One of the questions that we are commonly asked is whether or not tree removal is a good idea. The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, and it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision
At Advantage Tree Care, we understand that trees are an integral part of our ecosystem, that’s why maintaining local trees and urban forests within our city is so important.
If you are concerned about a tree and think it needs to be removed please contact us and we will arrange an onsite visit to provide a free assessment of the situation and offer you practical advice about the most effective way to move forward.
Do I actually need to remove the tree?
It could be that your tree is encroaching on your property, either leaning on it, or growing into a hazardous position and you think removing it is your only option.
Sometimes it is possible to carry out remedial tree work so as to save the tree, which may also turn out to save you money. We understand the value of trees in our environment from both aesthetic and habitat point of view. Removal of any tree is always a last resort. Pruning and other options such as cabling and bracing are always considered first in order to mitigate the risks of the unhealthy tree.
Is the tree a potential hazard?
Just because a tree may pose a risk or hazard, it does not necessarily mean that the whole tree would need to be removed. Depending on the situation there are several options to save the tree, through carrying out preventative maintenance such as pruning of hazardous limbs, weight reduction pruning, as well as cable and bracing. A thorough tree risk assessment will be able to identify your options and costs.
When tree removal is warranted
There are a few scenarios when removal of a tree is acceptable. For instance:
- if the tree is potentially dangerous to the property owner or the general public (when other mitigation options are not possible).
- If the tree has picked up a disease and is dying
- if the tree is causing, or will in the near future cause, structure or infrastructure damage
So what’s the best course of action?
Unfortunately, there is no easy answer. The decision of whether or not to remove a tree should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account all of the relevant factors.
With that said, here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of tree removal
Advantages
- Removing a tree can open up your yard, making it seem larger and more spacious.
- It can also increase the amount of sunlight that reaches your home and garden, which can be beneficial for plants.
- In some cases, tree removal may be necessary in order to protect your home from storm damage.
- If a tree is diseased or dying, removing it can prevent the spread of disease to other trees.
Disadvantages
- Tree removal can be expensive, costing thousands of dollars depending on the size and type of tree.Negative impact on the environment.
- Trees provide habitat for wildlife and help to improve air quality, so removing them can have a negative impact.
- trees can add value to your property as they are widely sought after, therefore, removing them may impact the value of your property
Who’s responsible?
As a property owner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your trees do not pose a risk to people and property. If you or a neighbour is concerned about the health and safety of a tree, it is recommended that you commission a certified arborist to carry out a tree risk assessment to determine the potential risks and to identify what work can be carried out to help mitigate the risks.
Assessing for safety
As qualified arborists, when we assess trees we are able to begin to understand more about the tree and how much risk it poses to public safety based on its location and general health. Changing environmental conditions, for example, change in soil conditions through drought or excess water logging can have significant impacts on a tree’s health and stability.
Pruning instead of removing
Tree pruning can be a great alternative to tree removals. The goal is to retain as much of the natural environment as possible, and pruning can help prevent unnecessary tree removals within our beautiful communities. There are a variety of techniques to pruning depending on the given scenario; Structural pruning, Restorative pruning, Tree reductions, Tree thinning & more
Pruning is also especially useful when we are dealing with protected tree species like Garry Oak or Arbutus.
See Related: What are the main advantages of tree pruning
What about tree permits?
There is a good chance that your tree is protected by city bylaws, if it’s been around for a while. Learn more about tree permits and bylaws in your district.
The Verdict?
Natural light, aesthetics, property value, cost of removal, dangerous trees, sick trees, trees encroaching on your property – are some of the many things to consider!
This is why tree removal is a tricky subject. On the one hand, trees can provide a number of benefits, including shade, privacy, and beauty. On the other hand, tree removal can be expensive, and it can also have a negative impact on the environment.
Have questions? Need Help?
While we do remove fallen, damaged, or sick trees, and get rid of tree stumps, we are really a “Tree Care” company. This means maintaining and caring for your trees to extend their lifespan.
The Advantage Tree Care team offers a number of tree care and arborist services to residents all over Greater Victoria and Saanich. From tree removals and pruning, to health inspections and emergency tree services, we’ve got you covered.
