Selected Projects

The following examples illustrate the types of situations we are typically asked to evaluate. These projects involve a range of site conditions, constraints, and objectives, and reflect our approach to assessing trees and developing practical recommendations.

Construction Adjacent to Mature Redwood Trees

A group of mature coast redwood trees (Sequoia sempervirens) located near a proposed residential foundation was evaluated to determine potential impacts from construction. The trees had previously experienced fire damage but had regenerated and were functioning well. The foundation was located beyond the distance at which root disturbance would typically affect stability, and the design utilized piers and grade beams, limiting excavation within the root zone. Based on these factors, construction was unlikely to result in a meaningful impact to the trees. Recommendations included care during any future trenching and optional supplemental irrigation.

Managing Tree and Trail Conflicts in a Public Setting

Trees along a public trail were assessed in advance of planned improvements where root growth had displaced sections of pavement. The extent of root conflict was evaluated, and most work was determined to occur outside distances associated with structural instability. Recommendations focused on retaining the trees and modifying construction methods to minimize root disturbance, including careful root pruning and avoiding mechanical damage. Additional measures included use of more flexible paving materials and subsurface barriers to reduce future conflicts. This approach allowed the trail to be improved while maintaining the existing trees.

Retention of Mature Park Tree with Decay

A mature valley oak (Quercus lobata) in a public park was assessed following concerns about a decay cavity at the base of the trunk. The tree exhibited good overall health, with a full canopy and consistent growth. While internal decay was present, the use of the area beneath the tree was limited. Rather than recommending removal, management focused on risk reduction through canopy reduction pruning and installation of structural supports. This approach allowed for retention of the tree while addressing the primary structural concern.

Tree Removal Due to Structural Conflicts

Three mature coast redwood trees (Sequoia sempervirens) were assessed in relation to ongoing damage to a building and adjacent hardscape. The trees were located immediately next to the structure, with trunks and roots in direct contact with the building and walkway. Root-related lifting and structural movement were evident, and the trees had grown into the building envelope. Pruning and root barriers were not feasible without causing further damage or compromising stability. Although the trees were in good health, the conflict with the structure could not be reasonably mitigated, and removal was determined to be appropriate.

Leaning Tree with Root Decay

A large red alder (Alnus rubra) growing along a creek bank was evaluated following reports of significant lean. The trunk form indicated displacement due to partial root failure rather than natural growth. Inspection revealed decay in structural roots on the tension side of the lean. The canopy remained full but did not provide meaningful counterbalance, and the tree was not supported by adjacent vegetation. Given its size and location above a developed area, failure would likely result in damage. Removal was recommended to address the level of risk.

Managing Tree Health and Infrastructure Conflict in a Developed Landscape

A mature tree was assessed in relation to damage to adjacent hardscape, including lifting of concrete surfaces. Options for retaining the tree were evaluated, including the use of root barriers, but installation at that stage would have required cutting structural roots and could have compromised stability. Recommendations focused on either modifying the surrounding hardscape to accommodate root growth or removing and replacing the tree if maintaining the infrastructure was the priority. Where retention was preferred, guidance was provided to adjust hardscape elements while preserving the tree.