding that the scenes have “shocked and angered many people”.

Keith Muir, the Commission’s recreation and tourism manager for the area said this reaction is understandable because people are only now seeing with their own eyes the true impact that the disease has had on the area.

DART CLEAR UP AFTER CYCLONE PAM Two members of DART – Disaster Arborist Response Team – have safely returned to the UK following their deployment to the south Pacific archipelago of Vanuatu in the aftermath of Cyclone Pam over a month ago.

Aid agencies set about clearing damage caused by the 185mph winds that destroyed 90% of homes, closed schools and medical centres, flattened infrastructure and made many roads impassable.

DART was formed in the aftermath of typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines in 2013 and kitted out with chainsaws donated by Makita in 2014. It has now played an essential role on the islands where damaged trees have been removed or made safe by removal of dangerous limbs.

Gary Bailey of DART International UK said: “The guys

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have been doing a terrific job in helping several of the island’s schools to reopen.

“The priority has been to make the structures safe but there is also an important tree conservation aspect to their work. Many of the fruit trees they have been working on are hugely important to the schools and the local community as a source of food. Without the team’s specialist climbing and arborist skills, many of those damaged trees would undoubtedly have been felled and lost forever, simply to make the areas safe.” www.dartinternational.co.uk

Replanting work will be carried out but it could be 10 years before young trees are established at the sites. The Commission is looking at retaining some of the views that

have been opened up and says the park is open for business but asks the public observes safety signage and helps avoid spreading the disease.

Mr Muir added: “With so much felling it will take us some time to get all the trails reopened and back up to a high standard. We have a small team and limited resources so I’d ask people to bear with us.” www.gallowaygazette.co.uk

FORMER NASA ENGINEER TO USE DRONES TO PLANT ONE BILLION TREES A YEAR A former Nasa environmental engineer plans to build full ecosystems by using drones to plant an estimated one billion trees a year.

Lauren Fletcher is using her 20 years of experience to kick start a drone startup, BioCarbon Engineering, with the mission to eliminate the world’s climate problems several thousand trees

at a time. The drones will fly two or three metres above ground and drop pre-germinated seeds.

“We are going to counter industrial scale deforestation using industrial scale reforestation,” said Fletcher. “The only way we’re going to take on these problems is with techniques that weren’t available to us before.” www.ibtimes.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF A tree health officer has been appointed to help the Scottish Borders tackle a serious disease that experts predict will wipe out 95% of ash trees in 10 to 15 years. Steve Morgan, who has worked for the Forestry Commission in a wide range of roles, takes up the new job from his base in Selkirk. www.scotsman.com The Ashbrittle Yew in the churchyard of St John the Baptist’s in Ashbrittle, Somerset, has a girth of 38ft and a vast canopy but a churchwarden has warned it looks ‘extremely sick’. Tree expert Dr Owen Johnson said it could be going through a bad patch but was unlikely to die of old age. www.telegraph.co.uk

Pro Arb | May 2015

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07/05/2015 11:16

NEWS

GREEN-TECH LEADS THE FIGHT AGAINST TREE DISEASE WITH CARBON GOLD’S ENRICHED BIOCHAR Award winning landscaping supplier Green-tech has announced a product partnership with world leading biochar company Carbon Gold, resulting in the launch of three new products for the landscaping industry.

Green-tree Topsoil, Greentree Amenity Tree Soil and Green-tree Roof Garden Substrates will now be available to the industry pre-blended with Carbon Gold’s Tree Growth Enhancer to significantly increase survival rates of trees and plants.

Trialled at Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories at the University of Reading, Carbon

Gold’s enriched biochar Tree Growth Enhancer reduces losses and improves the health of trees. Proven to increase vitality and growth, and minimise drought stress for newly planted trees, Carbon Gold’s enriched biochar also defends against numerous pests and diseases. www.green-tech.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF Centenary Wood created in Derry Hundreds of local people have helped to create a Centenary Wood in Faughan Valley, which will stand as a living testament to the local men and boys who lost their lives in World War I. www.derryjournal.com Join your neighbours for a walk in the woods May is the month that The Tree Council encourages everyone to take advantage of any sunny weather and go out for a walk in the woods! www.treecouncil.org.uk

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RESIDENTS BLAME BASEMENT DIGS AS TREE CRASHES DOWN A spate of basement digging in a north London suburb has been blamed for a tree falling in a communal garden.

Residents said it was a miracle nobody was hurt or killed when the 30ft high honey locust tree keeled over in the gardens between Elgin Crescent and Blenheim Crescent, in Notting Hill.

Residents have called for an urgent investigation to ensure the dozen other large trees are safe. They fear the estimated 50 basements dug on the streets since 2000 have altered drainage, compromising the trees’ stability.

Local resident, Rachel Johnson said: “The tree surgeon was very perplexed, he could not understand why the ground was so soggy in that garden.

“There is real concern about what could happen if other trees

start toppling over because the water table is not draining.”

The tree, planted in the fifties, is now lying on its side in the centre of the communal garden.

Tree surgeons called to investigate the incident said it was an ‘unusual situation’ because the tree appeared otherwise healthy.

Paul MacQueen, of Hendonbased Modern Arboricultural Services, added: “There is always a chance of a tree failing,” and noted that the part of the gardens the tree had been growing in has long been prone to flooding. www.standard.co.uk

THE ARB INDUSTRY NEEDS YOU! Please join your industry colleagues by donating to arboricultural industry charity Fund4Trees (F4T) and help Gristwood & Toms to support sustainable treescapes across Britain.

You can choose between the following schemes: Donate One Hour enables arboricultural industry employees to contribute a small percentage of your salary via PAYE as a charitable monthly donation.

Donate One Job enables employers and sole traders to provide a charitable annual donation to research.

• The intention is that your donation reflects the average income from one contract.

• The donation would be proportionate to the size of your company and could be as little as £150 for sole traders.

• For larger companies the annual donation could be more. www.fund4trees.org.uk

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07/05/2015 11:17

NEWS

TREE AT NATIONAL MEMORIAL ARBORETUM DEDICATED TO MEMORY OF SOLDIER A Nottingham soldier killed in Afghanistan in 2009 is to be remembered with the planting of a tree at a major military memorial site.

Warrant Officer Class 2 of 5th Regiment Royal Artillery, Sean Upton, was on foot patrol in Sangin, Helmand province when he was killed.

The family of the 35-yearold father of two has already successfully campaigned to have the A453 in Nottingham renamed Remembrance Way. Now they say they are delighted a further tribute will be made when a willow tree is planted in honour of the second in command of Sangin’s Police Mentoring Team.

Around 15 members of Mr Upton’s family will gather for a tree dedication service at the National Memorial Arboretum, in Alrewas, Staffordshire, at 1pm on 11 July.

Mr Upton’s father Jack Upton, 68, of Beeston, said: “I think it’s a fantastic gesture. We have visited the Arboretum previously as Sean’s name is on the wall there.

This is an extra tribute.” www.nott inghampost .com

IS NETWORK RAIL BREACHING THE LAW BY CUTTING DOWN TREES? Network Rail stands accused of ignoring laws designed to protect wildlife as it battles to clear hundreds of thousands of trees lining the network.

Channel 4 News has filmed Network Rail contractors clearing woods at the side of the railway during bird nesting season – something that could be a breach of the law.

The company, which aims to conduct tree clearance work outside the bird nesting season, claims that rail-side woodland is carefully inspected for birds’ nests before trees are felled.

The criticism comes as the

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company, which manages Britain’s railway network, carries out a nationwide programme of tree and vegetation clearance to avoid weather-related delays. Following the St Jude Storm in the winter of 2013/14 there were 1500 incidents involving trees or branches falling onto tracks.

Network Rail told Channel 4 News: “It is a delicate balance of our obligations to keep passengers safe and our responsibilities to our neighbours and wildlife living trackside.” www.channel4.com

TREE TRIMMING PROJECT IS GIVEN COUNCIL GREEN LIGHT A pilot scheme to trim trees in the East Midlands has been given the green light to take place over the summer.

Charnwood Borough Council has backed recommendations put forward by the Tree Policy Scrutiny Panel.

The panel asked that the scheme would allow the council to ‘undertake a greater range of work to its trees,’ in particular where the council’s trees are having a negative impact on the wellbeing of residents.

The panel’s report to Charnwood’s cabinet continued: “The pilot project should take place across the borough and test different possible approaches, for example increased cyclical pruning as well as responding to a greater number of requests from the public for work to nuisance trees.”

The plan is that the findings from the scheme, due to end in the autumn, will then inform the council’s tree policy.

Councillor Roy Campsall, who chaired the Tree Policy Scrutiny panel, told the cabinet: “Most importantly the panel heard from local residents about how their lives had been blighted by overgrown, untrimmed trees.

“I’m glad to see that finances have been identified for the pilot scheme able to determine policy and provide help for tree officers in the borough.

“We’re challenging local people to take pride in their green spaces.”

The leader of Charnwood Borough Council, David Slatter said: “We’re a forest borough, so therefore we have trees and we should look after our trees.” www.loughboroughecho.net

44M BEECH IN SUSSEX NAMED BRITAIN’S TALLEST NATIVE TREE A 44m tree has been declared Britain’s tallest native tree.

The beech, thought to be almost 200 years old, stands in the National Trust’s Devil’s Dyke estate within the South Downs National Park.

The discovery was made

by Dr Owen Johnson, who was alerted to the tree by dendrologist Peter Bourne.

Dr Johnson said: “I didn’t quite believe Peter when he said the tallest tree in the woods could be 44 metres tall as I know the South

Downs so well. When I finally got around to visiting I found my scepticism entirely unjustified.

“It’s amazing how you can go on discovering marvellous trees, almost on your doorstep.” www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Pro Arb | May 2015

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07/05/2015 11:17

NEWS

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

AA NATIONAL AMENITY CONFERENCE We’ve almost finalised the programme of speakers for the AA Amenity Conference 2015 from Sunday 20 to Wednesday 23 September at Warwick University. It promises to be a fantastic few days at state of the art conference facilities. You can register your interest as a delegate or exhibitor on the AA website.

Following the Easter break, AA HQ is as busy as ever and preparations for the 2015 ARB Show at Westonbirt are gathering steam. With only two months to go, it promises to be one of our most memorable shows. Over 90% of exhibitor plots have been

ARB SHOW 2015 – ONE MONTH TO GO With only one month to go until our 2015 ARB Show sponsored

by STIHL (Friday 5 and Saturday 6 June at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum), it’s all hands on deck at the association to prepare a fantastic show experience for our members and visitors. There are now over 90 exhibitors and we have had to expand our show site. With a busy events programme including new arena style demonstrations from our sponsor STIHL, kit and products

3ATC CHALLENGE – ARE YOU ARB ENOUGH? Time is running out for students to book a place at this year’s Northern and Southern College Climbing Competitions. The northern competition at Yorkshire Sculpture Park will take place on 29 April, with the southern event at Bicton College on 20 May.

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booked and the showground has been extended to accommodate more exhibitors. There’s going to be a wider than ever variety of equipment and services on show alongside a busy events programme.

We hope to see you all there.

Please get your entries in as soon as possible.

Booking is also open for the 3ATC UK Open at the ARB Show, Westonbirt. Booking forms and further information are available on our 3ATC website:

3atc.trees.org.uk/

from all the top suppliers plus competitions and family attractions, there is more to experience than ever before. Admission is free to Arboricultural Association members, who will also receive discounted entry to Westonbirt Arboretum at £4.50. For non-members entry is £9.00, £4.50 for students and children under 14 go free. A two day ticket is £13.50. For further details see:

www.trees.org.uk/The-ARB-Show

DART DEPLOYED TO VANUATU Disaster Arborist Response Team (DART) completed its support operations on 8 April having been humbled by ‘the gratitude, generosity and selflessness of the Vanuatu people’. The Pacific island was hit by Cyclone Pam in March and the storm caused widespread damage. Sponsored by AA Approved Contractors Glendale, volunteers Gary and Andy donated their equipment to local residents at the end of the trip, after giving them an appropriate level of chainsaw safety and maintenance training, of course.

NEW MATTHECK BOOK IS HERE The much awaited new book by Claus Mattheck, The Body Language of Trees: Encyclopedia of Visual Tree Assessment, is now available in our online shop. The book is a digest of a quarter century of tree research at the Karlsruhe Research Centre and is a must-have publication. www.trees.org.uk/publications

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BUSINESS TIPS

CLIENT READY PRODUCT Impressing clients is about how you present yourself and your work, explains Jonathan Hazell. Here he outlines the steps you need to take to be client ready

I

n the February issue of Pro Arb I wrote about the three key steps to successful project management: define, design, deliver. Another of my mantras is also a three-word phrase – client ready product. This summarises a broad concept and is not restricted to a package of information to be transferred in return for a payment of some sort. So how does it apply in the real world?

For service delivery teams it’s about: ● Being fully compliant with all the applicable environmental, health and safety, planning and traffic legislation and regulation as well as any local conditions that your client may impose. ● The team looking presentable in a relatively clean vehicle (I was in a car wash on a Friday

afternoon and was amazed to see the Highways Agency reflective stickers emerge from under the grime on the back of the van in front), and not necessarily in uniform but at the very least wearing sober work clothing rather than ragged SlipKnot T-shirts. ● The team leader being confident enough to converse with the client, and anyone else. ● The team being where they said, when they said. I learnt early on in my career that tree officers are not that high up the greasy pole of local authority hierarchy. The tree officer may have invested considerable emotional energy agreeing a mutually convenient date and time for a piece of work to be carried out. If the team does not appear at the right time the

It’s about helping your client to meet their objectives, not so much what you know, but what they need tree officer’s reputation may be undermined, which could lead to a loss of opportunity for you as the contractor.

Similarly with commercial and domestic clients – behind the scenes elaborate arrangements may have been put in place to allow you one-time access to a particular site, blow it by not appearing and you may not work for those people again. ● The final consideration for the team is to do what the client expects. Sophisticated clients

will look for work to be carried out in accordance with BS 3998 or a written specification. Others may simply want the place to be left neat and tidy.

For the technician ● Technicians need to be where they said and when for the reasons stated above, but additionally for operator safety when lone working. ● They also need to present outputs in a form that the client can use straight away. For some that may be an updated spreadsheet, for others that’s a file exported from a hand-held data logger with more computing power than Apollo 11.

For the consultant ● It’s about all of the above and about helping your client to meet their objectives, not so much what you know, but what they need. Again, the outputs should be presented in a form that can be understood immediately and used in a professional context. A report prepared under 5837 may require an Arboricultural Impact Statement or an Arboricultural Method Statement – help your customer by using those terms.

Spend a long time to write a short report that is free from jargon. Define, design and deliver client ready product!

ABOUT JONATHAN HAZELL

Simon Rotheram of Beechwood Trees is wearing the appropriate clothing for a professional arborist...

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...while wearing a SlipKnot T-shirt isn’t considered good form

Jonathan Hazell’s career began on the tools with the Ealing tree gang in 1980. Senior roles in the public, charity and commercial sectors followed and in October 2011 Jonathan established his own arboricultural consultancy practice. www.jhazell.com

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07/05/2015 10:35

BUSINESS TIPS

SHOWCASE YOUR SKILLS WITH THE R2 REGISTER R2, the new online tool that allows you to demonstrate your skills, knowledge and experience to potential customers, will soon be live. Here’s how it works...

The new Register of Tree Work Operatives (R2) looks set to provide arboriculturists with the opportunity to demonstrate their attained skills and experience, businesses with the necessary information to identify which operatives have the required skills to undertake specific types of tree work and to prove compliance when tendering for new contracts.

Speaking about the positive feedback the scheme received from a recent pilot group, the chair of the project’s management committee, Jaime Bray of Treetop Arboriculture, said: “It is exciting to hear that most have found R2 to be useful as well as easy to navigate, from both an employee and employer’s perspective. With trials having been successful, the steering group is working on the launch and roll out of the scheme.”

It is hoped that R2 will give a clear career pathway for those entering the industry and assist employers in their appraisal of individuals’ development and achievement, which can then be linked to pay awards and promotions. In the meantime, here’s what you can expect once the system goes live...

ABOUT R2

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

You can follow R2 on Twitter @R2_Online

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Joining R2 The first step is to register on to the system.

Follow the ‘Join here’ link to the payment page. On successful completion of the registration and payment process, you will receive log in credentials with which to manage your account. If you are a business wishing to register multiple users, you will need to contact the R2 administrator.

Skills If you are a new entrant to the industry, you will join at entry level and work up through the job grades as your career progresses.

If you are an experienced operative, you will be allocated a job of ‘ungraded’. The next step is to add relevant information to your record to apply to become one of the following; tree worker (ground); tree worker (aerial) or craftsman tree worker.There is a list of qualifications on your record. Here you can upload evidence against the qualifications for the job grade for which you are applying.

Build your CV Once that information is added, you can upload a CV to the documents section. This must detail your time worked in the industry to meet the work history times for a specific job grade. For each job in your CV, you’ll need to state the name of your employer, the business and its postal address.

You’ll also need to upload one professional reference who can verify your career history.

R2 job grade Finally, once you have uploaded your qualifications and evidence of work history, you can apply to R2 for the appropriate job grade by paying an administration fee.

R2 will check your record and a decision will be made as to whether you have achieved enough to be granted the job grade. If successful, your role will be changed. If unsuccessful, it will be explained why and advice will be given as to what is required to achieve the grade.

Pro Arb | May 2015 13

07/05/2015 12:19

www.deepdale-trees.co.uk

mail@deepdale-trees.co.uk Tel: 01767 262636 Fax: 01767 262288

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06/05/2015 10:07 07/05/2015 10:39

BUSINESS TIPS

SALES LESSONS FROM AN ATHENS TAXI DRIVER I

Don't just follow the crowd and expect better results, says Steve Clarke. It's all about your attitude – listen, think differently and be persistent

was recently booked to deliver the keynote talk at a sales and marketing conference in Athens and the event organiser had a chauffeur collect me at the airport.

As we chatted, I was reminded by my driver what a desperate time many Greeks were having; massive unemployment and pitifully low wages for those lucky enough to have a job. Tough times for Greeks and a tough gig for a business growth speaker!

I was geared up to share hints, tips and strategies to boost sales and profits. But how could I do this without belittling their massive challenges? Arriving a day early I decided to take in the sights of Athens, learn about its rich history and seek fresh inspiration for my speech. “Head towards the centre and take the metro," said the hotel concierge. "It’s six stops and only costs €1.20.” I did as he suggested. What did I see? A crowded train and a dark tunnel. It was cheap. But it failed to meet my needs or wants.

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Do you listen to what your clients and prospects actually want or do you make suggestions and proposals based on assumptions?

I took a couple of taxis, visiting the ancient buildings around the city. It was great to enjoy the sights and sounds. But each driver was full of doom and gloom. Then I hailed a taxi driven by George. He welcomed me with a smile. I asked him to take me to the Acropolis.

As he drove we engaged in conversation. “Tough right now isn’t

"When times are challenging, sell differently, sell to someone different or sell something different" it?” I said. “For sure, it’s tough, but what’s easier to change, the state of the economy, or our attitude towards it?” he said. Wow! That’s the kind of stuff I tell people all the time. I loved George’s attitude.

“How long are you here?" he said. "If you’re tight on time you might be better to visit this place or that and come back to the Acropolis just after lunch when it’s at its best." Focusing on my needs, he explained that there were buses

and trains or I could take different taxis from place to place. He’d quickly become my trusted advisor. “Could you take me George?”

Surprise, surprise, for €40 he’d turn off the meter and stick with me all morning. He turned a €4 ride into €60 including a tip.

How are you ʽup-servingʼ your clients?

George drove to the coast and we chatted over a coffee. He explained how he helped his wife get a job in nursing after a chance conversation with a doctor in his cab. After a conversation he engaged in and listened carefully to he took action – he called the doctor as requested once his wife was qualified. Not once but several times, until he reached him.

How persistent are you at following up?

When we reached the Acropolis I asked him to join me. He shared yet more wisdom: “Look at the structure of the building,” he said. “There are many columns supporting the roof. That’s how we need to be in business and in society – many levels of support.”

Thanks to George, my talk was coming together!

He finally pointed out another lesson in a busy market square.

With much the same stuff on every stall, all the vendors could compete on was price.

Then we turned into a quieter road and George pointed to a shop selling olive oil. Not the everyday, household product. They only sold only beautifully packaged, fine olive oil to clients from all over the world.

"Crisis, what crisis?" they’d say.

When times are challenging, sell differently, sell to someone different or sell something different. Don’t keep doing the same as everyone else and hope for better results.

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 | May 2015 15

07/05/2015 10:40

OPINION HEALTH & SAFETY

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

I

n 2015 house prices and land values are ten times what they were in 1980, far outstripping the retail price index. So by 2006, the estimates produced by the Helliwell system appeared to be increasingly small and irrelevant.

This led to new considerations of how best to estimate the value of amenity trees. Chris Neilan and others developed Capital Asset Value for Amenity Trees (CAVAT);

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others looked to the USA to see what the Council for Tree and Landscape Appraisers (CTLA) and i-Tree had on offer. This divergence of opinion has led to a confusing situation in 2015 with no guidance to arborists on what professional valuation practice looks like.

Valuation has also been downgraded from a Level 6 issue in the Professional Diploma in Arboriculture to a Level 4 issue. In comparison, in order to provide valuation services, a Chartered

working for The Woodland Trust recently estimated the total value of UK woodland as £270bn. The apparently back of an envelope calculations use a value of £140,000 per hectare (ha) for lowland broadleaved woodland, assuming all 0.9m ha have the same unit value. Considering that smallish plots of broadleaved woodland in much of southern England can be bought in 2015 for around £10-15,000 per ha there appears to be a large gap between what private purchasers are prepared to pay and what theoretical economists believe public policy should assume.

High values are useful for those

“The trouble is, some trees are important for a variety of reasons, but many are not” Surveyor needs first to qualify and then show the necessary experience to become a member of the Valuation Professional Group, which takes several years.

At some time in 2015 the results of the i-Tree inventory of London trees will emerge. This will produce estimates of the value of the air quality improvements that vegetation might yield in terms of carbon and health. In addition a ‘structural value’ based on CAVAT will be produced. The structural value estimate will be immense as CAVAT produces large values. The potential for confusing structural and ecosystem service values is all too apparent.

An economics consultancy

who want to influence public policy in favour of tree and woodland retention without having to depend on the real incomes that might arise from woodland management.

Higher values means greater importance for public officials and non-government conservation organisations. The trouble is, while some trees are important for a variety of reasons, many are not. Some trees are easily replaceable but some, if retained, cause annoyance, limit the potential for development or lead to unnecessary costs being incurred. Separating the important from the mundane is critical both for the industry’s credibility and to maximise the effectiveness of

protecting the important. Detailed knowledgeable valuation might assist in doing this; generalised valuations based on the highest values do not.

While the Helliwell system still has the endorsement of the Arboricultural Association, the other systems have until recently been ignored by our professional bodies – the Arboricultural Association and the Institute of Chartered Foresters.

When it comes to public policy matters, poorly thought through valuations may just be ignored. When it comes to potentially adversarial situations that could end in court action where valuations may be crossexamined, there is potential for embarrassment and egg-on-face.

Above all, a valuation is statement of opinion, not fact. The weight given to that opinion in any adversarial situation should depend upon the experience of the person giving the valuation. There is a standard way of expressing that opinion whether it be in an Expert Witness Report (for the courts) or in a Proof of Evidence (for a planning appeal inquiry). If an estimate of monetary valuation is to be used as part of these documents they need the proper evidence base and awareness of assumptions in order to be used appropriately.

ABOUT JON HEUCH Jon Heuch is Principal Arboricultural Consultant at Duramen Consulting www.duramen.co.uk He will be leading the Valuation of Amenity Trees training course at Wyre Forest District Council 30 June to 1 July http://tinyurl.com/phxvkb6

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07/05/2015 10:41

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06/05/2015 15:11 07/05/2015 10:44

OPINION

THE TREES THEY ARE A CHANGIN’ As an arboricultural officer for Southend-on-Sea, Rick Milsom gets to see changing tastes in trees and shrubs first hand

A

t the time of writing it looks like spring has sprung down in Essex.

The sun is out, the magnolias are blooming and the Prunus cerasifera and its cultivars ‘Pissardii’ and ‘Nigra’ are almost done flowering. I must admit I am not a great lover of these purple leaved cultivars. It can be a bit of a problem replacing one tree in a line of these, as whatever you plant looks a bit odd unless it’s another of the same.

Many other Prunus now take over flowering and I for one welcome their flowers in the spring. I still plant cherries with some regularity and with some consideration of cultivars you can get a good few weeks flowering period in the spring and intermittently through the winter.

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There are also at least a couple with ornamental bark and many have good autumn colour as well.

There are many fastigiate cultivars, small spreading trees, native species good for wildlife, weeping trees. The list goes on.

There are some I would avoid as they’re too fluff y, but that’s only my opinion. I would even say ghastly, but I once got a telling off by the examiner when I used that word to describe a certain species of tree in an exam. I thought it was justified and summed it up beautifully, but I digress.

The reason I started with the Prunus ramble is that it seems the Prunus ‘Pissardii’ and ‘Nigra’ might have been all the rage about 50 years ago but they don’t seem to be so commonly planted now.

As part of my job I find myself wandering the streets inspecting trees and to keep my ident skills up to scratch, I often peer into people’s gardens to see what the ‘in vogue’ plant is at the moment.

You can actually find some gems and it’s a good way to learn new plants. We all know how important good tree and shrub identification skills are, don’t we?

But it is true, plant fashions change and the same is true of trees and shrubs. Some of it is probably to do with climate change and a lot with ease of maintenance.

There is a huge amount of Photinia ‘Red Robin’ planted everywhere, which shouts red at this time of year. Phormiums and various palms like Trachycarpus and ornamental grasses are popular in gardens, giving them a tropical feel and they are no doubt up to our dry climate in Essex. Olives are also popular and I’ve seen quite a few mature specimens planted that must have cost a fair amount.

I was recently watching a programme where they were talking about grasses. They said if you had pampas grass in the seventies you had arrived! These seem to have largely disappeared now from what I can see.

It was apparent to me during the winter, when looking out of the window of the top floor of our offices just how many eucalyptus there are in gardens and how big some are getting. There were also many Leyland cypress dotted around. Together these two species made quite a visual impact in the winter landscape which I doubt would have been there not too many years ago. It just goes to show how we can influence the look of a place a few years down the line with our species selection.

ABOUT RICK MILSOM

Prunus cerasifera ‘Pissardii’

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

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07/05/2015 10:45

TECHNICAL

HOW TO GET MORE PULLING POWER In part two in this series, Dave Vickers of Drivelink Training explains how moving pulleys can be used to create mechanical advantage and increase your pulling power Using ropes and pulleys is a fairly common occurrence in the arboriculture and forestry industry, whether for rigging situations, vehicle debogging or assisting with a fell.

Despite this, there appears to be some mystique regarding setting up and using ropes and pulleys to create mechanical advantage and last month we saw that a fixed pulley only provides a means of pulling a load ergonomically, rather than providing additional ‘assistance’.

In this part, we’ll be looking at creating mechanical advantage and a practical example of how to use it.

If we are to create mechanical advantage, we must have a moving pulley. The simplest example is where we double up a winch cable and attach a snatch block to the load. In the photo shown this is the tree being winched.

The guys from the Oxfordshire County Council Countryside Task Team are shown using mechanical

8kN 8kN

16kN

advantage to pull a windblown tree out of a ditch. The winch itself is anchored to a tree, with the cable run through the pulley block and back to another anchor; the cable has been almost completely doubled back on itself, which for these purposes is close enough!

The pulley will move as the cable is winched in, but the important point here is that each ‘leg’ of the cable – winch to pulley and pulley to anchor point – must have equal loading.

So, if the winch is exerting 8kN of force (roughly equal to 800kg), then the other leg of the line is also exerting 8kN of force.

Therefore, at the load point 8kN plus 8kN of force is being exerted (or 1.6t) and we have achieved a mechanical advantage of 2:1.

Lesson #1: A pulley attached to a load that is allowed to move will provide mechanical advantage in a system.

As an aside, and from a safety point of view, you must ensure that the safe working load of any slings/strops is not exceeded when using mechanical advantage in this way. The image

of the micro-pulley clearly shows that each ‘leg’ of a system can exert up to 15kN, which means that the carabiner holding it must be able to take a minimum of 30kN (3t).

Lesson #2: Watch out for exceeding the safe working limits of system components.

Mechanical advantage appears to have given us something for nothing – additional pulling force.

This is not true, of course. There is a disadvantage, which is the additional length of cable required to pull the load. If we winch in 2m of cable, that 2m has been taken out of the system as a whole. The system is split into two legs, meaning each has moved 1m. This means that despite pulling 2m of cable, the load has only moved 1m.

In the next instalment we will improve the mechanical advantage of our pulley system and see how to use it in the context of dismantling a tree.

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

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07/05/2015 10:48

TECHNICAL

PESTS & DISEASES: HORSE CHESTNUT LEAF MINER Dr Glynn Percival and Emma Schaffert give a rundown on HCLM and how to manage it future growth. Infected leaves are covered in small brown patches that spread rapidly across the entire tree, giving an autumnal appearance by July/August.

Eventually the leaves die and fall prematurely and when new ones grow they are again infested.

The moth is able to live at temperatures as low as -23°C and can achieve as many as five

a cosmetic pest as trees have reflushed following heavy infestation. However, scientists studying its effect on reproduction concluded that reduced seed weight may impair seedling growth, reducing the viability of the species.

Recent research in the journal Urban Forestry and Urban Greening found a 37% reduction in tree energy caused by leaf mining,

“Recent research found a 37% reduction in tree energy caused by leaf mining”

Since its introduction to Britain in the 1600s, the common white flowering horse chestnut tree (Aesculus hippocastanum) has become one of the commonest ornamental trees in towns, cities, parks and woodlands.

Over the past decade this species has been attacked by the leaf mining insect Cameraria ohridella. The horse chestnut leaf miner is a moth about 5mm long first seen in the UK in Wimbledon in 2002. Since then it has spread at a rate of 40 to 60km per year. It is the larvae that are most problematic for the horse chestnut foliage, however.

Symptoms to look out for The larvae are leaf miners that tunnel into the leaves of the tree for food and protection, causing damage to leaf tissue and stunting

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generations each year. Adult moths appear from April and from May until August lay their eggs along or near the lateral veins of the leaves. A female can produce an average of 20-40 eggs, which hatch after two to three weeks. Larval development takes up to four weeks.

The long term impact of repeated infestations is still not fully understood and remains an area of debate between scientists. Many researchers consider HCLM

reducing seed (conker) dry weight by 50% (Percival et al, 2011).

HCLM management Control without the use of chemicals is limited but removing fallen leaves during the autumn and winter can reduce future infestations. HCLM’s natural enemies are parasitic wasps but few species exist within the UK. Effective insecticides that can be applied as a foliar spray or soil

drench exist, providing longer term control. However, the use of insecticides within an urban or amenity environment is a sensitive issue. Recent research has concentrated on the use of an insect growth regulator (diflubenzuron) specific to moths and caterpillars i.e. non-toxic to honey bees, ladybirds, beetles, spiders and sucking insects such as aphids, scale or leaf hoppers.

A single spray of diflubenzuron has been shown to provide 80 to 100% control over a growth season (Percival et al (2012) Urban Forest Urban Greening).

Trees in urban landscapes provide important practical, aesthetic and ecological benefits.

With HCLM induced defoliation of many horse chestnut trees observed by mid August, their aesthetic qualities are limited. For these reasons Bartlett Tree Experts recommends this single spray treatment for controlling the pest.

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

Emma Schaffert is a Research Technician for the Bartlett Tree Research and Diagnostic Laboratory.

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07/05/2015 10:49

Features 22

AN INTERVIEW WITH... ANDY TOMS & DARREN KILBY

26

APPRENTICESHIPS – RINGROSE TREE SERVICES

28

ARB SHOW PREVIEW

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07/05/2015 10:49

FEATURES

An interview with

ANDY TOMS & DARREN KILBY GRISTWOOD & TOMS LTD Andy Toms and Darren Kilby of Gristwood and Toms, the UK’s largest arb company, told Pro Arb about the growth, structure, procedures and future of the company

What are your roles in the company?

Andy Toms: I’m the managing director and my responsibility is ensuring we win enough work to keep everybody going and employing staff who are capable of helping me build the best arboricultural company in the country.

Darren Kilby: I’m the head of sales and marketing, which is a relatively new role for the company. I manage all the bids and tenders and make sure the company has opportunities in the pipeline. The other side of the role is raising the profile of the company and engaging with our stakeholders.

Gristwood and Toms hasn’t really shouted about what it does over the years, but despite that it’s still grown to be the biggest arb company in the country.

Andy Toms

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How long have you been in the industry?

AT: I trained to be a teacher and worked as a groundsman for about two years while I was at college. Dave Gristwood and I started this company about two months before I took my finals! That was in 1974.

DK: I’ve had about 15 years in the industry in total. I originally worked in grounds maintenance before moving into arb.

Andy, why did you decide to start your own company?

AT: Dave and I were working for a local company and I got sacked! Dave decided to follow me and that day we decided to start our own company. We did some gardening work for about two months before we got our

Darren Kilby

first bit of tree work from someone we used to work for, and the rest is history. We now have around 230 staff, but the number is growing all the time.

DK: Everyone is directly employed by Gristwood and Toms too – the majority of our customers certainly prefer this to a subcontracting model.

What’s the structure of the team?

AT: Dave and I used to be a partnership but we formed a limited company in 1990.

Supporting us is a team of area managers, contract managers, consultants and also managers of support departments such as the workshop, recycling, health and safety and training. There is a lot of interaction, it’s just as likely that anyone from any of the teams will wander in to my office with a query about something and it will be addressed.

DK: It’s a fairly flat structure on the whole, without too many layers of management.

Andy, you’ve effectively come up off the tools anyway haven’t you.

AT: The thing is, you understand what’s going on because you’ve done it yourself.

Dave and I had worked together as a tree team for probably 13 years before doing the admin role so you already know what the problems people will encounter are and you can explain how to get over them. Up until about 10 years ago there was nothing that our team could bring to us that Dave and I wouldn’t be able to do ourselves.

How fast has the company grown?

AT: There are about 80 teams from all over the country and growth has been slow and steady. Our first year’s turnover was £7,000 and last year’s was over £13m.

There was a huge jump in 1987 – that’s when the company really took off. We had

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07/05/2015 11:21

FEATURES

taken wages for the 13 previous years and always invested back into the company. Up until 1990 Dave and I were never the highest paid people in the company. Our turnover went from £100,000 to £900,000 in one year, and six to 26 employees overnight pretty much because of the great storm of 1987.

When Compulsory Competitive Tendering (CCT) came in, we were in a great position and for the first year, we won everything.

conditions as us. It’s difficult to be competitive in that market.

DK: It’s also a case of having so much work for local authorities and not wanting to dilute the quality of what we offer by expanding beyond our capabilities. Over the past six months though, we have invested heavily in business systems, some really great IT, and we have the staff and resources in place so we can look into these other markets.

So how do you go about winning your work now?

DK: The strategy is to seek out and react to the opportunities that we see here and now.

About 90% of our work is with local authorities and that’s been the bread and butter of the company for 40 years. But recently, we’ve been attracting more and more customers from the private sector and infrastructure companies. There has been significant interest in what a company like Gristwood and Toms can offer. Due to our size, resources and national scale, we can provide a level of service at a price not many other companies can compete with.

AT: We hardly do any domestic work at all apart from a few old customers, but it’s an area of work that we are deciding to go back into. It’s a shame that we haven’t done much because we feel like we should be doing it.

It’s just trying to compete with people that haven’t got the same overheads and

Is there a lot of red tape in the local authority market?

AT: I don’t think it’s any worse in our industry than it is in any other – a lot of it is necessary.

There are a lot of things we have to do where you think it’s not really relevant though. For example, we have to do a flood policy for our depot and we are 1500 feet above sea level!

There are a lot of hoops we have to go through to get those boxes ticked.

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Is that how it’s always been?

DK: I think it’s got a lot worse. The amount of paperwork we have to fill out is increasing all the time. There has been a lot of talk of simplifying the process but it never seems to happen. And there are a lot of standards out there such as Constructionline, EXOR, Achilles and CHAS, which all cost money and should automatically qualify you to pass that health and safety requirement for that council; but you still have to fill in the questionnaire.

We have passed the most rigorous health and safety audits in the country but still have to fill out their questionnaires. Local authorities could simplify that considerably and then companies could cut their overheads.

AT: On the ground, our work is grouped in with utilities work and that in itself is a problem. We have to do permits if we plant a tree, grind a tree stump or if we work on any highways site. Three days in advance you have to say you are going to be working on this site on that day but because of the nature of our work we will get 15 trees we have to do and you might find that 10 of them are inaccessible. It’s not like collecting bins where you know you are going to be able to collect a bin on a certain day. A lot of authorities have seen sense, but there are some where we have to go through that rigmarole. The New Road and Street Work Act isn’t really cut out for our work, people are trying to make it fit and in a lot of cases it doesn’t.

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07/05/2015 11:21

FEATURES DK: A lot of it is essential but we’ve been doing it for a long time so know how to answer the questions, backed by evidence.

We work in the busiest boroughs in London so have experienced all the challenges and are prepared to work with customers to find a way to make it work efficiently for everyone.

What are the biggest issues that you are facing this year as a business?

AT: Cuts. Councils are expecting the same work for less money. At the moment, price is much more important as a factor than it used to be.

contracts. With a framework contract, it feels like a race to the bottom sometimes.

Are you involved in the Arb Association?

AT: We are approved contractors and used to hold seminars on their behalf. I personally don’t have anything to do with them at all, for no other reason than I don’t have time. To be honest, in my opinion the Arb Association is more geared towards the smaller contractors.

DK: It’s a bit like BALI in the landscaping industry. BALI came under criticism for not catering to the bigger contractors before the

Councils are expecting the same work for less money. Price is much more important as a factor than it used to be When you put in a tender, are you most often the cheapest?

AT: We aren’t always the cheapest at all. It depends on the client. Some do look beyond price to make sure you can do the job.

DK: We don’t tender for everything. We are selective because we want to work with like-minded clients.

AT: We are trying to avoid framework contracts in particular at the moment.

DK: We want to work in places where we can do a good job and commit a level of resources to the customer. We want to be able to invest in the staff on a contract and you do that through the revenues of long term

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collaboration with the NCF. The thing is there aren’t many big arb companies.

Do you think that the market is healthy at the moment?

AT: There’s plenty of work to be won. As Darren said, it does seem to be that the prices are going in the wrong direction, which I don’t think is healthy. We preferred it when there was a recession! You may laugh but we had loads of work and there were lots of people that didn’t, so it was easier to recruit staff. Now, everybody is busy, you have a lot of two-man bands running round and it’s harder to offer a long-term career. Short term, they can earn considerably more just going out with a Ford Transit and a saw.

DK: That’s the downside. It’s easy to set yourself up as a tree team and go out to do domestic work or do work for some of the bigger companies who prefer the subcontractor model. But then the quality and safety isn’t always as good. That’s where the industry is dangerous and I think that the Arb Association could play a greater role.

AT: To meet Arb Association approval, when you have your assessment you don’t need to use your own staff. To me that is ridiculous.

Their view is you must show you have people available to do work of a certain standard, but that just seems strange. They should be employed by you as a bare minimum.

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07/05/2015 11:22

FEATURES How do you recruit staff?

DK: It’s always been by word of mouth and because we’ve been in the industry for a long time, we know a lot of people. But as Andy touched on it’s getting more difficult.

There isn’t the volume of good, commercial climbers out there now. We use some of the arb forums and recruitment sites such as Horticulture Careers. We take adverts in the trade press and in Pro Arb but it is getting tougher to get good quality climbers.

How can we make arboriculture a career choice?

DK: Arboriculture has a lot more to offer than people realise. Whatever it is to do with a tree, Gristwood and Toms can handle it.

That could be consultancy or the contracting side – it’s every aspect of the tree’s health.

We offer a paid six week work experience programme and a lot of people come from colleges for that.

AT: We took on a few last year from the work experience programme. We have one lad who joined us as a groundsman at 17 and he’s still with us now, with a degree and he’s about to become an arb association approved consultant. The path is there but we are one of the very few companies that can offer that. We’ve had people come in from Sparsholt College just to see what’s here. It seems to be either work as a team or go down the local authority tree officer

route, which seems to be all you can do at the moment.

DK: We have a few ex-forces people who work for us too. It’s an exciting industry to be involved in; there is quite a lot of potential danger in the work as well which is what attracts ex-servicemen and women. College courses can only do so much and you only really start learning on the job – it’s tough work and we can very quickly identify those who have what it takes.

We have a career progression plan that we set in place for all of our staff and they can follow that through from being an apprentice groundsman right up to becoming a lead climber or team leader, then moving into contract management or consultancy. There is a training programme and an investment into that member of staff for them to go as far as they want.

AT: We carry out appraisals so it is clear what the expectations are. They can see clear opportunities within our own company.

Obviously not everyone is going to be a climber. We’ve got a groundsman here and he’s probably one of our highest paid blokes because he has been here 27 years and he will be the first person chosen for a team because of his experience. He’s got his aerial rescue ticket but he’s never going to be a climber – he has a role within the company’s values. There are well respected routes you can go down without being a climber.

What’s next for Gristwood and Toms?

AT: Dave Gristwood and I are both 62 this year and we won’t be working here for another 40 years. For some time we’ve been working hard to assemble a strong management team that can continue to move the company forward. Darren’s role is to raise the company profile, establish new markets and promote the wide range of arboricultural services we offer.

What do you like to do outside of work?

DK: I’m the chair of my school PTA and we raise upwards of £10,000 a year. I spend as much time as I can with my family, I have a seven-year-old and a four-year-old.

AT: Fortunately, all bar one of my four children have gone so I love golf. I went to the Masters in April in Augusta which was great. I’m an avid Watford FC supporter and have been a season ticket holder since 1961.

CONTACT Gristwood and Toms Ltd Harris Lane, Shenley, Hertfordshire, WD7 9EG Tel: 03458 731 500 Email: info@gristwoodandtoms.co.uk www.gristwoodandtoms.co.uk

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07/05/2015 11:22

FEATURE ASSOCIATION APPRENTICESHIPS INWITH

RINGROSE TREE SERVICES LTD

Pro Arb is keen to highlight the great youngsters that are currently plying their trade in our industry. This month, we speak to three apprentice arborists at AA approved Ringrose Tree Services in Oxfordshire College near Winchester. It’s good to be around other people at the same experience level and discuss what different aspects of arboriculture are out there.

What is your name, age and job title?

MG: I’m currently attending the University of Massachusetts for Arboriculture.

Jamie Chaundy, 24, Junior Arborist

Why have you chosen arboriculture as a career?

JC: I’ve always been keen on a physical job, working indoors never interested me. Working in arboriculture also has many different challenges on a daily basis, so I don’t get bored!

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Mitchell Good, 19, Intern Arborist

Lewis Gardner, 18, Junior Arborist Apprentice

MG: I was born into it and I really enjoy it!

like the variety this industry offers me, every day is different.

LG: I like working outside. It’s hard work but it’s enjoyable – I feel a great deal of job satisfaction at the end of the day. I also have an interest in trees and plants and I

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

JC: I did a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Trees and Timber at Sparsholt

LG: I’m at Sparsholt College for one day a week working towards a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Trees and Timber.

What is your favourite part of your current role?

JC: I personally prefer the climbing jobs. I find them more of a challenge but they’re also greatly rewarding. The views from the top of the tree aren’t bad, either!

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07/05/2015 10:52

FEATURE

MEGAN RINGROSE, DIRECTOR, RINGROSE TREE SERVICES

“I’m currently working with a climber with a lot of experience. I would like to train other apprentices in the future”

Jamie Chaundy came to us at the age of 22 after starting out in another career. He showed promise and as a result of the apprenticeship scheme Jamie has gone onto other in-house training in order to operate as a tree surgeon with us. We have also taken on Mitch Good, an intern from University of Massachusetts, Boston. Mitch contacted us when his Bachelor’s Degree in Arboriculture & Community Forest Management asked for the students to carry out a four-month internship. Lewis started working with us in Feb 2014. Lewis is our youngest apprentice so far. He is looking forward to competing in the novice category at The 3ATC Climbing Competition at The ARB Show in June.

MG: As an American intern, I enjoy comparing how tree work is done in England to back home in the US.

isn’t maintained properly, it makes the job a lot harder.

MG: I like using the chippers.

LG: I enjoy the tree identification side of things.

LG: Me too, I like the chipper.

What is your favourite piece of equipment to use?

JC: I don’t have a favourite piece of equipment, but if the equipment

What are your future ambitions within the industry?

JC: I would like to stay as active as possible. It would be nice to

move up the ranks in the climbing side at Ringrose Tree Services.

I see myself moving towards a more educational role such as tree surveying or training.

MG: I’d like to start my own arb company, or move into arb sales.

LG: I’m hoping to become a registered climber.

A lifetime of protection

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

JC: Yes, I am working towards being a lead climber. I’m currently working with a climber with a lot of experience. I would like to train other apprentices in the future.

At Ringrose we are encouraged to better ourselves through our annual training programme.

MG: Yes, as an intern I am being taken through all sorts at Ringrose, starting with chipper and first aid training and hopefully ending with chainsaw and climbing training.

LG: I currently receive work from college to do on site with Ringrose, and my colleagues here help and encourage me to achieve my goals.

Protection is critical to the survival of trees in an urban setting • Adds design to the landscape • Manufactured to ISO9001 standards • Designs to suit all settings • Choice of cast iron or fabricated materials • Resin filled grilles available • Supplied with or without irrigation holes

T: 01423 332 100 E: sales@green-tech.co.uk www.green-tech.co.uk

OUT NOW: 2015 PRODUCT CATALOGUE AND SPRING OFFERS BOOKLET

ProArb May15 P26-27 Apprenticeships.indd 27

07/05/2015 10:52

THE ARB SHOW

THE ARB SHOW WESTONBIRT, 5-6 JUNE 2015 The ARB Show is having a major facelift for 2015.

Chris Martin, marketing and communications manager at the Arboricultural Association, gives Pro Arb a sneak preview of what to expect...

This year we are adding new attractions to The ARB Show format. Being at Westonbirt for the first time will create a fresh feel to the show and with a much larger field plan there will be a huge range of products, kit and services on show. Workshops and demonstrations are set to provide plenty of

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educational content and will run on both days. Plus there will be new catering and camping arrangements for those who want to stay the night and take full advantage of the show and access to the National Arboretum.

All the big-draw events will be back again this year; the 3ATC Open Climbing Competition grew significantly in 2014 and numbers are expected to rise again as the popularity of the event continues to grow.

And why not bring along the family? The 2015 show is going to be open to members of the public with an interest in trees. So we will be laying on extra facilities and events this year such as recreational tree climbing, axe racing and throw bag competitions.

On Friday 5 June a local pub will be putting on a hog-roast and live band.

Extending your visit to two days offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the show and explore the arboretum (you need a day for each). For those who haven’t visited Westonbirt before, don’t miss out; it’s a spectacular tree collection and isn’t called ‘The National Arboretum’ for nothing!

For everything you need to know about this year’s ARB Show go to: www.trees.org.uk/The-ARB-Show

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07/05/2015 11:24

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07/05/2015 10:54

THE ARB SHOW

A-Z of EXHIBITORS Correct at time of going to press

AC TRAINING LTD An arboricultural independent training provider covering the South West and West Midlands, offering NPTC standard training and assessing. All aspects of first aid and manual handling training alongside risk assessments and health and safety requirements are also available. www.actrainingsw.co.uk

ANCIENT TREE FORUM The Ancient Tree Forum (ATF) has pioneered the conservation of ancient trees for over 20 years, and is the only UK organisation focused solely on ancient and other veteran trees. www.ancienttreeforum.co.uk

ARB PRO & ARB MOBILE Arb Pro & Arb Mobile provides mobile and office solutions for the modern day tree surgeon in business. Complete client management solution to include, quotes, invoices, risk assessment, job packs for staff diarising work and more. www.treecontractingsoftware.co.uk

ARBORPLAN Arborplan has been providing insurance and risk management solutions for arboricultural and forestry contractors and consultants for over 20 years. www.arborplan.co.uk

ARBORICULTURAL ASSOCIATION The Arboricultural Association was founded in 1964 and is the largest body in the UK for the amenity tree care professional.

A range of membership grades exists linked to National Qualifications Framework levels. Members can progress through the membership grade structure as their career progresses in either civic or commercial employment at craft, technical, supervisory, managerial or consultancy level. There are approximately 2,000 Arboricultural Association members. www.trees.org.uk

ARBORISK Arborisk is an insurance package with a wide range of covers and features. Offering flexibility, competitive prices and great service. www.bartlettgroup.com/arborisk

ARBORTRAK SYSTEMS LTD Arbortrack is a complete computer-based tree and vegetation management system with its own unique mapping engine, which is compatible with all of the major GIS systems. With 20 years’ experience in the arboricultural software industry, we have a solution for most environments. www.arbortrack.com

BARTLETT TREE RESEARCH LABORATORY

FOXMEDICS

The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratory provides arborists with research and diagnostic advice on the latest advances in arboriculture. We will be demonstrating our latest services including digital imaging microscopic diagnostics, tree injection kits and more. www.bartlett.com

FoxMedics delivers specialist arborist first aid training. Learn lifesaving skills imperative for your hazardous industry.

Courses are delivered in your work environment and all involve work-based scenarios. www.foxmedics.co.uk

BLADEMASTER

FÖRST

RIPPER37 is the British-made, narrow bandsaw blade increasingly popular with users of all types of mobile sawmill.

RIPPER37’s winning qualities are longevity, accuracy and reliability ‘straight from the box’. RIPPER37 sawblades are promoted at this show by Stephen Cull. www.stephencullblademaster.com

Först woodchippers have fast become famous for outstanding performance, excellent quality and an industry leading warranty.

Meet the Redwood team and see for yourself why the brand has become a favourite with tree surgeons across the UK. www.forst-woodchippers.com

BRIDGWATER COLLEGE

Global Recycling is the UK and Irish distributor for Bandit, Jo Beau and Multitek. On display will be a range of wood chippers, stump grinders and a firewood processor. www.globalrecycling.eu

Our arboriculture courses are highly respected throughout the industry, combining theoretical and practical training with work placements, residential visits and additional qualifications in chainsaw use. www.bridgwater.ac.uk

BUXTONS LTD Buxtons Ltd will be displaying a full range of arborist equipment and PPE. There will be exclusive offers on all top brands. www.buxtons.net

CITY & GUILDS City & Guilds is the leading provider of vocational education for the forestry and arboricultural industry. Our certificates of competence offer recognition of specialist skills in the safe use of chainsaws and forest machinery. www.cityandguilds.com

CTC RECRUITMENT CTC Recruitment (formerly Complete Tree Care) is the only recruitment agency dedicated solely to arboriculture. www.ctcrecruitment.co.uk

CUTTING-EDGE UK LTD Specialists in outdoor professional products, CEUK will be giving you access to hands on product knowledge. Experience the new Prabos A1RB evolution chainsaw footwear, enter the Trojan handsaw finest cut competition and equip yourself with Rock Exotica climbing gear. www.ceuk-intl.com

DRIVELINK TRAINING Drivelink Training provides high quality, tailored tuition.

Off-the-shelf and bespoke courses can be delivered. Drivelink Training offers a range of aerial courses from the initial tree climbing and aerial rescue through to advanced rigging. A wide range of ground-based courses is offered, from foundation level to advanced courses. Drivelink Training can arrange for assessments and registration so you can complete the course and be assessed the following day. www.drivelinktraining.co.uk

EARBORIST

Arborwear, the original tree climbers clothing brand. www.arborwear.co.uk

A marketplace with various sellers around the world, offering arborist tools and equipment. www.earborist.com

ARBTALK

FR JONES AND SON

ARBORWEAR UK

A forum for professional arborists and tree surgeons. www.arbtalk.co.uk

ASPEN OILS If you care about your health, the environment and getting the best from your small engine machinery then talk to us about Aspen Fuels. Aspen benefits from 99% less toxic emissions and is ethanol and solvent free. Storage stable and available as a ready-mixed 2-stroke and 4-stroke fuel. www.aspenfuel.co.uk

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FR Jones and Son carries a wide range of arboricultural, landscaping and forestry equipment including chainsaws, climbing and rigging equipment, hand tools, PPE and safety clothing. www.frjonesandson.co.uk

FOREST AND ARB Forest and arboricultural specialists with over 30 years’ experience in the professional market dealing with leading brands such as Haix, SIP Protection and Stein. www.forestandarb.com

GLOBAL RECYCLING SOLUTIONS LTD

GREENBLUE URBAN GreenBlue Urban was set up to research and provide solutions for assisting trees to establish in urban spaces. www.greenblueurban.com

GREENFIX SOIL STABILISATION AND EROSION CONTROL Greenfix is a supplier of Geoweb, the original three-dimensional cellular confinement system used for tree root protection.

Geoweb has successful installations dating back over 20 years. Greenfix also supplies a range of geotechnical systems. www.greenfix.co.uk

GREENMECH A display of GreenMech’s innovative range of wood chippers. www.greenmech.co.uk

GUSTHARTS Horticultural and arboricultural equipment supplier. Service and sales of machinery, protective clothing and climbing equipment for tree surgeons. www.gustharts.com

HARDMET LANDFORCE Hardmet Landforce Ltd is a UK company with over 25 years’ experience in the design and manufacture of wood chippers and green waste shredders. www.landforce.co.uk

HONEY BROTHERS LTD Specialist supplier of arboricultural equipment. www.honeybros.com

HSE The HSE’s main aim is to secure the health, safety and welfare of people at work and protect others from risks to health and safety from work activity. Visit our stand for advice on health and safety issues affecting treework. www.hse.gov.uk

INFRAGREEN LTD Infragreen Ltd designs, manufactures and supplies a range of tree root protection systems, tree planting products and landscaping solutions. Arbor Raft is the latest technology for providing protection to existing tree roots on development sites, in line with BS5837. Visit our stand for more information. www.infragreen-solutions.com

JENSEN SERVICE GMBH Jensen is proud to attend The ARB Show for the first time together with its newly appointed UK dealers. On display will be the most reliable and innovative chippers available, including the new A540di and the A530 Light wheeled machine. www.jensen-service.de

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07/05/2015 11:24

For Tough, Dependable Chippers Think...

CE • OI

’ ALS CH

www.greenmech.co.uk

For reliability of machinery, and a better working environment for you, try Aspen Fuel Virtually free from harmful chemicals, Aspen won’t cause fuel related break-downs, can be left in machines for up to 5 years, and is approved by top arb machinery brands

SSION FE

E PRO H T

Supplier of Wood Wood Chippers, Chippers, Grinders, Stump Grinders, Supplier of Wood Chippers, Supplier of Wood Chippers, Whole-Tree Chippers Chippers Stump Grinders, Whole-Tree Chippers Stump Grinders, andFirewood Firewood Processors Processors and Processors Whole-Tree Chippers and Firewood Processors

SEE US AT THE ARB SHOW

Visit us on stand C10 at the Arb Show

Anglo American Oil Company Ltd 01929 551557 aspen@aaoil.co.uk www.aspenfuel.co.uk

Aspen ad V2.indd 1 ProArb May15 P31 GreenMech/Global/Aspen Ad.indd 31

T: 01476 01476 568384 T: 568384 F: F: 01476 01476 591780 591780 www.globalrecycling.eu www.globalrecycling.eu T: 01476 568384 F: 01476 591780 www.globalrecycling.eu Global Recycling 05/05/2015 11:44 ProArb May15.indd 1

01/05/2015 11:30 07/05/2015 10:54

THE ARB SHOW KAARBONTECH

OVERLAND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES LTD

SILKY FOX SAWS

KaarbonTech provides asset management software to major land owners, local government and arborists. The software uses smart phone and tablet technology in tandem with Ordnance Survey mapping. Automated population of RPAs, CAVAT cash valuation, crown drawing and other industry benchmarks are included along with aerial imagery to any mobile smart phone. www.kaarbontech.co.uk

Overland is the one-stop shop for all your arboricultural plant and vehicle requirements. Our product range includes Schliesing woodchippers, Arbtruck bespoke utility vehicles, CMC tracked and vehicle mounted MEWP’s and Predator stump grinders. www.overland-es.com

Silky sales and display stand showing all the latest saws in the Silky range. Silky continues to enhance the design of its saws and scabbards. Visit our stand to see the extensive range of professional forestry, woodworking and garden tools. www.silkyfox.co.uk

PCS TIPMASTER

SORBUS INTERNATIONAL

PCS Tipmaster, your first choice for commercial vehicles and body work for the arb and forestry industry. www.tipmaster.co.uk

Sorbus is an ISO 9001 quality accredited supplier of high quality equipment for arboriculture, forestry, utilities and landscaping/grounds maintenance. We stock all leading brands and also supply hi-tech equipment for tree assessment and surveys, including IML microdrills, Picus, Haglof and Trupulse ranges. www.sorbus-intl.co.uk

LANTRA Visit Lantra to discover why over 70,000 people choose our training and qualifications every year. 600+ land-based and environ1nental courses and qualifications including health and safety, arboriculture, forestry and chainsaw provision. www.lantra.co.uk

LISTER WILDER LTD The number one supplier of Timberwolf chippers and shredders.

Lister Wilder also supplies a range of climbing equipment and is a stockist for Stihl, Husqvarna, Petzl, Marlow, DMM, Edelrid, Rock Exotica, ISC, Cutting Edge, Silky Lavoro and Cofra. www.listerwilder.co.uk

LOGOSOL Logosol has over 25 years’ experience as a market leader in small-scale wood processing. Logosol has a large range of equipment that suits a variety of needs and budgets. You can be sure of a good deal and dedicated support. www.logosol.co.uk

LYON EQUIPMENT LTD Distributor in the UK and Ireland of Petzl and other respected arborist brands. Visit the stand to talk to our technical experts about our product range and arborist techniques. www.lyon.co.uk

MARLOW ROPES Marlow is the only UK manufacturer of arboriculture ropes. Our ropes have all been specifically designed for tree surgeons and include CE certified climbing ropes, lowering lines and rigging slings, all of which are supplied with individual serial numbers for tracability and personal equipment logs. www.marlowropes.com

MIDLAND POWER DISTRIBUTION LTD The exclusive launch of the new Baretto Tracked stump grinder will take pride of place alongside Dosko stump grinders, GTM chippers, Master Log Burner and many more. www.midlandpower.co.uk

MOBILE TOOL KING Sellers of fine quality hand tools. A young and rapidly expanding company, we stock only the best of the best. Hultafors, Silky, Fiskars, LED Lenser, Bahco, Stanley and Irwin. We suffer from tool love, do you? Check us out at the show.

MYERSCOUGH COLLEGE Myerscough College offers a wide range of full-time or online courses on arboriculture and urban forestry. Specialist tutors will be available to discuss the best study option for you. www.myerscough.ac.uk

NOMIX ENVIRO Nomix is a leading supplier of weed control products and application equipment to the forestry and amenity market.

Our wide range of products includes the revolutionary cut stump treatment Ecoplug Max, along with our unique sprayers. www.nomixenviro.co.uk

ORANGE PLANT LTD THE UK’s leading supplier of woodchippers, stumpgrinders and wood processors for hire sales and service. Orange Plant is a UK dealer for GreenMech woodchippers and is the European importer for the Carlton range of machinery. www.orangeplant.co.uk

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PEAR TECHNOLOGY SERVICES LTD Pear Technology will be demonstrating its latest range of mapping, data capture and traffic management software. A complete range of products including Ordnance Survey maps, hardware and software can be supplied along with training and ongoing support. www.peartechnology.co.uk

PERENNIAL BENEVOLENT SOCIETY The UK’s only charity dedicated to helping people who work in horticulture when times get tough. www.perennial.org.uk

PINE TECHNOLOGY Demonstration of the technology. PINE Technology provides a platform for accessing and monitoring tree and plant data enabling efficient management and operation. www.cedarwoodtreecare.co.uk

POSITIONING RESOURCES LTD If you need to measure trees and map plots, we can show how easy it can be, using Truplus Laser Rangefinders and a range of GNSS equipment. Our pocket GIS software now runs on android phones or tablets making it simple to use. Our Logdeck software can quickly and accurately calculate log piles in yards or roadside. www.peartechnology.co.uk

PREDATOR Predator Power’s industry leading range of narrow access tree stump grinders will be on display and available to try and buy. www.predator-mfg.com

PRO ARB The leading magazine for arborists. www.proarbmagazine.com

PSD GROUNDSCARE LTD PSD Groundscare specialise in supplying high quality professional machinery. With a comprehensive range from leading innovative European manufacturers for use in the Arboriculture market including chippers, flail mowers and banks mowers. www.psdgroundscare.co.uk

R2 R2 is an online tool which will help arboricultural businesses and tree workers record and demonstrate their skills, knowledge and experience. www.r2register.co.uk

REDWOOD GLOBAL

THE CONSULTING ARBORIST SOCIETY Details of courses being run and accreditation opportunities, and opportunities to promote accredited professional services to the public, and other membership benefits. www.tree-expert-finder.co.uk

TIMBERWOLF Timberwolf – the UK’s number one choice for professional arborists – will be displaying and demonstrating a range of wood chippers including the all-new TW 230VTR. Come along and be one of the first to see our new 6in tracked machine. www.timberwolf-uk.com

TREE LIFE AC LTD Tree Life will be at The Arb Show to answer questions and give advice related to professional arboricultural qualifications and short courses. www.treelifeac.co.uk

TREE SURGEON INSURANCE Tree Surgeon Insurance Services specialises in arranging insurance for tree surgeons, forestry contractors and associated trades. www.treesurgeoninsurance.co.uk

VERMEER Vermeer UK is a leading distributor of bespoke machines for the areas of agriculture, construction, mining, surface mining, tree care and organic recycling. www.vermeer-uk.co.uk

WILTSHIRE FRIENDLY SOCIETY Income replacement insurance for individuals (both self-employed and employed) and employers to cover their staff. Insurance against the loss of income caused by illness or accident. www.wiltshirefriendly.com

WILSON MACHINERY LTD Specialising in wood processing and handling equipment, Wilsons is the UK distributor for Posch Firewood Equipment, Lasco Cone Splitters, Igland Winches and is also a manufacturer of the Botex range of heavy duty forest cranes and trailers, many of which will be displayed. www.jaspwilson.co.uk

Redwood Global has imported the Jensen woodchipper since the early 1990s and has many excellent customers throughout the UK. In 2013 Redwood Global launched the Först woodchipper range, a brand which brings a premium machine within reach of everyone. www.redwood-global.com

WINCHESTER GARDEN MACHINERY

RIKO UK LTD

WOOD-MIZER UK LTD

Suppliers of estate, forestry and firewood machinery; cone splitters and log splitters; logging saws and conveyors; billet and firewood processors; timber grabs for loaders and diggers; single and double drum winches; alpine tractors; forwarding trailers and a fast two trailer with crane. www.alpinetractors.com

Woodmizer is a world leader in the manufacture of narrow band sawmills and blades, from smaller start-up mills to large industrial ranges, including secondary processing equipment.

We will be demonstrating our mid-range LT20 mobile on the stand. www.woodmizer.co.uk

With competitive prices and helpful staff, we are a one-stop shop for all your arboricultural and forestry equipment. Come and see our special offers exclusive to The ARB Show. www.wgmltd.co.uk

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07/05/2015 11:24

Latest Kit 34 36 38

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FOCUS ON: CHAINSAWS LATEST KIT: CHAINSAWS ARB KIT

Pro Arb | May 2015 33

07/05/2015 10:55

LATEST KIT

FOCUS ON

CHAINSAWS Dave Murison says when it comes to chainsaws, the leading manufacturers are the ones to turn to. Here he picks his all-time favourites...

Saw subject When buying a chainsaw there are so many manufacturers to choose from it's hard to know where to start. There are a number of factors to consider including usage, build quality and budget, the last of which is a priority for many people nowadays.

The beauty of shopping online is that it gives you the chance to compare prices and opinions before you buy. A few of the big names you will come across are Husqvarna, Stihl, Echo and McCulloch. Some tools offer high power but don't give you the confidence you get from a well-known brand, so try to stick with mainstream manufacturers as they offer good saws that are worth the price you pay. That said, here are the ones that stand out from the rest in my eyes.

Best for handling There are many saws in the Husqvarna range but the one that does it for me is the 560xp. This machine has a 59.8cc engine that can easily cope with a 13-24in bar (I would recommend 13-18in).

It comes with .325in chain as

standard but I have tried a 3/8 conversion with an eight-toothed sprocket and this makes it an even better saw.

The X-Torq engine with AutoTune carburettor delivers 3.5kW (4.7bhp), consumes up to 20% less fuel and produces 75% lower emissions. The chainsaw weighs only 5.7kg, giving it lovely handling characteristics.

“Stick to mainstream manufacturers as they offer good saws that are worth the price you pay” Best for adaptability Again, there are so many saws I could tell you about but the one that sticks in my head is

Stihl's MS 261 C-M. This is a versatile machine with a 50.2cc 2-MIX engine controlled by the M-Tronic system. An electronically controlled carburettor, ignition timing and fuel metering mean it can adapt to ambient temperatures, delivering 20% lower fuel consumption and 50% more power to drive a 13-18in bar (I recommend 15in). The M-Tronic system will also remember your last setting when presented with the same ambient conditions.

It has the HD2 cyclonic air filter, which is very easy to clean and lasts twice as long as the older style. The saw also has captive side casing nuts and the top casing has quarter turn screws, so your regular cleaning is a doddle. Weighing in at 5.2kg, this machine has become very popular with professionals.

Best top-handle Stihl saws

• The all-time favourite Stihl

MS 200 T has now been superseded by the MS 201 C-M. This saw has all the M-Tronic functions of the above-mentioned MS 261 C-M so the

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performance is phenomenal.

It weighs only 3.9kg and has a 35.2cc engine that delivers 1.8kW (2.4bhp).

• The new MS 193 T has a manually adjustable carburettor, a 30.1cc 2-MIX engine producing 1.3kW (1.8bhp) and it weighs in at 3.5kg.

• At only 2.8kg, the MS 150 T is an ultra lightweight pruning saw with a 23.6cc 2-MIX engine producing 1kW (1.3bhp). It has a manually operated carburettor and has proven to be very popular.

The future With emission control levels and ethanol levels getting stricter, manufacturers are now looking at lithium ion technology.

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

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

Tel: 01493 751659 www.aclegardenmachinery.co.uk

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07/05/2015 10:56

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

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You r Com ple te Mi llin g Sol utio n!

LOGOSOL SAWMILL M8. Produce high-class planks and boards from your logs, in the length and dimensions of your choice. The sawmill is simple to use – and easy to own.

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

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

ProArb May15 P35 Marshall/Logosol/ATS Ad.indd 35

07/05/2015 10:57

LATEST KIT

S W A S CHAIN it latest k

Husqvarna T540XP and T536Li XP The Husqvarna T540 XP chainsaw is a lightweight, petrol driven professional chainsaw and a must-have for any arborist. It is userfriendly with first class ergonomics combined with an optimal power to weight ratio. This well designed machine features a customisable top handle for improved ergonomics and a secondary eyelet for efficient operation when climbing.

Alternatively, the T536LiXP is a lightweight, high-performance, battery powered chainsaw ideal for arboriculture and utility applications.

This top handled chainsaw has petrol performance with low noise and vibration levels, allowing longer use in noise sensitive areas and delivering high productivity with lower running costs.

Ego Power+ chainsaw Fitted with a 350mm Oregon bar, the EGO Power+ chainsaw will make up to a staggering 100 cuts of 4x4in softwood per charge of a 2Ah 56V EGO battery. It takes chainsaw operation to a new level of safety, convenience, comfort and most importantly, power.

Operating at 6300 rpm, the EGO Power+ chainsaw has a kickback brake, tool-free chain tensioning and a chain scabbard as standard.

www.egopowerplus.com

Cobra CS420 petrol chainsaw New for the 2015 season, Cobra is introducing four brand new petrol chainsaws. The CS420 chainsaw is available in four lengths (16in, 18in, 20in and 22in). Each model is powered by a 2-stroke, air cooled 42cc Cobra engine, making them ideal for professional tasks.

Coupled with a bar and chain supplied by Oregon, the brand new Cobra chainsaws can take on any job. www.cobragarden.co.uk

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www.husqvarna.com

ECHO CS-390ESX

Makita EY2650H25H

Designed for professionals, ECHO’s new CS-390ESX rear handle chainsaw has an outstanding power to weight ratio. This is as a result of a lightweight magnesium body coupled with a 38.4cc engine producing 1.9kW of power. It features a G-Force air cleaner system that removes dust and wood chips from the filter, providing clean air to the engine. This provides better filtration and ultimately improves engine performance. Featuring an advanced anti-icing system which channels warm air from the engine to the carburettor, the CS-390ESX will continue to perform even in freezing conditions.

The EY2650H25H professional pole-saw from Makita extends telescopically to enable branches up to 5m above ground to be lopped with ease. The Makita EY2650H25H pole extends from 2.7m to 3.9m. The 25.5cm guide bar carries a 0.375in pitch 0.5in chain that will run at up to 21m/s. Powered by a 25.4cc version of the Makita MM4 4-stroke engine developing 1.03hp, the EY2650H25H weighs just 7.2kg, is comfortable to use and supplied complete with shoulder strap harness, safety goggles and engine and chain oil.

www.echo-tools.com

www.makitauk.com

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07/05/2015 11:01

We are the UK distributor for Logrite Arches, Hookaroons and Canthooks

ACLE GARDEN MACHINERY would like to

Thank

PortableWinch Offical Stockist.

The Honda powered, versatile capstan winch for rope pulls

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

OrionHeating.co.uk

Arb

plan, plant, preserve

01279 813591

ARBREP S E R V I C E S

THE UK HOME OF

L I M I T E D

INDUSTRY LEADING WOODCHIPPERS & STUMP GRINDERS ourVisit website for full machine details

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

With high power it gets the job done fast day after day. In all weathers. Because it is hydraulic there is no maintenance. Additional applications are setting up crash barriers, all kinds of steel profiles, anchoring, tent stakes etc.

01420 544 006

www.arbrepservices.co.uk

er Ltd Quickfenc rm Fa Moorgate Dinckley Blackburn BB6 8AN

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07966285240

@ johnquickfencer@yahoo.co.uk

26/03/2015 15:25 07/05/2015 11:41

ARB KIT King Platforms Bibi850-BL Bibi850-BL is a new 8m crawler scissor lift specially designed to work in environments other scissor lifts cannot generally access or operate in. Thanks to the restrained dimensions and track drive, the machine is considered very adaptable and efficient for all uses on construction sites. In particular, it can operate on muddy, snowy and sloped grounds. The new bi-levelling crawler undercarriage allows slope compensations of up to 20° in longitudinal direction and 15° laterally.

DMM Swivel The DMM Swivel is designed to reduce torsion in rigging systems and facilitate ease of movement in the canopy. The Swivel gives the climber or load it is attached to freedom of movement while minimising the risk of twisting ropes and applying torsion to anchor points. The large attachment points have been designed to allow multidirectional loading and multiple attachment options. Smooth surfaces mean textiles can be attached directly

to the device. Large high quality bearings and a double sealed design mean that the Swivel will continue working under high loads and in environments where open mechanisms can become clogged. www.dmmwales.com

ARB KIT

www.king.uk.com

A look at the latest products available Dickies Anvik safety shoe These safety trainers are versatile enough to be both casual and practical.

Instead of traditional steel toe caps, the Anviks have a composite toe cap and a non-metallic mid-sole. Due to their reduced weight and breathable mesh lining, they are better suited for everyday use or extended working times. Made with suede and a padded collar for extra comfort, the trainers have a removable EVA footbed and an oil resistant sole. With its antistatic properties, the Anvik makes a very lightweight shoe without compromising on the protection that Dickies are known for. www.dickiesworkwear.com Carlton SP5014 TRX-Vari Orange Plant is firmly established nationally in the hire, sale and service of arb machinery. At this year’s ARB Show on stand C7/8 they will be exhibiting a full range of Carlton stump grinders and GreenMech wood chipper equipment. One machine worth particular note is the Carlton SP5014TRX-Vari. This new and updated version of the already popular SP5014TRX model features a variable rubbertracked system that can be altered to work at different widths and heights, offering

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optimum versatility and taking uneven surfaces and inclines in its stride. www.orangeplant.co.uk

Tuffmaster Forestry Helmet The Tuffmaster helmet is an excellent choice for forestry and groundwork. The features include a ratchet wheel adjustment to the shell for quick and easy size alteration, Slimline X4 muffs with high SNR:32 rating, a large visor that offers excellent face coverage and a very comfortable fit. This helmet is ideal for use with chippers or noisy machinery. www.landmarktrading.co.uk

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07/05/2015 11:04

ARB KIT Brilliant Little Planet Keeper System Brilliant Little Planet Ltd promotes the biobased and biodegradable tree anchor Keeper System. The entire system is located underground, making it resistant to vandalism.

It is also better for the plants because the vulnerable bark and trunk do not scrape against fixings and are not pressurised.

Moreover, trees that are able to move freely above ground move more naturally and grow up to 30% faster. www.brilliantlittleplanet.co.uk Stihl Top-Handled Chainsaws Giving British arborists an even greater choice of top-handled chainsaws, a full quartet of STIHL models is available this year. New to Britain, the MS 193 TC-E is a light, handy and powerful all rounder that joins the ultralight pruning saw MS 150 TC-E and the heavy-duty MS 201 TC-M in the petrol range.

The MS 201 TC-M now features STIHL M-Tronic technology and

this highly advanced self-tuning engine adds even more to this top of the range model’s efficiency and performance. Finally, for those working in noise sensitive areas or who simply enjoy the smooth and emission-free work of a battery tool, the cordless and quiet MSA 160 T squares off the quartet of specialists from STIHL. www.stihl.co.uk

Greenmech Arborist 130 & Arborist 150 Leading British manufacturer of wood chippers GreenMech will be exhibiting their Arborist 130 and Arborist 150 chippers at the Arb Show 2015. The Arborist 130 and Arborist 150 are easy to use, cost effective, road tow chippers designed for quality, performance and economy. The Arborist 130 comes with a 23hp Honda

petrol engine as standard while the Arborist 150 offers a choice of a 26 or 34hp Kubota diesel engine. Both machines are fitted with the electronically controlled ‘No-Stress’ feed system and GreenMech’s patented Disc Blade system, giving up to 150 hours of chipping before requiring re-sharpening. www.greenmech.co.uk

Rayco RG25HD The RG25HD is Rayco’s premier Mini Work-Force model. It features a reliable Kohler 25hp petrol engine with dual element air cleaner and electric start. A powerful hydrostatic transmission, large wheels and tyres navigate obstacles and difficult terrain. It is made to fit through a 30in gate, so the RG25HD can get to just about any stump. Adjustable handlebars, parking brake, operator presence bar handle and an electric clutch are standard features on the RG25HD. www.westconuk.com

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ARB KIT

Greenfix Tree Root Protection System The critical root zone (area requiring protection) is the area beneath a tree that must remain undisturbed to preserve a sufficient amount of root mass in order to give a tree a chance of survival.

Tree Root Protection (TRP) systems should be eco-friendly as well as comply with local standards and regulations.

In the United Kingdom, Tree Root Protection systems must comply with the Arboricultural Method Statement as outlined in BS5837:2005 and may require supervision by an arboriculturist. www.greenfix.co.uk

Bandit 150XP Bandit brush chippers are known for their large chipper openings and powerful hydraulic feed systems that will reduce most of the tree at takedown.

The Model 150, Model 200, and Model 250 can easily chip large branches, trees and forked material with greater pulling and compressing power. The Model 150XP is the most compact of three 12in disc-style chippers available from Bandit. This unit has been designed for those who want an economically priced 12in capacity chipper that can easily be towed. www.globalrecycling.eu

Eliet Superprof This exciting new model from Eliet ensures that the Super Prof remains a highly efficient four season shredder that is the envy of all. One of the key additions is the air-blown chip removal via a 360° rotatable discharge chute that will blow the chips to a height of 2m. The next generation of the Super Prof will also be available as a trailed machine for those who prefer to process the wood on the roadside and transport off-site. Additionally the renowned “Cross Country” tracked model has also been updated to include all the features of the new Super Pro. www.psdgroundscare.co.uk

Aspen alkylate petrol When working hard it is important to have reliable machines and to stay healthy.

The use of Aspen alkylate petrol in your chainsaws not only reduces your exposure to toxic emissions, making you feel better and more productive, but also eliminates fuel related breakdowns and is storage stable for up to five years. It is available as Aspen 2 FRT (2-stroke) and Aspen 4 (4-stroke) alkylate petrol, and comes ready to use straight from the recyclable container.

Sold through a UK garden machinery dealer network.

LOGOSOL M8 Transporting felled trees is no longer necessary with Logosol enabling you to cut boards in situ.

The LOGOSOL M8 is a very lightweight chainsaw mill made of anodized aluminium alloy and it can easily be transported on the roof of a car. The LumberPro and the smaller LM29 can be towed behind a car. www.logosol.co.uk

www.aspenfuel.co.uk

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07/05/2015 11:05

Plantoil ad 118x91 Sept'14_PROARB 25/09/2014 14:44 Page 1

caring for the environment www.pssi.co.uk SALE ON MARLOW ROPES UNTIL 31 MAY 2015 • Gecko WKD211 13mm x 25m spliced OE £56.79 • Gecko WKD200 13mm x 35m spliced OE £71.57

• CHAINSAW OIL • 2-STROKE OIL • SAW BLADE OIL

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

Let us cut your premium down to size!

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Silky Fox Saws

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enquiries@silkyfox.co.uk

Visit silkyfox.co.uk to find your local stockist

ALL MATERIALS The Major 4S Mobile Shredder • • • •

arborist employers and public liability insurance machinery insurance available

Compact, lightweight mobile shredder goes wherever it’s needed Makes easy work of branches, wet green-waste and mixed leafage 4 Season shredder for year round effectiveness Produces easily- compostable BioTech™ chips

Call: 08450 773 773

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www.trustinsurance.co.uk

Call 01604 492644

Trust Insurance Services Limited, Trust House, 1 Scirocco Close, Moulton Park, Northampton, NN3 6AP

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13/03/2013 12:38 07/05/2015 11:43

CAREERS

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

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

ARBORICULTURAL SURVEYOR

SKILLED CLIMBER

Gristwood and Toms requires an experienced arboricultural surveyor to join its expanding technical team in the Midlands. The appointment will initially be on a three month contract with the potential for the right candidate to progress. The successful candidate will hold at least a Level Three qualification in arboriculture; have at least two years tree surveying experience; a sound knowledge of tree pests, diseases and disorders; be familiar with tree surveying software and competent in the use of data collection devices and have a full UK driving licence and a willingness to travel. Salary dependant on qualifications and experience.

Bartlett Tree Experts is recruiting a skilled climber to take on plant health care work.

Requirements: all relevant NPTC qualifications (minimum CS30, CS31, CS32, CS38 and CS39); full UK driving licence and ideally C1+E; proven track record in all aspects of tree work; ability to demonstrate excellent climbing skills; PA1/PA6 ideal, but not essential as training will be provided; Level 4 or above arboriculture qualification desirable. Bartlett Tree Experts offers in house and industry based training and provides all equipment and PPE. Competitive salary based on qualifications and skills with additional incentives, 28 days holiday and company pension scheme.

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

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

CLIMBER

TEAM LEADERS AND LEAD CLIMBERS

Bartlett Tree Experts seeks a second climber for its York office. In-house and industry based training, all equipment and PPE provided. A competitive basic salary based on qualifications and skills with additional incentives and company pension scheme.

Requirements: relevant NPTC qualifications (CS30, CS31, CS32, CS38 and CS39), full UK driving licence and the ability to demonstrate safe and competent climbing and working practices. You will be expected to willingly participate in all required training, have the ability to communicate well, have a mature attitude to safety procedures and be willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions,

Gristwood and Toms is looking for qualified and experienced team leaders and lead climbers to join its teams working across Hertfordshire and north London. The package: excellent earnings potential; exceptional career development opportunities and industry leading training and development.

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, CS31, CS32, CS38 and CS39. Supervisory experience is an advantage.

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

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

CONSULTANT ESTATES MANAGER

SKILLED ARBORIST

TEP, the Homes and Communities Agency's (HCA) National Land And Risk Management Consultant seeks two experienced estates managers for its Warrington and Gateshead offices. Essential knowledge and skills: landscape management; managing contracts and contractors; relevant environmental legislation; health and safety legislation; production of landscape strategies and/or management plans; MS Word, Excel, CAD and GIS; the ability to work well alone or within a team; clear communication and presentation skills; time management; attention to detail. Salary based on experience and qualifications, company pension scheme and other benefits.

Our client is seeking a skilled arborist to join its team based in Milton Keynes, however most work will be based in the London and home counties area. Job specification: three years' commercial experience; excellent knowledge of tree and fungus identification; climbing experience; implementation of tree work specifications; health and safety checks and site risk assessments.

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

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

LEAD CLIMBER

GROUNDSPERSON/ NEWLY QUALIFIED CLIMBER

MIDLANDS

YORK

WARRINGTON / GATESHEAD

BRISTOL

Gristwood and Toms is looking for a qualified and experienced lead climber to join its teams working across Bristol. The package: excellent earnings potential; exceptional career development opportunities; industry leading support, training and development. Applicants must be highly motivated and able to demonstrate an extremely high standard of safety awareness and tree surgery skills and hold a clean driving licence – C1 + E preferable; possess arboricultural qualifications: CS30, CS31, CS32, CS38 and CS39. Supervisory experience would be an advantage For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk

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MANCHESTER

HERTFORDSHIRE / NORTH LONDON

LONDON

The successful candidate will hold the relevant arborist qualifications, including NPTC units: CS30, CS31, CS32, CS38 and CS39.

SURREY

If you are hardworking, enthusiastic and looking to develop a career in arboriculture, Bartlett Tree Experts is looking to recruit a groundsperson/newly qualified climber for its Guildford office. Applicants should have relevant NPTC qualifications (CS30, CS31, CS32, CS38 and CS39), full UK driving licence and the ability to demonstrate safe and competent climbing practices. Bartlett Tree Experts offers in house and industry based training and provides all equipment and PPE. Competitive basic salary based on qualifications and skills with additional incentive schemes.

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

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07/05/2015 11:06

The

ANCIENT TREE

ANCIENT TREE COLUMN

column

Each month we feature an ancient British tree. This month the Ancient Tree Forum introduces us to the...

Major Oak

Perhaps the most famous tree in the UK, the Major Oak has inspired countless tales and probably an even greater number of children to dress up as Robin Hood. The tree is one of around 1,000 ancient oaks found in Nottinghamshire County Council’s Sherwood Forest Country Park near the village of Edwinstowe. The pedunculate oak is estimated to be anything between 800 and 1,000 years old and has a trunk circumference

of 10 metres.

The tree’s most famous association is with Robin Hood. Folklore suggests his band of merry men would have used the tree’s hollow trunk as a hideout. Thousands of visitors from across the globe visit Sherwood Forest every year to see the majestic tree, which in a good year can produce as many as 150,000 acorns.

The earliest recorded name for this remarkable oak, dating back to the mid 18th century, was the Cockpen Tree. The hollow interior is said to have been used to pen cockerels ready to be used in the now illegal sport of cock fighting. Later it was known as the Queen Oak. The tree became better known as The Major’s Oak after it was described in 1790 by a local

historian, Major Hayman Rooke.

In Edwardian times, metal chains were used to support its weighty branches and lead sheet attached to protect the trunk. In the late seventies, these measures were replaced by large wooden struts, supporting the heaviest branches. Today, slender steel poles prop the sprawling limbs of this forest giant. Tree surgeons check the oak periodically and carry out remedial work as needed.

The tree’s most recent accolade was being crowned England’s Tree of the Year by the Woodland Trust in autumn 2014 having received the most public votes from a shortlist of 10. It went on to

Photo courtesy of Brian Muelaner

represent England against 13 other trees from the rest of Europe, coming 6th in the European Tree of the Year contest this spring.

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

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