Stump removal is a crucial step in garden maintenance and landscaping, often necessary after a tree has been cut down. The leftover stump can be an eyesore, interfere with new construction or planting plans, and can even become a safety hazard. There are several methods for removing tree stumps, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. These methods include manual removal, chemical treatments, and mechanical grinding.
Manual removal is the most traditional method of stump removal. This technique is generally feasible if the stump is relatively small with shallow roots. The process involves physically digging around the stump to expose the roots, which can then be cut with saws or shears. The main tools used in this method include shovels, pickaxes, and sometimes even a jack to help lever the stump out of the ground. Manual removal is labor-intensive and time-consuming but eliminates the need for chemicals or heavy machinery.
Chemical treatments offer an alternative that requires less physical labor but involves a longer process. This method uses potent chemicals to accelerate the natural decay of the stump. Potassium nitrate is a commonly used chemical due to its effectiveness in speeding up decomposition. Holes are drilled into the stump's surface, filled with chemicals, and then watered to facilitate absorption. Over time-typically several weeks or months-the stump softens and can be broken apart more easily using an ax or shovel. While less labor-intensive than manual digging, chemical treatments require careful handling due to their toxic nature and have environmental implications that must be considered.
Mechanical grinding is perhaps one of the quickest methods for stump removal. It involves using a machine called a "stump grinder" that literally grinds down the wood into small chips up to several inches below ground level. The grinder features a rotating cutting disk that chips away at the wood as it moves across the surface of the stump. Grinding provides immediate results and effectively removes both the visible part of the stump and much of its root system below ground level.
Each method has its appropriate context depending on factors such as budget constraints, timeline requirements, size and type of tree stumps involved, environmental considerations, future site use plans among others. In conclusion, whether choosing manual laborious efforts for smaller jobs or mechanical means for larger projects-or even applying chemicals for those preferring hands-off approaches-each technique offers effective solutions tailored towards specific conditions surrounding each particular case of stump removal needs.
Stump removal is an essential task for many gardeners and landscapers who wish to clear their land after tree removal, improve aesthetics, or prepare for new planting. The process can be labor-intensive and challenging, but with the right tools and equipment, it becomes manageable and efficient. Here's a look at various stump removal methods and the specific tools required for each technique.
1. Manual Removal with Digging Tools: Manual stump removal is feasible for smaller stumps or when mechanical equipment cannot be used due to space constraints or safety concerns. The key tools needed include:
This method requires significant physical effort but is cost-effective and gives you precise control over the removal process.
2. Chainsaw Method: For slightly bigger stumps where manual digging would be impractical, using a chainsaw can expedite the process:
Before starting, ensure you're equipped with protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and hearing protection since this method generates wood chips and loud noise.
3. Stump Grinding: Stump grinders are powerful machines that remove tree stumps by gradually chipping away at the wood via a high-speed rotating cutting disk. They are ideal for large stumps and can substantially reduce labor time:
Stump grinding provides a quick way to remove stumps down below ground level, thus facilitating easy covering or replanting in the area.
4. Chemical Removal: This involves applying chemicals to speed up the decomposition of a tree stump:
After application, it can take several weeks or months before the stump decomposes completely depending on its size and wood type.
In conclusion, each stump removal method has its pros and cons related to labor intensity, cost-effectiveness, environmental impact, and required skills. Choosing which tools you use will largely depend on these factors along with personal preferences regarding how quickly you want the job done versus how much effort you're willing to exert. Regardless of your choice in method or tools, safety should always be your top priority during any kind of DIY project like this one.
Removing a tree stump from your yard can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can certainly be achieved. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the manual process of stump removal, including digging around the stump, cutting the roots, and leveraging the stump out of the ground.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools. You'll need a shovel or garden spade, an axe or saw, and a landscape bar or a large piece of wood for leverage. Additionally, wearing gloves and safety goggles is recommended to protect your hands and eyes.
Step 2: Dig Around the Stump Start by using your shovel to dig around the stump. Remove as much soil as possible from around the base to expose the roots. This might take some effort and time depending on the size of your stump and the type of soil in your yard. The goal here is to expose as many roots as possible so that they can be easily cut in the next step.
Step 3: Cut The Roots Once you have exposed the roots, use an axe or a saw to sever them. You might find smaller roots that can be cut using loppers or pruning shears. Be thorough in this process; ensuring all major roots are cut will make it significantly easier to remove the stump.
Step 4: Leverage The Stump Out With most of its roots cut, you can now focus on removing the stump itself. Place your landscape bar (or a sturdy piece of wood) under one side of the stump for leverage. Push down on the bar using it as a lever until you feel movement in the stump. You may need to move around and repeat this process from different angles to fully loosen it from its position.
Step 5: Remove The Stump Once loosened sufficiently, use sheer force or additional leverage with your landscape bar to lift and remove the stump from its hole. Depending on its size and weight, you might need assistance at this stage.
Step 6: Fill In The Hole After successfully removing the stump, fill in any holes left behind with fresh soil, packing it firmly. This helps prevent any safety hazards and also provides an even surface for replanting grass or installing other landscaping features.
Conclusion Manual stump removal is labor-intensive but entirely feasible with persistence and patience. It offers a great workout plus immediate improvement in your yard's aesthetics once completed. Each step should be done carefully not only for successful removal but also keeping safety at top priority throughout this physically demanding task.
Chemical stump removal is a popular method for dealing with tree stumps that remain after a tree has been cut down. This technique involves the use of chemicals to accelerate the decomposition process of the stump, making it easier to remove or allowing it to degrade naturally over time. Understanding how chemical stump removers work, the types of chemicals used, and the correct application procedures can help ensure effective and safe removal.
The primary mechanism through which chemical stump removers function is by speeding up the natural decay process. Typically, these chemicals increase the rate at which wood decomposes by promoting fungal growth or other microbial activity within the stump. The enhanced biological activity leads to faster breakdown of cellulose and lignin—the main structural components of wood—resulting in a softer and more friable (crumbly) stump.
The most commonly used chemicals for stump removal are potassium nitrate, sodium metabisulfite, and other nitrogen-rich compounds. Potassium nitrate is favored for its high efficacy; it not only accelerates decomposition but also provides nutrients (nitrogen) that are essential for the growth of microorganisms that aid in decomposition.
Proper application of chemical stump removers is crucial not just for effectiveness but also for safety:
When using any kind of chemicals, especially those designed for decomposition processes such as potassium nitrate:
While not immediate, chemical stump removal offers a relatively low-effort alternative compared to mechanical extraction methods like digging out or grinding down stumps manually or mechanically.. It is particularly useful where access limitations prevent physical removal techniques from being feasible options.. With proper application procedure adherence.and safety precautions,, this method serves as an efficient means toward clearing unwanted
Using a Stump Grinder: Safely Removing Tree Stumps
Removing tree stumps can be a daunting task, but with the help of a stump grinder, it becomes much more manageable. A stump grinder is a powerful tool that uses a rotating cutting disc with teeth to chip away at the wood. While it's an effective method for eliminating unsightly or problematic stumps, proper operation and safety precautions are essential to avoid accidents and ensure successful removal.
Before you begin, familiarize yourself with the stump grinder you will be using. Most models have similar components: a cutter wheel or disc, hydraulic controls, and sometimes a movable arm. Make sure to read the manufacturer's manual carefully for specific instructions related to your model.
Safety cannot be overstressed when operating heavy machinery like a stump grinder. Start by donning appropriate safety gear: sturdy work gloves, goggles or safety glasses, ear protection due to noise from the machine, long pants, and steel-toed boots.
Clear the area around the stump of rocks, metal objects, or other debris that could become dangerous projectiles when struck by the machine's high-speed teeth. Additionally, ensure that bystanders and pets are kept at a safe distance.
Check if there are any utility lines (both above and underground) near your work area. It's crucial to avoid disrupting these as damages not only cause service issues but can pose serious risks.
Position the grinder so that its blade is directly above the stump's edge. Start the engine according to instructions provided in your user guide-this typically involves engaging both throttle and choke controls.
Lower the cutter wheel slightly above the top surface of the stump. Move it side to side using hydraulic levers controlling its lateral movement across the surface of your target area. Begin grinding down into the wood in sweeping motions; these should be shallow passes rather than deep penetrations on each pass.
Gradually lower the blade after each horizontal pass until you reach your desired depth below ground level (typically 4-6 inches). The depth will depend on what you plan for space post-removal-whether filling it with soil for grass growth or preparing it for paving.
Stump grinders offer an efficient way to deal with unwanted tree stumps enhancing yard aesthetics and removing tripping hazards effectively with patience and adherence to safety practices outlined here combined with thorough preparation anyone can master this useful gardening skill ensuring their outdoor spaces remain beautiful functional environments enjoy all year round!
Stump removal is a necessary task for clearing land, improving aesthetics, and eliminating hazards from dead or removed trees. However, it can be a dangerous operation if not conducted properly. To ensure safety during stump removal operations, it is important to follow several key precautions.
First and foremost, personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times during stump removal. This includes sturdy work gloves to protect hands from sharp splinters, goggles or safety glasses to shield eyes from flying debris, ear protection to guard against the noise of machinery, and steel-toed boots to protect feet. Additionally, wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts helps protect skin from cuts and abrasions.
Before starting the stump removal process, it is crucial to thoroughly inspect the site for any obstacles or hazards such as rocks, wires, or underground utilities. Contacting local utility companies to check for underground lines can prevent serious accidents involving electrical shocks or gas leaks.
Choosing the right tools and equipment is another critical aspect of safe stump removal. For smaller stumps, hand tools like axes and digging bars may suffice. However, larger stumps typically require power tools such as chainsaws or stump grinders. It's essential that any equipment used is in good working condition and that the operator has read and understood the manufacturer's instructions before use.
When using heavy machinery like stump grinders, operators should ensure that bystanders are kept at a safe distance. The machine should only be operated by individuals who have proper training and experience. It’s important to maintain firm footing while using such equipment; uneven ground can lead to slips or falls that could result in serious injuries.
In addition to mechanical methods, chemical stump removers are also an option but come with their own set of risks. When using chemicals for stump removal, one must adhere strictly to the guidelines regarding application and dosage as indicated on the product label. Protective gloves should be worn when handling these chemicals to prevent skin irritation or more severe injuries.
Finally, consider environmental factors such as weather conditions before beginning stump removal operations. High winds can increase the risk of injury from falling debris when cutting down remnants of larger stumps; wet conditions can make operating machinery hazardous due to slippery surfaces.
In conclusion, while stump removal is a beneficial task in terms of landscaping and safety improvement efforts around homes and properties, it requires careful consideration of various safety measures. Wearing appropriate PPE, inspecting the work area thoroughly for potential hazards before beginning work; choosing suitable equipment based on size and complexity of the job; ensuring proper training for all operators involved; maintaining awareness of bystander presence; carefully handling chemicals if used; all these steps contribute significantly towards minimizing risk of injury during this potentially dangerous activity.
After a tree has been felled and its stump removed, one is often left with an assortment of wood chips, roots, and debris. These remnants can pose both an aesthetic and practical question: how can they be best disposed of or utilized? Indeed, there are several environmentally friendly and beneficial methods to consider.
Firstly, one of the simplest and most eco-friendly options for disposing of stump remains is to use them as mulch. Wood chips are excellent at retaining moisture in garden beds, reducing water usage and providing a stable temperature environment for plant roots. They also gradually break down into the soil, improving its nutrient content and structure. To use wood chips as mulch, spread them around your plants in a layer approximately 2-4 inches thick, ensuring that they don't directly touch plant stems to avoid rot.
Another creative use for wood chips is in making pathways. Laying them on garden paths not only suppresses weed growth but also creates a natural-looking walkway that complements a rustic garden aesthetic. Over time, these chips will decompose and can then be refreshed with new layers.
For those interested in composting, wood chips can add carbon-rich material to your compost pile. However, it's important to balance them with nitrogen-rich materials like food scraps or green waste to maintain the correct carbon-to-nitrogen ratio necessary for effective decomposition. Additionally, because wood chips decompose slowly, they should be used sparingly within the compost to avoid prolonging the maturation period of the compost.
If home gardening or composting isn't an option-or if you simply have too many wood chips-consider offering them to neighbors or local community gardens. Many people are constantly looking for free or cheap gardening materials. Local schools that have garden projects might also appreciate such donations.
Alternatively, some regions have municipal programs that collect yard waste-including tree stumps and wood chips-for processing into mulch or compost that is then made available to residents or used in public spaces. This not only helps you dispose of unwanted material but also supports community greening efforts.
Lastly, if none of these options are viable due to the type of wood or personal preference against using the chips in any form mentioned above-perhaps due to potential disease or pests-it may be necessary to look into hauling services that specialize in organic waste disposal.
Disposing of stump remains needn't be seen just as clearing trash; rather it offers multiple opportunities for benefiting your garden ecosystem or helping out others in your community while contributing towards sustainability efforts.
Arboriculture (/ˈɑËÂrbÉ™rɪˌkÊŒltʃər, É‘ËÂrˈbÉâ€Ã‹Âr-/)[1] is the cultivation, management, and study of individual trees, shrubs, vines, and other perennial woody plants. The science of arboriculture studies how these plants grow and respond to cultural practices and to their environment. The practice of arboriculture includes cultural techniques such as selection, planting, training, fertilization, pest and pathogen control, pruning, shaping, and removal.
A person who practices or studies arboriculture can be termed an arborist or an arboriculturist. A tree surgeon is more typically someone who is trained in the physical maintenance and manipulation of trees and therefore more a part of the arboriculture process rather than an arborist. Risk management, legal issues, and aesthetic considerations have come to play prominent roles in the practice of arboriculture. Businesses often need to hire arboriculturists to complete "tree hazard surveys" and generally manage the trees on-site to fulfill occupational safety and health obligations.[citation needed]
Arboriculture is primarily focused on individual woody plants and trees maintained for permanent landscape and amenity purposes, usually in gardens, parks or other populated settings, by arborists, for the enjoyment, protection, and benefit of people.[citation needed]
Arboricultural matters are also considered to be within the practice of urban forestry yet the clear and separate divisions are not distinct or discreet.[citation needed]
Tree benefits are the economic, ecological, social and aesthetic use, function purpose, or services of a tree (or group of trees), in its situational context in the landscape.
A tree defect is any feature, condition, or deformity of a tree that indicates weak structure or instability that could contribute to tree failure.
Common types of tree defects:
Codominant stems: two or more stems that grow upward from a single point of origin and compete with one another.
Included bark: bark is incorporated in the joint between two limbs, creating a weak attachment
Dead, diseased, or broken branches:
Cracks
Cavity and hollows: sunken or open areas wherein a tree has suffered injury followed by decay. Further indications include: fungal fruiting structures, insect or animal nests.
Lean: a lean of more than 40% from vertical presents a risk of tree failure
Taper: change in diameter over the length of trunks branches and roots
Epicormic branches (water sprouts in canopy or suckers from root system): often grow in response to major damage or excessive pruning
Roots:
Proper tree installation ensures the long-term viability of the tree and reduces the risk of tree failure.
Quality nursery stock must be used. There must be no visible damage or sign of disease. Ideally the tree should have good crown structure. A healthy root ball should not have circling roots and new fibrous roots should be present at the soil perimeter. Girdling or circling roots should be pruned out. Excess soil above the root flare should be removed immediately, since it present a risk of disease ingress into the trunk.
Appropriate time of year to plant: generally fall or early spring in temperate regions of the northern hemisphere.
Planting hole: the planting hole should be 3 times the width of the root ball. The hole should be dug deep enough that when the root ball is placed on the substrate, the root flare is 3–5cm above the surrounding soil grade. If soil is left against the trunk, it may lead to bark, cambium and wood decay. Angular sides to the planting hole will encourage roots to grow radially from the trunk, rather than circling the planting hole. In urban settings, soil preparation may include the use of:
Tree wells: a zone of mulch can be installed around the tree trunk to: limit root zone competition (from turf or weeds), reduce soil compaction, improve soil structure, conserve moisture, and keep lawn equipment at a distance. No more than 5–10cm of mulch should be used to avoid suffocating the roots. Mulch must be kept approximately 20cm from the trunk to avoid burying the root flare. With city trees additional tree well preparation includes:
Tree grates/grill and frames: limit compaction on root zone and mechanical damage to roots and trunk
Root barriers: forces roots to grow down under surface asphalt/concrete/pavers to limit infrastructure damage from roots
Staking: newly planted, immature trees should be staked for one growing season to allow for the root system to establish. Staking for longer than one season should only be considered in situations where the root system has failed to establish sufficient structural support. Guy wires can be used for larger, newly planted trees. Care must be used to avoid stem girdling from the support system ties.
Irrigation: irrigation infrastructure may be installed to ensure a regular water supply throughout the lifetime of the tree. Wicking beds are an underground reservoir from which water is wicked into soil. Watering bags may be temporarily installed around tree stakes to provide water until the root system becomes established. Permeable paving allows for water infiltration in paved urban settings, such as parks and walkways.
Within the United Kingdom trees are considered as a material consideration within the town planning system and may be conserved as amenity landscape[2] features.
The role of the Arborist or Local Government Arboricultural Officer is likely to have a great effect on such matters. Identification of trees of high quality which may have extensive longevity is a key element in the preservation of trees.
Urban and rural trees may benefit from statutory protection under the Town and Country Planning[3] system. Such protection can result in the conservation and improvement of the urban forest as well as rural settlements.
Historically the profession divides into the operational and professional areas. These might be further subdivided into the private and public sectors. The profession is broadly considered as having one trade body known as the Arboricultural Association, although the Institute of Chartered Foresters offers a route for professional recognition and chartered arboriculturist status.
The qualifications associated with the industry range from vocational to Doctorate. Arboriculture is a comparatively young industry.
An arborist, or (less commonly) arboriculturist, is a professional in the practice of arboriculture, which is the cultivation, management, and study of individual trees, shrubs, vines, and other perennial woody plants in dendrology and horticulture.[citation needed]
Arborists generally focus on the health and safety of individual plants and trees, rather than managing forests or harvesting wood (silviculture or forestry). An arborist's scope of work is therefore distinct from that of either a forester or a logger.[citation needed]
In order for arborists to work near power wires, either additional training is required or they need to be certified as a Qualified Line Clearance Arborist or Utility Arborist (there may be different terminology for various countries). There is a variety of minimum distances that must be kept from power wires depending on voltage, however the common distance for low voltage lines in urban settings is 10 feet (about 3 metres).[1]
Arborists who climb (as not all do) can use a variety of techniques to ascend into the tree. The least invasive, and most popular technique used is to ascend on rope. There are two common methods of climbing, Single Rope System (SRS) and Moving Rope System (MRS). When personal safety is an issue, or the tree is being removed, arborists may use 'spikes', (also known as 'gaffs' or 'spurs') attached to their chainsaw boots with straps to ascend and work. Spikes wound the tree, leaving small holes where each step has been.[citation needed]
An arborist's work may involve very large and complex trees, or ecological communities and their abiotic components in the context of the landscape ecosystem. These may require monitoring and treatment to ensure they are healthy, safe, and suitable to property owners or community standards. This work may include some or all of the following: planting; transplanting; pruning; structural support; preventing, or diagnosing and treating phytopathology or parasitism; preventing or interrupting grazing or predation; installing lightning protection; and removing vegetation deemed as hazardous, an invasive species, a disease vector, or a weed.[citation needed]
Arborists may also plan, consult, write reports and give legal testimony. While some aspects of this work are done on the ground or in an office, much of it is done by arborists who perform tree services and who climb the trees with ropes, harnesses and other equipment. Lifts and cranes may be used too. The work of all arborists is not the same. Some may just provide a consulting service; others may perform climbing, pruning and planting: whilst others may provide a combination of all of these services.[2]
Arborists gain qualifications to practice arboriculture in a variety of ways and some arborists are more qualified than others. Experience working safely and effectively in and around trees is essential. Arborists tend to specialize in one or more disciplines of arboriculture, such as diagnosis and treatment of pests, diseases and nutritional deficiencies in trees, climbing and pruning, cabling and lightning protection, or consultation and report writing. All these disciplines are related to one another and some arborists are very well experienced in all areas of tree work, however not all arborists have the training or experience to properly practice every discipline.[citation needed]
Arborists choose to pursue formal certification, which is available in some countries and varies somewhat by location. An arborist who holds certification in one or more disciplines may be expected to participate in rigorous continuing education requirements to ensure constant improvement of skills and techniques.[citation needed]
In Australia, arboricultural education and training are streamlined countrywide through a multi-disciplinary vocational education, training, and qualification authority called the Australian Qualifications Framework, which offers varying levels of professional qualification. Government institutions including Technical and Further Education TAFE offer Certificate III or a diploma in arboriculture as well as some universities.[3][4] There are also many private institutions covering similar educational framework in each state. Recognition of prior learning is also an option for practicing arborists with 10 or more years of experience with no prior formal training. It allows them to be assessed and fast track their certification.[citation needed]
In France, a qualified arborist must hold a Management of Ornamental Trees certificate, and a qualified arborist climber must hold a Pruning and Care of Trees certificate; both delivered by the French Ministry of Agriculture.[5][6]
In the UK, an arborist can gain qualifications up to and including a master's degree. College-based courses include further education qualifications, such as national certificate, national diploma, while higher education courses in arboriculture include foundation degree, bachelor's degree and master's degree.[citation needed]
In the US, a Certified Arborist (CA) is a professional who has over three years of documented and verified experience and has passed a rigorous written test from the International Society of Arboriculture. Other designations include Municipal Specialist, Utility Specialist and Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA). The USA and Canada additionally have college-based training which, if passed, will give the certificate of Qualified Arborist. The Qualified Arborist can then be used to offset partial experience towards the Certified Arborist.
Tree Risk Assessment Qualified credential (TRAQ), designed by the International Society of Arboriculture, was launched in 2013. At that time people holding the TRACE credential were transferred over to the TRAQ credential.[citation needed]
In Canada, there are provincially governed apprenticeship programs that allow arborists' to work near power lines upon completion. These apprenticeship programs must meet the provincial reregulations (For example, in B.C. they must meet WorkSafeBC G19.30), and individuals must ensure they meet the requirements of the owner of the power system.[citation needed]
Trees in urban landscape settings are often subject to disturbances, whether human or natural, both above and below ground. They may require care to improve their chances of survival following damage from either biotic or abiotic causes. Arborists can provide appropriate solutions, such as pruning trees for health and good structure, for aesthetic reasons, and to permit people to walk under them (a technique often referred to as "crown raising"), or to keep them away from wires, fences and buildings (a technique referred to as "crown reduction").[7] Timing and methods of treatment depend on the species of tree and the purpose of the work. To determine the best practices, a thorough knowledge of local species and environments is essential.[citation needed]
There can be a vast difference between the techniques and practices of professional arborists and those of inadequately trained tree workers. Some commonly offered "services" are considered unacceptable by modern arboricultural standards and may seriously damage, disfigure, weaken, or even kill trees. One such example is tree topping, lopping, or "hat-racking", where entire tops of trees or main stems are removed, generally by cross-cutting the main stem(s) or leaders, leaving large unsightly stubs. Trees that manage to survive such treatment are left prone to a spectrum of detrimental effects, including vigorous but weakly attached regrowth, pest susceptibility, pathogen intrusion, and internal decay.[8]
Pruning should only be done with a specific purpose in mind. Every cut is a wound, and every leaf lost is removal of photosynthetic potential. Proper pruning can be helpful in many ways, but should always be done with the minimum amount of live tissue removed.[9]
In recent years, research has proven that wound dressings such as paint, tar or other coverings are unnecessary and may harm trees. The coverings may encourage growth of decay-causing fungi. Proper pruning, by cutting through branches at the right location, can do more to limit decay than wound dressing [10]
Chemicals can be applied to trees for insect or disease control through soil application, stem injections or spraying. Compacted or disturbed soils can be improved in various ways.[citation needed]
Arborists can also assess trees to determine the health, structure, safety or feasibility within a landscape and in proximity to humans. Modern arboriculture has progressed in technology and sophistication from practices of the past. Many current practices are based on knowledge gained through recent research, including that of Alex Shigo, considered one "father" of modern arboriculture.[11]
Depending on the jurisdiction, there may be a number of legal issues surrounding the practices of arborists, including boundary issues, public safety issues, "heritage" trees of community value, and "neighbour" issues such as ownership, obstruction of views, impacts of roots crossing boundaries, nuisance problems, disease or insect quarantines, and safety of nearby trees or plants that may be affected.[citation needed]
Arborists are frequently consulted to establish the factual basis of disputes involving trees, or by private property owners seeking to avoid legal liability through the duty of care.[12] Arborists may be asked to assess the value of a tree[13] in the process of an insurance claim for trees damaged or destroyed,[14] or to recover damages resulting from tree theft or vandalism.[15] In cities with tree preservation orders an arborist's evaluation of tree hazard may be required before a property owner may remove a tree, or to assure the protection of trees in development plans and during construction operations. Carrying out work on protected trees and hedges is illegal without express permission from local authorities,[16] and can result in legal action including fines.[17] Homeowners who have entered into contracts with a Homeowner's association (see also Restrictive covenants) may need an arborists' professional opinion of a hazardous condition prior to removing a tree, or may be obligated to assure the protection of the views of neighboring properties prior to planting a tree or in the course of pruning.[18] Arborists may be consulted in forensic investigations where the evidence of a crime can be determined within the growth rings of a tree, for example. Arborists may be engaged by one member of a dispute in order to identify factual information about trees useful to that member of the dispute, or they can be engaged as an expert witness providing unbiased scientific knowledge in a court case. Homeowners associations seeking to write restrictive covenants, or legislative bodies seeking to write laws involving trees, may seek the counsel of arborists in order to avoid future difficulties.[19]
Before undertaking works in the UK, arborists have a legal responsibility to survey trees for wildlife, especially bats, which are given particular legal protection. In addition, any tree in the UK can be covered by a tree preservation order and it is illegal to conduct any work on a tree, including deadwooding or pruning, before permission has been sought from the local council.[citation needed]
The protagonist in Italo Calvino's novel The Baron in the Trees lives life on the ground as a boy and spends the rest of his life swinging from tree to tree in the Italian countryside. As a young man he helps the local fruit farmers by pruning their trees.[citation needed]
Some noteworthy arborists include:
Forestry is the science and craft of creating, managing, planting, using, conserving and repairing forests and woodlands for associated resources for human and environmental benefits.[1] Forestry is practiced in plantations and natural stands.[2] The science of forestry has elements that belong to the biological, physical, social, political and managerial sciences.[3] Forest management plays an essential role in the creation and modification of habitats and affects ecosystem services provisioning.[4]
Modern forestry generally embraces a broad range of concerns, in what is known as multiple-use management, including: the provision of timber, fuel wood, wildlife habitat, natural water quality management, recreation, landscape and community protection, employment, aesthetically appealing landscapes, biodiversity management, watershed management, erosion control, and preserving forests as "sinks" for atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Forest ecosystems have come to be seen as the most important component of the biosphere,[5] and forestry has emerged as a vital applied science, craft, and technology. A practitioner of forestry is known as a forester. Another common term is silviculturist. Silviculture is narrower than forestry, being concerned only with forest plants, but is often used synonymously with forestry.
All people depend upon forests and their biodiversity, some more than others.[6] Forestry is an important economic segment in various industrial countries,[7] as forests provide more than 86 million green jobs and support the livelihoods of many more people.[6] For example, in Germany, forests cover nearly a third of the land area,[8] wood is the most important renewable resource, and forestry supports more than a million jobs and about €181 billion of value to the German economy each year.[9]
Worldwide, an estimated 880 million people spend part of their time collecting fuelwood or producing charcoal, many of them women.[6][quantify] Human populations tend to be low in areas of low-income countries with high forest cover and high forest biodiversity, but poverty rates in these areas tend to be high.[6] Some 252 million people living in forests and savannahs have incomes of less than US$1.25 per day.[6]
Over the past centuries, forestry was regarded as a separate science. With the rise of ecology and environmental science, there has been a reordering in the applied sciences. In line with this view, forestry is a primary land-use science comparable with agriculture.[10] Under these headings, the fundamentals behind the management of natural forests comes by way of natural ecology. Forests or tree plantations, those whose primary purpose is the extraction of forest products, are planned and managed to utilize a mix of ecological and agroecological principles.[11] In many regions of the world there is considerable conflict between forest practices and other societal priorities such as water quality, watershed preservation, sustainable fishing, conservation, and species preservation.[12]
Silvology (Latin: silva or sylva, "forests and woods"; Ancient Greek: -λογία, -logia, "science of" or "study of") is the biological science of studying forests and woodlands, incorporating the understanding of natural forest ecosystems, and the effects and development of silvicultural practices. The term complements silviculture, which deals with the art and practice of forest management.[13]
Silvology is seen as a single science for forestry and was first used by Professor Roelof A.A. Oldeman at Wageningen University.[14] It integrates the study of forests and forest ecology, dealing with single tree autecology and natural forest ecology.
Dendrology (Ancient Greek: δÃŽÂνδρον, dendron, "tree"; and Ancient Greek: -λογία, -logia, science of or study of) or xylology (Ancient Greek: ξÃÂλον, ksulon, "wood") is the science and study of woody plants (trees, shrubs, and lianas), specifically, their taxonomic classifications.[15] There is no sharp boundary between plant taxonomy and dendrology; woody plants not only belong to many different plant families, but these families may be made up of both woody and non-woody members. Some families include only a few woody species. Dendrology, as a discipline of industrial forestry, tends to focus on identification of economically useful woody plants and their taxonomic interrelationships. As an academic course of study, dendrology will include all woody plants, native and non-native, that occur in a region. A related discipline is the study of sylvics, which focuses on the autecology of genera and species.
The provenance of forest reproductive material used to plant forests has a great influence on how the trees develop, hence why it is important to use forest reproductive material of good quality and of high genetic diversity.[16] More generally, all forest management practices, including in natural regeneration systems, may impact the genetic diversity of trees.
The term genetic diversity describes the differences in DNA sequence between individuals as distinct from variation caused by environmental influences. The unique genetic composition of an individual (its genotype) will determine its performance (its phenotype) at a particular site.[17]
Genetic diversity is needed to maintain the vitality of forests and to provide resilience to pests and diseases. Genetic diversity also ensures that forest trees can survive, adapt and evolve under changing environmental conditions. Furthermore, genetic diversity is the foundation of biological diversity at species and ecosystem levels. Forest genetic resources are therefore important to consider in forest management.[16]
Genetic diversity in forests is threatened by forest fires, pests and diseases, habitat fragmentation, poor silvicultural practices and inappropriate use of forest reproductive material.
About 98 million hectares of forest were affected by fire in 2015; this was mainly in the tropical domain, where fire burned about 4 percent of the total forest area in that year. More than two-thirds of the total forest area affected was in Africa and South America. Insects, diseases and severe weather events damaged about 40 million hectares of forests in 2015, mainly in the temperate and boreal domains.[18]
Furthermore, the marginal populations of many tree species are facing new threats due to the effects of climate change.[16]
Most countries in Europe have recommendations or guidelines for selecting species and provenances that can be used in a given site or zone.[17]
Forest management is a branch of forestry concerned with overall administrative, legal, economic, and social aspects, as well as scientific and technical aspects, such as silviculture, forest protection, and forest regulation. This includes management for timber, aesthetics, recreation, urban values, water, wildlife, inland and nearshore fisheries, wood products, plant genetic resources, and other forest resource values.[19] Management objectives can be for conservation, utilisation, or a mixture of the two. Techniques include timber extraction, planting and replanting of different species, building and maintenance of roads and pathways through forests, and preventing fire.
The first dedicated forestry school was established by Georg Ludwig Hartig at Hungen in the Wetterau, Hesse, in 1787, though forestry had been taught earlier in central Europe, including at the University of Giessen, in Hesse-Darmstadt.
In Spain, the first forestry school was the Forest Engineering School of Madrid (Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros de Montes), founded in 1844.
The first in North America, the Biltmore Forest School was established near Asheville, North Carolina, by Carl A. Schenck on September 1, 1898, on the grounds of George W. Vanderbilt's Biltmore Estate. Another early school was the New York State College of Forestry, established at Cornell University just a few weeks later, in September 1898.
Early 19th century North American foresters went to Germany to study forestry. Some early German foresters also emigrated to North America.
In South America the first forestry school was established in Brazil, in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, in 1962, and moved the next year to become a faculty at the Federal University of Paraná, in Curitiba.[34]
Today, forestry education typically includes training in general biology, ecology, botany, genetics, soil science, climatology, hydrology, economics and forest management. Education in the basics of sociology and political science is often considered an advantage. Professional skills in conflict resolution and communication are also important in training programs.[35]
In India, forestry education is imparted in the agricultural universities and in Forest Research Institutes (deemed universities). Four year degree programmes are conducted in these universities at the undergraduate level. Masters and Doctorate degrees are also available in these universities.
In the United States, postsecondary forestry education leading to a Bachelor's degree or Master's degree is accredited by the Society of American Foresters.[36]
In Canada the Canadian Institute of Forestry awards silver rings to graduates from accredited university BSc programs, as well as college and technical programs.[37]
In many European countries, training in forestry is made in accordance with requirements of the Bologna Process and the European Higher Education Area.
The International Union of Forest Research Organizations is the only international organization that coordinates forest science efforts worldwide.[38]
In order to keep up with changing demands and environmental factors, forestry education does not stop at graduation. Increasingly, forestry professionals engage in regular training to maintain and improve on their management practices. An increasingly popular tool are marteloscopes; one hectare large, rectangular forest sites where all trees are numbered, mapped and recorded.
These sites can be used to do virtual thinnings and test one's wood quality and volume estimations as well as tree microhabitats. This system is mainly suitable to regions with small-scale multi-functional forest management systems
Forestry literature is the books, journals and other publications about forestry.
The first major works about forestry in the English language included Roger Taverner's Booke of Survey (1565), John Manwood's A Brefe Collection of the Lawes of the Forrest (1592) and John Evelyn's Sylva (1662).[39]
cite book
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The Society of American Foresters grants accreditation only to specific educational curricula that lead to a first professional degree in forestry at the bachelor's or master's level.
This article incorporates text from a free content work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 (license statement/permission). Text taken from Global Forest Resources Assessment 2020 Key findings​, FAO, FAO.
This article incorporates text from a free content work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO (license statement/permission). Text taken from The State of the World's Forests 2020. Forests, biodiversity and people – In brief​, FAO & UNEP, FAO & UNEP.
This article incorporates text from a free content work. Licensed under CC BY-SA IGO 3.0 (license statement/permission). Text taken from World Food and Agriculture – Statistical Yearbook 2023​, FAO, FAO.
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