decay affects stability; how decay in roots, branches and trunks can most
efficiently be evaluated; how to easily evaluate loads on trees; how to evaluate tree response growth; and how to put this information together to
most accurately judge tree risk.
— Tom Smiley, Ph.D., arboricultural researcher, Bartlett Tree Research
Lab
We still need to improve wages in the UVM industry.
— Derek Vannice,VP of operations, CN Utility Consulting, Inc.
are accurately rating risk and not calling for the unnecessary removal of
low-risk trees.
— Tom Smiley, Ph.D., arboricultural researcher, Bartlett Tree Research
Lab
I think the declining health of the tree populations will become an
issue from drought, emerald ash borer, and a few other pathogens. For
UVM folks, liability for fires and accidents will likely be an increasing
focus. Finally,2014 ushers in a new version of FAC-003, which will be an
issue in complying with the new requirements.
— Stephen R. Cieslewicz, president, CN Utility Consulting Inc.
What do you think will be the industry's biggest story in 2014?
The big story in 2014 will be the ISA Tree Risk Assessment
Qualification.This is the first qualification launched by ISA, and they
have done a fantastic job putting it together. It is a two-day class that
was designed by educational professionals and leading arborists to be
engaging and educational. It is a new standard for education of working arborists. Because of the importance of the information presented,
and the quality of the class, this will be the hottest, most talked about
arboricultural educational opportunity available.When arborists pass the
half-day written and field exam, they will receive the TRAQ credential.This credential should become the entry point for many municipal,
utility and commercial contracts in the future to ensure that arborists
www.arborage.com
Launch of ROW Steward Accreditation program.
— Derek Vannice,VP of operations, CN Utility Consulting, Inc.
Adoption of FAC-003-2, ROW Stewardship Program; another state
adopting clearance requirements (similar to California); New IVM
BMP Revision; LiDAR adapted for distribution maintenance; one or
more states requiring documented distribution system vegetation
inspections.
—Will Porter, director of consulting, CN Utility Consulting, Inc.
Healthcare.
—Will Nutter,Wright Tree
Arbor Age / October 2013
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