CAI-NJ Feb.2020(w)

TREE CARE... from page 24.

One solution to this issue is paying to actually obtain, and possess the information about the trees. Information that will be there regard- less of who is on the board, or who the manager is for the next several years. This will help to guide the direc- tion of tree work as the community sees fit, armed with all the data points necessary to do so. This process is called a “Tree Management Plan with Inventory.” WHY: As touched on earlier, it’s important to first find out what you have, before you can decide what to do with it. With issues like invasive insects such as Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) and Spotted Lanternfly, know-

JamesBrey/E+/Getty Images

“One solution to this issue is paying to actually obtain, and possess the information about the trees.”

ing if you have a problem with their pre- ferred hosts will help set the priorities and identify exposures. Also, identifying haz- ards to people and the assets in the com- munity is vital for community safety, and

can help to deter liability issues when the board has shown some diligence in getting the identified issues resolved. Such a plan will allow all parties to best understand where the trees are currently, and what issues may be present or anticipated. This should help determine the best way to move forward and will help to lower costs. WHO: In this scenario, it’s essential to have qualified folks gathering the required information. A credentialed group of specialists, typically with International Society Of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborists, and in NJ, State Licensed Tree Expert (NJ-LTE) qualifications are required. The company chosen should specialize in this work, or have a consulting wing of their organization that does. WHAT: Boards and managers should com- municate the goals of this plan, and how they intend to use the information

26

F E B R U A R Y , 2 0 2 0