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Skeleton decay

Article · January 2013

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 2013 ISA Trade Show
Metro Toronto Convention Centre – Toronto, ON, Canada

Visit the Trade Show and interact with exhibitors and other industry
professionals. See the latest tree equipment, diagnostics tools, herbicide
and fertilizers, climbing gear, and professional goods and services.

Trade Show Schedule

Sunday, August 4
7:30 pm – 9:30 pm: Welcome Reception on the Trade Show Floor
Monday, August 5
9:30 am – 3:30 pm Trade Show Open
Tuesday, August 6
9:30 am – 3:30 pm Trade Show Open

Climbers’ Corner on the Trade Show Floor

Monday and Tuesday, August 5 and 6
9:45 am – 3:30 pm

2013 Exhibitors (as of 4/10/13)

Aerial Solutions, Inc. Bandit Industries, Inc. Husqvarna SavATree TREE Fund
Air-Spade, Division of Bartlett Tree Care Experts IML, Inc. SIP Protection Tree Care Industry Association
Guardair Corp. Big Bear Tools, Inc. ISA/ISA Ontario Society of Commercial Tree Services Magazine
Alliance for Community BioForest Technologies, Inc. Industrial Helicopters, LLC. Arboriculture Trees, Inc.
Trees Blount International Jarraff Industries, Inc. Society of Municipal Arborists Trimble Navigation
All Access Equipment Clearion Software, LLC. JJ Kane Auctioneers Southco Industries Universal Field Supplies, Inc.
Altec Industries CMI Corp. Kershaw (a division of SSI Maxim Co., Inc. Utility Arborist Association
American Society of CN Utility Consulting Progress Rail) Sterling Rope Utility Tree Service, Inc.
Consulting Arborists Deep Root Green Laser Technology, Inc. STIHL, Ltd. Utility Vegetation Management
Arbor Care Tree Service, Inc. Infrastructure Lewis Tree Service, Inc. Supersonic Air Knife Association
ArborGold Software by TMS DMM International MapCentrix, LLC Tamarack Tree Care, Ltd. Vermeer
Arboriculture Canada DuPont Land Management Milwaukee CVB Terex Corporation Vermeer Canada
Arborjet Environmental Consultants, Inc. Morbark, Inc. Terra Spectrum Technologies Wallenstein CR by EMB MFG, Inc.
ArborMax Insurance Program Fanno Saw Works Nelson Tree Service, Inc. Teupen Weaver Leather
Arbor Metrics Solutions, Inc. Freightliner Trucks New England Ropes The Davey Tree Expert Company Wright Tree Service
Arborwear Geodigital International Petzl America The Kenerson Group
Argus Electronic GMBH Green Manufacturing Preformed Line Products The Knifesource, LLC.
Asplundh Tree Expert Co. Hansatech Instruments, Ltd. Rayco Manufacturing, Inc. Townsend Corporation
Atlantic Braids, Ltd. HD Electric Company Samson Rope Tracked Lifts, Inc.
 VOLUME 22 NUMBER 3 JUNE 2013
12
Storm Response: Part One 12 Editor’s Branch 6
In the first of a multi-part series of CEU articles on urban Tree Industry Calendar 7
tree care in light of storm response, Geoff Kempter identifies
different kinds of storms, where on the planet they are Just for Fun 20
likely to occur, and the effects they have on trees. Detective Dendro 22
Pruning Near Utility Lines 24 Toronto 2013 30
Line clearance or utility pruning requires a great deal of
training. But even after that, a thorough understanding Book Review 35
22 of tree structure and biology can go a long way to making Profiles in Arboriculture 36
a cut that satisfies all parties involved.
OSHA Notice 37
Skeleton Decay 32 Science and Research Committee News 38
Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana) is a common tree;
the unique decay pattern it may exhibit isn’t. The tree’s decay ISA Member News 46
resistance does not mean immunity from the decay process,
ISA Membership Application 51
only that the decay process is a bit more complicated.
APTCC Results 54
;daeZ]jk;gjf]j2
24
Electrical Hazard Awareness 40 Research You Need to Read 62
Does your crew regularly practice aerial rescue procedures? Arborist Marketplace 64
Are you well-versed in first-aid procedures? How well-defined
is your command-and-response system of communication? Advertiser Index 64
A small investment of time in safety training can save a Product Recall 64
great deal in downtime, insurance, injuries, and damages.

Tree Data Goes Mobile 43 Publications Agreement No. 1506226

™ ISSN 1542-2399
A cell phone application for Android platforms offers
32 arborists on the go a compact and reliable means to collect,
store, and eventually transfer information that might other-
wise require bulkier tech.

Biomechanics Week Approaches 44

ISA and several allied industry partners are convening
later this year for Biomechanics Research Week 2013.
Read this article for an update on what to look for.

True Professionals: Don Picker 57 is a registered trade

40 Currently of Hong Kong, China, Picker has spent decades and service mark of the
working and providing training activities throughout Hong International Society
of Arboriculture, Inc.
Kong and Mainland China.
Statement of Ownership Arborist News is published six
times a year (bi-monthly) by the International Society of
Arboriculture a nonprofit professional association, as a
service to its membership. Membership in ISA includes a
Grand fromager tree, subscription to Arborist News. Send change of address to
Missira, Senegal Membership Department, ISA, P.O. Box 3129, Champaign,
IL 61826-3129.
44 Cover photo by Canada Subscriptions Canada Post Agreement Number
Julia Kark Callander 40032651.
Subscription Information Annual subscription price,
including postage: USD $125. Subscription orders can
be entered only by the calendar year (January-December)
and should be sent to the publisher, ISA, P.O. Box 3129,
Champaign, IL 61826-3129, U.S.
Your contributions to and comments about Arborist News
are welcome. Please submit all materials to Arborist News, Claims for Missing Issues Claims for missing or damaged
P.O. Box 3129, Champaign, IL 61826-3129. issues must be made within three months of our publica-
tion date. Single issues cost USD $7 each.

57
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Circle XXX on Reader Service Card
 Good color. The Editor’s
Vigor. Health. Branch
By Aaron H. Bynum
Three great results
ISA’s annual conference and trade show is only weeks away. Further, the deadlines for
from Doggett’s attendees seeking discounts for advanced registration are even closer. If you’re on the fence
tree fertilizer. and still need some convincing, go online to the ISA conference website (www.isa-arbor.
com/conference), where a detailed agenda, registration rates, and exhibitor information
are all available. If you’re interested in the tree climbing competitions, then I urge you to
check out the refurbished ITCC website as well (www.itcc-isa.com); the site houses
related rules and gear updates for regional as well as international tree climbing events.
You can learn more, for example, about this year’s the Asia Pacific Tree Climbing Cham-
pionship, which is covered in this issue of Arborist News by way of Doug Sharp.
Also in the spirit of the conference, we have an article that identifies the importance of
research in arboriculture, specifically utility arboriculture (“Innovation, Research, Knowledge,
Results” by Ward Peterson). There are countless means for the arboriculture community
to scale smarter and safer approaches to tree care; research is only one option, but it’s a
very important option.
Utility tree care comes under focus in a pair of features that include the CEU article
(“Storm Response” by Geoff Kempter) and a book excerpt (“Pruning Near Utility Lines”
by Ed Gilman). The CEU item, the first of a multi-part series, will help you understand
the diversity and complexity of storms, caring for trees damaged by storms, and nursing
communities affected by the outcome. The excerpt comes from Gilman’s recently revised
By adding humates, tome on pruning. The article documents the many options or opportunities that arbor-
ists or urban foresters have when confronted with challenging tree–utility conflicts.
natural zeolites, a specialty This issue of Arborist News also takes a look at one of the more interesting tree decay
dispersant and an patterns you’ll see (“Skeleton Decay in Eastern Red Cedar” by Kevin T. Smith and Jessie
antivolatilization agent, A. Glaeser). According to the authors, most people know of Juniperus virginiana because
of the marvelous aroma and red-to-purple heartwood, but the tree’s decay resistance and
Doggett’s tree fertilizer
capacity to compartmentalize is equally fascinating and worthy of study.
allows more nutrients to
get into the tree system
with little or no leaching
from the soil.
The result is a more highly ISA Code of Ethics
utilized form of tree (Adopted August 1992)
fertilizer that promotes
good color, vigor and ISA members will:
health for your trees, ˆ 7XVMZIJSVGSRXMRYSYWWIPJHIZIPSTQIRXF]MRGVIEWMRKXLIMVUYEPM½GEXMSRWERH


without pushing growth. XIGLRMGEPTVS½GMIRG]F]WXE]MRKEFVIEWXSJXIGLRSPSKMGEPERHWGMIRXM½GHIZIPSTQIRXW
affecting the profession.
ˆ Not misuse or omit material facts in promoting technical information, products
or services if the effect would be to mislead or misrepresent.
Call for details.
ˆ Hold paramount the safety and health of all people and endeavor to protect
property and the environment in the performance of professional responsibilities.
THE DOGGETT ˆ Subscribe to fair and honest business practices in dealing with clients, suppliers,
employees and other professionals.
CORPORATION ˆ Support the improvement of professional services and products through
1-800-448-1862 encouraging research and development.
www.doggettcorp.com ˆ Observe the standards and promote adherence to the ethics embodied in this Code.
CALENDAR
TREE INDUSTRY CALENDAR
Submit your event! Do you have a regional or ISA chapter event coming up? Let us know and submit your event through the ISA website.
To view, review, or submit new items to the industry calendar, visit (www.isa-arbor.com/events/eventsCalendar/index.aspx). The most current list of
certification exams as well as additional CEU quizzes can be found online (www.isa-arbor.com/education/onlineLearning/arbNewsQuizzes.aspx).

JUNE
14 Day of Safety. The ISA Western Chapter’s Day of Safety Ohio. For more information, contact: ISA Ohio Chap-
is designed to share statistics, standards, programs, and tech- ter, 1-614-771-7494, [email protected].
niques that will assist business owners and workers provid- 19-21 Production Tree Removal & Rigging. This course
ing safe productive work practices that enhance their daily is designed to educate and train tree climbers on the physics
work. This one-day course will include presentations by and techniques of fundamental rigging for removal and
John Ball (“Why Safety is Important”), Susan Sims rigging heavy wood. Participants will be educated in
(“Wildlife Aware”), and Jared Abrojena and Rhonda shock load, potential energy, and reactive forces of rigging
Woods (“Standards, Experiences, Techniques”), among heavy wood where the rigging point is below the load.
others. Crystal Springs Picnic Area, Griffith Park. Los Ange- Organized by Arboriculture Canada Training & Educa-
les, California. For more information, contact: ISA Western tion Ltd. Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada. For more
Chapter, www.wcisa.net/meetings/meetingdisplay.aspx? information, contact: Nancy Neustaeter, 1-877-268-
MeetingID=5477. 8733, [email protected], www.arborcanada.com/
15-16 ISA Western Chapter Tree Climbing Champion- courses/Production-Tree-Removal-Rigging.
ship. Preliminary events will be held Saturday, June 15, with 21 Advanced Pruning Practices. Professional pruning
the Masters’ Challenge on Sunday. The 2013 champions will techniques and the latest research-backed information
represent the Western Chapter in Toronto this summer at the will be brought together in this advanced workshop
international level. Crystal Springs Picnic Area, Griffith instructed by Ed Gilman of the University of Florida. X
Park. Los Angeles, California. For more information, contact:
ISA Western Chapter, www.wcisa.net/

High Performing, Comfortable Saddles

meetings/meetingdisplay.aspx?Meeting
ID=5478.
17-18 Hazard and Danger Tree Cut-
ting & Falling. Participants are educated Sewn webbing suspension bridge
in risk assessment and work plan strat- now has a striped white and dark
egies designed to ensure worker safety orange overlay surrounding a
black webbing core so any wear
through work planning, teamwork, and is readily visible at a glance.
specialty cutting techniques and equip-
ment. Explanation, demonstration, and Cougar Extra Wide Back Saddles
08-01085
practice using ropes, P.M.P.’s and mechan- s Extra wide 7" memory foam back
reduces pressure points, wicks away
ical advantage are an integral part of this moisture and does not retain heat
course. Organized by Arboriculture Can- for cool comfort.
ada Training & Education Ltd. Moncton, s Replaceable sewn webbing
New Brunswick. For more information, suspension bridge features two
rubber bumpers and can be used
contact: Nancy Neustaeter, 1-877- with forged aluminum rings.
268-8733, [email protected], s Fixed position, angled side dee rings
www.arborcanada.com/courses/Hazard- allow you to snap in with one hand.
and-Danger-Tree-Cutting-and-Falling. s Dees for easy attachment of ditty
bag or first aid kit.
19 Advanced Pruning Practices. Pro-
s Leg straps feature secure, quick-
fessional pruning techniques and the connect buckles for ease of use.
08-01086
latest research-backed information will s Not intended for fall arrest.
be brought together in this advanced 08-01085 with Leg Straps featuring Memory Foam Pads Suspension Bridge Warning
ngg - As a regular
re lar safety
s fe precaution,
precaution
pr ca ion due uee too the
he rigorous
rig r s strain
conditions the suspension bridge on our Cougar Saddle endures, we strongly recommend
s rain
ain and
an

workshop instructed by Ed Gilman of 08-01086 with Batten Seat replacing the suspension bridge at the earlier of the first sign of wear or 6 months.

the University of Florida. This is a one-

day seminar that covers how trees Local & International Toll Free in the U.S. & Canada

grow in urban landscapes, developing Call: 330-674-1782 Call: 800-932-8371

sustainable canopy architecture, and Fax: 330-674-0330 Fax: 800-693-2837
outdoor pruning exercises. Columbus, -T(OPE/(s#ALLFORAFREE Catalog! DAA040813BR-1

JUNE 2013 | 7
 JUNE (continued)
This is a one-day seminar that covers how trees grow in 27-30 Austrian Tree Climbing Championship. Organized
urban landscapes, developing sustainable canopy archi- by the ISA Austria Chapter. For more information, contact:
tecture, and outdoor pruning exercises. Holden Arboretum. Marcel Kreitl, +43 664 886 20 927, [email protected],
Willoughby, Ohio. For more information, contact: ISA www.isa-austria.at/index.php/bewerbe.
Ohio Chapter, 1-614-771-7494, [email protected].

JULY
09-10 Precision Tree Felling, Chain Saw Safety, and 11-13 Tree Climbing Methods, Work Positioning &
Handling. Participants will be educated in modern fell- Best Practices. The participants will be educated and trained
ing techniques and learn a systematic method to plan the in modern tree climbing systems and learn about the
operation and skillfully work the plan. Practices based on tools and techniques that make tree climbing and work
leverage, mechanical advantage, and ergonomics, as they positioning safer, easier, and more efficient. Basic con-
relate to precision felling and chain saw handling, will be cepts of physics and mechanical advantage will be intro-
taught, demonstrated, and experienced. Organized by Arbor- duced as they relate to climbing systems. Organized by
Master. Portland, Oregon. For more information, contact: ArborMaster. Portland, Oregon. For more information,
ArborMaster, 1-860-429-5o28, [email protected], contact: ArborMaster, 1-860-429-5028, Info@ArborMaster.
www.ArborMaster.com. com, www.ArborMaster.com.

AUGUST
03-04 International Tree Climbing Championship. 10-16 Design and Maintenance of Japanese Gardens.
The most skilled and experienced professional tree climbers This workshop uses hands-on instruction to promote an
square off in competition. Toronto Island. Toronto, Ontario, understanding of the unique design and maintenance
Canada. For more information, contact: Sonia Garth, 1-217- techniques of the Japanese garden. Many prominent
355-9411 x217, [email protected], www.itcc-isa.com. American landscape architects have been inspired to cre-
03-07 ISA Annual International Conference & Trade ate new designs after encounters with the Japanese gar-
Show. Individuals and organizations affiliated with pro- den, and experienced landscape architects will gain new
fessional tree care around the world gather for the most design insights from this immersive educational experi-
fundamental merging of practical and academic knowl- ence with Japanese gardens. Participants will stay in Kyoto,
edge each and every year. ISA’s annual conference crystal- Japan, and travel to different Japanese garden sites each
izes the research interests, professional development, and day. Organized by Rutgers University and the New Jersey
entrepreneurial whimsy alive and well in urban and rural tree Board of Architects. To be added to the waitlist, please call
care today. Organized by the International Society of Arbori- 1-732-932-9271, or register online. For more informa-
culture. Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Toronto, Ontario, tion, contact: Seiko Goto, [email protected], www.
Canada. For more information, contact: ISA Conference cpe.rutgers.edu/japanese-garden-trip/index.html.
& Events, 1-217-355-9411, [email protected], 15 Electrical Hazards Awareness Program. EHAP is an
www.isa-arbor.com/events/conference/index.aspx. employer-training program individuals can implement
to meet OSHA and MIOSHA safety
requirements. EHAP must be used in
REGISTRATION IS OPEN combination with documented on-
the-job skills training and verification
Tree Biomechanics Week 2013 to meet OSHA 1910.269 requirements.
August 12–16, 2013 (Shalersville, Ohio, U.S.) Organized by the ISA Michigan Chap-
ter. Great Lakes Energy. Boyne City,
Lj]]:age][`Yfa[kO]]c*()+akYk[a]flaÚ[]f\]Yngjafl]f\]\lghjgna\]j]k]Yj[`]jkY[lan]dqogjcaf_afl`]Yj]Y Michigan. For more information, con-
g^lj]]Zage][`Yfa[koal`Yfmfhj][]\]fl]\ghhgjlmfalqlg[ge]lg_]l`]j$_]f]jYl]im]klagfk$]p[`Yf_]]ph]ja- tact: Nancy Carpenter, 1-517-337-4999,
e]flYd\]ka_fa\]Yk$Yf\[ggj\afYl]k[a]flaÚ[]^^gjlkgfY[geegfkal]&L`]jgd]g^l`][daeZ]j%l][`fa[aYfkoaddZ]
[email protected], www.asm-isa.org.
lgkmhhgjll`]gf%kal]Ú]d\ogjcg^l`]j]k]Yj[`]jk]f_Y_]\afl`]ajafn]kla_Ylagfk&L`akkmhhgjleYqaf[dm\]Zgl`
ogjcgfl`]_jgmf\Yf\Ydg^lafl`][jgofkg^l]kllj]]k&LYkckeYqaf[dm\]ja__af_Yf\hj]hYjaf_l]kllj]]k3hdY[af_ 15 NJ Pest Management Associa-
afkljme]flk3lYcaf_e]Ykmj]e]flk3j][gj\af_\YlY3Yf\hjmfaf_Yf\j]egnYdogjc& tion’s 66th Annual Clinic & Trade
Show. Gather useful, up-to-date infor-
>gjegj]af^gjeYlagfYZgmll`ak]n]fl$nakall`]AK9o]Zkal] ooo&akY%YjZgj&[ge']n]flk'ogjck`ghk9f\KqehgkaY'
af\]p&Ykhp!& mation on industry topics to assist in
making intelligent decisions when dealing


]
"3#03*45t/&84
]
www.isa-arbor.com
 AUGUST (continued)
ISA CERTIFICATION EXAM DATES
with customers’ pest problems. Organized by Rutgers Uni- We must receive your application and exam fees 12 working days prior
versity, NJAES, Office of Continuing Professional Educa- to the exam date. NO EXCEPTIONS! (ISA is closed New Year’s Day, Good
tion. Hickman Hall - Douglass Campus. New Brunswick, Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day
New Jersey. For more information, contact: Rutgers Uni- and the day after, as well as Christmas Day.)
versity, www.cpe.rutgers.edu/courses/current/ae0201ha.html. PREPAYMENT IS REQUIRED! Fee is $150/members (International
15-16 Biomechanics Week 2013. Tree research open house and Chapter membership required), $250/nonmembers. Visa/MasterCard/
and symposium. Organized by ISA and The Davey Tree AmEx accepted. U.S. funds only.
Expert Co. Davey Tree Expert Co. headquarters. Kent, Ohio. ISA offers both computer-based and paper-based certification exams
For more information, contact: Rachel Leibowitz, 1-217- (computer-based exams are scheduled by the exam candidate, at an
355-9411 x216, [email protected], www.isa-arbor. approved site of his or her choice). For a more current list of exam dates
com/events/workshopsAndSymposia/index.aspx. and locations, go online to ISA’s website (www.isa-arbor.com) and select
17 Czech Tree Climbing Championship. Litoměřice, the “Certification and Credentials” tab. For more information and for an
Czech Republic. For more information, contact: Jan Sva- exam application, contact the ISA Certification Department via phone
rovsky, [email protected]. (1-217-355-9411) or e-mail ([email protected]).
CERTIFIED ARBORIST, UTILITY SPECIALIST & MUNICIPAL
SEPTEMBER SPECIALIST EXAM DATES
Illinois July 16 Glencoe, IL limit 40
06 Electrical Hazard Awareness. On the agenda: Required July 22 Downers Grove, IL limit 45
Legislation: OSHA & ANSI, how electricity works, electrical September 9 Downers Grove, IL limit 45
conductor identification, and distribution systems and work- Michigan July 9 Grand Rapids, MI limit 45**
ing safely. Louisiana State University Agricultural Center. Mid-Atlantic June 28 Fairfax, VA limit 30
Baton Rouge, Louisiana. For more information, contact: July 19 Abingdon, VA limit 40
Hallie Dozier, 1-225-578-7219, [email protected]. Midwestern July 15 Fargo, ND limit 10
Minnesota June 28 Cottage Grove, MN limit 20
07-08 2013 European Tree Climbing Championship. New England August 9 Norway, ME limit 15
Organized by the ETCC Committee/Swiss Arborist Ontario August 3 Toronto, ON limit 30
Association. Strandbad Thun, Switzerland. For more infor- Pen-Del July 26 Meadville, PA limit 10**
mation, contact: Mark Bridge, [email protected], Texas August 15 Amarillo, TX limit 20
www.itcc-isa.com/events/regional/etcc/etcc.aspx. Western July 13 Concord, CA limit 90
09-12 Implementing Green Infrastructure at Multiple July 20 Santa Barbara, CA limit 80
August 24 Sacramento, CA limit 50
Scales. This course provides participants with applica-
tions and techniques for the implementation of green Note: Asterisk (*) indicates that there is a scheduled exam for Tree Worker and
infrastructure at multiple scales. This four-day course will Aerial Lift/Climber Specialist at this date/location. Double asterisk (**) indicates
written exam only.
examine the next steps for on-the-ground implementa-
tion of green infrastructure focusing on how to obtain a
maximum return on investment so that projects are stream- 27-28 Texas Tree Conference. Featured speakers include Ed
lined and delivered at least cost, while retaining the viabil- Gilman, Bryant Scharenbroch, Ann Beard, Paul Ries, Gerard
ity of the network. Organized by The Conservation Fund. Passola, and Skip Kincaid. The theme is “Get Growing,”
National Conservation Training Center. Shepherdstown, with topics such as safety in tree care, successful municipal
West Virginia. For more information, contact: Katie Allen, specifications, improving tree structure with structural prun-
1-304-876-7925, [email protected], https:// ing, and utility arboriculture in the UK, among several others.
salsa3.salsalabs.com/o/50714/p/salsa/event/common/ Waco Convention Center. Waco, Texas. For more informa-
public/?event_KEY=69307. tion, contact: Susan Henson, 1-972-237-8102, shenson@
20-22 5th Annual Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop. gptx.org. "t/
An annual event for beginner-level tree climbers. Alton
Jones Education Center. New Greenwich, Rhode Island. BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
For more information, contact: www.newenglandisa.org/
workshops.html. Tree Planting
26 Texas Tree Academy Workshop. Two sessions and ISA’s planting guide covers important topics
three field topics address managing urban soils, tree biology, such as selection, planting depth, and post-
and tree risk assessment. The Tree Academy requires a sepa- planting considerations.
rate registration from the Texas Tree Conference. Waco Con- 4)RKPMWL TTˆ477TERMWL TT
6IXEMP4VMGIˆ-7%1IQFIV4VMGI
vention Center. Waco, Texas. For more information, contact:
Susan Henson, 1-972-237-8102, [email protected]. To order: 1-888-ISA-TREE or www.isa-arbor.com/store

JUNE 2013 | 9
 Arborist News Editorial
PUBLISHER and Advertising Policy
International Society of Arboriculture Articles
EDITORIAL & PRODUCTION For instructions about submitting an article, contact Aaron H. Bynum,
MANAGER Editor ([email protected]). All articles are subject to technical review.
Amy Theobald Accepted articles may be edited for brevity, clarity, and adherence to Arbor-
EDITOR
ist News style requirements. Article Submissions imply author’s consent for
Aaron H. Bynum publication in Arborist News. Submissions must contain original work. A short
statement of the submission’s publication history, if applicable, is mandatory.
PRODUCTION & DESIGN
Amy Reiss An ISA Certified Arborist in good standing may receive CEUs for work
published in Arborist News.
TECHNICAL EDITORS
Sharon Lilly Letters to the Editor
Wes Kocher Arborist News welcomes letters that address the content of articles, raise
legitimate concerns about issues in arboriculture, or might otherwise be of
PROOFREADER
Rebecca Bigelow interest to the readership. If a letter discusses a published article, the author
of that feature will be invited to submit an accompanying response.
AD SALES
Adam Yeazel Arborist News reserves the right to edit letters to the editor for brevity and
clarity. Submit them via e-mail ([email protected]), or mail to Aaron H.
ARBORIST NEWS Bynum, Editor, Arborist News, ISA, P.O. Box 3129, Champaign, IL 61821-
P.O. Box 3129, Champaign, IL 61826-3129 3129, U.S.



t
'BY



JTB!JTBBSCPSDPN
t
XXXJTBBSCPSDPN Advertising
Acceptance and publication of advertisements, editorial copy, or product
EDITORIAL BOARD announcements do not necessarily imply ISA endorsement of said products
R. Bruce Allison, Allison Tree Care, Inc., Verona, WI, U.S. or techniques, nor does it reflect the opinion of ISA regarding any such
Patrick Brewer, Bartlett Tree Expert Co., Austin, TX, U.S. product or technique. Arborist News reserves the right to refuse any adver-
Ian Bruce, Bruce Tree Company, Toronto, ON, Canada
tisement that is deemed unsuitable for publication. For a fuller version of
the Arborist News advertising policy online, please visit the ISA website
Bill Fountain, University of Kentucky, Louisville, KY, U.S.
(www.isa-arbor.com).
Rich Hauer, University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point,
Stevens Point, WI, U.S. For advertising reservation and materials deadlines, rates, and data—as well
Craig Johnson, Johnson’s Tree Care, York, England as other ISA sponsorship and messaging opportunities—please contact Adam
Catherine C. Lavis, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Yeazel, ISA Partner Relations Manager, via phone (217-355-9411 x244) or
KS, U.S. e-mail ([email protected]).
Leon Marcus, ArborGlobal, LLC, Hong Kong, PRC
Jochen A. Pfisterer, Pfisterer Tree Biology, Baden Baden,
Germany Arborist News is published bimonthly by the International Society of Arboriculture and is
Linda Saretok, North Somerset Council, Bristol, published for and distributed solely to the current membership of the International Society
of Arboriculture at no additional member cost. Reference to commercial products or
England
brand names in editorials or advertisements does not constitute an endorsement by the
Kris Stultz, The Brickman Group, Fort Lauderdale, International Society of Arboriculture.
FL, U.S.
Arborist News magazine is copyrighted by the International Society of Arboriculture,
Richard Wanhill, Thoughtplanters, Wellington, New
but not all individual articles are copyrighted. Permission for reprinting an article
Zealand should be obtained from the author(s) with Arborist News cited as the source and
Jim Zwack, Davey Resource Group, Pymouth, MN, U.S. proper credit given to the author(s).

ISA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Colin Bashford, President, Hampshire, England de Gourét Litchfield, Ballingslov, Sweden Brian Phelan, Halifax, NS, Canada
Terrence Flanagan, President-Elect, Lake Oswego, Michael Marshall, Morriston, FL, U.S. Paul Ries, Salem, OR, U.S.
OR, U.S. Michelle Mitchell, Lapeer, MI, U.S. Frank Rinn, Heidelberg, Germany
Francesco Ferrini, Bagno A Ripoli, Florence, Italy Melinda Myers, Milwaukee, WI, U.S. Mark Roberts, Dunedin, New Zealand
Paul Johnson, San Antonio, Texas, U.S. Zhu Ning, Baton Rouge, LA, U.S.
Geoff Kempter, Grand Rapids, MI, U.S. Ward Peterson, Kent, OH, U.S.


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 LEGACY.
FOUNDER GARY VERMEER WOULD OFTEN FLY HIS PLANE TO
PERSONALLY SERVICE MACHINES AND DELIVER PARTS.

SUPPORT AFTER THE SALE. At Vermeer, earning your confidence is not a pursuit we take lightly. That’s
why you can count on your local Vermeer dealer for experienced service technicians and genuine Vermeer parts
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on tooling and accessories for your next project, Vermeer experts are a call, click or text message away. To learn
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=LYTLLYHUK[OL=LYTLLYSVNVHYL[YHKLTHYRZVM=LYTLLY4HU\MHJ[\YPUN*VTWHU`PU[OL<UP[LK:[H[LZHUKVYV[OLYJV\U[YPLZ
=LYTLLY*VYWVYH[PVU(SS9PNO[Z9LZLY]LK
CONTINUING EDUCATION UNIT

Storm Response
Part 1:Types of Storms and
Their Effects on Trees
By Geoff Kempter

Whether a storm response consists of one crew dispatched

Objectives to remove a single fallen tree, or involves thousands of per-
t
Understand the important role arborists play in responding to sonnel across an entire region, tree service contractors,
storms utilities, and their suppliers must be prepared to provide
t
Describe how loads and stresses added by storms can affect trees a swift and well-coordinated response with the necessary
t
Discuss some basic information about storms, such as correct personnel and equipment. It is also important to consider
terminology, how storms form and develop, and how rating worst-case scenarios, both locally and in other locations,
scales are applied and prepare accordingly, and to understand that storm
t
Explain how regional characteristics make some areas more work poses unique safety challenges that require proactive
vulnerable to certain kinds of storms than others measures prior to and during responses (Chisholm 2013).
CEUs for this article apply to Certified Arborist, Utility Specialist, In most cases, tree crews are among the first to be dis-
Municipal Specialist, Tree/Worker Climber, and the BCMA patched to stricken areas. As such, storm response can be
management category. viewed as an opportunity to demonstrate the value and
professional capabilities of all arborists. A successful, large
scale response requires thorough pre-planning, coordina-

A
tion between contractors, utilities, and government author-
ities, open lines of communication, established chains of
command, and flexibility as workloads and conditions
change. A successful response also allows everyone involved
Arborists are intimately tied to the weather, which affects to work together for a common goal: the restoration of crit-
both daily operations and the trees on which they work. ical services to the communities and customers served by
Storms, as extreme weather events, have an enormous our industry.
impact on trees and infrastructure. Knowing how storms
affect trees, how to anticipate and mitigate possible dam-
Effects of Storms on Trees
How Branches and Trees Fail
age ahead of time, and how to effectively respond when
Trees are structures, and like all structures, they have break-
storms strike are important skills for arborists to develop.
ing points. As trees grow, they continually adapt to the
In the first of this three-part series of articles, we will
load of their own weight as well as added loads brought
examine how storms affect tree structure, and provide an
on by precipitation and wind. Over time, trees also develop
overview of the different kinds of storms that often cause
defects, such as leans, decay, girdling roots, or poor branch
the most damage to trees.
attachments. They can also be damaged in ways that
When essential services are interrupted by storms, lives
weaken their structure. Storm conditions increase loads
and livelihoods may be threatened, and utilities, municipali-
and stress, which when combined with defects, can lead
ties, and other service providers incur considerable restoration
to failure (Dunster et al. 2013).
costs. Moreover, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates
that electric utility service interruptions caused by storms Effects of Rain, Ice, and Snow
cost businesses and communities tens of billions of dollars Trees must be able to support their own weight against the
annually (Campbell 2012). The clearing of trees and branches constant pull of gravity. In addition, they must support
after a storm provides faster access for first responders, the accumulated weight of various types of precipitation.
line repair crews, and other emergency service personnel. Most trees can tolerate normal conditions, including typical


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rainfall, light icing, or snowfall.
However, unusual or extreme
conditions increase the likelihood
of failure. Examples include:
t
accumulating ice on
twigs and branches
t
heavy downpours on
dense foliage
t
wet snow, especially on
trees with leaves on
Distributed across the whole
tree, the added weight leads to
failure if the loads exceed trunk,
branch, or root stress tolerances.
The effects of additional loads
are amplified by the length of a
branch (lever arm), the density
of twigs or foliage, the degree
of lean, and wind.
Effects of Wind
Wind places loads on trees, Utility arborist clears ice-laden branches from utility facilities.
including trunks, branches, and
roots, leading to higher stresses. The varying lengths and with wind and other added loads, the likelihood of whole-
sizes of tree branches tend to dampen the overall effects of tree failure is increased.
wind; however, as wind speeds increase, the loads placed
on stress points within the tree increase exponentially Storm Types
(Table 1). When the loads exceed trunk, branch, or root Storms come in many forms, and the damage to trees varies
strength, various types of failures occur. depending on storm type, location, and intensity. Under-
standing how storms form, develop, and move is important
Effects of Saturated Soils in preparing a strategy for response. Though all types of storms
Certain soils can become saturated by heavy rains. Satu-
can cause severe damage to trees and utility infrastructure,
ration reduces the friction between roots and soil and the
different storms pose unique operational considerations.
holding capacity of roots. When this effect is combined

Table 1. In North America, hurricanes are categorized by intensity according to the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.
Other areas of the world have differing systems for classifying the intensity of tropical cyclones (adapted from NOAA).
Category Sustained winds Types of damage due to hurricane winds
mph km/h Knots
1 74–95 119–153 64–82 Some damage. Some tree branches snapped and some trees toppled. Extensive damage
to power lines and poles, causing power outages lasting a few to several days.
2 96–110 154–177 83–95 Extensive damage. Many tree branches snapped and many trees uprooted, blocking
numerous roads. Near-total power loss expected with outages lasting from several days
to weeks.
3 (major) 111–129 178–208 96–112 Devastating damage. Many trees snapped or uprooted, blocking numerous roads.
Electricity and water unavailable for several days to weeks.
4 (major) 130–156 209–251 113–136 Catastrophic damage. Most trees snapped or uprooted and utility poles downed.
Residential areas isolated. Power outages last weeks to possibly months. Most of the
area uninhabitable for weeks or months.
5 (major) 157+ 252+ 137+ Catastrophic damage. Most trees snapped or uprooted and utility poles downed.
Residential areas isolated. Power outages last weeks to possibly months. Most of the
area uninhabitable for weeks or months.

JUNE 2013 | 13
CONTINUING EDUCATION UNIT
National governments issue watches and warnings for the center. They are often the underlying cause of various
potentially affected areas as storms become threatening, or other kinds of storms and are usually accompanied by
the probability of development increases. In general, a watch one or more form of precipitation (American Meteorolog-
means that conditions are favorable for storms to occur, ical Society 2013). A cyclone is not the same as a tornado,
while a warning indicates that a storm is imminent or occur- which is a local phenomenon, although tornados often occur
ring, and that immediate action is required (NOAA 2013). as a result of cyclones (Australian Government Bureau of
Meteorology 2013).
Cyclones
Tropical cyclones develop over warm ocean waters and
“Cyclone” refers to any large area of circulating, low atmo-
feature strong winds and heavy rains. Development of trop-
spheric pressure, including tropical systems such as hurri-
ical cyclones peaks during late summer and early autumn
canes and typhoons, and extratropical cyclones, which shape
when waters are warmest. The most powerful tropical
the weather in higher latitudes. Cyclones rotate clockwise
cyclones are known as hurricanes in the Atlantic and east-
in the southern hemisphere and counterclockwise in the
ern Pacific, typhoons in the northwestern Pacific, and simply
northern hemisphere, with winds spiraling inward toward
tropical cyclones in the South Pacific and Indian Oceans
(Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology 2013).
The development of tropical cyclones is carefully moni-
tored by both meteorologists and those who may be affected
by a strike. Because their movements can be forecasted,
those in or near the forecasted storm track usually have
several days to prepare prior to landfall.
Extratropical cyclones, as the name implies, occur in
higher latitudes, and often mark the boundary between
different air masses that characterize changes in weather.
They are frequently associated with severe weather, includ-
ing high winds, heavy rain, snow, thunderstorms, and
tornados. Extratropical cyclones are often larger than tropi-
cal cyclones, but tend to have lower sustained wind veloc-
ities. Tropical cyclones often become extratropical as they
move into higher latitudes. Superstorm Sandy, which
struck the eastern coast of North America in 2012, was
making such a transition as it made landfall. Sandy was
unusual—and especially devastating—in that it com-
bined high winds and storm surge typical of a hurricane
with the large size and diverse conditions, including heavy
mountain snows, more typical of an extratropical cyclone
(Voiland 2012).
Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms form when moist, unstable air rises into
the atmosphere. They feature heavy rain, lightning, thun-
der, sometimes hail, and are often accompanied by strong
winds (Scientific American 1999). Thunderstorm inten-
sity often varies regionally; for example, in North America,
thunderstorms are most common along the Gulf Coast
and in Florida. However, a higher frequency of severe thun-
derstorms occurs in the central United States. Straight-line
winds in severe thunderstorms have been measured at over
120 mph (193 km/h) (Johns et al. 2012). The likelihood
of thunderstorms impacting any given area is often fore-
DIGITALGLOBE

cast days in advance; however, the precise path and inten-

sity of individual storms is generally not known until hours
or less prior to strike.
A derecho is a widespread and long-lived complex of
Large extratropical cyclone off the west coast of North America. thunderstorms that travels more than 240 miles (386 km),


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with wind speeds greater than 58 mph (93 km/h). Dis-
tances of more than 700 miles (1126.5 km) and wind
gusts over 100 mph (161 km/h) are not uncommon. For
many inland areas, derechos are among the most destructive
storms in terms of tree damage, utility service interruptions,
and cost of repairs (Johns et al. 2012).
A tornado, also known as twister, is a violently rotating
air column extending from a cloud to the earth (Edwards
2013). In some areas, the term cyclone is incorrectly used to
identify a tornado. Tornados form in certain types of
thunderstorms and in tropical cyclones making landfall.
A funnel cloud is a forming tornado; technically, it is not
a tornado until it reaches the ground.

NOAA
Winds in tornados may exceed 200 mph (322 km/h)
and can cause extreme damage where they strike; however, Map showing severe thunderstorm watch frequency in the continental United
damage is usually restricted to a relatively narrow corridor. States.
The Enhanced Fujita Scale (EF Scale) is used to character-
ize tornados according to their estimated strength, from
EF-0 to EF-5 (Table 2). EF ratings are based on observed
damage following the storm, as it is not possible to measure
the actual wind speeds in individual tornados.

Table 2. The Enhanced Fujita Scale.

EF Rating Three-second gust

mph km/h
0 65–85 105–137

STORMRESPART
1 86–110 138–177
2 111–135 178–214
3 136–165 215–266
4 166–200 267–322
5 200+ 322+
Tornado in Dimmitt, Texas, in 1995.

Tornados occur in temperate

regions around the world, but are
most common in North America
east of the Rocky Mountains, from
southern Canada to the Gulf Coast,
and eastward to the Atlantic Ocean,
with the highest frequency from
the south-central Great Plains east-
ward to the Appalachian Moun-
G. CARBIN, NOAA STROM PREDICTION CENTER

tains. Some tornados are isolated

events, but when conditions are
favorable, widespread outbreaks of
tornados are possible. Forecasters
are capable of identifying condi-
tions favorable for the development
of tornados, monitoring develop-
ment, and for issuing warnings
when necessary; however, they are
unable to provide advance accu-
rate forecasts of the timing, strength,
and location of tornados. Composite radar image showing path of derecho across the eastern U.S., June 29-30, 2012.

JUNE 2013 | 15
CONTINUING EDUCATION UNIT
Coniferous trees in snowy areas naturally shed snow, or have
adapted to heavy snow loads, but wet snow can cause severe
damage to conifers that are not well-adapted to snow loads.
Other High-wind Phenomena
Local terrain, climate, and seasons can combine to create
unique local wind events. Terms such as “Chinook” (Rocky
Mountains of U.S. and Canada), “Santa Ana” (California
and Mexico), “Scirocco” (Mediterranean), “Nor’easter” (east-
ern coast of U.S. and Canada), “Nor’wester” (New Zealand),
and “Southerly Buster” (Australia) are just a sampling of
names that refer to unique wind phenomena in various parts
of the world. They often occur seasonally and come from
a specific direction. The known or common wind history
for a region can be useful for increasing success in selecting,
placing, and managing trees in any region of the world, and
for planning appropriate storm responses when necessary.

Conclusion
Storms are natural occurrences, affecting trees and people
all over the world. Arborists are increasingly requested to
respond to storms that have occurred hundreds or even
thousands of miles (or kilometers) away from their home
territories. As trees and urban forests are increasingly rec-
ognized as valuable community assets, an understanding
of the basics of different storm phenomena and how they
affect trees becomes more important. In addition, our grow-
ing knowledge of tree risk and tree failure patterns allows
for better assessment and mitigation of risk both before
and after storms strike.
As much as any profession, arboriculture is intimately
tied to weather. When storms strike, the specialized skills
of all arborists are in short supply. As such, arborists have
a responsibility, both to their clients and to the public at
large, to respond quickly, safely, and effectively.
Conifers in snowy areas are adapted to snow loads. Part two of this three-part series will discuss planning, prepa-
ration, and responses to storms, both large and small. Part three
will examine unique operational considerations presented by
Winter Storms storm response, including safety, reporting requirements, media
Ice storms develop when rain from relatively warm air falls relations, preserving damaged trees, and returning home safely.
through cold air near the ground that is below freezing Literature Cited
temperatures. Under such conditions, raindrops become Campbell, Richard J. 2012. Weather-Related Power
supercooled [below 0°C, (32°F)] but remain in a liquid Outages and Electric System Reliability, Congressional
state until they hit something and turn to ice. Trees and Research Service, 7-5700. <www.crs.gov>
utility infrastructure, having lots of surface area, can accu- Chisholm, Mark. 2013. Trees and Storms: A Recipe for
mulate many times their weight in ice and can be severely Hazards, Learn Storm Safety. STIHL Corporation.
damaged in heavy ice storms. <www.learnstormsafety.com/safety101.html>
Heavy wet snows (generally defined as lower than a Dunster, Julian, et al. 2013. Tree Risk Assessment Manual.
10:1 snow-to-water equivalent) occur when temperatures International Society of Arboriculture. Champaign,
are near freezing. In addition to being heavier than drier Illinois, U.S.
snows, these snows tend to cling to trees and infrastruc- NOAA. 2013. Weather Ready Nation. <www.nws.noaa.
ture. They cause the most damage to trees in spring and gov/com/weatherreadynation> X
autumn, when leaves are present on deciduous trees.


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 NOAA
Composite showing all tropical cyclone tracks, 1950–2005.

Areas Vulnerable to Tropical Cyclones

In the North Atlantic, hurricanes most often affect the Caribbean islands, Central America, Mexico, the Gulf and eastern
coasts of the United States, and eastern Canada. In the eastern Pacific, hurricanes are relatively common on the west coast
of Mexico, and less so in the Hawaiian Islands. In the western Pacific, the islands and coastal regions north of 10° latitude
as far north as Russia are susceptible to typhoons.
The northern Indian Ocean is a breeding ground for tropical cyclones, which affect the southern coast of Asia, including
the Indian subcontinent.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the South Pacific Islands, the northern portions of Australia, New Zealand, Madagascar, and
the east coast of Africa are vulnerable to tropical cyclones. Tropical cyclones do not occur off the west coast of South Amer-
ica, and occur only rarely in the South Atlantic Ocean.
Tropical cyclones depend on favorable atmospheric conditions and warm open water to gain and maintain strength. After
making landfall, they lose strength at a rate that depends on overall intensity, terrain, and forward speed. For example, in
2005, Hurricane Katrina made landfall and moved quickly inland over relatively flat terrain in the southern United States.
Hurricane force winds extended 200 miles (322 km) inland and tropical storm force winds were felt 400 miles (644 km)
from the coast. On the other hand, as storms encounter mountainous terrain, their strength can be quickly reduced.
Damage to infrastructure can be from both wind and flooding. Low-lying areas, such as barrier islands and river mouths,
can be severely affected by the combination of storm surge, heavy surf, and high winds. These areas are often heavily devel-
oped, resulting in costly damage. Wetlands are known to cushion the impact of tropical cyclones; however, wetlands are
often damaged or removed by development, leaving some areas even more vulnerable. Steep terrain, while reducing the
intensity of storms, also increases the rate of runoff from associated heavy rains, and often contributes to the incidence of
flash floods.
Tropical cyclones have been battering the world’s coasts for eons—long before human beings and their assets were present
to be affected. With a clear understanding that storm strikes are inevitable in vulnerable areas, strategies increasingly focus
on making infrastructure more resilient, and preparing for swifter response and recovery.

JUNE 2013 | 17
CONTINUING EDUCATION UNIT
American Meteorological Society. 2013. Glossary of Center. <www.spc.noaa.gov/misc/AbtDerechos/
Meteorological Terms. <http://glossary.ametsoc.org/ derechofacts.htm#strength>
wiki/Cyclone> Edwards, Roger. 2013. The Online Tornado FAQ.
Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology. Tornado, Storm Prediction Center: NOAA Storm Prediction
twister hurricane, tropical cyclone, typhoon – what’s Center. <www.spc.noaa.gov/faq/tornado>
the difference? <www.bom.gov.au/index.php>
Voiland, Adam. Hurricane Sandy: NASA’s Earth Obser- Geoff Kempter is Technical Services Manager for the
vatory. <www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/hurricanes/ Asplundh Tree Expert Co., where he spent seven years as an
archives/2012/h2012_Sandy.html> assistant storm coordinator. He has been an ISA Certified
Scientific American. 1999. Science Desk Reference. John Arborist since 1991, and recently received the TRAQ
Wiley and Sons, New York, New York, U.S. qualification from ISA. He also serves on the ISA Board
Johns, Robert H., Jeffry S. Evans, and Stephen F. Corfidi of Directors and the ASC A300 Accredited Standards
et al. 2012. About Derechos: NOAA Storm Prediction Committee, and is addicted to weather-related websites.

CEU QUESTIONS
Now you can take this quiz, and others, online for free! Visit the ISA website for more information (www.isa-arbor.com/education/
onlineLearning/ arbNewsQuizzes.aspx). If you need a username and password, send us an e-mail ([email protected]).
To receive continuing education unit (CEU) credit (1 CEU) for home study of this article, after you have read it, darken the appropriate circles
on the answer form of the insert card in this issue of Arborist News. (A photocopy of the answer form is not acceptable.) A passing score for this
test requires 16 correct answers.
Next, complete the registration information, including your certification number, on the answer form and send it to ISA, P.O. Box 3129,
Champaign, IL 61826-3129. Answer forms for this test, Storm Response Part 1: Types of Storms and Their Effects on Trees, may be sent for
the next 12 months.
If you do not pass the quiz, ISA will send you a retake answer sheet. You may take the quiz as often as necessary to pass. If you pass, you will not be
notified; rather, you will see the credit on your CEU report (available online). Processing CEUs takes four to six weeks.
CEUs for this article apply to Certified Arborist, Utility Specialist, Municipal Specialist, Tree Worker/Climber and Aerial Lift, and the
BCMA management category.

1. After a strong storm hits an area 4. Storm conditions 7. Saturated soils

a. some arboricultural safety rules a. increase loads and stress in trees a. are unhealthy due to high fat content
are suspended b. make trees more brittle b. reduce friction between roots and
b. fallen trees and branches must be c. do not damage structurally stable soil
removed to provide access to stricken and healthy trees c. do not affect the holding capacity
areas d. predominantly result in whole-tree of roots
c. trees must not be removed because failure d. result in failure at the trunk flare
they provide essential services
5. The accumulated weight of rain, 8. Generally, a government may issue a
d. trees that remain standing have
snow, and ice watch for storms when
proven that they are not hazardous
a. is minor in comparison to the a. conditions are favorable for a
2. For arborists, storm work is weight of the tree storm to occur
a. nothing more than a distraction b. is added to the load of the tree’s b. a storm is striking a nearby area
from scheduled work own weight c. immediate action is required
b. an opportunity to hike prices c. can only cause branch failure d. storms have dissipated, but may
c. impossible to prepare for because d. places the same amount of force redevelop
every storm is different on key stress points
9. Strategies for storm response
d. an opportunity to demonstrate
6. The load added by wind a. are pretty much similar for all
professional capabilities
a. is not a concern for inland areas types of storms
3. Leans, decay, girdling roots, and b. increases in a linear fashion as b. vary depending on what kinds of
poor branch attachments wind speed increases trees have failed
a. are defects that, if one or more are c. will strip leaves before trees and c. are dependent upon knowing how
present, require tree removal branches fail storms form, develop and move
b. are definite indicators of future d. is dampened by the varying d. are determined by government
failures lengths and sizes of branches agencies
c. seldom lead to tree or branch failure
d. are defects that develop over time


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10. A cyclone 14. Extratropical cyclones 18. An ice storm develops when
a. is another name for a tornado a. have stronger winds than tropical a. rain freezes before it lands
b. is like a tornado only much larger cyclones b. raindrops are supercooled when
c. is a large area of circulating, low b. never form from tropical cyclones falling through air below 32°F (0°C)
atmospheric pressure c. are large systems that are c. supercooled water forms from
d. only occurs in the tropics associated with many kinds of rapidly melting snowflakes
severe weather d. cold fronts collide with warm fronts
11. The type of storm known as a hurri-
d. are always formed from colliding
cane in North America is called a(n) 19. Heavy, wet snows
warm air masses
a. typhoon in the northwestern Pacific a. are more likely to damage
b. monsoon in India 15. The Enhanced Fujita scale evergreen trees than other kinds
c. extratropical cyclone in Australia a. characterizes the relative intensity of trees
d. typhoon in the eastern Pacific of typhoons b. do not damage evergreen trees
b. measures the wind speed of tornados because they are well-adapted
12. The Saffir-Simpson Scale is
c. weighs the impact of hurricanes c. are especially damaging to
a. used to rate tornado intensity
d. characterizes tornados according deciduous trees with leaves on
b. only used when storms are over
to their estimated strength d. are associated with extratropical
warm ocean waters
cyclones making landfall
c. not useful in planning response to 16. Thunderstorms
storms a. are most intense in southern climates 20. Chinook, Sanata Ana, Scirocco, and
d. one of several methods used to b. can generate straight-line winds in Nor’wester are names of
rate tropical cyclones around the excess of 120 mph (193 kph) a. cars
world c. cannot be forecasted because they b. fish
develop quickly c. winds
13. Tropical cyclones strengthen and
d. cannot spawn tornados if it is d. derechos
develop
raining
a. only near land with low coastlines
b. over warm, open water with 17. A widespread and long-lived complex
favorable atmospheric conditions of thunderstorms that travels a long
c. at the equator, then move north distance is called a
or south from there a. derecho
d. over flat, low-lying land, with b. southerly buster
devastating consequence c. straight-line wind
d. linear vortex

I N T R O D U C T I O N T O A R B O R I C U L T U R E

TREE PRUNING
CD-ROM
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best principles of pruning and the basic practices and
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The instructional disc allows self-paced users to dis-
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Earn four quizzes.
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JUNE 2013 | 19
 Just for Fun
;jgkkogj\Hmrrd]
By Chris Bechtel, Research Technician, Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories
Instructions: Read the clues and write the one-word answers into the spaces provided. This puzzle covers subjects such as worker safety
Zg]nmbebmrikngbg`'Ma^Zglp^kd^rmhmablblln^linsse^pbee[^in[ebla^]bgma^g^qmbglmZeef^gmh_Arborist News.


]
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]
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2013 North American
Tree Climbing Championship
April 27 and 28, 2013 Hosted by:

Thank You to Our Sponsors (sponsors as of 02/20/13)

Presenting Headline Sponsor/

Sponsor Master’s Challenge Event Sponsor

Congratulations to the 2013 NATCC

Champions:
Marilou Dussault, (Quebec Chapter) and
Cormac Nagan, (Southern Chapter).

International Society of Arboriculture

www.isa-arbor.com 
p. 217.355.941

[email protected]
 DETECTIVE DENDRO
THE DIAGNOSTIC SLEUTH
By Guy Meilleur

The Case of the

Fantastic Ficus
It was a shady day in Hong Kong, and the urban heard about a bus tour the next Sunday that would fea-
forest knew how to keep its secrets. But far below ture several specimens listed as OVTs, Old & Valuable
the towering canopy, rooted in the rhizosphere, Trees. I used most of our remaining discretionary funds
one man was still searching for solutions to trees’ to buy two tickets.
persistent mysteries: Detective Dendro, Arborsleuth. On Sunday morning we arrived early in hopes of get-
ting a good seat on the double-decker bus. Our host,
TM Two weeks of investigations in Hong Kong landscape architect Gavin Jacquets reviewed the chal-
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lenges of finding suitable plant material for traffic medi-
with the Asia Tree Police, Codit was intro- ans and maintaining huge trees that grew out of walls
duced to some amazing cases of exotic arbori- with nothing but pavement around them. “Today we
culture: Aleurites gone awry, Delonix playing have cockatoos with beaks that bite off branch tips one or
tricks, and the towering Bombax bamboozling all who two centimeters (0.35–0.7 inches) in diameter,” Gavin
viewed them. I went along for the ride, reviewing Codit’s began. “But just 9,000 years ago, a blink on the evolu-
cases with him along with some intense sightseeing in tionary time scale, flocks of much larger birds were clip-
forests rural and urban. One thing the sites in Hong Kong ping larger tips, and large herbivores were crashing into
had in common with other urban forests I’d visited was and grazing on trees.”
an uneven approach to pruning trees for management of Our minds were full after the tour, but our wallets,
size, risk, and health. BOE
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Sometimes they got it right, but more often there was lunch, and mentioned that two of his Ficus trees were
too little taken off or, most common, way too much. I busted up by typhoons the previous summer, Codit spoke
was looking hard for answers to the age-old pruning VQ
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question: How much is just enough? It was becoming a bring our climbing gear with us wherever we go, and we
Goldilocks-type obsession and I needed a break. Codit have loads of experience at restoration pruning after storms.
But we’ll need someone trained in safety procedures to work
along with us, if we are both climbing.” Codit sounded
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local safety standards and regulations as well as the Z133,
for the U.S.”
A local gent standing next to Gavin volunteered, “My
name is Lo Jau. I have the necessary training, and would
be pleased to assist from the ground.”
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and meet you in an hour.”
Backpacks stuffed with ropes and saddles, we trudged
up the winding path. At the top of the ridge were two
very different-looking trees, both with broken branches
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South Indian curry as Jau finished a game of chess with
Gavin. Then he showed us the trees.
“The dark-barked tree resembles Ficus fraseri, the sand-
Black ants nest in sunken areas in trunks and branches of smooth-marked ficus,
paper fig. The gray-barked tree you know as Ficus micro-
[ZgrZgmk^^l'Pa^gma^bkg^lmbl]blmkn[^]%ma^r\ZglpZkfhnm[rma^ang]k^]l' carpa, the banyan tree so overplanted in Hong Kong.”


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 “Yeah it’s everywhere,” Codit noted. “They’d be bor-
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sion on the lower branch?”
“It appears to be a nest of black ants,” Jau said. “They…”
“Say no more,” Codit said, rocking his throwbag back
and forth as he changed his aim. “I’ll take the sandpaper
fig; I’m not fond of insects. Beauty before age!”
Jau frowned; I wasn’t sure why, so I raised the binocu-
lars hanging around my neck and watched. Codit’s throw-
ball hit a wad of leaves high in the crown. “Hmmf, looks
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a good fork.”
I gave a puzzled look to Jau, who said, “Codit, you might
want to reconsider. The…”
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He footlocked up in his speedy style, while I opted to walk
up a long ladder into the low-branched banyan.
Tying in while Jau set up the ladder, I ascended and ?hebZ`^[eh\dlma^ob^ph_\hZlmebg^%l^Z%Zg]ldr'Ikhi^kerli^\b_b^]k^]n\mbhg
installed a redirect, walked a thick smooth limb, and ikngbg`hi^glma^ob^ppabe^fZbgmZbgbg`ma^mk^^la^Zema%lZ_^mr%Zg]]b`gbmr'
went to work with the polesaw. The work went smoothly
until Codit started hollering. I turned to see him swatting
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aggravating your condition. The clues are present in the
didn’t you tell me they call this tree ‘sandpaper’ because it’s colors on our chessboard, and in your mentor’s advice.”
itchy? Is it hairs on the leaves that makes it sting so?”
Jau suppressed a laugh, as if he anticipated these What’s the matter with Codit? Turn to page 60 to find out.
antics. “Perhaps an allergic reaction to the spicy lunch is

Knowledge is the tool we reach for every day.

Utility Arboriculture supports the TREE Fund.

Utility Arborist Research Fund Donors

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$UL]RQD3XEOLF6HUYLFH Power Source Alliance
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Knowledge is Power. Donate/Sponsor at www.treefund.org

+6/&

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23
 Pruning Near Utility Lines

U
By Edward F. Gilman

Utility companies and their contractors probably prune often includes only a portion of the tree crown, resulting
more trees than any other group of professionals. The util- in a one-sided crown after pruning. This complies with
ity company typically writes, or hires a company to write, UIF
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pruning specifications, and the contractor prunes trees are planted directly under wires, trees are pruned in a
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V-shaped form (Figure 1b).
contractors to prune trees to ensure safe, reliable service Ice, snow, and wind storms break trees and branches,
to their customers and to gain access to aboveground util- causing them to fall into wires. The number one cause of
ity structures. This practice is referred to as line clearance outage in some regions is trees outside the utility ease-
or utility pruning. The most obvious utility pruning ment falling across wires. Utility pruning within the ease-
includes clearing both power lines and communication ment focuses on removing branches that are dead, leaning,
cables. Homeowners, horticulturists, arborists, and other falling, cracked, diseased, poorly tapered, and those with
persons without electrical hazard awareness training must inclusions and other poor attachments. Certain species
leave this kind of work to a line clearance tree trimmer or are more prone to failure and could be treated differently
trainee. Call the utility company or a utility arborist to do than others. For more on these strategies, refer to chapters
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a utility line or conductor unless you have
the appropriate training. The utility easement

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12, 13, and 14 from An Illustrated Guide to Pruning (Third pruned with reduction and removal cuts were encour-
Edition). aged to grow away from wires to a certain extent. This
The following discussion addresses pruning in and was called directional or lateral pruning. In addition to
around urban and suburban areas of the United States. increasing service reliability, directional pruning could
These strategies may be impractical in rural areas. Trees reduce pruning costs by increasing the interval between
pruned with heading cuts generate sprouts that quickly pruning efforts, in some cases. Fewer sprouts emerge from
grow back into the wires. However, heading may be the directionally pruned trees because this type of pruning
only option when there are not sufficient lateral branches, conserves terminal buds on lateral branches (Goodfellow
when the tree is directly under the line, or when the tree et al. 1987). Pollarding and other forms of architectural
has been headed one or more times In the past, branches pruning are high-maintenance options that require regular
pruning and are rarely used.
Trees growing into wires from the side are pruned dif-
TIP: The best way to reduce pruning requirements
ferently from those under wires (Figure 2). Some utility
near utility wires is to plant only small trees nearby.
companies prune as shown in Option A, while others

+6/&

]
25
Pruning Near Utility Lines (continued)

prune less dramatically as in Option B. Only two pruning pruning (and so will cost more). However, the long-run
cuts were made in each example. The tree in Option B may cost of Option A could surpass Option B’s costs if a
need pruning again sooner than the tree in Option A, but severely decayed Option A tree fails and damages the
Option B results in less debris removal, less trunk decay, line—or worse, injures someone. Since this is likely to
and better aesthetics. Many people would hardly recog- result in litigation against the utility, customers could end
nize the tree was pruned. Option A can cause more trunk up paying more for Option A (This is largely hypothetical
decay because large branches or codominant stems were as there are few published studies.).
removed back to the trunk. Large branches and codomi- In lieu of Option A in Figure 2, if all lower branches
nant stems lack a branch protection zone at their base. must be removed back to the trunk on the wire side of the
Maintaining a tree as in Option B may require more frequent tree, reduce the branches as in Option B and remove them

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over two or three pruning cycles, not all at once. If more raises aesthetic concerns, and may be extremely damag-
than half of the foliage or current-year buds must be removed ing to the tree (Figure 3, Option C). Trees could have dif-
from a branch, or if sprouts will grow back into wires ficulty recovering gracefully from this type of pruning.
quickly, plan on removing the entire branch from the Removing all branches from one side of the tree at one
tree. Although there are many exceptions, some utility time is likely to initiate trunk decay and cracks and may
arborists attempt to make no more than three cuts to remove predispose the tree to sunscald, windthrow, or trunk fail-
most of the foliage required to clear the line of branches. ure. Bark often dies on the side of the tree facing the wires
This is not always possible, but provides a guideline to and roots can decline. Although trees pruned in this
work from. manner can remain standing for decades, some arborists
Lateral branches on trees near wires are sometimes would consider removing the trees if this type of pruning
headed to provide clearance (Figure 3, Option A). This is required. As an alternative, reduce the offending branches
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one back to the trunk at the next pruning cycle and a
quickly grow back into the wires, but they are also poorly third one the following time. This will stress the tree less
attached to the tree because the headed branches often than removing all of the branches at once. As good as this
crack and begin to decay. A much better alternative is a might be for the tree, it may not be practical in situations
combination of reducing some offending branches and where a contractor is pruning hundreds or thousands of
removing others back to the trunk (Figure 3, Option B). miles of rights-of-way.
Utility companies sometimes choose to remove all It should be apparent that line clearance is a difficult
overhanging branches from one side of the tree, depend- task. All techniques have drawbacks—some worse than
ing on the importance of the line and the tree species and others. Moving the wires to a location away from the trees
condition. Although this provides the most clearance, it is a possible solution in some cases, but is prohibitively

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27
Pruning Near Utility Lines (continued) remove. In some instances, wires can be placed under-
ground or moved away from the trees to allow trees to
expensive. Removing large trees near wires and replacing develop properly. However, high cost typically brings
them with small-maturing ones is a good low-maintenance pause to associations and communities considering this
alternative, but is expensive as well. Communities, utilities, option.
and contractors will continue to evolve programs designed
Literature Cited
to provide reliable electricity and communication lines with
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minimum impact on trees.
Tree growth response to line clearance pruning. Journal
Misunderstandings sometimes arise when property
of Arboriculture 8:196–200.
owners feel that their trees have been pruned inappropri-
ately or too severely by the line clearance contractor. Citizens
Edward F. Gilman is a professor of urban trees and land-
should contact the forester at the utility company, or the
scape plants with the University of Florida, Environmental
person in charge of line clearance pruning, to voice their
Horticulture Department (Gainesville, Florida).
concerns. Though sometimes mistakes are made, the con-
tractor should be following contract specifications as directed
This article was excerpted from An Illustrated Guide to Pruning
by the utility. In the U.S., most large utilities include the ɨJSE
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with permission from the author. For additional
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literature cited, photography references, or supporting
specifications, or they should. information, please source the original text.
Removing incompatible trees and replanting with a
small tree or large shrub is the best method of minimizing
pruning requirements near wires. It is the only sustain- Listen to more online
able option, for example, for palms growing within the www.isa-arbor.com/arborpod/
Science of Arboriculture
influence of wires, because palm leaves grow back quickly
when removed. Tree removal is rarely practical due to its Listen to Edward Gilman speak about the Effects
of Root Pruning and Planting Depth on Tree Health,
high cost. Pruning is considered more economical than Root Form, and Stability.
removal unless it costs as much or more to prune as to

Living on
the Edge
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he came across this little survivor (Pinus radi-
ata). The tree, no doubt having survived its fair
share of extraordinary weather and soil erosion,
certainly lends new meaning to the phrase,
“Hang in there.”


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Special Thank You to our 2013
$VLD3DFLÀF7UHH&OLPELQJ
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Hosted by

Gold Sponsor: Masters’ Sponsors: Event Sponsors:

Congratulations to the 2013

APTCC Champions Scott Forrest
(New Zealand) and Jessica Knott
(Australia). Scott and Jessica will
be competing at the 2013 ITCC in
Toronto, ON, Canada, August 3rd.

International Society of Arboriculture

www.isa-arbor.com 
p. 217.355.941

[email protected] +6/&

]
29
T
Our annual conference will be held in Toronto, Ontario,
Canada, this year. It’s a chance to get an international fla-
vor by visiting a city in another country, but with a peo-

O
ple whose customs and language are at once familiar to
Americans and more diverse than many single countries.
Toronto is a city of about 2.6 million people located
on the north shore of Lake Ontario. The Greater Toronto

R
Area has a population nearly twice that, and when driv-
ing in the area, it is difficult to determine where one city
stops and the next begins. Toronto spans approximately
26 miles (41.8 km) east to west and 13 miles (20.9 km)

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north to south. There are 190 miles (205.8 km) of creeks
and rivers within Toronto and 124 miles (199.6 km) of
biking and walking trails. The city boasts about 10 mil-
lion trees within its boundaries, of which approximately

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four million are publically owned.

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Porter Airlines operates a free shuttle
that provides service to our conference’s Ma^KhrZeHgmZkbhFnl^nf
host hotel.

O Traveling to Toronto is easy. Most visitors fly into

nearby Pearson International Airport, which is actually
located in the adjoining city, Mississauga. There is also a
regional airport, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport,
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located downtown on the Toronto Islands with service
from major U.S. cities, including Chicago, Illinois; Bos-
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hotel. You may also want to look into flying into Buffalo,
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you’re already downtown. Porter Airlines operates a free Be mindful when calculating your budget if you plan to
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that while buses do service Pearson, there is no train ser-
vice and your best bet getting to and from that airport

1
will be the shuttle, taxis, or limousines.
However you plan to get to Toronto, be sure to
remember that you will need a passport or equivalent,
valid travel document. This will be required to enter Can-

3
ada, so don’t leave that detail until the last minute. For
more information on entry requirements and what you are
permitted to bring into Canada, visit the Government of
Canada’s website (www.cic.gc.ca).
Once in Toronto, you will enjoy the benefits of a first-
class transit system, the Toronto Transit Commission.
Riders can get from one end of the city to the other at
very little expense. The city has subways, light rail street-
cars, and buses. An unlimited use day pass might be the
best option for getting around. You can plan your routes
online (http://ttc.ca).
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can check out the home stadium of Major League Base-
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Hall of Fame is also located in Toronto.


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Toronto’s cultural scene is robust and has a theater cir-

cuit similar to Broadway, even offering some of the same =SYVZMWMXXS8SVSRXS[MPPGSQIEXXLIXEMP
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dining and a wide variety of ethnic cuisines for every taste end of one of the largest Caribbean
top off Toronto’s multicultural experience. JIWXMZEPWMR2SVXL%QIVMGE
Visitors can also enjoy the Royal Ontario Museum,
the Ontario Science Centre, Toronto Zoo, and of course,
the Bata Shoe Museum. Families will enjoy Canada’s island is an attraction in itself, providing great views of
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the city skyline.
park attached and shopping to suit every price level. For Your visit to Toronto will come at the tail end of one
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high-end shopping concentrated along Bloor Street. known as Caribbanna. About a million visitors come to
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MPDB- Toronto for this festival, which culminates in a major
tion of this year’s International Tree Climbing Champi- parade on the Saturday of the ITCC. This will create a
onship. Between events, visit the beach, rent canoes or highly charged and exciting atmosphere downtown; it
bikes, take the kids to an old style amusement park spe- also means you should think about booking your rooms
cifically for the under-twelve set, enjoy a petting zoo, or as soon as possible, and that if you are planning to drive
simply stroll through the gardens. The ferry ride to the into town and arrive on Saturday, you may want to arrive
a day early—both to participate in the fun and to avoid
the traffic.
The ISA Ontario Chapter looks forward to hosting
you in Toronto. It will be an exciting place for the Annual
Toronto’s cultural scene is robust and has Conference, and we want to make it the best possible
EXLIEXIVGMVGYMXWMQMPEVXS&VSEH[E] experience for those of you joining us for the event.
Alastair Fyfe

+6/&

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31
 Skeleton Decay in
Eastern Red Cedar

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By Kevin T. Smith and Jessie A. Glaeser

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Juniperus virginiana) is a common tree reached by lumbermen or wildfire. On more fertile ground,
species throughout the eastern United States and the red cedar can grow to be large majestic trees and are most
Great Plains. Although “cedar” is in the common name, readily found as colonizers of former fields and pastures.
the scientific name shows a botanical kinship to the juni- Although not traditionally planted as a street or yard tree,
per species of the American southwest. Red cedar can red cedar is increasingly part of the community and
survive and thrive within a broad range of soil conditions, neighborhood forest as the urban interface extends into
seasonal temperature swings, and soil moisture. The old- former agricultural areas.
est red cedar trees are found on rocky escarpments and Most people know eastern red cedar because of the
the edges of cliffs. These are not necessarily big trees, but marvelous smell and the red-to-purple heartwood, his-
can reach 900 years of age or more in areas not easily torically used in cabinetry both for its beauty and for its
ability to repel moths and other insects. Pole-shaped trees
were frequently cut and used as fence posts at farms and
homesteads because they resisted decay, even with one
end buried in the soil. The color, aroma, and decay resis-
tance all come from chemicals produced during the bio-
logical transformation of tan- or cream-colored sapwood
into the purplish heartwood.
The decay resistance of red cedar does not mean immu-
nity from the decay process, as seen in this specimen from
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tree grow within the shell of an old snag that had been
hollowed out by decay, only to then die prematurely?
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heartwood. But why are we still seeing an outer shell?
Sapwood is quite susceptible to decay fungi, and one would
expect the sapwood to be long gone. Perhaps the shell is
actually another layer of decay-resistant heartwood? Heart-
wood is supposed to be in the center, and the sapwood is
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Understanding the process that lead to this example can
help the arborist explain what the client sees in his com-
munity and the countryside, a sure sign of competence
and professionalism.
Breaking Down Skeleton Decay
Recent research on wood quality and infection of red
cedar (Shortle et al. 2010) integrates internal processes of
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symplast, the network of living cell contents that extends pith, the tissues are bark, phloem (frequently and inaccu-
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and by active compartmentalization when injured and tree and the standing snag first remove the non-durable X
infected. Compartmentalization resists the loss of mois-
ture and the spread of infection through the formation of
chemical and anatomical boundaries (Smith 2006;
Schwarze 2008). In the living tree, wood decay generally
occurs within compartment boundaries. However, wounded
or killed sapwood has little natural resistance to wood decay.
As the stem increases in diameter and matures, sap-
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grammed death of living sapwood cells (Figure 2B). This
programmed cell death involves a shift in metabolism to
produce the chemicals that contribute to the color,
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Mechanical injury to the stem exposes sapwood to
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neer and wood decay fungi (Figure 2C). As living cells in
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the wood changes in biological properties. These biologi-
cal alterations are frequently accompanied by changes in
wood color. Injury can have many sources: broken
branches or snapped crowns from wind, ice, or snow;
fire; insect and woodpecker damage; or the falling of
neighboring trees. In the urban forest, wounds are com-
mon from vehicles, lawn mowers, and weed trimmers.
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kZ]Zmbhgh_lZiphh]Z_m^kmk^^]^Zma'

I N T R O D U C T I O N T O A R B O R I C U LT U R E

Plant Health Care CD-ROM

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process and provides information for recognizing signs and symptoms of tree disorders.
#CD1013
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TJY Retail Price: $69.95 To order, call 1-888-ISA-TREE or
ISA Member Price: $59.95 visit us online at www.isa-arbor.com/store
$&6T

+6/&

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33
Skeleton Decay in Eastern Red Cedar (continued)

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wood fragments from weathering or by animal excava-
tion, aided by wood decay fungi. On the interior of the
shell (Figure 4), we can see a series of small, cube-shaped
blocks, sharply broken across the grain, indicative of
brown rot. Fungi associated with cubical brown rot of east-
ern red cedar include Fomitopsis cajanderi (also known as
Fomes subroseus) and Antrodia juniperina (also known as
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brown rot residue. Sadly, this tree from Missouri is no lon-
ger standing, probably carried away by flooding of the
Meramec River. Still, the broken trunk provides us with
an excellent example of a complex wood decay process that
occurs in many tree species.
Literature Cited
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Australia. 336 pp.
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colored wood of eastern red cedar. Holzforschung
64:529–536. <www.nrs.fs.fed.us/pubs/35488>
?b`nk^-'Mabl\ehl^&nih_ma^ld^e^mhgiZmm^kglahplma^^f[^]]^][kZg\a Smith, K.T. 2006. Compartmentalization today. Arbori-
[Zl^lbgma^a^Zkmphh]Zg]ma^\n[b\Ze[khpgkhm!Zkkhpl"%ebd^er_hkf^] cultural Journal 29:173–184. <www.nrs.fs.fed.us/
_khfma^_hkf^kPB=' pubs/8529>

Kevin T. Smith is a supervisory plant physiologist for the Northern Research Station, U.S. Forest Service, in Durham, New Hampshire.
Jessie A. Glaeser is a research plant pathologist and team leader of the Center for Forest Mycology Research, U.S. Forest Service, in Madison, Wisconsin.


]
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Book Review
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By Jason Grabosky, associate professor, Urban Forestry, Rutgers University

In the new book, Urban Tree Health: A Practical and Precise Estimation Method
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a repeatable method to observe and evaluate trees in field situations. The text organization gives a full treatment to the logic and
organization of the method, which has been developed over several lectures, conferences, and publications. One of a series of volumes
in the Visual Identification series through Urban Forestry, LCC, this work rests on an effective format to use concise text and clear
captioning of high quality figures. The book is systematically organized with text on the left page and captioned image(s) on the
facing page to lead the reader quickly through concepts and into use in the field. As a result, the concepts and approach become organiza-
tionally locked into a strict hierarchy, further helping the reader stay organized through the method’s procedural steps. This technique
leads to effective self-training or rapid understanding to train others. The book is printed on a durable paper with spiral binding,
positioning the booklet well for use in the field. Furthermore, the business card sized “field health card” provides handy rating cues,
and the data collection application further enables professionals to accept and develop the method for local use.
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provides a method that is certainly repeatable by an individual, and replication between observers is easily developed. In classes,
this book’s approach works as both a teaching tool to develop larger discussions and as a rapid method of developing management
decision-support data. The organizational style and cogent text is also welcome, since the topic of judging tree health could easily
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author explains the underlying logic of the method and enables adjustments for more detailed observation rankings or omitted
categories, if deemed necessary. However, the author uses broad categories over detailed measures for reliable, rapid, and verifiable
reporting on the health condition of a tree.
There is a familiarity to this approach, given the obvious linkages to the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Inventory Analysis (FIA) protocols.
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consistent across the multiple observation categories. The result is a quickly adoptable approach and allows for clear association
to large foundations of forest health literature. Additionally, there is a clear and easily integrated final determination that can be
inserted into appraisal value and risk appraisal methods. Indeed, this method could also be used to refine and inform i-Tree model
and value outputs with some additional attention from the research community and widespread training for inventory data col-
lection teams. An obvious limitation in modeling would likely center on the reversal of some observation categories to simplify
the health determination if FIA data and associated models are relied upon within
i-Tree programs.
As a relatively new method, there is the obvious issue of developing an interpreta-
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observation and learning, there is the lack of general benchmarking to really
anchor both expected values and interpretation of what values might be consid-
ered acceptable or problematic across species and growth stages within species. Time
and use will provide such baselines, if there is an organized effort to do so across
regions, through universities or trade organizations. Also, there is a grey area of
interpretation of the Vitality score, assuming one can tell recent dieback from
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method in the absence of biological training, and some additional experience, to
bring to bear in the interpretation.
Although the book might benefit from tabs to provide easy section references
while working through the method in early training, the book is incredibly functional
and easily used by the practicing professional. It certainly provides a method for field
personnel to raise their awareness and provide an objective, repeatable method for
a higher level of professional practice. This book will likely generate conversation and
debate, shifting the discussion on how arborists and urban forestry professionals look
at trees and both judge and communicate tree health in daily operations.

+6/&

]
35
 Tobe Sherrill an early model Apple Macintosh in 1991—marked a turn-
ing point in gear accessibility for professional tree workers.
Millard F. Blair
Since the introduction of the catalog, more and more
Award for Exceptional people rely on SherrillTree’s products with their lives.
Contribution to Practical This sounds like a weighty estimation, but it’s true. It’s
Arboriculture, 2012 also true that Sherrill and his staff’s continuous focus on
Let’s go shopping. Let’s say you promoting safe work practices has had a positive effect in
need a few things—specific things the quality of arboriculture and tree climbing performed
—to upgrade your gear. You’re on daily.
the hunt for a climbing saddle— For example: ropes. Are you familiar with the different
one that’s durable, comfortable, has a decent manufacturer construction types, material types, and rope diameters?
guarantee, and is rope-walking compatible. You’re also on Getting the job done like a pro means, in part, you’re trained
the hunt for some new pulleys—maybe looking for a better and knowledgeable on the advantages and disadvantages
way to differentiate your climbing gear from your rigging of all the ropes you use. The catalog is not a replacement
gear. And let’s face it, the seasons have changed—you don’t for hands-on teaching by a certified instructor, but what
use the same gloves in the summertime that you use in the if you still have questions about the practical stretchiness
wintertime, right? or “knotability” of one rope over another? Sherrill’s catalog
Usually, your knowledge and experience will have you will give you some tips, complete with diagrams, charts,
prepared well ahead of time. Other times, depending on and detailed product descriptions based on the compa-
who calls, you may not know what you need for a job OZT
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until you set foot on someone’s front lawn. In either case, build a climbing system that matches your individual
when the need arrives, where do you go to get your stuff? climbing style.
Affordably, one presumes. The catalog is smartly designed and has become an
One option is the SherrillTree catalog (www.SherrillTree. invaluable resource to tree care workers and recreational
com), an established retail hub full of equipment and gear climbers in rural areas where exposure to industry publi-
for arborists that has been around more than twenty years. cations or popular retail depots is less frequent. This com-
Tobe Sherrill, of Sherrill, Inc., has dutifully guided the munal value is critical to note because it highlights the
company’s expectations when it comes to using said cata- greater, service-oriented mindset espoused by Sherrill.
log as a means to bolster the knowledge base of profes- *4"T
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sional and recreational climbers and tree workers worldwide. bution to Practical Arboriculture recognizes Tobe Sherrill’s
SherrillTree sells everything from hands-free two-way radios influence in nurturing a safer, better-informed, and more
to thermal underpants, but it’s not just the variety the cat- ergonomically conducted profession. As an individual,
alog offers that’s important, it’s the company’s longstanding Sherrill is an avid outdoor enthusiast, whose personal
history of ensuring that every prospective customer is edu- support of professional development and of competitive
cated and informed. The legacy of Sherrill’s SherrillTree and educational climbing events goes a long way toward
catalog doesn’t necessarily rest with the colorful illustrations putting a personal touch on just about everything his
and lengthy product descriptions, it’s in the company’s empha- company sells.
sis on arborist safety, the education of proper product use SherrillTree has been in business for more than fifty
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years. And along the way has aided with clean-up follow-
at a new gizmo’s thumbnail photo and gloss over the pric- ing disaster events, patiently invested in new product
ing info. Know and understand how the product might development, sponsored tree interest groups and associa-
impact your traditional work cycle or modify your personal tions, and built awareness of the benefits of trees (and of
work experience. the men and women who care for them).
Last year, Tobe Sherrill was honored with ISA’s Millard
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Arboriculture. Sherrill has been in service to the arbori-
culture community for many years, particularly through
the company his father established in 1960. His develop-
ment and publication of the first SherrillTree catalog—via


]
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 P. Eric 8IFUIFS
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man’s commitment to arboriculture and urban forestry is
Early-Career Scientist a blessing, and many of his fellow researchers agree that
Award, 2012 his continued dedication and interests are benefitting more
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and more people. One of his current projects includes
is reserved for individuals who understanding the influence of tree form and placement
not only “show exceptional prom- on shading and home energy conservation.
ise” in their work as it relates to 8JTFNBO
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modern arboriculture research, Society of Arboriculture. He is an ISA Certified Arborist
but also for men and women with a commanding grasp and professional member, and he is also a member of the
of how important it is to synthesize this research for audi- "SCPSJDVMUVSF
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testing tree physiology in response to arboriculture prac-
thumbprints include a demonstration of and research on tices or exploring the use of tree inventory and assessment
overhead utility compatible trees, a close observation of TPGUXBSF
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emerald ash border’s effects on the function and value of an exceptional scholar. "t/
Virginia’s municipal trees, and a syllabus-based review of
collegiate arboriculture course content in the United States.
From comparing soil carbon dynamics in residential lawns
and unmanaged forests to using urban tree canopy cover
assessments to implement conservation strategies, his knack
for discerning the needs of those in urban forest manage-
ment is very diverse.
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riculture (e.g., arborist safety, young tree pruning) and Arborists in
urban forest policy (e.g., urban forest law, the “human
dimensions” of urban forestry). He also teaches the prin-
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of the Virginia Big Tree Program.

+6/&

]
37
SCIENCE AND RESEARCH COMMITTEE NEWS

Innovation, Research,
Knowledge, Results:
A look at the importance of research
to utility arboriculture
By Ward Peterson

improvements that make a large difference to both the

success of the project and the cost to stakeholders, in the
long run.
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arboriculture; ideas that made a difference to our work
and our lives. So picture what your day would be like with-
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tion creates ingenuity. It is these small changes over time
that make a substantial difference in how we do things, the
amount of effort that it takes to accomplish our tasks,
and the results that we achieve.
Some of the projects and topics that utilities have
researched include:
t
Branch failure – where and how do branches fail
t
Branch reduction pruning – similar results in pro-
tection can be achieved by shortening a branch as
by removing it
“Without continual growth and progress, such words as improve- t
Urban forest age/demographics – many of the
ment, achievement, and success have no meaning.” (Benjamin trees in a community are of a similar age and may
Franklin) become overmature at the same time
The goal of arboricultural research is to continually t
Advantages of proactive management – the best
test, grow, and improve new processes for the care of trees. and least expensive ways to care for trees is before
These processes then lead to the tools with which we can they have a big problem
build arboricultural successes in the future. Utility arbori- t
Right Tree, Right Place – many, if not most, tree
culture, as a specialized arm of arboriculture, uses these problems come from the wrong tree for its location
tools to ensure reliable energy is available for our t
Hazard tree guidelines – Hazardous tree reduction
communities. strategies
Specifically, research in utility arboriculture finds ways t
Vegetation management and biodiversity – in this
to care for and maintain trees to protect power lines. These case, 60 years of applied field research shows how to
same lessons can be used to learn how to protect other promote desirable plants and animals in maintained
valuable assets, such as vehicles and homes. areas
The scale of utility arboriculture operations provides a t
Tree climber ergonomics – protecting arborists along
laboratory that accentuates problems and solutions. Observ- with trees
ing a process or approach on a large population of trees, for t
Advanced tree-trimming equipment – searching for
example, allows a small difference in results to become more potential methods that may improve the tools that
obvious. Those small differences may produce incremental we use


]
"3#03*45t/&84
]
www.isa-arbor.com
 So how do we judge what is important? How do we
know what improvements should be made or what the
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vation and what will make the greatest difference to our
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tree care employees who desire safer and easier techniques
for tree care or operations personnel looking to reduce
costs and speed up program results.
The Utility Arborist Association Research Committee
uses this process to focus research efforts. They want to
identify the most important research topics, generate support
from a greater number of sponsors (reducing the cost to
each) for those projects, and get the research completed
faster and more efficiently. They accomplish this goal through
a prioritization process that involves all UAA members.
Recently the top five projects were:
1. #FOFëUT
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nomic business cases for Utility Vegetation Manage-
ment (UVM) on a preventive versus corrective
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VM practices and service reliability, and can it be
quantified?
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pruning?
3. How should we determine the cost value of
removing a danger tree.
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an optimal Preventative Maintenance cycle period. research. Through continued testing, improvement, and
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research growth we can uncover the next big thing, or
preserving and connecting habitats for threatened simply the next spark of ingenuity, in the tree care industry.
and endangered species, preserving biodiversity,
and managing invasive plants?
Ward Peterson is the manager of utility
Arborists are expected to provide better safety from and urban resources with Davey Resource
trees and utility lines. Citizens have an overall concern for Group.
trees, and fewer, shorter power outages. The public wants
to see more trees pruned less.
The absolute best way to position ourselves to meet
these expectations is to continue to pursue arboricultural

Guide for Plant Appraisal, 9th Edition

Authored by the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers, Guide for Plant Appraisal, 9th Edition is the
professional plant appraiser’s how-to manual for determining size, species, condition, and location fac-
\WZ[\PI\QVÆ]MVKM\PM^IT]MWN XTIV\[6W\WVTaQ[Q\IVQV^IT]IJTM[W]ZKMNWZM[\IJTQ[PQVO\PMM^IT]I\QWVWN 
plant casualties, but the book is also a reference for real estate transactions, insurance purposes, plant con-
LMUVI\QWVIK\QWV[IVL\ZMMQV^MV\WZQM[
+PIX\MZ[WN \PMJWWS[XMKQÅKITTaLQ[K][[XTIV\PMIT\PIVL[\Z]K\]ZITQV\MOZQ\aI[\PMaZMTI\M\W[XMKQM[
KWVLQ\QWV#TWKI\QWVIVLXTIKMUMV\I[\PMaNIK\WZQV\WIXXZIQ[ITZI\QVO[#IVLIVW^MZ^QM_WN \PMM\PQK[
Y]ITQÅKI\QWV[IVL[\IVLIZL[WN XZIK\QKMZMY]QZMLNWZXZWNM[[QWVIT\ZMMWZXTIV\IXXZIQ[MZ[1\MU8!
[WN\KW^MZXX
Guide for Plant Appraisal Workbook
A highly recommended learning tool, this workbook is designed to accompany
IXXZIQ[IT UM\PWL[ =[M \PQ[ _WZSJWWS NWZ XZIK\QKIT M`XMZQMVKM _WZSQVO \PZW]OP
sample appraisal problems as well as using calculations necessary for determining
M^IT]I\QWV[1\MU?!XX
To order: 1-888-ISA-TREE / www.isa-arbor.com/store

+6/&

]
39
CLIMBERS’ CORNER sponsored by

Workplace Safety and

Electrical Hazard Awareness
By Sharon Lilly

a program designed to prevent accidents. Safety

precautions must be built into every task performed
by tree workers. A small investment of time in
safety training can save a great deal in downtime,
insurance, injuries, and damages.
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that communication between climbers and ground
workers is paramount for a safe and successful
day. Good communication is an integral part of
working safely, as there is little margin for error.
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what the others are doing, and each must take
measures to prevent accidents.
There must be a clear and efficient means of
communication between climbers and ground
workers so that each knows when it is safe for a
ground worker to enter the work zone, including
the landing zone or drop zone, where branches are
being dropped or lowered to the ground.
The voice command-and-response system ensures
that warning signals are heard, acknowledged,
and acted upon. The climber warns, “Stand clear,”
but does not proceed until hearing the acknowledg-
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on the job, reduce confusion by assigning one
person to respond to the climber after ensuring that
the area is clear and safe. There are times when it
may be difficult for workers to hear each other. In
these cases, hand signals can be used as well.
Part of effective communication is making
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should begin with a briefing that coordinates the
activities of every worker. The job briefing sum-
marizes what has to be done and who will be per-
forming each task, the potential hazards and how
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fession if proper care and safety measures are not followed. be required. All workers must have a clear understanding
Safety must always be the first concern. Safety is more than of the communication system that will be used. The on-
using special equipment, wearing appropriate gear, or attend- site supervisor should formulate and communicate the
ing occasional meetings. Safety is an attitude. It is an ongo- work plan. There should be no confusion about assignments
ing commitment at every level. Safety requires a conscious and the work should be well coordinated. Teamwork is
recognition of potential hazards and the development of essential on a tree crew.


]
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]
www.isa-arbor.com
 General safety at the
worksite begins with
proper training. All
workers must be ade-
quately trained for their
work requirements, and
be aware of all applica-
ble safety regulations.
Employers must ensure
that all workers under-
stand the safety require-
ments. They must
instruct their employees
in the proper use of all
equipment and require

BRYAN KOTWICA
that all safe working
practices be followed.
It is very important for
employers to document
all training. Employers who promote workplace safety know that communication between climbers and ground workers is para-
It is recommended, mount for a safe and successful day. Good communication is an integral part of working safely.
and required in some
regions, that all tree workers receive training in first aid is a climber in a tree, there should be a second worker on
and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. In addition, an approved site who is capable of performing an aerial rescue, if nec-
and adequately stocked first-aid kit must be provided on essary. Many companies practice aerial rescue procedures
each truck. All employees must be instructed in the use of on a regular basis. Practice will improve efficiency and
first-aid kits and in emergency procedures. Emergency phone skills, and will reduce the chance of panic and a second
numbers should be posted in the truck and added to the accident in the event of an actual emergency.
contact list on everyone’s cell phone. At the beginning of All employees must be instructed in the identification
a job, it is a good idea to remove the first-aid kit and a cell of common poisonous plants, such as poison ivy, poison
phone from the truck for accessibility, in the event the oak, and poison sumac. Training should include preven-
truck becomes energized. tive measures, as well as treatment following exposure.
All crew members must be trained in emergency response Workers must also be trained in techniques for dealing
procedures. Each individual must know what to do in an with stinging or biting insects and with vertebrates that
emergency situation. All climbers should be trained and could be encountered in trees.
capable of carrying out an aerial rescue. Whenever there Trucks should be equipped with a fire extinguisher, and
all employees should be trained in its use. Refuel gasoline-
powered equipment only after the engine has been stopped.
Any spilled fuel should be removed before starting. Do
not start or operate the equipment within 10 feet (3 m)
of the refueling site. Smoking must be prohibited when
handling or working around any flammable liquid. Flam-
mable liquids must be stored, handled, and dispensed
from approved safety containers and kept separate from
all ropes and equipment.
Gas cans must always be placed on the ground before
they are filled; otherwise, static electricity can build and
arc, starting a fire or explosion. Never fill gas cans in the
back of pickup trucks or trunks of cars.
Another very important safety consideration is traffic
BRYAN KOTWICA

control. (Note: In the United States, refer to the Manual

of Uniform Traffic Control Devices). Effective means for
control of pedestrian and vehicular traffic must be insti-
tuted on every job site. This may include safety cones,
An approved and adequately stocked first-aid kit must be pro-
vided on each truck. All employees must be instructed in the use warning signs, barriers, and flags. It is the legal responsi-
of first-aid kits and in emergency procedures. bility of work crews to “secure the work zone” to make

JUNE 2013 | 41
Climbers’ Corner (continued) adequate and documented training in electrical hazard
safety awareness. Workers must receive proper training in
electrical hazard tree work procedures to perform tree work
in proximity to electrical conductors. Employers are required
to certify this training.
An electrical conductor is defined as any overhead or
underground electrical device, including communication
wires and cables, power lines, and related components and
facilities. All such lines and cables must be considered
energized with potentially fatal voltages.
Every tree worker shall be instructed that a direct contact
is made when any part of the body contacts an energized
conductor or other energized electrical fixture or apparatus.
An indirect contact is made when any part of the body
touches any conductive object in contact with an energized
conductor. An indirect contact can be made through con-
ductive tools, tree branches, trucks, equipment, or other

BRYAN KOTWICA
conductive objects, or as a result of communication wires
or cables, fences, or guy wires becoming energized.

Never fill gas cans in the back of pickup trucks or trunks of cars.

sure that no individuals or vehicles pass under trees where

tree work is in progress and to ensure the safety of the
workers. Traffic control devices used in tree operations
must conform to the applicable federal, state, or provincial
regulations. Traffic control procedures must follow federal
transportation administration standards and guidelines.
Electrical Hazard Awareness
Before performing tree work on any site, an inspection
must be made to determine whether any electrical hazards
exist. An electrical hazard exists when there is a risk of

BRYAN KOTWICA
injury or death associated with direct or indirect contact with
an electrical conductor. All tree workers should receive

Direct contact is made when any part of the body contacts

an energized conductor or other energized electrical fixture
or apparatus.

Electric shock occurs when a tree worker—by either

direct or indirect contact with an energized conductor,
energized tree limb, tool, equipment, or other object—
provides a path for the flow of electricity from a conductor
to a grounded object or to the ground itself. Simultane-
ous contact with two energized conductors also causes
electric shock that may result in serious or fatal injury.
Footwear, including those with electrical resistant
soles and lineman’s overshoes, shall not be considered as
providing any measure of protection from electrical haz-
ards. Rubber gloves, with or without leather or other pro-
A small investment of time in safety training can save a great deal in downtime, tective covering, must not be considered as providing any
insurance, injuries, and damages. measure of protection from electrical hazards.


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 Electrical tools (except those with a self-contained power Sharon Lilly is ISA’s director of educational goods and services.
source) must never be used in trees near an energized elec-
trical conductor when there is a possibility of the power This article was adapted from the
cord contacting the conductor; tool operators must use third edition of Tree Climbers’ Guide Listen to more online
tools in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions. third edition, which is available at www.isa-arbor.com/arborpod/
ArborViews
When tools are used aloft, an independent line or lanyard the ISA web store (www.isa-arbor.
should support the electrical tool. Operators should pre- com/store). Listen to Matthew Palmer speak about how
trees affect safety and reliability of distribution
vent cords from becoming entangled or coming in con- of electrical powerlines on the episode Visual
tact with water. Tree Assessment for Electricity Reliability.

Using a Mobile Device to

Collect Tree Data

A
By Jerry Bond

Although I use a dedicated data collector for large proj- Use

ects, I like to avoid charging, setting up, and carrying that t
The form’s operation is self-explanatory: swipe to
equipment for small jobs, where its advanced features are change pages; tap or write to enter data.
time-consuming and unnecessary. I always have my cell t
After data collection is done, link device to host
phone (Android™ platform) charged and with me, and have computer.
since explored how it could be used. t
Open the Briefcase to upload your data and save it
In this short article I only outline a method that can for use in a spreadsheet.
be used for mobile devices using the same platform; details
Web Resources
are available on the Open Data Kit website (described
t
Open Data Kit (http://opendatakit.org/)
herein). You don’t need to be a computer wiz to use this
t
ODK Collect (http://opendatakit.org/use/
method. All you need is a basic familiarity with computers
collect/)
and willingness to experiment a bit. At present, the under-
t
ODK Briefcase (http://opendatakit.org/use/
lying software only works on an Android-enabled device.
briefcase/)
Requirements t
ODK Help (http://groups.google.com/group/
t
An Android smartphone or tablet (including the opendatakit)
Kindle Fire®) t
Sample forms
t
Familiarity with loading files onto your phone via t
http://code.google.com/p/opendatakit/source/
cable, Wi-Fi, or the Cloud browse?repo=forms
t
www.urbanforestanalytics.com/Android
Setup
t
Install free app “ODK Collect” on device from I have found this method of mobile data collection to
Google Play or directly from the Open Data Kit be very fast. For instance, it definitely speeds up the use
website. of methods espoused in ISA’s Best Management Practices:
t
Create a data collection form in a browser using Tree Risk Assessment. Furthermore, the ability to take pic-
drag-and-drop methods, working with a Micro- tures, measure height, and record GPS location using the
soft® Excel® template or writing the xml code. device (quality will vary by device and situation) simpli-
There are also existing forms that you can down- fies things greatly.
load for testing.
t
Transfer data collection form, and any associated Jerry Bond is an ISA Certified Arborist and principal con-
images, over to mobile device. sultant with Urban Forest Analytics LLC. (Geneva, NY).
t
Install the data retriever “ODK Briefcase” on host
computer (works on all platforms).

JUNE 2013 | 43
Knowledge of advanced tree biomechanics is important to researchers and practitioners alike. How much decay is too much decay? Where are
current discussions on risk assessment and likelihood of failure? Researchers at Biomechanics Research Week will work to answer these questions,
and countless others, as they relate to tree structure and stability.

Tree Strengths:
A Week Under the Microscope
Biomechanics Research Week 2013

U
By Ward Peterson

Knowledge of advanced tree biomechanics will make a The first Biomechanics Research Week was held in
difference if we 2010. At the time, it was a new concept, maybe even a
t
depend on trees to hold us when we are working wild idea: bring researchers to a central location and provide
(for safe operations) them with everything that they need to do quality
t
assure people that the tree is strong enough and research for a whole week. A stimulating discussion fol-
will not pose significant risk to others (for better lowed, and various collaborations shifted into gear, aim-
risk evaluations) ing to solve many questions related to the mechanics and
t
help others keep the trees strong and healthy stability of urban trees. We finished the week with a sym-
(for stronger, longer-lived trees) posium that allowed practicing arborists to visit the site,


]
"3#03*45t/&84
]
www.isa-arbor.com
see the research in process, and hear the researchers explain t
Response growth: how much is needed, and what
their research and results. are the differences in strength?
The researchers had projects and experiments designed
Researchers, climbers, and technicians will be coming
to learn more about what makes a tree strong. They
from locations such as Australia, Canada, Czech Repub-
brought these projects, along with other ideas, creativity, and
lic, Germany, and from throughout the United States.
energy to the Davey Tree Research Farm near Kent, Ohio.
The research developed during the week is based upon
Plans are in place to repeat Biomechanics Research
collaboration and synergy. A strong team of sponsors has
Week this year (August 12–19). Based on the feedback from
committed to making the week successful. Many of the
our first Biomechanics Research Week and the excitement
sponsors made the first research week possible and felt
that has grown since, it will be another spectacular and
that the effort was productive enough to lend their sup-
productive week of research. A number of projects were
port again this year.
started in 2010 with the intent of collecting data and
The International Society of Arboriculture and Davey
results in 2013. Researchers have been planning addi-
are grateful for this event’s generous sponsors: the TREE
tional projects that they want to explore. New equipment
Fund, the Utility Arborist Association, the ISA Ohio
and technologies, such as 3D photogrammetry for strain
Chapter, the Canadian TREE Fund, Rinntech, the Arbo-
determination and LIDAR for computer modeling, will
ricultural Research and Education Academy, BioCompli-
be available on site.
ance Consulting, Inc., and Busy Bee Services, Ltd.
This international collaboration of biomechanics
researchers will tackle tree structure and strength ques-
Ward Peterson is the manager of utility
tions. The Biomechanics Research Week provides research-
and urban resources with Davey Resource
ers with tools, resources, technicians, climbers, and support
Group.
so that they can focus on questions that will improve our
understanding of what makes a tree strong and when its
strength is compromised. The research will be conducted
August 12–16, 2013, the week following the ISA Annual
Conference & Trade Show. The two-day symposium,
which is open to the public, will be held Thursday and
Friday, August 15–16; please check the ISA website for
registration information (www.isa-arbor.com, search “Work-
shops and Symposia”).
Objectives of Biomechanics Research Week are:
t
Support meaningful research in the field of
biomechanics
t
Encourage collaboration with participants both at
the site and afterward
t
Allow participants to learn new techniques and
test new equipment that will enhance their future
research efforts
t
Generate new ideas for biomechanics research
t
Give practicing arborists an opportunity to conduct
research with industry experts
t
Allow arborists interested in biomechanics research
to attend a public symposium, visit the research
site, and learn from participating researchers
Some research questions, as suggested by participants
at the recent TREE-Fund-sponsored symposium on tree
risk and biomechanics, include:
t
What is the relationship between root structure or
architecture and tree stability?
t
Can we correlate visual defects with likelihood of
failure?
t
Decay: how much is too much?
t
How do forces or energy move through a tree?
t
Can we reduce the likelihood of failure through
crown or branch reduction?

JUNE 2013 | 45
ISA MEMBER NEWS
J. van Baast, HAAREN EH Kevin Chun Kit Ho
The Membership Committee would like to welcome the J.B. Sijtsma, GIETEN BP King Lun Samuel Ma
following new members into ISA. Becoming a member is J.H. Hogendoorn, LEERSUM MB Lawrence Kung Wai Cheung
a personal declaration and recognition of your professional J.J.A. van Vliet, ROZENDAAL BG Shan Wing Yeung
values, and we congratulate you on your choice. Jasper Lock, BELLINGWOLDE AJ Siu Lai Yip
Jorn Beerendonk, HOORNSTERZWAAG Wing Ting Antonia Ko
Atlantic SM Wong Ka Yu
Andrew Ostrander, WOLFVILLE NS L Jacobs, STAMPROY EB Yan Wai Tsang
James Clarke, SYDNEY RIVER NS M Gerritts, VIERLINGSBEEK EA Illinois
Justin Poirier, DIEPPE NB Mike Ubbink, TER AAR NC Amber Lynn Lynch, OAK FOREST IL
Kelly Gaulton, ST JOHNS NL N ten Cate, ARNHEM DA Daniella K. Pereira, CHICAGO IL
Australia S. Gijsberts, ALMERE GG Frank R. Palumbo, WOOD DALE IL
Corey Smith, THORNBURY VIC San van der Molen, UTRECHT HP Jared Daniel Murphy, CARBONDALE IL
Craig Vindin, ROCKDALE NSW T. van der Wiel, HAARLEM AD Jason Shirar, CARBONDALE IL
Mark M Corea, WANTIRNA VIC T.C. Hillekens, EINDHOVEN JH Keith J. Klismith, MAHOMET IL
Peter Brocksopp, ADELAIDE SA Vincent Paulissen, VELP GLD HR Krais Naderhoff, MACOMB IL
Thomas William Crosthwaite, PERE- Florida Mike Messenger, MACOMB IL
GIAN BEACH QLD Adrian Mario Adler, SOUTHWEST Morris Vos, MACOMB IL
Austria RANCHES FL Naoto Kumazawa, CHICAGO IL
Alexandra Rudolf, LAMGENZERSDORF Brian J Workman, OCOEE FL Nicholas Day, CHICAGO IL
NIEDERÖSTERREICH Chris M Wright, PARRISH FL Rachel Breese, CARBONDALE IL
Andreas Jakel, WIEN WIEN Daniel Mario Adler, SOUTHWEST Robert D. Kerpec, VOLO IL
Christoph Schweitzer, WIEN WIEN RANCHES FL Samuel Flynn, CARLOCK IL
Erwin Palnstorfer, BERGHEIM Denis R Colindres, CLEARWATER FL Stacey Haynes, OAK PARK IL
SALZBURG Edwin Tyler Chappell, POMPANO Steven F Lipkie, PALOS HILLS IL
Franz Fruhwirth, HASELSDORF BEACH FL Tyler Richolson, DAVIS JUNCTION IL
TORELBAD Frank Michael Pollard, ORLANDO FL Indiana
Stefan Gieselbrecht, LANGEN Frederick Paul Koehler, HALLANDALE Alex Thompson, WEST LAFAYETTE IN
VORARLBERG FL Bridget Chandler, FISHERS IN
Gabriel O. Paredes, WINTER PARK FL Claudia Maria Coleoni,
Belgium James Hodgdon, MARCO ISLAND FL
J. Miegielsen, MOLENSTEDE BLOOMINGTON IN
John A. Korycki, THE VILLAGES FL Eric B Bitner, JEFFERSONVILLE IN
Jon Rouvrois, HEVERLEE John Rivera, SOUTHWEST RANCHES
S. Decavele, AALTER Joseph Cogswell, LONG BEACH IN
FL
W. Crucke, LOTTENHULLE Jonathan T. Hull, DELRAY BEACH FL Italy
Yann Raes, HARELBEKE Jose Antonio Rausseo, LAKELAND FL Alessandro Ratti, MARIANO
Bermuda Kimberly Diane Weaver, BRADENTON COMENSE CO
Justin Horsfall, PEMBROKE FL Andrea Alberto Rettori, ROSTA TO
Lyle Earl Adams, CLEARWATER FL Andrea Ballerini, GALLIANO BARBERIO
Czech Republic DI MUGELLO FI
Jiri Valchar, ROŽNOV POD Mariano Corral, MIAMI FL
Matthew Neal, CLEARWATER FL Carla Scarf, ROMA RM
RADHOŠTEM ROŽNOV POD Daniele Perelli, FERRARA FE
RADHOŠTEM 1 Minesh Patel, ORLANDO FL
Paul John Lloyd-Jones, INVERNESS FL Davide Borghi, BOMPORTO MO
Lukas Rajtr, BRANDÝS NAD Dimitri Galperti, PRIMALUNA LC
LABEM-STARÁ BOLESLAV 1 Richard A. Barocas, MIAMI FL
Sean Creedon, BIG PINE KEY FL Domenico Maschi, GADESCO PD CR
Lukas Stefl, LITOMYŠL-MYSTO Elia Squarzoni, MERANO BZ
LITOMYŠL Stephanie M Bledsoe, WESLEY CHAPEL
FL Federica Gomirato, MESTRE VE
Martin Vlado, HOLASICE VEVERSKÁ Forest S.C.A.F., VIGNOLE BORBERA AL
BÍTÝŠKA Teri Graham, PALM BAY FL
Vincent J Lombardi, Sr., BRANDON FL Francesco Donatelli, TRIGGIANO BA
Petr Bayer, CESKE BUDEJOVICE Franco Bellorti, PESCANTINA VR
Rostislav Vodicka, KOLÍN KOLÍN 2 Walter Flavio Morales, NAPLES FL
Gabriele Ferrini, BAGNO A RIPOLI FI
Viktor Beneš, RADLICE PRAHA 5 Germany Giorgio Fiori, MOZZO BG
Vladimir Kropac, CHÝNE Julia Engels, HEISDORF Giovanni Gigliobianco, SEREGNO MI
HOSTIVICE Michael Hansch, NEUHAUSEN Ivo Rabbogliatti, BERNARDINO
Dutch Hong Kong VERBANO VB
A.F.M. Koelewijn, BLASKENSGRAAF Cheung Vik Laura Cevenini, MARZABOTTO BO
XC Chiu Man Hint Matthew Luca Boursier, NOCERA SUPERIORE
B Hulsman, GOIRLE TP Chun Yu Ng SA
B Punt, ROTTERDAM GN Cin Hang Chan Luigi Brognoli, ROVAGNATE LC
D Kalshoven, VOGELENZANG EH Eduardo Fernando Lai Luigi Migliavacca, MILANO MI
D.A.G. Pruijsen, ALBLASSERDAM ED Ka Yiu Cheng Marco Reggiato, PADOVA PD


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Massimiliano Fattori, FUCECCHIO FI Danny Just, DES MOINES IA Chad J. Russo, CENTEREACH NY
Mauro Leporatti, FUCECCHIO FI David Rex Hendrix, WASHBURN MO Christopher Conway, HUNTINGTON
Pietro Cavallo, BOLOGNA BO James Anthony Rosa, PRAIRIE VILLAGE STATION NY
Sergio Catastini, FUCECCHIO FI KS Devin James, LAKE PLACID NY
Simone Barbarotti, FIDENZA PR Jared Doran, OLATHE KS Devon T Bartholomew, SYRACUSE NY
Simone Bellegante, BUSTO GAROLFO Jeremy W Sills, DYSART IA Dmitri Tsabai, GETZVILLE NY
MI Kody A Kraemer, MCPHERSON KS Eric Walker, HONEOYE FALLS NY
Kentucky Matthew McKernan, WICHITA KS Jason Goldenberg, WOODMERE NY
Clifton A. English, Jr., PINE KNOT KY Stephen J Kelley, MARYLAND Jesse Adams, CHEEKTOWAGA NY
James Taylor Osborne, PARIS KY HEIGHTS MO Lee A Relyea, CENTEREACH NY
Korey D. Smith, PINE KNOT KY Todd Wesley Wegener, VERSAILLES MO Maryann Matlak, JAMESPORT NY
Matthew C. Crain, PINE KNOT KY Minnesota Michael Scott Zemble, BAY SHORE NY
Scott Douglas Denton, LOUISVILLE KY Anthony Kocemba, SAINT PAUL MN Nancy B. Selover, CONGERS NY
Trevor Tucker, MARSHES SIDING KY David Melquist, MOORHEAD MN Robert J. Rudemyer, Jr., CARMEL NY
Erin J Finnegan, DULUTH MN Robert Maclean Seago, PHELPS NY
Malaysia
Jeanette D. Gilles, SHAKOPEE MN Ryan T Judge, BROOKLYN NY
Hashim Gombri, BATU CAVES
Nels S. Spence, MINNEAPOLIS MN Stefan Kristofer Mitchell, BAY SHORE
KUALA LUMPUR
Timothy J. Reiniser, MAPLEWOOD MN NY
Mexico Tim William Dorsey, MONROE NY
Ramiro Andres de J Zarate Flores, STA. New England
Vincent Drzewucki, FREEPORT NY
CATARINA NL Andrew James Tataronis, BERLIN MA
Brian Thomas Creed, RAYMOND NH New Zealand
Raquel Tevino Lomas, SAN NICOLAS
Cameron Couture, WOODSTOCK VT Boyd Hill, AUCKLAND
DE LOS GARZA NL
Christopher D. Kelly, SOMERVILLE MA Chris Loughborough, AUCKLAND
Roberto Gerardo Galvan Castillo,
MONTERREY NL Christopher Happ, EAST HARTFORD Ohio
CT Brad Watkins, CINCINNATI OH
Michigan
Corey Noble Christians, MANCHESTER Charles Amschel, LISBON OH
Cheryl Vosburg, MARSHALL MI
CT David M. Fischer, BRUNSWICK OH
D.J. Vander Slik, GRAND RAPIDS MI
Daniel O’Connell, TRUMBULL CT James J. Wills, Jr., SPRINGFIELD OH
Gordon Erckman, WEST BLOOMFIELD
Dean Nappi, ELIOT ME Joshua David Bearman, MILFORD OH
MI
Gregg A Corso, MANCHESTER CT Joshua W. Huffman, BARBERTON OH
Jerry William Robertson, STERLING
Jason Kicza, HADLEY MA Scott Andrew Snoke, FOREST OH
HEIGHTS MI
Jennifer Brant, GUILFORD CT Shelley Lynn Moore, BELLEFONTAINE
Joshua R Regits, LAKE ORION MI
Jesse Wheadon, WOODSTOCK VT OH
Leo E. Clower, WARREN MI
Jonathan Phelps, CANTON CT Ontario
Wayne Ellison, CLIO MI
Joshua T Jarvis, WOODSTOCK VT Arthur Beauregard, TORONTO ON
Mid-Atlantic Marc M Lachance, AUBURN NH Branen O’Malley, OSHAWA ON
Augustus Mays, OWINGS MILLS MD Michael J. Barrows, FOXBORO MA Caleb Hull, WIARTON ON
Charles Carter, FREDERICK MD Michael T Santora, STAMFORD CT Cindy Michelle Everett, MOUNT
Dan D. Zaccagnini, III, OWINGS Nathan Bean, CHICOPEE MA ALBERT ON
MILLS MD Nicollette Eicholtz, FALL RIVER MA Craig Ingram, GRANTON ON
David M. Love, FARMVILLE VA Robert Leonard Presutti, PITTSFIELD MA David Stevens, ST CATHARINES ON
David M. Rose, NORTON VA Ruda Lapagesse Fabiano, HOLYOKE MA Dean Solway, SPRUCEDALE ON
David McKindley-Ward, MOUNT Ryan Woofenden, BAR HARBOR ME Glen Tabor, WOODSTOCK ON
RAINIER MD Steven Pelletier, ROWLEY MA Ian B McGirr, BEETON ON
David Robinson, FRONT ROYAL VA Steven L. Kendall, WEST ROXBURY MA Jason L. Kostopoulos, TORONTO ON
Duncan James Angus Stuart, BALTIMORE Tim Reynolds, WOODBURY CT Jeff Loosemore, LONDON ON
MD Tom Scarpa, WATERFORD CT Jeffrey Goettling, OTTAWA ON
Gary Paynter, TAKOMA PARK MD William V Norton, EAST HAMPTON John W Wight, SUTTON WEST ON
Greg Gartenmayer, ALEXANDRIA VA CT Jonathon Murray, HALIBURTON ON
Henry D. Mays, OWINGS MILLS MD William Walker, TIVERTON RI Kate Raycraft, TORONTO ON
John A. Footit, LORTON VA
New Jersey Laila Wojcikowski, OTTAWA ON
Jordan L. Harris, DAMASCUS MD
Brian Alexander Dougherty, SOUTH Laura Dills, AURORA ON
Katie Heffernan, WASHINGTON DC
RIVER NJ Laura Wright, UXBRIDGE ON
Kevin Arthur Steele, BLACKSBURG VA
Charles Brodt, DOVER NJ Matt Baker, SAULT STE MARIE ON
Kim I Finch, ANNAPOLIS MD
Dan Harper, POMPTON PLAINS NJ Matthew Hillock, RICHMOND HILL
Lee Macarthur Singleton, NORTH
Francisco Rodriguez, BERGENFIELD NJ ON
CHESTERFIELD VA
Jason Rihn, NORTH PLAINFIELD NJ Michael Petryk, OTTAWA ON
Patrice Smoot, BRANDY STATION VA
Michael C Farrell, NEW BRUNSWICK Michael Wynia, NEW LOWELL ON
Steven Kurtzhals, ALEXANDRIA VA
NJ Mike O’Callaghan, WASAGA BEACH ON
Thomas M. Berry, Jr., KENSINGTON
Philip J. Scratchard, EWING NJ Philip J. Adams, BRACEBRIDGE ON
MD
New York Robyn Beverly Nicole Finlayson,
Midwestern TORONTO ON
Andrew Richley, DARIEN CENTER NY
Amber K. Carthey, BLUE GRASS IA Sean Frederick Dunn, TORONTO ON
Bryan Beaudry, PEARL RIVER NY
Brian L. Miller, GRANDVIEW MO Stephen Megannety, STITTSVILLE ON

JUNE 2013 | 47
ISA Member News (continued)
Matt Alderson, PARKER PA Felecia Bean Barnes, MEMPHIS TN
Terry W. Harram, ANCASTER ON
Michael J. Hack, Jr., BENTON PA Gregory S Hobbs, FRANKLIN NC
Thomas Myall, AURORA ON
Richard Heitmann, LANGHORNE PA Griffin Westbrook, HILTON HEAD SC
Tom A Longland, TORONTO ON
Richard A. Greene, BLOOMSBURG PA Hal Tuck, MULBERRY TN
Tony Juurlink, LISKEARD ON
Ryan J. Costa, ROCKLAND DE Jack A. White, BAY SPRINGS MS
Pacific Northwest Ryan Smith, PROSPECT PARK PA James Andy Smith, CHARLESTON SC
Aaron R McKee, DRIGGS ID Toby Leigh Schlick, MILLSBORO DE James M Putnam, CHATTANOOGA TN
Adraon T. Buck, NELSON BC James P Cincotti, III, EAST BEND NC
Prairie
Alex Mullaly, ABBOTSFORD BC Jeffrey Wayne Wilson, MEMPHIS TN
Andrew Tomek, OLDS AB
Alex Olesen, SALCHA AK Kenneth G. Sapp, CARROLLTON GA
Campbell Sturge-Anderson, REGINA SK
Brandon Cook, KENMORE WA Matthew Lancaster, KNOXVILLE TN
Chelsey Anderson, SPRINGBROOK AB
Brent W. Russell, WEST VANCOUVER Michael Alexander, LAVONIA GA
Christopher OJ McGuire, SPRING
BC Robert A Wells, LAWRENCEVILLE GA
LAKE AB
Carrie Baysek, DRIGGS ID Robert P. Kunath, WHISPERING PINES
Donna McCallum, CALGARY AB
Casey Johnson, SEATTLE WA NC
Elizabeth Wiseman, OLDS AB
Chad Powell, EAGLE POINT OR Roderick Bowman, KENNESAW GA
Jason L Bobinski, HUMBOLDT SK
Craig L Adams, SURREY BC Russell W. Tonning, POWDER
Kali R. Alcorn, OLDS AB
Daniel L. Perry, NORTH VANCOUVER SPRINGS GA
Kenneth Wayne Robinson, BROOKS AB
BC Sarah Gomez, KNOXVILLE TN
Marie-Josee Docherty, EDMONTON
David Kendrick, KIRKLAND WA Shawn David Montgomery, MACON GA
AB
David Kozarik, FAIRBANKS AK Tim Luttrell, ROGERSVILLE TN
Mark D. Walz, EDMONTON AB
Elijah B. Walton, OAK HARBOR WA Tyler Lamb, CUMMING GA
Mark Sjolie, MEDICINE HAT AB
Erica Jane Timm, PORTLAND OR Zachary Traywick, PITTSBORO NC
Patrick I. Arbuthnott, CALGARY AB
Erik O Peterson, TENINO WA
Robert Timothy Caldow, PENHOLD AB Sweden
Gary L. Jones, WINLOCK WA
Rory J. Gill, CALGARY AB Alexandra Joäng, MALMO
Graeme Humber, VICTORIA BC
Shane Boehm, CALGARY AB Andreas Neumeister, STAFFANSTORP
Greg L Hoyt, SEASIDE OR
Trevor Craft, ST ALBERT AB Anneli Lewis Skoglund, ODESHOG
James A Baldwin, BROWNSVILLE OR
Quebec Åsa Edvardsson, AKARP
James Anthony Burton, ENDERBY BC
École forestière de La Tuque, LA Dan Öberg Liedman, DALBY
James Ralph Blackford, MARION AR
TUQUE QC Didrik Andersson, MALMO
James Wyland, SEATTLE WA
Vincent Poitras, TERREBONNE QC Friederike Kendziersky, JARNA
Jason Rowland, BEEBE AR
Herman Casse, SKURUP
Jeff D. Hintze, MERIDIAN ID Rocky Mountain
Jonatan Axberg, LUND
JoAnn Kelly-Cullen, WEST VANCOUVER Anthony Lotito, GREENWOOD
Karin Albing, LUND
BC VILLAGE CO
Linda Lundin, VAXJO
Joe T Arthurs, BELLINGHAM WA Arron M. Banowetz, FORT COLLINS CO
Maja Kvist, AKARP
Joel Wangle, BEAVERTON OR Brian Bauer, LONGMONT CO
Mark Austin, FJALLBACKA
John Ryan, PORTLAND OR Charles Craig, BROOMFIELD CO
Mikael Magnusson, KUMLA
Justin Kite, DRIGGS ID Dan Bolin, FORT COLLINS CO
Mineraler Bara, BARA
Kevin F. Gallivan, MERIDIAN ID Daniel Limbert, BROOMFIELD CO
Miriam Löwenstein, MALMO
Kurtis Brown, KELOWNA BC Dugg R Spalding, PINE CO
Peter Andreasson, OREBRO
Mark Turnbull, NANAIMO BC Emily Barnes, FORT COLLINS CO
Petter Krifors, NORRKOPING
Matthew Garrett Lyda, PENDLETON OR Jamen A Weber, DENVER CO
Rasmus Göth, MALMO
Michael Clyde, AUBURN WA James G. Redmon, CENTENNIAL CO
Sif Eklund, KARLSKOGA
Neal Aven, SURREY BC Justin Howard, LONGMONT CO
Stefan Larsen, VARBERG
Paul W. Flanary, Jr., SPOKANE WA Michael Singletary, AURORA CO
Tord Enstrom, UPPSALA
Robert G Hatton, PORTLAND OR Nate Talocco, DENVER CO
Ulf Johansson, JARFALLA
Stephen G. O’Sullivan, WASILLA AK Nicholas Francis Laursen, ARVADA CO
Sylvain Martel, VANCOUVER BC Ted M. Berg, AURORA CO Texas
Thomas Henry McCaulou, NEW Todd Rainville, BRIGHTON CO Ana Veronica Gonzalez, AUSTIN TX
PLYMOUTH ID Bill Kalb, GARLAND TX
Singapore
Troy R. Hudson, SURREY BC Brian Clint Pope, COOKVILLE TX
Benjamin Yi Hao Leow
William George Kostenuk, KAMLOOPS Caleb P Tandy, MIDLOTHIAN TX
BC Southern Cory Lee Cason, COPPELL TX
Aquilino Amador, NASHVILLE TN Craig S. Engeling, NEW ULM TX
Penn-Del Billy Allen, SARALAND AL Curtis Farmer, COLLEGE STATION TX
Barry R. Yant, AMBRIDGE PA Bret Bowman, ASHEVILLE NC Edward Pena, SOUTH HOUSTON TX
Bradley A. Kocher, ORANGEVILLE PA Carol Walenga, MOUNT JULIET TN Efrain Alvarado, SAN ANTONIO TX
Carlos Quintana, PHILADELPHIA PA Chase Lunn, SARALAND AL Gregory Sakwa, ARLINGTON TX
Jake S Milofsky, PITTSBURGH PA Daniel Broadrick, LEBANON TN Henry James Gainer, SPICEWOOD TX
Jeffrey Ryan Blood, WASHINGTON PA Derek Astorino, CHARLESTON SC Israel Depaz, GALENA PARK TX
Joseph Demeter, PITTSBURGH PA Devon Lee Lucabaugh, ATLANTA GA Jacob A. Kinzie, AUSTIN TX
Joseph R. Garippa, KING OF PRUSSIA Dustin Scott Sauls, PIKEVILLE NC John McDaniel, ROUND ROCK TX
PA Dwight Dean Barnett, SMYRNA TN


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Kristie M. Flores, LEON VALLEY TX Hassena F. Kassim, PHOENIX AZ Richard Cabrera, HERCULES CA
Linda Rebecca Johnson, SAN ANTONIO Isiah Rubalcava, LOTUS CA Rodney Y.M. Young, HONOLULU HI
TX Isidro Hernandez, LOTUS CA Salvador Rios, LOTUS CA
Paul Charles Nassauer, Jr., RICHARDSON Jacob Kane, LAHAINA HI Sara Andrade, ESCONDIDO CA
TX Jason I. Rigley, FLAGSTAFF AZ Sara Lora Goss, VICTORVILLE CA
Zade West Watts, HOUSTON TX Jason P. Martinez, SAN FRANCISCO CA Shawn Christian Mullaney, FLAGSTAFF
UK / Ireland Jim Mollers, LOTUS CA AZ
Benjamin Figg, STOWMARKET Joe Hiss, MOUNT SHASTA CA Stephen M. Cotton, CAMP VERDE AZ
SUFFOLK Jonathan Matych, KAILUA HI Tim Robertson, FRENCH CAMP CA
Brian O’Kane, TRING HERTS Jose (Tony) A. Martinez, SOUTH Tobias Patino, POMONA CA
Daniel Bright, SHEFFIELD GATE CA Todd Hansen, MESA AZ
DERBYSHIRE Jose R. Reyes, LOTUS CA William A. Croft, SAN JOSE CA
Daniel Martin Parsons, INVERNESS Joseph Kehoe, LOS OSOS CA William Belair, SEBASTOPOL CA
SCOTLAND Joshua Loveall, CAMP VERDE AZ Wisconsin
David Stuart, CANNOCK Juan Baltazar, LOTUS CA Amber Lobner, WISCONSIN RAPIDS
STAFFORDSHIRE Juan Munoz, LOTUS CA WI
Kristy Summers, FINDHORN FORRES Justin G. Rector, CALISTOGA CA Bryce Crunkilton, STEVENS POINT
Lois Milburn, DURHAM ENGLAND Justin Morejohn, DAVIS CA WI
Neil Averns, LOUGHBOROUGH Katie Tenneson, ARCATA CA Calvin J. Haines, LUCK WI
LEICESTERSHIRE Kent Godding, LAKE ELSINORE CA Dean Karlovich, LAND O LAKES WI
Peter Hart, TRING HERTS Kevin L. Trenam, SANTA ROSA CA Holly Zart, PLATTEVILLE WI
Rachel Dutton, INVERNESS Marcie Sousa, STOCKTON CA John William Kolp, CUDAHY WI
HIGHLAND Mary P. Holte, STOCKTON CA Kristy Tackett, WISCONSIN RAPIDS
Ray David North, BROMLEY KENT Matvey Karnoff, DOWNEY CA WI
Richard Amor-Wilkes, WOLVER- Mauro Rios, LOTUS CA Kyle Augustine, JANESVILLE WI
HAMPTON WEST MIDLANDS Merle Nelson, BODEGA CA Mike Nooker, STEVENS POINT WI
Thomas Hutchinson, TOTNES DEVON Michael E. Hawkins, PALO ALTO CA Richard Westlund, PORT EDWARDS
Tom Ledger, LITTLE MONGEHAM Michael S. Mosca, LAS VEGAS NV WI
DEAL KENT Miguel Sibrain, ESCONDIDO CA Ryan P. Miller, VERONA WI
Val Munday, LONDON ENGLAND Natalia Castillo, STOCKTON CA
William Potter, NEW BERLIN WI "t/
Neil A. Vittum, GARBERVILLE CA
Utah
Nick Eide, ROSEVILLE CA
Collin Beach, PARK CITY UT
Ricardo Schobert, TEMECULA CA
Glenn E. Wilson, WASHINGTON
TERRACE UT
John M. Dalton, PAROWAN UT
Kym Mitchell Jones, FARMINGTON UT
Michael Everitt, OGDEN UT
Richard Wiedeman, HYDE PARK UT Pest Management in the
Travis Wright, BOUNTIFUL UT
Western
Adan Arreola, CATHEDRAL CITY CA
Landscape: An Introduction
Andrew Joseph Sullivan, SAN DIEGO CA By Christopher J. Luley and A.D. Ali
Antonio Jara, LOTUS CA
Austin J. Lopez, ANAHEIM CA
Bart B.P. van Duijnhoven, OPLOO CA Developed for those in the green
Benjamin K Staubach, AUBURN CA industry who wish to learn about
Brandon K. Richardson, SAINT HELENA pest management, this manual
CA discusses the importance of pests
Bryan Chell, SAN JOSE CA and pest management in the
Daniel Phillip Herrmann, RANCHO
landscape. An informational, easy-
MURIETA CA
Daniel W. Rumore, PHOENIX AZ to-read format provides a broad
Dee Wong, SAN CARLOS CA scope of biotic and abiotic causal
Donald Schultz, EL CAJON CA agents and the problems they may
Dustie M. Rushing, HAYWARD CA create.
Dustin Pope, RAMONA CA
Emry Stephen Pensinger, FLAGSTAFF AZ The text is illustrated with a series
Eric Mirzaian, CULVER CITY CA of full-color photos that provide
Errol Navickas, GRANADA HILLS CA relevant visuals of the topics Item #O2039 (©2009, softcover, 89 pp., full-color
Evan Anderson, SAN FRANCISCO CA discussed. photos, appendices, index, 11.0 × 8.4 × 0.3 inches)
Fabian Maldonado, SANTA ANA CA
Gary Douglas Huff, PRESCOTT AZ
George E. Coronado, TUCSON AZ To order, call 1-888-ISA-TREE, or visit us online: www.isa-arbor.com/store
Gerardo Bautista, LOTUS CA

JUNE 2013 | 49
 New ISA Tree Risk Assessment
4XDOLÀFDWLRQ3URJUDP/DXQFKHV
LQ6SULQJ

Program details include:

/ 2-day educational course followed by ½-day exam that includes both written and field components

/ Teaches tree risk assessment methodology outlined in the ISA’s Best Management Practices

/ Course includes Tree Biology and Mechanics, Tree Inspection and

Assessment, Data Analysis and Risk Categorization,
and Risk Reporting

/ Qualification good for 5 years

/ No CEUs needed to maintain qualification

/ ISA Certified Arborists (past or present)

and individuals with other comparable
certifications and qualifications are eligible
to take the course and exam

Available courses can

be found on the ISA
events calendar.
Visit the ISA website for more
information about the qualification.
Check out the ISA web store to learn
more about the Tree Risk Assessment BMP.

International Society of Arboriculture

www.isa-arbor.com 
p. 217.355.941

[email protected]
 Communication and

2013 Membership Application Sharing Preferences

By joining, you agree ISA will make
your contact information available to
your local chapter and our four
Name: Title: professional affiliates so they can
share information with you about
Company: educational seminars and other
relevant events.

Street Address: Home Business

Other green non-profit groups,
educational institutions and ISA
City: State/Province: Zip/Postal: Strategic Partners may also request
access to your contact information. If
Country: Phone: you DO wish to be included, please
select yes below.
E-mail*: Yes No
*An email address is required to participate in ISA Board of Directors elections and to receive other official communications from the ISA office.
All members have access to our
Were you referred by a current member? Please list their name and city: online directory. Do you want to
receive a printed version of the ISA
What is your current area of practice? Please circle one. Membership Directory? If you do not
respond, we will assume that you do
Agriculture t

Commercial/Residential t

Consulting t

Education t

Extension t

Forestry t

Golf Course t

Landscape t

Municipal t

not want to receive this.
Public Works t

Research t

Training t

Utility t

Other
Yes No

Which option most closely describes your current position? Please circle one. After you join, you may update more
Apprentice t

Consultant t

Crew Leader t

Director t

Ground Worker t

Horticulturist t

Intern t

Landscape Architect t

Manager t

of your communications preferences
Marketing/Sales t

Owner t

Planner t

President t

Professional Arborist t

Professor t

Researcher t

Student t

Tree Worker/Climber t

Other under My Profile in the member login
at www.isa-arbor.com.

SECTION 1 MEMBERSHIP TYPE Dues are for January 1 through December 31 and cannot be pro-rated for any portion of the year. Dues are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Professional
t
Individual membership that includes one print subscription Arborist News Arboriculture & Urban Forestry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $130
Professional+ t
Individual membership that includes subscription to both Arborist News and Arboriculture & Urban Forestry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $160
Senior t
Retired, age 62 and over with 10 or more years of preceding ISA membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $65
ISA has a separate application for students, to request one please email [email protected] or apply online at www.isa-arbor.com.

SECTION 2 PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS (OPTIONAL) SECTION 1 $

Arboricultural Research and Education Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25

Society of Commercial Arboriculture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $35
Society of Municipal Arborists t
For other SMA membership types, email [email protected]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Professional: $75
Utility Arborist Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40
SECTION 3 ISA CHAPTER MEMBERSHIPS (OPTIONAL) Prices subject to change. Non-U.S. chapter dues are quoted in approximate U.S. dollars. SECTION 2 $

Austria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $45 Kentucky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $35 Norway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $69 Southern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $30

Ohio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $45 (AL, AR, GA, LA, MS, NC, PR, SC, TN, VI)
Atlantic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $70 Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $79
Brazil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $32 Mid-Atlantic** . . . . . . . . . $50 Ontario . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $110 Spain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $85
Czech Republic . . . . . . . . . $10 (DC, MD, VA, WV) Pacific Northwest**. . . . . . $50 Sweden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $78
Denmark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $81 Midwestern. . . . . . . . . . . . $30 (AK, BC, ID, OR, WA) Texas** . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40
(IA, KS, MO, NE, ND, OK, SD) Penn-Del . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $45
Dutch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50 UK/I. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $97
Minnesota . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40 Prairie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $95 Utah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40
Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $30
New England . . . . . . . . . . $35 (AB, MB, SK-Canada)
Western** . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40
Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $140 (CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT) Quebec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $130 (AZ, CA, HI, NV)
Illinois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $45 New Jersey . . . . . . . . . . . . $35 Rocky Mountain . . . . . . . . $52 Wisconsin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40
Indiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40 New York. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $65 (CO, MT, NM, WY)
Italy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $97 **Add $10 for chapter-only memberships.
New Zealand . . . . . . . . . . $125

SECTION 4 PAYMENT INFORMATION All fees must be paid in U.S. dollars drawn off a U.S. bank. SECTION 3 $

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CC # Exp: Signature:

Name on Credit Card:

Street Address:

City: State/Province: Zip/Postal:

AN
2013 ISA Annual International
Metro Toronto Convention r Center Toronto, ON, Canada r August 3-7, 2013

Tentative Schedule of Events* (As of 4/18/13)

Saturday, August 3 Tuesday, August 6

8:00 am – 5:00 pm ITCC Masters’ Qualifying Events (Toronto 7:00 am – 8:30 am Women in Arboriculture Breakfast
Island) (MTCC – South Building)
9:00 am – 4:00 pm Tree Academy Workshops (MTCC – South 8:00 am – 8:30 am Coffee and Networking (MTCC – South
Building, Level 7) Building, Level 7)
10:00 am – 3:00 pm Arbor Fair and Fun Climb (Toronto Island) 8:30 am – 5:00 pm Educational Sessions (MTCC – South Building,
Level 7)
Sunday, August 4 9:30 am – 1:00 pm TREE Fund Silent Auction on Trade Show
8:00 am – 4:00 pm ITCC Masters’ Challenge and Head-to-Head Floor (MTCC – South Building, Hall E-F)
Footlock (Toronto Island) 9:30 am – 3:30 pm Trade Show open (MTCC – South Building,
Halls E-F)
EQWXEVX %WTPYRHL+SPJ3YXMRKXSFIRI½XXLI86))*YRH 9:30 am – 3:30 pm Education/Research Posters on Display
9:00 am – 4:00 pm Tree Academy Workshops (MTCC – South (MTCC – South Building, Hall F)
Building, Level 7) 10:00 am – 3:30 pm Climbers’ Corner (MTCC – South Building,
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Urban Tree Growth and Longevity Tour (meet Hall F)
at 12:45 in lobby of Intercontinental Hotel) 11:00 am – 1:00 pm Break on the Trade Show Floor (MTCC –
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm Student and Early Career Networking Reception South Building, Halls E-F)
(MTCC – South Building) 11:00 am – 1:00 pm UAA Lunch (MTCC - South Building)
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm Opening Ceremony (MTCC – South Building, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm Student and Early Career Mentoring Lunch
Hall G) (MTCC – South Building)
7:30 pm – 9:30 pm Welcome Reception on the Trade Show Floor 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm Break on the Trade Show Floor (MTCC –
– Trade Show open, TREE Fund Silent South Building, Halls E-F)
Auction open (MTCC – South Building, Halls E-F) 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm Poster Presenter Question and Answer
7:30 pm – 9:30 pm Education/Research Posters on Display Session (MTCC – South Building, Hall F)
(MTCC – South Building, Hall F)
Wednesday, August 7
Monday, August 5 8:00 am – 8:30 am Coffee and Networking (MTCC – South
8:00 am – 8:30 am Coffee and Networking (MTCC – South Building, Level 7)
Building, Level 8) 8:00 am – 5:00 pm SCA Tour (departs from MTCC – South Building)
8:30 am – 11:00 am Opening General Session (MTCC – South 8:00 am – 5:00 pm SMA Tour (departs from MTCC – South Building)
Building, Hall G) EQ¯TQ )HYGEXMSREPERH4VSJIWWMSREP%J½PMEXI7IWWMSRW
9:30 am – 3:30 pm Trade Show open (MTCC – South Building, (MTCC – South Building, Level 7)
Halls E-F) 11:00 am – 1:00 pm AREA Lunch (MTCC - South Building)
9:30 am – 3:30 pm TREE Fund Silent Auction on Trade Show 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm Break (MTCC – South Building, Level 7)
Floor (MTCC – South Building, Hall E-F)
9:30 am – 3:30 pm Education/Research Posters on Display * Events, times, and locations
(MTCC – South Building, Hall F) are subject to change
10:00 am – 3:30 pm Climbers’ Corner (MTCC – South Building,
Hall F) MTCC = Metro Toronto
11:00 am – 1:00 pm Break on the Trade Show Floor (MTCC – Convention Centre
South Building, Halls E-F)
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm Educational Sessions (MTCC – South Building,
Level 7)
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm Break on the Trade Show Floor (MTCC –
South Building, Halls E-F)
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm TREE Fund Raise Your Hand for Research
Auction and Reception (Fairmont Royal York)

Hotel Information
Hotel reservation deadline is July 1, 2013
Fairmont Royal York (Headquarters Hotel) Intercontinental Toronto Centre Residence Inn Downtown Toronto
Single or Double Rate Single or Double Rate: $164* CAD Studio Suite (one bed and pullout sofa): $140* CAD
Fairmont Room: $175* CAD (Triple $194*)

*taxes not included

Conference & Trade Show
Registration Information
Full Conference ISA Student Member–
Registration $95 USD
One Day Registration Tree Academy
Register by July 10, 2013 Workshops
Register by July 10, 2013 Trade Show/Guest
Member– $495 USD Pre-register by July 10, 2013 Registrations
Member– $247 USD
Non-Member– $625 USD
Non-Member– $312 USD (Member or Non-member) Register by July 10, 2013
Register on-site August 2 to 7, 2013 $85 USD each
Register on-site August 2 to 7, 2013 Member or non-member
Member– $555 USD $40 USD
Member– $282 USD Register on-site August 2 to 4, 2013
Non-Member– $685 USD
Non-Member– $347 USD (Member or Non-member) Register on-site August 2 to 7, 2013
$99 USD each
Member or non–member
$50 USD
Student-Full Conference
Registration
Pre-register or onsite

2013 Sponsors (As of 4/29/13)

Thank you to our 2013 Conference Sponsors
Thank you to all of our 2013 ISA Conference sponsors. Without their support the educational and
networking opportunities the ISA Annual International Conference provides would not be possible.

ITCC Apparel Sponsor Lanyards Opening Ceremony ITCC Aerial Rescue

Tuesday Breaks ITCC Presenting Sponsor UAA Educational Track ITCC Work Climb
and Luncheon

o f Comm
ty
er
ie

cia
Soc

l



A
rb r
e

oricultu

ITCC Masters’ Challenge ITCC Belayed Speed Climb Event ITCC Head-to-Head ITCC Aerial Rescue Event
and Climbers’ Corner Footlock Event

Wednesday Breaks Conference Bags ITCC Work Climb Monday Breaks

For details on the conference schedule, registration, or

hotel options visit www.isa-arbor.com/conference.
 %WME4EGM½G8VII'PMQFMRK
Championship 2013
By Doug Sharp, APTCC Chairperson

Site History On September 1, 1983, the property was registered by

This year’s Asia Pacific Tree Climbing Championship New Zealand Historic Places Trust as a Category 1 struc-
(APTCC), hosted by New Zealand Arborist Association ture. That is, marking the land as having “special or out-
(NZAA) (March 16–17, 2013), was held at the majestic standing historical or cultural heritage significance or
Monte Cecilia Park. Originally “The Pah Homestead,” the value.”
park was established in 1879, then the largest private home In September 2002 “The Pah” was purchased by the
in Auckland, where owner James Williamson threw lavish Auckland City Council as part of plans to develop the
parties for Auckland’s finest. site as a premier park for the City of Auckland—“Monte
Early days Auckland settler William Hart purchased Cecilia Park.” The site now has a heritage overlay that
162 hectares from local Moaris, in 1843, later selling the includes the trees.
land to Thomas Russell (1870) before Williamson purchased
it and established “The Pah” as a private home. Trees on Site
“Pah” is a Maori term for fortified hill, and this site had all So, on to the trees of Monte Cecilia Park. The park boasts
the markings that it had been a “Pah.” However, through some some of the most magnificent Morton Bay figs (Ficus mac-
investigative archaeology, no evidence of Maori occupation rophylla) I have ever seen, certainly some of the largest,
was found, which perhaps explains the original sale to Hart. while kauris, cedars, oaks, planes, and several other exotic
The original estate was lined with Ficus macrophylla, trees have also thrived here since establishment. There are
which largely remain today with some sections now on also some of the largest pohutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa)
private property I have ever seen.
Williamson died in 1888 and the property was taken Auckland’s climate of average high of 23°C (73°F),
over by the Bank of New Zealand. It was then purchased low average of 8°C (46°F) and average rainfall of 1243
by the Roman Catholic Church in 1913, which renamed mm (48.9 in) combined with the beautiful volcanic soil
it “Monte Cecilia” and used it as a school, which remains has enabled the tree population to thrive. It seems to me
today and also serves as a temporary residence for immi- that almost anything planted on the this site would thrive,
grants and the homeless. it has that feel about it.


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 I hope I’ve painted a mental picture for you and of a
site that was perhaps destined for a gathering of the finest
arborists and tree climbers in the Asia Pacific region for a
Preliminary Events tree climbing championship. I’m sure that a visionary such
as James Williamson, who created “The Pah” for future
Results generations to enjoy, would agree and be delighted to see
that his creation some 126 years later would host the
These results saw Veronika Ericcson as the overall APTCC for 2013.
1st place, though Jessica Knott and Kiah Martin I must thank the Auckland City Council for the use
advance to the Masters Challenge due to Veronika of Monte Cecilia Park, the NZAA local committee headed
competing as an International Guest (a wonderful by David Kainer, Bruce MacDonald and Matt Palmer,
and very welcome one at that). along with APTCC operations committee member and
Although the women’s field had only three local chair Richard Wanhill for all their hard work on
entrants, it boasted two ITCC champions and one making this year’s event happen. The APTCC sponsor-
runner-up. ship was headed by Treescape, Husqvarna, Asplundh,
The men’s field had Scott Forrest as 1st overall, Auckland City, Thoughtplanters, Treetools, Franklin Trees,
joining Henk Morgans and Joe Harris to advance. and Treetech.
But with Scott the 2011 ITCC Champion, Joe It was also nice to see ISA President-elect Terry Flanagan,
twice the runner-up, and Henk a perennial Masters’ executive director Jim Skiera, and meetings and events
Challenge competitor in Australia, we really do have manager Kara Stachowiak making the trip, reinforcing
both women’s and men’s masters challenge events ISA’s strong commitment to the APTCC’s future.
that are sure to thrill the crowd. Through the hard work of the NZAA, the APTCC
The Asplundh and Husqvarna Masters’ Challenge, operations committee, and generous sponsors, 19 com-
set up by James Kilpatrick (three-time APTCC petitors produced two wonderful days climbing at an
champion) probably included the largest Ficus mac- extremely high standard, including current women’s
rophylla in the park, which proved a great climb ITCC champion Veronika Ericsson.
with challenging stations set throughout a canopy
that spreads >40 m (131 ft).
I would say that the highlight was the limbwalk
(weight) station set on a large sweeping limb that is
only 150 mm (6 in) form the ground at one point. 2013 APTCC Results
This was the buzzer/touching point for the station Thoughtplanters Workclimb
and the crowd was right on top of the action. It was Set in a large London plane (Platanus × acerifolius) by
probably one of the most challenging and exciting Grant Cody, this event provided a great challenge for all.
weight stations I’ve seen. It had all the attributes you want for the event: high
Jessica Knott and Scott Forrest are the APTCC anchor point, nice swings through the canopy, and a
2013 champions, after proudly competing for a X
full day and true to the spirit of the competition.
No doubt, they did their families and friends
proud. Jessica and Scott will go on to represent the
Asia Pacific Region at this year’s ITCC in Toronto,
Ontario, Canada, and on behalf of the APTCC
operations committee, we wish them all the very best.
Meanwhile, planning for the 2014 APTCC
commences, with discussion already in place with
some Asian countries.
The APTCC is still developing and finding its
place within the Asia Pacific region, where a serious
expansion into Asia is the key to its development,
increasing its status and consequently climbers will
embrace it as a not-to-be-missed event, either as
competitor, official/volunteer, or spectator, with
the avenue to the ITCC the ultimate goal for all
climbing arborists, I’m sure this will occur.

JUNE 2013 | 55
 Asia Pacific Tree Climbing Championship 2013 (continued)

tough weight station. This was “a great climb” as expressed Women Men
by most competitors. 1st Jessica Knott 1st Scott Forrest
Women Men 2nd Kiah Martin 2nd Henk Morgans
1st Veronika Ericcson 1st Scott Forrest 3rd Veronika Ericsson 3rd Andy Neverman
2nd Jessica Knott 2nd Andy Neverman Franklin Trees Footlock
3rd Kiah Martin 3rd Mike Winstanley Pohutukawas, don’t naturally spring to mind as a footlock
Treetools Aerial Rescue option, but these are large specimens and provided the
The Aerial Rescue was set in a broad spreading, small- required 15 and 12 meter distances.
leaved fig (Ficus oblique). This event also proved a chal- Women Men
lenge as there where many options for climbers due to the 1st Veronika Ericsson 1st Henk Morgans
multiple anchor points and re-directs available in making 2nd Jessica Knott 2nd Scott Forrest
for extraction of the dummy. 3rd Kiah Martin 3rd Joe Harris
Women Men Treetech Throwline
1st Veronika Ericcson 1st Henk Morgans Pohutukawa, two of them selected for the throw line,
2nd Kiah Martin 2nd Mike Winstanley with some challenging targets set, a high score of 22 for
3rd Jessica Knott 3rd Joe Harris the men and 11 for the women is a testament to that.
Auckland City Belayed Speed Climb Women Men
A Magnolia grandiflora was selected for this event, with a 1st Kiah Martin 1st Peter Boyle
traditional straight-up route to the bell, whilst not as high 2nd Veronika Ericsson 2nd Barton-Allen Hall
as some speed climbs, the route weaved its way up the main 3rd Jessica Knott 3rd Andy Neverman
stem, with climbers needing to plan their climb carefully.

Thank you to our 2013 APTCC Volunteers

2013 Event Operations 2013 Volunteers
Chair Doug Sharp New Zealand Mat Palmer Work Climb
Asst. Chair Richard Wanhill Liaison Dan Franks
Head Judge Tom Greenwood Sponsorship David Kainer Jason McFarland
Head Technician Grant Cody Publicity Adrian LaMont Presley Vilamu
Head Scorer Rick Thomas Doug Sharp
Allen Lim

Get a head start

Grant Cody
Throwline
Tim Sharp

SavATree
Kevin Squire

at Speed Climb
Zeke Fiske
Terry Flanagan
Are you looking for a career where you can take the lead? Rick Jobbitt
If you are happiest when pioneering new methods and
technologies then SavATree is the place for you. Our green
Aerial Rescue
services, team spirit and latest science set us apart from the
Andrew Harrison
competition, and – with our advancement program – there’s
Tom Greenwood
no telling how far ahead of the pack you can be.
Craig Webb
Phil Schimd
Are you ready to push your limits? Dale Mills
Masters’ Challenge
Offices in CT, DC, IL, MA,
James Kilpatrick
MD, NJ, NY, PA & VA Tom Greenwood
Please fax or email your resume to Veronica Ericsson
914-242-3934 / [email protected] Nicki Ward Allen
www.savatree.com Andrew Harrison


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 ISA developed True Professionals, a communi-
cations program, to specifically help members
better relate to their customers, promote their
services, and educate their communities. Arborist
News is featuring the next True Professionals
of Arboriculture Award recipients who serve
as examples to all members.
You may read about all the award winners by
visiting the True Professionals section of the
members-only PR and Marketing toolbox on
the ISA website (www.isa-arbor.com).

What Can We Learn From Don Picker?

t
Define and perfect your skills, then become an expert. Figure
out what area best suits your interests and abilities, then work hard
to develop your skills and knowledge base. Staying current with
best practices in the industry and becoming confident in your own
abilities will help prepare you for teaching these skills to others
where language and cultural differences may exist.
t
Learn the language. While becoming fluent in a foreign language
takes time, develop some language skills before you travel to a
country where you plan to introduce arboriculture. Not only will
the people you work with be more receptive to what you have to
offer them, verbal communication is fundamental to teaching and
understanding new concepts.
t
Learn the culture. Since cultures differ dramatically around the
world, don’t plan to just “fit in” once you enter a country or region.
Study the culture before you go. Learn what the people believe,
how they interact, and which customs are important to them.
When you get there, immerse yourself in the culture and take part
in social activities. Encourage the people you are working with to
teach you about who they are.

where he developed climbing skills as well as a respect for

the dangers associated with high angle climbing and
high-voltage electrical lines. He later went to college and
continued to gain practical experience and knowledge
Don Picker: A Profile in Professionalism about trees by working summers at a family nursery in
By Janet Huber Minnesota.
After college, Don worked in utility line clearance in
Implementation of a successful training program for tree
Minneapolis, MN, and then returned to Illinois where he
workers is an achievement that can be attributed to many
performed contract vegetation management for a utility
True Professionals of Arboriculture, but it’s not nearly as
company as a journeyman climber and crew leader. He
common to achieve the dream of teaching modern arbo-
developed a specialty in handling emergency tree hazards
riculture to workers on the opposite side of the world from
involving direct contact with utility lines, thereby gaining
the United States. Don Picker, currently of Hong Kong,
knowledge of structural failure and tree risk assessment.
China (HK), has done just that. But it didn’t happen over-
The more knowledge and experience Don acquired,
night. Don’s journey toward the establishment of Asia Tree
the more he aspired to establish his own business. In
Preservation, 美亞樹藝服務有限公司, the company he
1984, Don founded Picker Tree Experts, Ltd., which he
founded in HK with his son, Jonathan, took time and
and his family operated for the next five years. Don and
perseverance.
his wife, Lynne, were also developing a special interest in
Setting the Path of an Arboriculture Pioneer some of the lesser-known cultures located in the remote
Don’s interest in plants began during childhood, and his mountain regions of Southeast Asia. They were particu-
first job was with a tree nursery at age 13. After high school, larly interested in the people known as the Yao, 瑤族.
Don constructed high-tension power lines in northern Illinois, The Yao are a nomadic people known for clearing and

JUNE 2013 | 57
 True Professionals (continued)

burning hillsides to create planting fields, and then aban- partnered with Dr. William Fountain of the University of
doning them when the soil conditions become too poor to Kentucky (Lexington, Kentucky), who had pioneered mod-
support crops. They move on to another mountain to ern arboriculture in Singapore and Malaysia. They worked
find new, fertile land to clear. This is referred to as a “slash together to provide educational programs through the
and burn”, 刀耕火种, form of agriculture. Forest Research Institute of Malaysia and the Institute of
Arboriculture Studies Hong Kong, 樹藝學術研究中心
The Move to Southeast Asia (香港), of which Don is the founding chairperson. Don
With a longtime desire to live and work overseas, Don
also accepted opportunities to train tree climbers in many
wanted to assist the Yao with the skills he had acquired,
local government organizations and landscape firms.
but he understood the importance of advance prepara-
tion for assimilating into a different culture. In 1990, he Creating the Educational and Practical Tools
completed a master’s degree in Cross Cultural Commu- In late 2005, Don, 畢加霖, with Kevin Eckert led the
nications and Social Research, while the family prepared challenge of translating Tree Climbers’ Guide, 3rd Edition
for a relocation to Southeast Asia. (2005), 樹木攀爬者指南-中文第一版, into Chinese.
That year, the Picker family moved to HK and spent Don feels that his part in this translation was one of the
four years learning Cantonese while becoming involved most important contributions he has made in the advance-
with relief and development projects to assist the Yao ment of arboriculture in China.
people in the mountains and forests of southern China. “I am proud to say that this has given the local climbers,
At that time, Don did not see an opening for introducing who previously often did not have complete or advanced
modern arboriculture practices, so he focused on the chal- knowledge of climbing and working skills, the real oppor-
lenges of language and culture. The Pickers later moved to tunity to study, using Chinese characters for the first time,
Mainland China to be more directly involved in research in a systematic and organized manner. There is no better
and in various development projects. They also studied way to learn than in one’s own native language…”
Mandarin and Yao languages to add to the Cantonese they Don and Jonathan Picker’s HK company, Asia Tree
had learned in HK. Preservation (ATP), finally became a reality in 2007.
Reflecting Don’s passion for education and skill develop-
Don’t plan to bring modern arboriculture to another ment, ATP employees receive monthly training in various
arboriculture-related topics through both in-house and
country simply as a means of doing business and
off-site seminars, and they are provided free registration
making money. at all conferences and events organized by ATP, including
the International Arboricultural Summit – Hong Kong.
Another Door Opens Don is also proud to have had a role in the introduc-
The Pickers returned to the U.S. in 2000, and for the first tion of tree risk assessment in Hong Kong, beginning with
time since the initiation of the ISA Certified Arborist cre- the 2009 IAS-HK, where Nelda Matheny and Jim Clark
dential, Don had the opportunity to sit for the exam. He presented “Tree Risk Assessment and Tree Preservation.”
obtained his credential and restarted his tree care business This summit was greatly anticipated, and attendees trav-
in Illinois as Picker Tree Experts IL. He also added the eled from Singapore, Malaysia, and Macau to be a part of
Certified Tree Worker/Climber Specialist credential to his the event. Afterwards, Don sustained the summit theme
list of accomplishments. by hosting 12 Tree Risk Assessment Course and Exam
But the dream of bringing modern arboriculture to (TRACE) events. He now plans to continue facilitating
south China did not end there. Don credits Kevin Eckert, this educational path in China with the launch of ISA’s
a Board Certified Master Arborist and current ISA Certi- Tree Risk Assessment Qualification.
fication Board member, for connecting him with the man- Don’s advice for anyone who has an interest in becom-
agers of the China Light & Power Company in Hong ing an arboriculture pioneer by bringing best tree care
Kong at the 2001 ISA Annual Conference in Milwaukee, practices to another country is to spend a sufficient amount
Wisconsin. With this connection and his knowledge of of time learning the culture and language(s). Don’t plan
Cantonese, Don returned to HK in 2003 to train utility to bring modern arboriculture to another country simply
line clearance workers, opening a door that would even- as a means of doing business and making money. Take
tually lead to the establishment of his own company the time to become a part of the culture and be an active
there. Don also accepted opportunities to train tree participant in its society. Don adds, “Anyone who wants
climbers in HK government organizations and local land- a winter ‘edu-vacation’ should consider participating in
scape firms. In 2004, the Picker family sold their U.S. the 6th Annual International Arboricultural Summit –
home and returned to China. Hong Kong, which will be held November 18–20, 2013.”
As the opportunities for spreading arboricultural knowl-
edge continued to develop throughout areas of Asia, Don Janet Huber is ISA’s corporate communications manager.


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New from the International Society of Arboriculture
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 Codit did not have to be told twice. We bundled our
PA:MLMA> gear, washed up, and found Gavin and Jau enjoying the
LHENMBHG8 new view of Victoria Harbor and a cup of oolong tea.
“I have some essential oils for those bites if you need
Hopping from one foot to the other while the limb he it.” Gavin passed a small bottle into Codit’s outstretched
stood on swayed, Codit checked to see his tail was clear hand. “I’ve been thinking… Trees around the world have
and rappelled to the ground faster than a soldier out of a adapted to the activities of animals that are now extinct.
helicopter. He rolled up his pant leg and hollered, “Ants! Humans are responsible in large part for the disappear-
Red ants!” Stomping his feet and swatting as he unclasped ance of these creatures—such as anteaters! What are we
his saddle, Codit was making a million motions a minute, doing to replace their contributions?”
TM
gradually calming down as the last of his attackers was I dunked a cookie into my tea, thoughts swirling like
vanquished. the crumbs in the murky hot liquid. “This seems related
to the ecological imbalance caused by humans killing off
the natural predators of pestilent herbivores, such as
white-tailed deer. Their overpopulation wipes out seed-
lings of desirable species and spreads Lyme disease to
humans via bloodsucking ticks. In North America, large
herbivores were responsible for expanding the native
range of many trees. Now humans are good—maybe too
good—at distributing plants around the globe.”
Jau reached into his backpack. “Big trees no longer
grazed, small trees excessively grazed, all of these prob-
lems can get prevention through human intervention.
Restoring balance to nature is the goal, high and low,
from the canopy to the forest floor.” He pulled some sliced
tree sections out, one by one. “When I want to know more,
I look inside. See how the trees turned sprouts into branches,
JOE LAU

by adding layers of tissue to buttress their growth and move-

When outer branches are damaged, trees respond by sprouting new growth.
ment? I have heard this called the epicormic/endocormic
Ho^kmbf^%Z[nmmk^llbl[nbemZmma^[Zl^%mkZgl_hkfbg`ma^^ib\hkfb\likhnm transition.”
into a bona fide branch. Gavin examined a block of wood and exclaimed, “This
is it! Through their history, trees have adapted to having
their outer branches being reduced by storms and beasts.
I made a few extra cuts on the broken banyan to improve
This may be the answer to arboriculture’s most urgent
the view, and descended to commiserate with my col-
question—how to specify pruning to manage health and
league. “Gosh Codit, isn’t it ironic that you avoided the
safety. Every tree mystery is like a game of chess with
banyan tree because of harmless black ants? That wad of
Mother Nature. We must study her previous moves, and
leaves up there wasn’t a witches’ broom, but a nest of bit-
anticipate her next move. Her bishop may have the right
ing red ants.”
angle to end the game, but you can “castle” to protect your
“Isn’t it ironic—it’s the good advice that I just did not
king.”
take. Who would have thought… it figures.” Codit shook
I leaned back and took it all in. Old paradigms melted
himself, calming down as the pain from the bites went
away as I viewed the evolution of arboriculture through
away. “But you guys knew what was going to happen all
the wider lens of natural history. Jau smiled warmly and
along, didn’t you?”
asked, “Codit, you never did tell us what your Lesson #1 was.”
“With my binoculars I could see it was not a witch’s
Codit blinked and set down his cup, returning to the
broom,” I confessed. “But that’s all I could see.”
present. “I learned to respect tree associates, like those
“I regret your discomfort,” Jau apologized. “The ants are
black ants. They are innocent until proven guilty. Less
pests that local arborists are painfully accustomed to. Your
judgment, more thought, and a balanced view of trees
eagerness to avoid insects led to some lessons, it seems.”
and all organisms will make me a better arborist.”
“Yes, Lesson #3 was to avoid disturbing ant nests,”
Gavin raised his cup. “A toast to better tree care, and
Codit began. “Lesson #2 was to use binoculars in my pre-
better trees.” Four glasses clinked, and a musical ring
climb assessments, for identifying key structural features,
filled the air. “When you return to Hong Kong, we can
as well as potential trouble spots...”
apply this understanding on a much wider scale.”
Gavin walked up and said, “I’ve been watching your
pruning technique, and it’s taught me as a lesson I’d like
to share with you. Come on up to the patio; tea and
snacks are being served.”


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Red ants feast on the flowing latex from this fructiferous ficus. Alternately categorized as F. superba or subpisocarpa%bml
also known as the bird fig for the feasts it provides those beneficial associates.

Guy Meilleur is an arborist and aerial

Listen to more online
consultant with HistoricTreeCare.com. www.isa-arbor.com/arborpod/
He has authored 26 articles in this series. Detective Dendro®
Photos courtesy of the author unless Subscribe online to hear the caricatures
and adventures of Detective Dendro on
otherwise noted. your personal audio device.

Diagnosis and Prognosis of the

Development of Wood Decay
in Urban Trees
By Francis Schwarze
Hundreds of supporting tables and color illustrations enhance this straightforward text, which
explains the complex interactions among trees, fungi, and the environment. Mr. Schwarze provides
his Polypore identification key for diagnosing fungi in the field, as well as exciting new research on
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Also introduced in this excellent reference book are new ways in which fungi will play a role in the
future of human health and long-term preservation of the environment. This hardcover book publi-
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ISA Member Price: $199.95
To order, call 1-888-ISA-TREE or visit us online at www.isa-arbor.com/store

JUNE 2013 | 61
RESEARCH YOU NEED TO READ The following are abstracts of research articles published in the
latest issue of Arboriculture & Urban Forestry, ISA’s scientific
journal. Full-text articles from all issues of the journal are
May 2013 available online to ISA members (auf.isa-arbor.com). Members
may also opt-in to receive the print-version of each issue
Water Scarcity and Urban Forests: Science (call the membership department at 1-217-355-9411).
and Public Policy Lessons from a Decade of
Drought in Adelaide, Australia
Mark Brindal and Randy Stringer moderates transpiration and conserves soil water during
Drawing on the experience of greater metropolitan Ade- drying. However, dry evergreen species may be less adapt-
laide, South Australia, Australia, the paper points to the able to tropical urban conditions of pronounced drought,
links and gaps between science and public policy. The intense heat, and limited rooting volumes than dry decid-
paper explores urban stormwater management lessons uous species with malleable leaf habit.
emerging from a ten-year, prolonged dry period that
impacted the integrity of urban forests in the City of Ade- Managing and Monitoring Tree Health and
laide. Among the questions addressed: will stormwater Soil Water Status During Extreme Drought
remain, as its historic and institutional settings suggest, a in Melbourne, Victoria
liability or can it become an asset? Who owns stormwater Peter B. May, Stephen J. Livesley, and Ian Shears
resources and to whom is its management vested? The Between 1997 and 2009 the City of Melbourne, Victoria,
paper examines these issues with consideration to the Australia, along with most of southeastern Australia was
dangers of continuing to use urban forestry management affected by a very severe drought that resulted in signifi-
practices that are not informed by science. The study cant tree health decline. Elms and planes in particular, were
concludes that a more integrated approach to urban badly affected. Retrofitted drip irrigation was used to try
water management can maintain the integrity of urban and offset the effects of the drought but a modeled study
forests in ways that potentially enhance social amenities of tree water use showed that water delivered by drip irri-
and economic efficiency. gation provided only a fraction of the water required by a
mature tree. By contrast, drip irrigation in late winter was
Subtropical–Tropical Urban Tree Water able to recharge soil moisture levels. The drought has been
Relations and Drought Stress Response alleviated by higher rainfall but climate change scenarios for
Strategies southern Australia suggest that increased rainfall variability
Roger Kjelgren, Daryl Joyce, and David Doley and drought events will be more common and the expe-
Understanding native habitats of species successful as sub- riences documented in this paper provide useful informa-
tropical and tropical urban trees yield insights into how tion for urban tree managers planning for the future. "t/
to minimize urban tree water deficit stress experienced
during monsoonal dry periods. Equatorial and montane
wet forest species rarely subject to drought are generally
absent in subtropical and tropical cities with pronounced
monsoonal dry seasons. Species native to monsoonal dry
forests appear to have wide environmental tolerances,
and are successful as urban trees in many tropical cities.
Monsoonal dry forest species have a tendency to be deep
rooted to avoid drought, with leaf habits falling along an
avoidance to tolerance spectrum. Dry deciduous species,
typically found on more fertile soils, maximize growth
during the monsoonal wet season with high photosyn-
thesis and transpiration rates, then defoliate to avoid
stress during the dry season. Evergreen tree species, typi-
cally found on less fertile soils, have a higher carbon
investment in leaves that photosynthesize and transpire
less year-round than do dry deciduous species. Dry decid-
uous tree species are more common urban trees than dry
evergreen species, explicitly due to more ornamental floral
displays, but also implicitly due to their ability to adjust
timing and duration of defoliation in response to
drought.
An empirical study of three tropical species exhibiting
a range of leaf habits showed isohydric behavior that


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 Product Recall: ZIGZAG ARBORIST
MARKETPLACE
(mechanical Prusik)
Petzl has determined, as a measure of precaution, to issue a voluntary
recall of the ZIGZAG mechanical Prusik. On Friday, April 12, 2013,
Petzl was informed of an accidental fall in Germany. According to the local CHECK IT OUT!
account, the fall was the result of the failure of the rope-end attachment Novelty Items for the Tree Enthusiast.
hole of the ZIGZAG mechanical Prusik. Petzl’s investigation and further WWW.TREELIFESTORE.COM
testing reportedly concluded that this failure was the result of a particular Help us grow and thank you! Avalon
configuration of the cantilevered and off-axis upper carabiner. On
April 23, 2013, Petzl was informed of an identical failure of the ZIGZAG.
Understandably noting that it is the user’s responsibility to ensure CLASSIFIED AD RATES:
that all connectors on all equipment are correctly positioned prior to $60 PER INCH
use, Petzl has acknowledged that this incorrect positioning of the con- 1-INCH MINIMUM
nector (in the ZIGZAG) could inadvertently occur during normal use. To place an ad, contact Kathy Ashmore
Inadvertently loading the system in this configuration could result in Phone: 217-355-9411 x236 Fax: 217-355-9516
the failure of the rope-end attachment hole, potentially leading to seri- E-mail: [email protected]
ous injury or death. Deadline for the August issue is June 17th.
This recall of the ZIGZAG mechanical Prusik includes a mandate
for consumers to stop using the ZIGZAG regardless of connector ori-
entation. According to the company, “existing connector retaining
solutions applied to the ZIGZAG do not fully guarantee that the April 2013 Just for Fun Answer Key
upper carabiner will not pivot in the particular cantilevered and off- Across 14. iron
axis configuration. Do not modify the ZIGZAG in any way.” 2. aphids 15. analysis
Petzl has constructed a list of frequently asked questions (www. 4. nutrients Down
petzl.com/en/pro/zigzag-recall/faq) for those affected by the recall. For 8. nitrogen 1. chlorosis
individuals seeking detailed instructions on how and where to return 9. conifers 3. burn
the product, possible means of compensation, or how to contact a 10. dolomitic 5. micronutrients
regional Petzl distributor inside or outside of the United States, the 11. areas 6. fertilization
recall site is the key resource. A new version of the ZIGZAG is currently 12 eight 7. palms
in development and will reportedly be available in January 2014. 13. CEC

"%7&35*4&3
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For over 100 years, we’ve made trees, shrubs–and our people thrive. Ours is an entrepreneurial culture
in which new ideas are welcomed and decisions are shared–not handed down. We provide a Vermeer . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
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Weaver Leather . . . . . . . . . . 7
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workplace. Consider a career with Bartlett Tree Experts. Where growth happens everywhere you look.

PLEASE CALL MANAGER OF EMPLOYMENT & BENEFITS, 203.323.1131 OR VISIT BARTLETT.COM


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