Take Caution When Caring For Trees Ravaged By Ice Storm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT SONIA ABNEY:
(217) 355-9411 Ext 27
Take Caution When Caring for Trees Ravaged by Ice Storm
Champaign, IL - With power restored
and roads cleared, the worst may be behind devastating ice
storms. Yet hazards still lurk for damaged trees and those who care for
them, according to the International Society of Arboriculture, a
not-for-profit organization that provides tree care information.
The impact of a major storm on trees can be seen for months and even
years. At any time,
limbs may split or break high in the tree tops. These branches can
come crashing down during high winds.
Hidden Hazards
ISA explains that not all potential hazards and tree problems
will be obvious to the untrained eye. People tend to clean up
the damage that they see on the ground without checking the canopies
or apparently undamaged tree in their yards. Sometimes
the extent of the damage cannot be assessed until an arborist climbs
the tree to inspect and remove the broken branches. Trees that
have suffered storm damage may require various treatments. Stress may create entry points for insects and diseases,
requiring supplemental care such as irrigation, mulching,
fertilization, or pest control. More severely damaged trees will need
pruning and even additional support such as cables or braces.
Advice for Homeowners
ISA cautions homeowners that there are significant dangers
involved with do-it-yourself tree work. Tree cleanup provides
many looming dangers. Storm damage situations can
present some of the most dangerous working conditions both in the
trees and on the ground. Pruning or removing trees, especially
large ones, can be particularly hazardous work. This type of work is
best left to the professionals. An arborist is a specialist in the
care of trees. Arborists are knowledgeable about the needs of trees,
and are trained and equipped to provide proper care.
Getting Help
A list of certified arborists, as well as other helpful information
for consumers, can be obtained by contacting the International Society
of Arboriculture at P.O. Box 3129, Champaign, IL 61826-3129. Phone:
217-355-9411. Fax: 217-355-9516. E-mail:
isa@isa-arbor.com
or visit the ISA Web site at www.isa-arbor.com
to locate an arborist near you. The site also contains articles and
other useful information on the subject of tree maintenance.
SIDEBAR: How to Select an Arborist
Following are important factors to consider when selecting an
arborist:
- Look for the ISA Certified Logo—Check your phone directory
for companies that employ ISA Certified Arborists or display the ISA
Certified logo. (Certified arborists have passed extensive
examination covering all aspects of tree care).
- Check for Memberships—Look for membership in professional
organizations such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA),
the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), or the American Society of
Consulting Arborists (ASCA). These organizations demonstrate the
arborist's interest in staying up-to-date with the latest techniques
and information.
- Request Proof of Insurance—Ask for proof of insurance and
confirm it is current. A reputable company will have personal and
property damage insurance as well as Worker's Compensation coverage.
- Examine Credentials—Get more than an estimate and don’t
necessarily go with the lowest bid. You should examine the
credential and written specifications on the bids to be sure that
you are comparing "apples with apples."
- Be Cautious—Be wary of individuals who go door-to-door and
offer bargains for performing tree work. Most reputable companies
are far too busy to solicit work in this manner. Shoddy workmanship
can lead to permanent damage to your trees.
ISA Mission Statement
With more than 16,000 members worldwide, The International Society
of Arboriculture (ISA) is the largest professional association of
those dedicated to the proper care and preservation of trees. Our
membership includes commercial arborists, municipal arborists and
urban foresters, utility arborists as well as educators and
researchers. ISA also has the only International Certification program
for arborists to help consumers make a choice when purchasing tree
care services. The mission of ISA is to foster research and education
that promotes the care and benefits of trees.
The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) is a nonprofit organization supporting
tree care research around the world. Headquartered in Champaign, Ill., ISA is dedicated to the care and
preservation of shade and ornamental trees. For more information, contact a local ISA Certified Arborist
or visit
www.treesaregood.com.