Pro Arb September 2018 by Eljays44

PROARB

S e p t e m b e r 2 01 8 PROFESSIONAL TREE CARE FOR T REE SURGEONS

Awesome Punch!

Brute performance you have to see to believe

Arborist 200 COVER.indd 1

Tel: 01789 400044

www.greenmech.co.uk

30/08/2018 08:32

Pro Arb Ad Aug 2018_Layout 1 13/08/2018 14:11 Page 1

RS U O IT

TAND!

LOW EMISSION PETROL RANGE

DIESEL PERFORMANCE, PETROL POWER

Advert template.indd 1

TW 280P

timberwolf-uk.com 01449 765800

TW 230PA H

TW 160 P

THE UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LARGEST PETROL CHIPPER RANGE! 23/08/2018 11:03

WELCOME

PROARB

S e p t e m b e r 2 01 8 PROFESSIONAL TREE CARE FOR T REE SURGEONS

Awesome Punch!

Sep tem be r 2 0 1 8 • Vo l u m e 5 • I s s u e 0 7 Brute performance you have to see to believ e

Arborist 200

Tel: 01789 400044

www.greenmech.co.uk

COVER.indd 1 30/08/2018 08:32

elcome to September’s Pro Arb. There’s no doubt that for many readers, work is becoming increasingly busy. Nesting season is over, meaning more jobs are permissible and for those who recycle wood, plenty of customers want to stock up on logs. Around a million UK homes already have a woodburner, with the surge in popularity continuing, so who better to provide the fuel than a friendly local arborist ﬁrm? The APF Exhibition will be held this month and there’s a huge buzz around this year’s event. If you’re looking for new business ideas, this is the place to be inspired and there will

ALL ENQUIRIES Tel: 01903 777 570 Eljays44 Ltd 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3DA EDITORIAL Managing Editor – Joe Wilkinson Joe.Wilkinson@eljays44.com Features Editor – Rachel Gordon proarbeditor@eljays44.com ADVERTISING Business Development Manager – Jamie Wilkinson jamie.wilkinson@eljays44.com Sales Manager – Jessica McCabe jessica.mccabe@eljays44.com

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

LEADER.indd 3

be unrivalled amounts of kit, clothing and all things arb-related on show. It’s also highly encouraging to see so much emphasis by the organisers on promoting the sector as a whole, whether through the skills of traditional crafts or with the power of timbersports. APF 2018 is making every eﬀort to be as inclusive as possible, such as through facilitating primary school children to attend, to providing low cost camping for visitors. Meanwhile, this month’s comment piece from DC Vickers is timely, pointing out that recruitment and retention are serious issues and need addressing as a matter of urgency. This month’s interview features Andy Taylor who worked as a digger driver before he

Account Manager – Natalie Ross natalie.ross@eljays44.com Horticulture Careers – Laura Harris laura.harris@eljays44.com PRODUCTION Design – Kirsty Turek Printed by Pensord Press Ltd Published by ©Eljays44 Ltd

trained as an arborist. He loves the work and is a great example of a highly competent and talented practitioner. Whether it is via APF or other channels, the more the message gets out there that the world of tree care is one packed with opportunity is much needed. Enjoy the issue and your feedback is always welcome.

information contained in this publication are the copyright of Eljays44 Ltd and may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publishers. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss of, or damage to, uncommissioned photographs or manuscripts.

CIRCULATION Subscription enquiries: chris.anderson@eljays44.com

MANAGEMENT Managing Director – Jim Wilkinson Editorial Director – Lisa Wilkinson Business Development Manager – Jamie Wilkinson

Pro Arb is published 9 times per year by Eljays44 Ltd. The 2018 subscription price is £95. Subscription records are maintained at Eljays44 Ltd, 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3DA, UK. Articles and

FOLLOW US ONLINE www.proarbmagazine.com Follow us on Twitter @ProArbmagazine Like us on Facebook Proarbmagazine Connect to our LinkedIn group Pro Arb UK

For careers in arboriculture and horticulture go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk Every week we send out ‘Pro Arb: The Tuesday Recap’, in which we highlight the most popular news stories from the last week. If you aren’t subscribed to The Tuesday Recap but would like to be, please email Amber Bernabe at amber.bernabe@eljays44.com If you would like to send us press releases to post online and potentially feature in The Tuesday Recap, please email Max Dodd at max.dodd@eljays44.com

PROARB

Pro Arb | September 2018

30/08/2018 10:50

SEE THE FULL RANGE AT THE APF SHOW STAND NO. 7 Advert template.indd 2

23/08/2018 11:04

CONTENTS

s t n e cont r e b m e t Sep 2018

news & views 7 > n ews

Be in the know with these exclusive updates

10 > N ews extra

Briefing on the Arboricultural Association’s Amenity Conference

20 > Insurance – the right way to reduce risk

Stephen Lewis from broker Lycetts advises on correct cover for arborists

22 > T ree surveys – preparation is everything

Being informed at the outset is key says consultant Jonathan Hazell

12 > C omment – can we tackle the recruitment crisis?

24 > T ree surveys – a step by step guide

14 > I nterview – meet Andy Taylor

26 > T raining – going the distance

Industry expert DC Vickers discusses how to bring on the next generation

The Arundel-based arborist on how he got started and why he loves the job

features 19 > P ests and diseases – scale insects

Advice on taking on these sap suckers from Bartlett’s Glynn Percival

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

CONTENTS.indd 5

Straightforward guidance from Landmark Trading’s Paul George

Progress report from DC Vickers

28 > D r Duncan Slater’s casebook

Real life examples of arboriculture in action

30 > T ree protection – focus on the future The values of home grown tree stock

kit 34 > A PF Preview – go and see Our guide to which stands to visit at this year’s biggest show for arborists

40 > M eet the supplier – bring on the Buxton’s What gives this family business the winning edge

43 > S kid steers – packing

a powerful punch

Heavy excavation work made easier

46 > W oodchippers – up your game

The business benefits of investing in a quality chipper

48 > B lowers – a breath of fresh air

Make your autumn clean-up efficient

50 > P roduct DNA – Makita’s new 18V chainsaw

The compact and lightweight option aimed at professionals

Pro Arb | September 2018

30/08/2018 08:57

18v CORDLESS TOP HANDLE CHAINSAW DUC254 Bar Length Chain Pitch Chain Gauge Chain Speed Oil Tank Capacity Net Weight

3.0Ah

minute charge

4.0Ah

minute charge

5.0Ah

minute charge

25cm 3/8” 0.043” 24m/sec 140ml 2.8kg - 3.3kg

6.0Ah

minute charge

Visit our website for more information www.makitauk.com Pro Arb.indd 1 Advert template.indd 3

21/08/2018 11:04 08:31 23/08/2018

NEWS & VIEWS

news ROUNDUP

HAIX PUTS BEST FOOT FORWARD FOR APF Haix, the specialist in chainsaw boots, will be launching a new lightweight model at APF 2018, in addition to displaying its ‘Protector’ forestry range. The brand will also be providing boots to the winners of the Chainsaw Carving Competition, Best Speed Carve, and Carvers’ Choice. The company noted

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

NEWS.indd 7

that forestry and outdoor workers could spend some 37 hours a week on their feet during an average working week and that the right footwear could also help with challenging working conditions and hazards such as mud and falling branches. For more information see: www.haix.co.uk/forest

A ROUNDUP OF ALL THE LATEST ARBORICULTURE NEWS FROM AROUND THE UK. FOR MORE STORIES VISIT WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

WOODLAND TRUST CALLS FOR MORE UK-SOURCED TREE PLANTING The Woodland Trust is calling on those with tree planting responsibilities to make sure the stock they put into the ground has been grown on UK soil. This is to help prevent against the spread of pests and diseases – now also a focus of government attention, which has launched a Tree Resilience Strategy. The Woodland Trust says buyers of tree stock should ensure they buy from reputable nurseries and it has an accreditation scheme to show those which sell stock from UK provenance. Lee Dudley, projects manager for the conservation charity, said: “Our UK Sourced and Grown accreditation scheme is a stamp of approval; it allows trees to be bought with peace of mind, and means saplings can be traced back to where they came from. We want more people to ask where their trees come from, and nurseries can ask to join the 22 nurseries that are already part of the programme.” To ﬁnd out more visit: www. woodlandtrust.org.uk/uksg Read more on tree protection in our feature on page 30

THE TREE FELLER SETS UP RENTALS VENTURE

The Tree Feller Tree Surgery, a Hertfordshire-based arborist ﬁrm, is planning to set up a rentals business for specialist kit. Managing director Charles Fowler says the new business, Arb Rentals, is ideal for those needing quality kit for more specialist jobs or who are starting out and building up their equipment. “We will be hiring items such as woodchippers – we have recently invested in a Först ST6P – and stump grinders, and our clients will be professional tree surgeons – we won’t be renting to Joe Public.” Charles added the website, likely to be www.arbrentals. co.uk, would be up and running in the coming weeks, listing full details. The Tree Feller, established almost 10 years ago, focuses on the North London and Hertfordshire area, working for local authorities, schools, estate agents and private clients. Charles runs the business with Ylber Imeri and has four members of staﬀ. The Tree Feller also features in this issue on page 46

Pro Arb | September 2018

30/08/2018 10:53

NEWS & VIEWS

LOVE TREES? YOU’LL LOVE THIS BOOK Around the World in 80 Trees by Jonathan Drori is a beautiful book ﬁlled with stories about trees and the roles they can play in human life. Focusing on diﬀerent species and countries, the writer describes in a series of tales how trees give both sanctuary and inspiration as well as practical details, such as supplying the raw materials for many products from aspirin to maple syrup.

NATIONAL TREE OFFICERS CONFERENCE RELEASES SPEAKER DETAILS Programme details are being released for the National Officers Conference, which takes place on 6 November in Telford. Speakers will include Lars Schultz-Christensen, a local authority officer who works in Copenhagen, Denmark on the topic of new ways of tree irrigation. Others will come from around the UK and include Russell Horsey MICFor, senior arboricultural officer at Bristol City Council, who will speak on why urban foresters and arborists need to learn more about engineering. Conference presentations will focus on four key topics as follows:

NEWS.indd 8

Pro Arb | September 2018

• International diversity and professionalism • Legislation and protection • Opportunities and biosecurity • Data utilisation Becky Porter, LTOA executive officer, says: “It’s fantastic news that the conference is bringing an international flavour to this year’s programme. I’m really looking forward to finding out how trees are managed in Denmark and more widely across the UK, particularly in Guernsey, the Isle of Man and Scotland.” Organised by the London Tree Officers Association (LTOA), the Municipal Tree Officers Association (MTOA) and the Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF), the event is aimed at professionals who work with trees in an urban setting. For more details go to: www.charteredforesters.org/ tree-officers-conference

Jonathan is a trustee of the Eden Project and a visiting professor for the University of Bristol. The illustrator is Lucille Clerc. Around the World in 80 Trees costs £17.99 and is published by Laurence King.

APF INVITES CHILDREN TO LEARN ABOUT SECTOR This year’s APF event is oﬀering £6000 – in sums of £300 per school – in funding towards making it easier for local children to visit the event, which takes part on 20, 21 and 22 September at Ragley Estate, Warwickshire. Exhibition secretary, Ian Millward, says: “We’ve always been very keen to attract schools to come along, be given a guided tour by experienced foresters and learn about everything that happens in a modern working woodland and possible careers in the industry. “The children can see everything from traditional woodland crafts, such as charcoal burning, basket making and pole lathe turning to horse logging and high-tech automatic tree harvesters in operation and learn about bio fuel and wood energy. “They can also follow the whole life cycle of a tree from seed to sawmill.” He added the organisers

recognised that “school budgets are tight and educational visits are often something that has to be cut. So we are offering the first 20 schools that apply £300 to cover their transport costs to and from the show.” Ian continues that already seven schools and more than 250 children are booked to attend and he hopes this figure reaches 800. “We are keen to show that forestry has come a long way from check shirts and axes and that new high-tech machinery needs highly skilled operators. The children will be able to try out a simulator of a £300,000 harvesting machine and try their hand at felling a virtual tree.”

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

29/08/2018 15:30

EMISSION

ACCOMPLISHED

ALL THE

POWER & PERFORMANCE YOU EXPECT. LOW EMISSIONS YOU WOULD NOT EXPECT.

Get prepared for the 2019 emission regulation changes - without compromising anything.

Pro Arbtemplate.indd Emissions Ad.indd 1 Advert 4

20/08/2018 15:35 16:34 23/08/2018

NEWS & VIEWS

Go west for this year’s news extra

AA COnference THIS LONG-ESTABLISHED EVENT, WHICH IS BEING HELD IN EXETER, PROMISES AN IMPRESSIVE LINE-UP OF SPEAKERS AND PLENTIFUL NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

local authority managers, contractors, educators and professionals along with those with interests in the environment and ecology. The keynote speakers are:

‘Soils & Trees – Standing your Ground’ is the theme of this year’s Arboricultural Association’s (AA) National Amenity Conference on 9–12 September at the University of Exeter. This year’s event is being held in collaboration with the Sustainable Soils Alliance, a partnership looking to reverse soil health decline and work with relevant parties to restore soils to health within one generation. The conference is now in its 52nd year and the event will have a number of presentations from a range of international and UK speakers covering themes focusing on the natural environment and trees soils and the landscape (Monday), rural into urban – eﬀective planning and engineered solutions for constrained environments (Tuesday) and the way forward – remediation and collaboration (Wednesday). The audience will include arboriculture managers,

Pro Arb | September 2018

NEWS-Extra.indd 10

Craig Sams Together with his brother Gregory, he founded Whole Earth Foods, expanding from Seed, an organic macrobiotic restaurant, into retail, wholesaling, publishing and manufacturing. In 1991, he and Josephine Fairley founded Green & Black’s Organic Chocolate. He is a director of Duchy Originals and a former Soil Association treasurer and chairman. In 2008, he set up Carbon Gold, to establish biochar as a means to restore degraded soils. Sir Tim Smit Best known for discovering and restoring the ‘Lost Gardens of Heligan’, with John Nelson, he is executive vice chair and founder of the outstanding indoor rain forest, the Eden Project. Tim is executive chairman of Eden Project International, which aims to have the facility on every habited continent by 2025. Ted Green Ted is founder member and

president of the Ancient Tree Forum and honorary vice president of the International Tree Foundation. His achievements include being awarded an MBE for his work in conservation and an honorary lectureship by Imperial College, London, for his contribution to science and education and he was also awarded the Gold medal by the Royal Forestry Society for his services. He is retained by the Crown Estates, Windsor, as their conservation consultant. Sir William Worsley A businessman, farmer and forester, fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and Associate of the Royal Agricultural Societies. He lives in North Yorkshire and his woods at Hovingham have won awards

for forestry and conservation. He is National Tree Champion for Defra, a key commitment of the government’s 25-year Environment Plan, to strengthen protections and support the planting of 11 million trees. Alongside the speaker programme the event will have an exhibition with 47 spaces. The Tuesday evening includes a wine reception and an annual awards gala dinner. This will include the presentation of the Arboricultural Association Award, which since 1982 has recognised a signiﬁcant and positive contribution to the industry or profession.

For more information, visit: www. trees.org.uk/Training-AndEvents/Amenity-Conference

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

30/08/2018 11:24

Built for the way

you work.

100+ Years FOCUSED ON Grounds Care

5,000+

DEALERS WORLDWIDE To Serve You

Experience Toro at APF 2018 Showcasing exciting new products on Stand 1320-1340

For more info see www.toro.com or call 01279 723444 to locate your nearest dealer

Advert template.indd 5

23/08/2018 11:05

NEWS & VIEWS

How do we tackle

V I E W S the skills and DC V IC K E R S

recruitment crisis?

SARAH MADDOX, HR MANAGER AT BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS, SAM EAGLING-FERNANDEZ, REGIONAL MANAGER FOR MAYDENCROFT AND DC VICKERS, ARBORICULTURE PROGRAMME MANAGER AT BERKSHIRE COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, DISCUSS HOW BEST TO BRING IN THE NEXT GENERATION

ello D.” said the caller at the other end of the phone. “I’ve a real problem and don’t know how to solve it… recruitment is a nightmare”. So began the start of a conversation between D. and Sarah, reminiscent of a previous conversation D. had had with Sam late last year. Recruitment and retention is a big issue, at least in the south east, where larger companies are finding it hard to recruit suitable people at all levels – from new starter to experienced personnel. Bartlett Tree Experts is a company well known in the industry and supports many initiatives within it, but also offers potential employees an interesting and varied workload and access to research projects. So, it would seem the opportunity to work in that environment would be highly sought after. But, as Sarah points out: “When our current experienced leaders move into new areas, there’s no one to take on their roles”. Sam finds himself in a similar position at Maydencroft: “We’re a

Pro Arb | September 2018

Comments - DC Vickers.indd 12

business with high profile clients and we have high standards. We find a lot of applicants lack the skills required to carry out these works, some of them lacking even the basic level of experience”. Lack of experience That comment about experience crops up time and again, and the phrase “we’re finding it hard to find people with all of the relevant qualifications,” is not uncommon. Perhaps this is where education needs to step in and be seen to be more proactive? “The new arborist apprenticeship standard is a great start and focuses on a core set of knowledge, skills and behaviours,” says D. “But it’s only available at Level 2 and you have to be a climber to pass it. I’ve got employers who want to take on an apprentice, but either at a higher level or through a nonclimbing route.” Raising awareness Of course, short courses, full-time courses and distance learning packages are all available and perhaps the bigger issue for

education is ensuring that employers and potential new starters in the industry know what’s out there. Yet there is little doubt there has been a shift in culture regarding being employed. Forget about the skills and qualiﬁcations, just the basics of turning up on time (or turning up at all) can be hard enough. Added to this, some new recruits are demanding unsustainable salaries. Not just about salaries The simple solution is to pay a higher salary, but as both Sarah and Sam say: “It’s not all about the salary – we’ve tried increasing it but we end up with more potential applicants that still don’t have the experience needed”. Both Bartlett Tree Experts and Maydencroft try to oﬀer more than

just a salary, and as Sam says: “We’ve tried incentivising new recruits with childcare vouchers, pensions, great work packages and interesting projects. But, it’s simply not having an eﬀect”. So, what does it take to bring people into the industry; or for those in the industry, to take on new roles? “I’m not sure there’s a quick-win solution and I think that is recognised, but I do believe there needs to be a more holistic approach within education,” says D. “It’s going to be about making the younger generation, still at secondary school, aware of the fantastic diversity of roles in the tree care industry and generating a passion for it.” If you have thoughts on this topic, email them to dvickers@bca.ac.uk.

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

29/08/2018 16:05

ISU1001 Grafter Green6- AdProArb(210x265mm).indd 1 Advert template.indd

23/03/2018 23/08/2018 11:42 11:05

NEWS & VIEWS

Choosing life

at the top

DID YOU SWITCH JOBS TO MOVE INTO TREE SURGERY? ALTHOUGH THIS CHALLENGING WORK CAN BE TOUGH AND INVOLVES RISK, GETTING IT RIGHT ALSO PROVIDES A GREAT DEAL OF SATISFACTION, AS ANDY TAYLOR EXPLAINS

ndy Taylor, who is based in Arundel, West Sussex, was a digger driver and sometimes worked as part of a team on tree-related work such as removing large roots. Arborist colleagues talked to him about joining them so, some six years ago, he qualified and is now a self-employed arborist. Andy works on a sub-contracted basis for a number of local firms, such as Andrew Gale Tree Surgery and Brushwood Tree Services, as well as a number of private clients. “I enjoy working for myself, having more freedom, and in particular doing a job I love,” he says. Andy qualified at Merrist Wood College in Guildford. “I took four separate week-long courses, so that I didn’t have to take too much time off from work. It cost me in excess of £2,000, but was well worth it. The college is excellent and it meant I would be able to take on work involving climbing. Since then, I’ve also learnt a great deal on the job and in this role, you continue to develop experience.” Investing in kit Beyond the cost of the course, there are also costs involved from building up a full set of kit, which is essential for those wanting to take on private work. “I have

Pro Arb | September 2018

Interview.indd 14

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

30/08/2018 09:27

NEWS & VIEWS

a truck and chipper and tools, my current favourite is a Petzl Zigzag, which is a real help – allowing you to move smoothly around the tree once you are up it and with no friction on the rope.” He points out that good kit is always going to be an expensive investment, but is an absolute core component for any professional. “You want it to last – perhaps 10 years or more – and to get the right results.” Climbing trees and working with potentially dangerous equipment would be an alarming prospect for many people. So, does Andy worry about the risks and has he ever been injured? “I used to think about the dangers but it impacts your work negatively and slows you down. I’ve had some rather scary times when lowering a large section of a tree down – you need to make sure the gob is cut correctly and you have a good hinge so it can be brought down safely. If not, it could swing away and you could be in the ﬁring line. This is the time to follow training and to use kit that’s safe. What is more, you also need to trust the guys on the ground – I work with some great people and we all look out for each other.” As for injuries, he says the odd cut from his silky saw is the worst he’s had to contend with. “My partner Jess worries

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

Interview.indd 15

more, but even she knows that safety is taken seriously and after six years, I should know what I’m doing!” In terms of the frustrating parts of the job, Andy is not alone in speaking out against the ‘cowboys’ who all too often con customers and give the sector a bad name. “These people often prey on more vulnerable customers, such as the elderly, knocking on doors and telling them that a tree needs removing and promising them a good price. Instead, they butcher the tree, rip the customer oﬀ and may also be involved in other criminal activity. What is more, they will almost certainly be using stolen kit and tools, and they will typically scratch oﬀ the serial numbers.” Valuing the work matters Andy believes the public also need to increase their understanding of the value of trees and the work arborists perform: “Some people just think we are there to fell trees. But, a lot of what we do is about conservation and in areas like crown reduction, thinning and bracing, we are able to protect trees and help them survive. It’s a great feeling to see a tree you’ve worked on look a whole lot better and know it’s going to be around in years to come.”

Longer term, Andy has ambitions to start his own arborist company, potentially employing his own team and taking on apprentices. “This is a competitive industry and there can be no guarantees about having regular work, although so far I’ve not had any slack times. Setting up on my own would be a big leap, but it is something I’m thinking about seriously.” Andy is passionate about his work and says his knowledge on tree care continues to expand. “For me, this is a fantastic job. I love being outdoors, meeting new people and of course, the climbing elements do provide quite a bit of excitement.” When not working, he loves going to music festivals and to the West country with Jess and their two-year-old daughter Faye in their motorhome. The job has its social side too he adds: “A well-deserved pint after a week’s work always goes down well on a Friday afternoon.” Trees can certainly provide a good living and Andy’s experience shows that ditching the digger was undoubtedly the best move he could have made.

Contact Andy Taylor on 07775 746572 or email andytaylor2526@gmail.com

Pro Arb | September 2018 15

30/08/2018 09:28

F I R S T

Advert template.indd 7

A I D

23/08/2018 15:36

S E R U FEAT r e b m e t sep 2018

19 > Off the ‘scale’ insects

Expert guidance on tackling infestation from Glynn Percival of Bartlett Tree Research Laboratory

20 > Inside insurance

When it’s time to take cover, the right insurance matters as Lycett’s Stephen Lewis advises

22 > Tree surveys – take care of the basics

Having the correct information at the outset will set you in good stead says arboricultural expert Jonathan Hazell

24 > Tree surveys – your ultimate ‘how to’ guide

Undertake this vital role with conﬁdence with key steps outlined by Paul George of Landscape Trading

26 > Training – focus on distance learning

How did the BCA apprentices get on when left to work remotely for a week? DC Vickers reports

28 > Dr Duncan Slater’s casebook

More revealing insights and anecdotes from the senior lecturer at University Centre, Myerscough

30 > Tree protection update

Latest guidance from the Woodland Trust and government on using home grown stock to stop the spread of pests

FEATURES COVER.indd 21

30/08/2018 09:09

SUBSCRIBE NOW! £95

PER YEAR

M O N T H LY I N D E P E N D E N T NEWS-BASED MAGAZINE W E E K LY E M A I L W E B S I T E U P D AT E Contact chris anderson:

PRO ARB REC I N A RO BG N I S I N G E X O C

RISTS ELLEN NEW CE L A N D SC A T E G O R I E S CAPER IN BUSIN PRO E S S AW ARDS

KNOC B O X B KL IN G O U T IG

HT FI GH TI GLY N N N G TA LK FR O PE R CI VA M L COVE

R.indd

J u ly /

augus

t 201 8

P R O F ES

SIONA FO R T R L T R E E C A R E EE S U R G EO N S

RICHM RICHES OF O N D PA RK A SAN C H IS T OTRU A R Y F O R IC T R E ES

B R A O R P

8 JUNE 201 EE CARE IONAL TR P R O F ES S T RE E SU RG EO NS FO R

PRO ARB

UP K I T E SD A T E Y O U R SENTIA BOOTS LS AND P S AW S R U N I N G SORTE D

CA SE BO OK

N DR DUNCA R E T A L S

01903 777588 chris.anderson@eljays44.com

06/08/

2018

11:54

B R EA K IN G

HIGH

FE WHEN S TA Y S AAT H E I G H T WORKING

T H E M O U LD

Y C O RORRK?H D O MVE SW

IZ A L

AD DI TI

ARBORIC

+ DRY

U LT U R A L

APPRENT

ICESHIPS

MAY 2018 P R O F ES S I O NAL TR FO R T RE E E E C A R E SU RG EO NS

T HE 201

A R B S H O8W

ABOVE C U T T I N GP E T I T I O N M Y O U R C O ED TO KN OW NE AL L YO U

D S TA N D A R THE NEW

A N IN TE RV IE

W W IT

H JA M IE S A U NDERS TR OJAN TRE E CARE

IDENTIFY

AND MANA GE

CANKERS

ALL YOU EMISSIONS NEED TO KNOW R E G U L AT I ONS

Informing and engaging the UK’s arboriculturists with the latest news, products and best practice ProArb_SUBS_FP.indd 1

30/08/2018 14:09

FEATURES

SAP-SUCKING SCALE INSECTS CAN WEAKEN A WIDE RANGE OF PLANTS. DR GLYNN PERCIVAL OF BARTLETT TREE RESEARCH LABORATORY PROVIDES GUIDANCE ON THEIR CONTROL

PDEISSEATSE

A question of scale

w at c h

Soft scale on Cypress

Soft scale on Leylandii

here are more than 25 species of scale which can occur in Britain, ranging in size from less than 1mm to over 1cm in diameter. Scale insects generally remain static on plants and feed by inserting their stylets into plant tissue. The large numbers of eggs or live young produced mean scale infestations can become excessive and damaging if left unchecked. A single female soft scale can produce up to 250 live young, while a single brown scale can lay up to 2,000 eggs. There are two families – soft scale (Coccidae) and hard scale (Diaspididae).

Symptoms The initial symptoms are yellowing foliage, weakened, stunted or distorted growth and sunken spots on the upper leaf surface that correspond to the position of scales below. Scales or shell-like ‘bumps’ occur on stems and the underside of leaves. Other scale insects deposit their eggs under a covering of white waxy ﬁbres in early summer. Care should be taken when identifying these types of scale as other insect species, such as mealybug or woolly aphids, also

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

Pest and disease.indd 19

Cottony scale on Dogwood

produce white, waxy egg masses on stems and the undersides of leaves. Damage to plants results from the effects of feeding on young tissue, which weakens and distorts new growth making plants unsightly. Secondary effects result from fouling of the leaves and stems with honeydew which encourages the growth of a fungus known as sooty mold. Heavy scale infestations can also result in poor growth. Control The shell or scale gives some protection to adult scale insects from insecticides, so spraying is more effective against the newly hatched nymphs. With scales on outdoor plants, there is usually one generation a year. The basic approach for treatment is a combination of an organic spray oil plus a synthetic pyrethroid based insecticide in autumn or spring. When to spray The timing of treatment is critical with sprays timed to coincide with the appearance of scale crawlers. In most UK tree species eggs

Lecanium scale on Magnolia

hatch in late June to July. Soap or spray oil can also be used on growing plants and kill crawlers mainly by direct contact. Re-infestation may soon occur and repeat sprays at 14–21 days may be necessary. Fertilisation of scale infested plants should also be delayed until control has been achieved as young ﬂeshy plant growth is particularly susceptible to infestation. Treat deciduous fruit trees and roses with a spray oil winter tree wash during December and January to kill overwintering nymphs and eggs. Biological control of scale works well in glasshouses but not so well outdoors. Parasitic wasps Metaphycus helvolus, Encyrtus spp. and Encarsia citrina can be used against soft scale insects while the small black ladybird has been used for hard scale control. It is also advisable to destroy any leaves that have been removed from an infested plant because these can harbour mobile juvenile scales. Dr Glynn Percival is plant physiologist/technical support specialist at Bartlett Tree Research Laboratory www.bartletttree.co.uk

Pro Arb | September 2018 19

29/08/2018 10:25

FEATURES

The right way to

reduce risk SELECTING THE RIGHT COVER IS A MUST FOR ANY ARBORIST WHO IS COMMITTED TO THEIR PROFESSIONALISM. PRO ARB SPOKE TO EXPERT STEPHEN LEWIS ABOUT HOW TO SELECT PROPER PROTECTION

Tree surgery can be a risky profession – how important is it to have the right cover? Having the right cover is vitally important, given the high-risk nature of the business and potential for accidents to be life changing or life ending. In these instances, the last thing that we want to happen is for an insurer to withdraw cover. This could leave the policyholder to deal with the claim themselves, putting their business and personal property at risk while leaving the injured party at a serious financial disadvantage. For example, this could happen if a tree surgeon bought a landscapers’ policy that specifically excluded aerial tree work. When is it necessary to add on extra cover? You don’t necessarily have to add on extra cover, but you do need to ensure the cover you buy is correct. Importantly, does it have any restrictions or limitations restricting what the policyholder can or can’t do or how they do it. Specifically, you should check if there are any height limits, or if cover excludes damage or injury within a certain distance from the tree or stipulates that work is undertaken in a specific way. What should

Pro Arb | September 2018

Insurance Needs.indd 20

also be taken into consideration is the level of cover as the cost of personal injury claims continue to increase. We have seen claims settled in excess of £9 million following a fall from a tree.

need this cover and opt out of buying due to cost. However, this isn’t the case, anyone they engage who works under their control, supervision or direction or using their equipment would be deemed as a

If the general public chooses to use a firm that has made the effort and gone to the expense of buying the correct insurance, then they are more likely to be dealing with a professional business Do many arborists need insurance advice – what are typical queries and concerns? Clients taking out their first policy will obviously need more assistance and should make sure that they fully understand the cover they are buying, what it does and doesn’t do, and the differences between Employers’ Liability, Public Liability, Professional Indemnity etc. A main topic of conversation is the need for Employers’ Liability cover. People often assume that as they engage the use of labour-only sub-contractors, who may or may not have their own insurance, that they don’t

temporary employee. It’s the policyholder’s responsibility to arrange this cover, where necessary, and they could face prosecution under the Health and Safety legislation for non-compliance with the Employers’ Liability (Compulsory) Insurance Act 1969, as well as dealing with the claim from the injured party. How would you describe the market – is there enough choice and is cover fairly priced? Currently, there are various brokers offering different schemes for the arboriculture and forestry industries. This has resulted

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

29/08/2018 10:00

FEATURES

the new underwriters is that if a client can demonstrate they are complying with what they should be and have health and safety at the heart of what they do, then we can offer discounts over and above other firms. There can be some big claims – how important is it to be aware of the claims service and do brokers need to remind clients that cutting costs may jeopardise this? We do see some very large claims which are usually as a result of bodily injury, therefore, while there may be a lot going on in the background with insurers appointing loss adjusters, solicitors, private detectives and doctors, the policyholder is not likely to be involved with much of this, other than to provide statements or documentary evidence. Smaller claims, third party property, loss of or damage to tools and equipment is where the policyholder will benefit from using a specialist with a good claims service. For example, has their customers’ damage been put right quickly and efficiently to avoid any bad publicity or have the tools been replaced swiftly reducing the amount of downtime?

in premiums being pushed down by market forces, meaning that arborists are able to get very good deals, whether or not this is realistic or sustainable remains to be seen. Can an insurance broker also give risk management guidance, do underwriters take this seriously – can this impact on the cost of the insurance? A good broker should be able to provide some guidance on risk management, especially if they are operating a scheme for a specific trade or industry, as they should have a level of background knowledge of that industry. Every broker and insurer is different and will apply their own underwriting philosophy based on experience and results. At Lycetts, we have recently changed underwriters, with

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

Insurance Needs.indd 21

health and safety being at the forefront of our thinking for both existing and new clients. We have also engaged the services of a health and safety specialist, who has also run their own arboriculture business. Their mandate is to undertake a telephone audit, with cover being subject to this being undertaken and any recommendations being complied with. Additionally, we will ask to see documentary evidence to back up what clients are telling us. The reason for this is not to be difficult, but if a spurious claim arises and the policyholder can’t provide evidence to prove that the injured party was shown a site-specific risk assessment or other supporting documentation, it makes the insurer’s job of defending a claim even more difficult, if not impossible, regardless of the circumstances. Part of our agreement with

The arborist sector has some very professional firms and some that are disreputable. Should arborists emphasise they are insured? If the general public chooses to use a firm that has made the effort and gone to the expense of buying the correct insurance, then they are more likely to be dealing with a professional business. It’s unlikely that a disreputable firm would bother with buying insurance, when in all likelihood of an accident, they disappear leaving their customer to deal with the damage caused and having the cost of hiring another firm to finish the job.

Stephen Lewis is a tree surgery and forestry insurance specialist with insurance broker Lycetts www.lycetts.co.uk

Pro Arb | September 2018 21

30/08/2018 09:13

FEATURES

VIEWS

J O N AT H A N HAZELL

Preparation is everything THERE CAN BE TREPIDATION WHEN IT COMES TO CONDUCTING TREE SURVEYS, BUT AS JONATHAN HAZELL EXPLAINS, BEING CLEAR AT THE OUTSET AS TO WHAT IS REQUIRED CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE

ou may well remember my ‘three Ds’ – define, design and deliver. So, when it comes to tree surveys, it’s imperative from the outset that both the buyer and provider know what is expected. Who is the client for the survey? What is behind the request for the survey? Will it be a one-off or cyclical? What form will the product take? These are among the essential questions to ask. But, it can take quite some time to agree the answers to what can appear at first to be deceptively simple questions.

A relatively frequent enquiry is for a tree survey on a development site, and given that there is a British Standard that covers trees on development site you would

Pro Arb | September 2018

Jonathon Hazell2.indd 22

think it was quite straightforward. But that would be too easy, wouldn’t it? Advising on a course of action The buyer may think that an adequate report will state that a tree is located x metres from the proposed building. However, the users of the report, including the local planning authority, may expect rather more and the experienced surveyor will need to persuade their buyer what will be required. Another common enquiry is for a survey that identifies a

need, such as to discharge the tree owner’s duty of care by an assessment of the health and condition or their tree stock, or an opportunity to identify a

suitable budget for a routine and cyclical programme of preventative work, for example.

the facts and the evidence. If the stock being surveyed is all young, in good condition, of good vigour,

At least the inventory of a survey on a development site is clear – all the assets will need to be reviewed. The inventory of other surveys may not be so easy to define, nor will the outputs At least the inventory of a survey on a development site is clear – all the assets will need to be reviewed. The inventory of other surveys may not be so easy to define, nor will the outputs. Some trees in such a survey may not merit a second glance, while others may require a very thorough inspection, and perhaps the use of sophisticated tools to understand presenting symptoms and their consequences. Deciding the correct timeframe In the case of a cyclical survey, what will the period be between each visit? This is not laid down in law, as this would not be possible, but it will need to be decided by

and well away from targets why do you need to go back every year? On the other hand, if there was a large and moribund tree over an immovable target, then why wouldn’t you? One thing the surveyor must do is pass the knowledge to the buyer. The report needs to be clear and precise; “given the surveyor’s findings our recommendations are as follows”. This vital information should be immediately obvious. There is no need to be alarmed about surveys, but there is equally no reason to be blasé either. Jonathan Hazell is an arboricultural consultant. jhazell.com

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

30/08/2018 09:12

ENTER NOW

WWW.PROLANDSCAPERBUSINESSAWARDS.COM

ARBORICULTURE COMPANY UNDER £2m TURNOVER ARBORICULTURE COMPANY OVER £2m TURNOVER

sponsored by

HEADLINE SPONSOR

ENTRIES CLOSE 30 SEPTEMBER 2018 VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

PL AWARDS Arb version.indd 4

23/08/2018 10:46

FEATURES

Treesurveys

a step by step guide A PROFESSIONAL ARBORIST CAN CONDUCT A TREE SURVEY ON EITHER PUBLIC OR PRIVATE PROPERTY, GIVING PROPERTY OWNERS USEFUL INFORMATION, ALLOWING THEM TO DECIDE WHAT TO DO WITH THE TREES AND THEIR LAND - PAUL GEORGE REPORTS

ree surveys are of huge importance in not only maintaining safety but also proper growth and development of new trees, whether in small wooded areas or vast forests and the information captured includes: ● Species and measurements of the tree ● Age and overall health of the tree ● Life expectancy ● Severity of damage or presence of pests (if any) ● Management recommendations Data produced from a tree survey highlights any number of issues with individual trees, groups of trees or the entire site. Issues identiﬁed by tree surveys It’s important you identify relevant tree issues and provide practical advice for: 1. Pests, disease, and decay detection Depending on the insect, pests can

Pro Arb | September 2018

Tree Survey.indd 24

cause anywhere from leaf decay to growth disruption to weakening the tree until it eventually dies. Surveys should detail pests via the use of reliable evaluative tools like sonic tomograph, tree motion sensors, and chlorophyll ﬂuorimeter, among others. 2. Diversity in tree population If the survey identiﬁes an imbalance of tree species, you can recommend other trees to diversify the site and protect a landowner from losing all their trees in the event of a disease. 3. Safety risks If a client allows a tree to reach an advanced stage of decay, it becomes hazardous to anyone within the property. Your report should assess if there are any health and safety risks and recommend felling, if needed. The same goes for those buying or developing a land with

unkempt trees. 4. Compliance with government laws Depending on their location, certain regions require tree surveys. The Wildlife and Countryside Act prevents a protected tree from being cut down, as these home certain animals. There are numerous laws to watch out for in terms of caring for trees. This includes Section 3 of the Health and Safety at Work Act. Forms of tree survey A tree survey can come in the form of a tree health survey (to check for the health of trees), a targeted survey (to establish the extent/severity of tree disease), or a pre-property development inspection to ensure compliance with British Standard BS5837:2012 (“Trees in relation to construction”) Phase 1: Pre-planning, setting parameters First, plan out how you’ll conduct the survey. Here are a few methods to use: ● Line transects: walk a series of parallels of evenly-spaced transect lines.

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

30/08/2018 09:15

FEATURES

Conduct a visual exam of trees left and right to see any damage/disease.

● Complete survey: look at all the trees of the same species for signs of pests or disease. This method is best for park trees or smaller woodlands. Although almost all tree surveys are done from the ground, sometimes, it’s better to climb them to examine areas not visible from below. Lastly, pick the right time to survey, as seasons tend to affect the diseases and pests that riddle trees. Once you have mapped everything out, prepare your equipment and head out to the field.

● Quarter point transects: walk a line north, south, east, and west with the diseased tree as starting point. This can help you estimate how many trees are affected.

● Radius survey: advisable for trees planted with huge distances between them. Survey all susceptible trees within the vicinity (e.g. 50-mile radius) and extend the distance until there are no more trees that are affected.

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

Tree Survey.indd 25

Phase 2: Site survey Be methodical when surveying your site by doing the following: ● Note species, position, physiological conditions, age and life expectancy ●A ssess tree dimensions and crown spread ● I nspect the crown and look for gaps in the canopy ●N ote the colour of leaves ● Look for deadwood ●L ook for damaged branches or those that have cracked or split ●C heck any abnormal features like ivy growth, bark damage, swellings, fungus ●L ook for signs of decay within the main trunk or its base ●N ote if the roots are exposed/damaged ●C heck the soil for cracks or uplifting of concrete structure During the course of surveying, use tree tags to mark by species and accurately map them. Then assess tree conditions and their landscape value: good usually means healthy and no signs of damage, fair

has some defects of low significance, poor means major defects, and dangerous/dead means you’re requiring removal. Phase 3: Impact assessment Next, assess the impact of the tree damage to the property. The Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) is often used as part of a property’s survey report, as it details the following: ●W hich trees to remove and keep ●H ow to protect trees during construction ●V isual illustration of how to protect trees and special construction measures ●T ree recommendations that fit the property Depending on client needs, you can also produce a planning and development survey, as well as the Arboricultural surveys and Tree Constraints Plan — both in compliance with BS5837:2012. Phase 4: Method Statement Following the approval of your recommendations, a final method statement will be sent to the Local Planning Authority and the site manager. This includes how many trees will be protected with minimal disturbance (e.g. no-dig paving, storing chemicals away from roots, fencing, etc.) You can also recommend overseeing operations, especially in sensitive areas. A tree survey gives your clients vital information on the proper tree care and any preventative maintenance procedures as well as an accurate picture of their land and how they can act accordingly. Be meticulous with your planning and execution, as damaged trees can pose serious risks of damage and injuries.

Paul George is managing director of Landmark Trading, a supplier of arborist equipment and has worked in the arboricultural industry for 14 years. Connect with Paul on Twitter, Facebook or call Landmark Trading on 01780 482231

Pro Arb | September 2018 25

29/08/2018 16:41

FEATURES

VIEWS DC V IC K E R S

PROGRAMME MANAGER DC VICKERS PROVIDES AN UPDATE ON THE PROGRESS OF THE FIRST INTAKE OF ARBORIST APPRENTICES UNDER THE NEW STANDARDS

Going the distance

uly and August presented us as an apprenticeship training provider with a new challenge – distance learning. I’m very keen to be able to offer our underpinning knowledge through distance learning; with some of our current apprentices based over in Cirencester and Bristol and the college having no accommodation available during these months, the decision was made before we even started writing the course to offer some of the block sessions via our online platform. Now, this series was always going to be something of a ‘warts and all’ exposé, so how did it go and what did the apprentices get up to?

Pro Arb | September 2018

VIEWS-DC.indd 26

Work continues Firstly, I’d written a specially designed website covering the assessment that had been set and this covered leaf structure, photosynthesis, respiration and transpiration. It included a detailed explanation of the assignment, information about the subject areas and some specially shot time-lapse footage showing transpiration in progress. The apprentices were tasked with writing an essay describing these processes in their own words and creating a presentation. The new apprenticeship standards are not just about the work, but are founded on three main areas – knowledge, skills and behaviours.

Knowledge matters Typically, in this industry, everyone loves the skills elements (getting time on the chainsaw, climbing the trees, etc.) and the knowledge is almost secondary to that. Behaviour is a somewhat nebulous term, but is designed to encompass professional attitudes and commitment to work. The apprentices were left for a week to complete a fairly large assignment although they were given deadlines to hand in work throughout the week and feedback was provided throughout the week. Around half of the apprentices came into college and used the facilities here anyway. The assignment was about more than just the subjects presented. It covered IT skills, working to deadlines and completing tasks with limited support. Notably, The World Economic Forum cites a report that found other skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, attention to detail, and writing, top the list of missing skills among job seekers (WEF, 2017). Three issues came to light – apprentices not taking the time to fully read the assignment brief, a general lack of IT skills in

creating reports and presentations and finally, plagiarism. One view is that these things don’t really matter, as long as the individual gets the required Certificates of Competence and can complete the tree work, then why worry about plagiarism? But, the apprenticeship is about a lot more than just ‘getting the tickets’. Employers I work with all talk about getting a ‘more rounded individual’ – someone that has the ability to be customer facing, learn new skills and present information clearly. Those sorts of skill are not taught on a short course. In the next article, I’ll continue with this theme as by then we will have completed the second of the distance learning weeks and I’ll share some more of the ups and downs of delivering knowledge, skills and behaviours using this particular method. DC Vickers has been tasked with developing the resources for and managing the arboriculture provision at BCA. DC is a qualified teacher and is also a City & Guilds NPTC assessor, covering many of the chainsaw units. For more information contact DC at dvickers@bca.ac.uk or on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/dcvickers

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

30/08/2018 09:16

PREDATOR ARE AT THE APF SHOW!

Â£

USING THE SKILLS OF OUR ENGINEERING TEAM AND HIGH QUALITY KESLA PRODUCTS WE PROVIDE SPECIALISED FORESTRY EQUIPMENT.

West Third, Tullibardine, Auchterarder PH3 1NJ T: 01764 663798 E: sales.cfs@hotmail.com

First Choice for Forestry Machinery

Advert template.indd 10

COME VISIT US AT APF EXHIBITION ON STAND 2000-2040. 2 NEW PALAX MODELS WILL BE ON DISPLAY.

23/08/2018 15:36

FEATURES

VIEWS

Learning in a nutshell

DUNCAN SLATER

IN THE LATEST INSTALMENT OF HIS CASEBOOK, DR DUNCAN SLATER PROVIDES REAL LIFE EXAMPLES TO BOOST YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF TREES AND OUR ENVIRONMENT

Challenges facing car park trees The car parks around our retail parks and supermarkets could be green oases in our towns and cities if they invested in the provision of greenery. Establishing good tree cover is particularly important in these acres of tarmac where the surface gets hot, the cars get hot and you get hot lugging your shopping back to your vehicle. Unfortunately, a lack of investment in landscaping is common at present and more needs to be done about this. At my local supermarket, the pictured multi-stemmed birch (Betula pendula Roth) has been planted between two concrete kerb edges and a pathway – and provided with an inadequate soil

Pro Arb | September 2018

DUNCAN SLATER.indd 28

volume. The initial consequence of this was that it suffered drought damage and dieback in its first full season (2006). Revisited 10 years later, this tree has not developed into the ‘green asset’ that one would expect: it is likely to remain at this sort of size, as a bonsai, due to a lack of investment in producing a good planting location. Trees need soil in quantity and quality. Where space seems ample for planting in a retail car park, there is often underground compaction, excess concrete haunching for the kerb edges and very little good quality soil. Much better landscaping specifications are needed as this is no legacy to pass on to future generations.

Wire and trees – no more please! It is a common error to get trees in contact with steel wire. Wire is so unforgiving a material – and how many arborists have experienced cutting into a tree to find wire occluded inside? I blunted one of my Samurai saws last year with just such an incident. Pictured are hybrid poplars planted in a park, but with wire ties on a single stake system to support them. This is a mistake as the wire is not flexible, but the trunks of these young trees are, and in 2006 their trunks were already deviating from a straight line by pivoting on the wire. Revisited in 2018, this whole line of poplars has multiple

branches – all arising where the metal ties used to be at c.1.3 metres. It is not a coincidence and they have snapped, been strangled or bent over where they touched the wire as this was the wrong support system for these trees. Establishing young trees is very much about mimicking nature and protection and support systems should be discrete, flexible and ideally biodegradable. For me, steel wire is a no-no. The lesson here is that you would not use wire to tie two children’s ankles together for a three-legged race so why would you use it to tie a tree to a stake?

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

30/08/2018 09:33

FEATURES

Cumbria is not Crete

Going back to trees over 10–12 years later has led to a lot of ‘out-takes’ – many trees now missing, presumed felled. Pictured is an olive (Olea europaea L.) growing in an historic garden in Cumbria. ‘Olives in Cumbria?’ you might ask. Well, that was optimistic planting. Climate change predictions for Cumbria are that it will get ‘a bit warmer’ and ‘a lot wetter’ in the next few decades, but it’s not going to have that dry Mediterranean heat on a regular basis that an olive would want – this summer

being the exception. So I was not surprised to find that this tree had been replaced with a whitebeam (Sorbus aria (L.) Crantz) upon my return, 10 years later. Climate changes are predicted to be gradual rather than dramatic. In 50 years’ time, northern England may have a climate rather like Brittany in France has now and it makes sense to plant accordingly. Robust adaptable trees of a diverse range of species may be the best way to ‘hedge our bets’, but it’s not time for citrus fruit in Lancashire just yet.

Being ribbed

As tree planting technology progresses, are the teams installing it up to date with training? Pictured is a Liquidambar styraciflua L. that was planted in 2010–11 at a supermarket near me. I was walking by at the time, as two landscapers were putting in the root barrier for the planting pit. “You’re putting that root barrier in the wrong way round,” I said, “the ribs need to go on the inside, the smooth surface on the outside.” They looked at me as if I were a bit strange, told me that they

knew what they were doing and carried on installing the thick bit of black plastic the wrong way around. This heavy standard died back shortly afterwards (as shown left), but is now growing into a reasonable specimen (as shown right). However, with the root barrier installed the wrong way around, won’t the roots just be circling round and round? What seems simple and self-explanatory to some may be confusing to others. Try putting flat-pack furniture together!

It’s the pits! This row of pin oaks was planted at the University of Manchester in 2010. By 2014, some were chlorotic and most had crown dieback. Revisiting in 2018, many of these trees have really gone backwards. I’m not surprised – I don’t suppose the planting pit design is up to much probably because of the ‘concrete coffin’ design so favoured by developers. I am regularly surprised, though, by how most members of the public do not really notice these things. They don’t notice when trees are dying, for instance. I have

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

DUNCAN SLATER.indd 29

encountered this ‘lack of tree awareness’ many times. When I used to survey trees for schools, I would say to the headteacher: “OK, so you’ve called me in to look at the dead tree by your front entrance?” And he would reply: “What dead tree?” Once you look at trees on a technical level, you observe what most people are oblivious to: dead trees, dying trees, hazardous trees. I used to think this would destroy my enjoyment of the landscape – but now I enjoy spotting the warning signs before they become problems.

Dr Duncan Slater is course tutor for the MSc in arboriculture and urban forestry at Myerscough College. He specialises in teaching tree biomechanics, tree management, woodland management, pests and diseases. He is also a chartered forester and a member of the Arboricultural Association.

Pro Arb | September 2018 29

30/08/2018 11:07

FEATURES

Head for home grown THOSE RESPONSIBLE FOR PLANTING NEW TREES SHOULD ENSURE THEY USE NATIVE GROWN STOCK TO HELP PREVENT THE SPREAD OF INVASIVE PESTS

ree planting season is broadly from mid-November to late March, since this is when roots are dormant and saplings cope more easily with being moved. But, when trees are introduced from abroad, there can be serious problems in terms of pests and diseases which can affect existing stock. This May, environment minister Michael Gove announced the UK’s first Tree Health Resilience Strategy, with consultation underway on new quarantine arrangements for high-risk plants, and a number of new measures. It is expected quarantine measures will be broadened out and on leaving the EU, there will be tighter biosecurity. There are also plans for a more proactive approach to tree health and a cross-industry initiative, Plant Health Alliance, will bring together nurseries, retailers, tree suppliers, landscapers, foresters and the RHS to make sure there is an effective response to pests and diseases affecting trees. The government will also be reminding the public of the risks involved in bringing

Cheviot trees – Berwick Upon Tweed

Pro Arb | September 2018

Woodland Trust.indd 30

Thorpe trees – York

back plant material from abroad, with its ‘Don’t Risk It’ campaign. Meanwhile, The Woodland Trust is urging those with responsibility for planting to ensure they are up to date with new rules around this and to ensure the trees they use have been grown on home soil. It is on a mission to ensure there is greater awareness of its UK Sourced and Grown accreditation scheme which provides details on nurseries that sell seeds and trees of UK provenance. The scheme began in 2015 and has now been taken up by 22 nurseries and the charity also wants to see better border control. A serious problem Between the years 1970 and 2013, some 267 introduced plant pathogens became established in the UK – and two thirds of these were native to continental Europe. One of the most recent pests identiﬁed is the zigzag elm sawﬂy, which is believed to have entered the country on imported tree stock, and results in severe defoliation. The fungal disease, ash diebank, is also

believed to have entered the country from Europe. Oak trees are at risk of infection from the Oak Processionary Moth (OPM). The caterpillars feed on oak leaves and increase the trees’ vulnerability to attack by other diseases and pests and makes them less able to withstand adverse weather conditions. Last month, Defra announced that restrictions would be introduced on oak imports to guard against this. There is now a ban to prevent the movement of certain trees into the UK’s OPM Protected Zone, an area of the UK which is free of the pest, unless certain conditions are met. The rules relate to both imports from overseas and areas of the UK where OPM occurs such as London and some surrounding counties. Conservationists are also concerned about the possible spread of Xylella, which has wiped out olive groves in Italy and Spain and the Emerald Ash Borer, a beetle which causes signiﬁcant damage to ash trees. To date, it has not been seen in the UK, but any sightings should be reported.

A safe start for seedlings ©Philip Formby

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

30/08/2018 09:35

The Active range provides a professional solution for your arboriculture and ground care requirements offering power, reliability and accuracy in a cost effective fully supported package. Every product is developed from design to implementation with the operator safety and the products durability in mind.

Visit HSC MSC @ APF 2018, Stand C2 You Could Win a 62.62 chainsaw call: 01905

763027

HSC MSC will also be showcasing

email: sales@hscmsc.co.uk

www.hscmsc.co.uk

www.ncdequipment.com

Are Are Are Are you Are you you you involved you involved involved involved involved in inin hedgerow hedgerow inin hedgerow hedgerow hedgerow management management management management management or oror tree tree or or tree tree tree cutting? cutting? cutting? cutting? cutting? IfIf so, If so, Ifso, Ifso, you you so, you you you need need need need need to toto see see to to see see this see this this this shear this shear shear shear shear working! working! working! working! working! Contact Contact Contact Contact Contact us usus for for us us for more for more for more more more information information information information information

Follow Follow Follow Follow us: Follow us:us:us: us:

Advert template.indd 10

www.ncdequipment.com

The TheThe TMK TMK The The TMK range TMK range TMK range range now now range now offers offers now now offers offers shears shears offers shears shears shears that thatthat fitfitthat on that on fit 2 fit on 2fit to on to 2on 30 30 to 2 2to 30 tonne tonne to30 tonne 30tonne excavators. excavators. tonne excavators. excavators. excavators. The TheThe TMK TMK The The TMK 300 TMK 300 TMK 300 will will 300 300 will also also will also will fitfit also onto also onto fit fit onto fit Telehandlers. onto Telehandlers. onto Telehandlers. Telehandlers. Telehandlers. TMK TMK TMK shears shears shears can can cut cut cut between between between 200mm 200mm 200mm - 400mm - -400mm 400mm softwood softwood softwood and and between between between 180mm 180mm 180mm 180mm 180mm to to to toto TMK TMK shears shears can cancan cut cut between between 200mm 200mm -- 400mm 400mm softwood softwood and andand between between 1 1 350mm 350mm 350mm hardwood. hardwood. hardwood. Cutting Cutting Cutting capabilities capabilities capabilities are are dependant dependant dependant on on the on the the model model of model of shear shear of of shear ofshear being being shear being being being 350mm 350mm hardwood. hardwood. Cutting Cutting capabilities capabilities are areare dependant dependant on on the the model model used. used. used. used. used. Each Each Each shear shear shear comes comes comes with with a fixed aa fixed fixed grapple, grapple, grapple, which which which holds holds holds onto onto onto the the the cut tree tree cut cut tree or or tree tree vegetation vegetation or or vegetation orvegetation vegetation Each Each shear shear comes comes with with aawith fixed fixed grapple, grapple, which which holds holds onto onto the the cut cut The TMK range now offers shears that fit on 2 to 30 tonne excavators. before before before and and after after it has itbeen ithas has been been been cut, cut, cut, allowing allowing allowing the the operator operator operator safely safely to to safely tosafely place place safely place place ititplace onto onto it onto it the itonto the onto the ground. ground. the the ground. ground. ground. before before and andand after after itafter it has has been cut, cut, allowing allowing the thethe operator operator to to safe safe

The TMK 300 will also fit onto Telehandlers. TMK shears can cut between 200mm - 400mm softwood and between 180mm to 350mm Cutting capabilities are dependant ““ Half “Half “Half “hardwood. Half Half the the the the cost, the cost, cost, cost, cost, half half half half half the the the the time” the time” time” time” time” on the model of shear being used. Email Email Email Email Email sales@ncdequipment.com sales@ncdequipment.com sales@ncdequipment.com sales@ncdequipment.com sales@ncdequipment.com Each shear comes with a fixed grapple, which holds onto the cut tree or vegetation before and after it has beenor cut, allowing the operator to087549 safely place it onto the ground. Call Call Call Call Call Nick Nick Nick Nick Nick 07535 07535 07535 07535 07535 211338 211338 211338 211338 211338 or or Emma Emma or or Emma Emma Emma 07956 07956 07956 07956 07956 087549 087549 087549 087549

“ Half the cost, half the time” Email sales@ncdequipment.com

The TMK 300 will also fit onto Telehandlers. TMK shears can cut between 200mm - 400mm softwood and between 180mm to 350mm hardwood. Cutting capabilities are dependant on the model of shear being used. Each shear comes with a fixed grapple, which holds onto the cut tree or vegetation before and after it has been cut, allowing the operator to safely place it onto the ground.

Are you involved in hedgerow management or tree cutting? If so, you www.ncdequipment.com www.ncdequipment.com www.ncdequipment.com www.ncdequipment.com www.ncdequipment.com need to see this shear working! Contact us for more information

The TMK range now offers shears that fit on 2 to 30 tonne excavators. The TMK 300 will also fit onto Telehandlers. TMK shears can cut between 200mm - 400mm softwood and between 180mm to 350mm hardwood. Cutting capabilities are dependant on the model of shear being used. Each shear comes with a fixed grapple, which holds onto the cut tree or vegetation before and after it has been cut, allowing the operator to safely place it onto the ground.

“ Half the cost, half the time” Email sales@ncdequipment.com Call Nick 07535 211338 or Emma 07956 087549

us e w! half the time” “ Half the o se cost, d sh Email sales@ncdequipment.com an PF Call Nick 07535 or Emma 07956 087549 e A211338 om e C t th a

Are you involved in hedgerow management or tree cutting? If so, you need to see this shear working! Contact us for more information

Take Advantage Of Our Exclusive Show Only Deals

Stocked & Supported In The UK

Ground Care & Aboricultural Machinery

Machines Made In Italy

Professional Range Of

24/08/2018 12:35

Half Page Advert 186 x 118 v2.pdf

27/07/2018

12:37

CMY

“Vega is a firm, smooth-profiled 11.7mm. The skinny, firm line will suit any mechanical positioning or access device, and it will also work as an access line.” Joe Harris, Arborist Into Trees

TECHNICALLY BETTER

Take the BOUNCE out of SRT with the VEGA 11.7mm climbing line See us at APF 2018 Stand D/6b! marlowropes.com

Pro Arb advert sept 2018.indd 1

Advert template.indd 11

16/08/2018 11:54

24/08/2018 08:44

KSepittember 2018

34 > APF Preview – go and see

Our guide to leading suppliers at our sector’s premier event

40 > Meet the supplier – Buxton’s

A family business with a terriﬁc range, backed by ﬁrst class service

43 > Skid steers – feel the force

Heavy duty, but compact, skid steers make light work of big jobs

46 > Chippers – tried and tested

Feel chipper with one of these top-notch models

48 > Blowers – on parade

Check out what’s blowing in the wind

50 > Product DNA – Makita’s new launch

Low-down on the 18V chainsaw 250MM BL LXT

KIT COVER.indd 21

29/08/2018 14:58

KIT

8 1 0 2 F P A w previe

Pick of

the crop

THE BIGGEST ARBORICULTURAL EVENT OF THE YEAR IS HAPPENING ON 20–23 SEPTEMBER, AND PROMISES TO BE AN OUTSTANDING EXHIBITION. PRO ARB PROVIDES SOME POINTERS ON WHO SHOULD BE ON YOUR ‘MUST VISIT’ LIST

t this year’s APF Exhibition there will be around £50 million of equipment on show, covering an area of some two and a half miles. That’s a lot of walking to do, although given that business is now increasingly done remotely, there is still nothing like meeting suppliers and contacts face to face. Some 23,000 visitors are expected to get up close and personal with hundreds of exhibitors and these are just some who are well worth checking in with.

34 Pro Arb | September 2018

APF Preview.indd 34

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

30/08/2018 10:45

KIT

acorn

Stand: k10 buxton’s

Established in 1994, Acorn Group has become one of the largest Arboricultural/Landscape Consultancy and Management service providers in the UK. Our services include: • Tree surgery – tree management and maintenance • Arboricultural consultancy – to manage trees and their health • Landscape management – creation and maintenance of landscapes • Rope access services – to inspect and maintain buildings and structures • Vegetation and tree clearance – to enable new infrastructure development • Ecological mitigation services – creation of new habitats to support protected species • Ecology services – protecting UK wildlife • Training academy – accredited industry training services

Stand: b2 + b3

Be sure to visit this well known family firm, which was established more than 50 years ago, and specialises in the arborist and landscaping sectors. Buxton’s has a superb range of machinery, tools, clothing, PPE and every type of equipment for the professional arborist and all at competitive prices and with fast delivery if required. Come and see climbing and lowering equipment, bracing systems and storage solutions with brands including top manufacturers such as Dragon, DMM, ART, STIHL, Husqvarna and many more. We also offer parts, spares and repairs. Buxton’s prides itself on offering a personalised and professional service and you’ll find our experts on hand to discuss your specific needs.

Please visit us to discuss our services or employment opportunities within our organisation.

caledonian forestry Stand: 2000 - 2040 forest and arb services ltd Caledonian Forestry Services provides various forestry equipment and has been supplying the UK for many years. We’ve special offer prices, only for APF, on machinery. The Palax range of firewood processors will include two new models D410 and C750, not yet released on demonstration, alongside log decks and cleaners. Models from Rabaud’s range of log splitters, cross cut saws, cone splitters and kindling machine will also be there. Check out Kesla’s range of truck loaders, harvesting heads, chippers and forwarding trailers, ranging from 8 to 14 ton, which can be equipped with the loader size of your choice. We can custom fit Kesla loaders to tractors, either roof mounted or Jake frame and carry out forestry guarding. Robust and reliable Novonty forwarders are ideal for small scale forestry, and we’ll have models 511 and 520 on the stand. We look forward to seeing you.

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

APF Preview.indd 35

Stand: f1 + f2

APF is the place to see, try on and grab an exclusive show bargain. So, ForestAndArb.com appreciates each visitor has a different role and may not need the same type of PPE as the next one. We do our best to cater for everyone – try various sizes and designs of boots and clothing, both chainsaw protection and leisure wear. We’ll have more than a dozen chainsaw boots in different colours, 13 styles of trousers and numerous tshirts, jackets, tops and helmets on show. There will also be a wide array of forestry tools, climbing and rigging equipment and a full line up of two stroke machinery, such as chainsaws, hedge cutters, and blowers. For larger requirements, we’re dealers for Timberwolf wood chippers. Sean Rayment of SR Forestry Training Assessments and Contracting will be on our stand to offer a wealth of product knowledge and discuss any training requirements as a Lantra and NPTC assessor and verifier.

Pro Arb | September 2018 35

30/08/2018 10:48

KIT

hi-line training

Stand: d14a

hsc msc

Stand: c2

Developed over several years from their beginnings as an in-house training team, Hi-Line Training are a young and exciting training provider based in the South West. They offer all the ground and aerial chainsaw unit courses, plus specialist utility arb and first aid+F training, as well as bespoke courses such as team leader training and introduction to arb work days. Their team are passionate about providing high quality training and are establishing themselves as a leading training provider, both in the South West and further afield. Hi-Line’s instructors are all experienced arborists who have worked across all sectors of the industry. To maintain current commercial knowledge and awareness they ensure their instructors continue to spend time either working with or mentoring cutting teams on a regular basis. Training and assessments can be given at the Hi-Line training centre and woodlands or at your premises and is offered to both individuals and organisations. Do come and say hello to the team on the stand.

HSC MSC is the official UK distributor of the Active machinery range so be sure to visit the stand to find exclusive show deals. The range offers quality, reliability and endurance at a cost-effective price, without compromise on performance. Active machinery is made in Italy and fully supported in the UK and its increasing popularity within the industry is proven by its reliability within the hire industry. Active’s impressive headquarters is home to the very latest machinery tools, with built-in specific systems to check all materials and components with mechanical and thermal stress analyses, guaranteeing the highest quality with fast accurate production. The result is happy customers and peace of mind.

Isuzu

Marshall

Stand: k4

The popular manufacturer’s stand is well worth visiting, with the highly successful Grafter Green models being centre stage. These hardworking trucks are extremely versatile and can take on any type of job. The focus with Isuzu Truck UK is vehicle performance and reliability – key for any business in arboriculture. Isuzu continues to develop new vehicle technology for improved operating eﬃciency – for example Grafter Green houses a four cylinder Euro six diesel engine, which produces more power and torque than its predecessor despite its smaller size. The new model also features an improved 6-speed manual gearbox, new independent front suspension for improved driveability and a more comfortable, car-like feel, along with reduced chassis weight. Come and see for yourself.

36 Pro Arb | September 2018

APF Preview.indd 36

Stand: 1840 -1920

Be sure to visit the Marshall stand, who will be exhibiting a wide range of quality machinery. New to this year’s show is the Dalen 2054 Hatz engine ﬁrewood processor, Vitli Krpan front linkage grapple blade, and the Westtech CL 260. We will also have Binderberger timber trailers, sawbenches, cone splitters, fully automatic ﬁrewood processors, horizontal and vertical log splitters, Vitli Krpan winches, timber trailers, Serra sawmills, Vahva grapples, IronHorse and the Vahva Jussi low compact trailer crane. We have been specialist forestry equipment distributors for more than 30 years, selling to both large and small organisations in forestry, tree management and woodland.

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

30/08/2018 10:48

KIT

ncd equipment

Stand: L10 Promax access ltd

NCD Equipment is back at APF this year with the renowned TMK Tree Shears. Whereas it would take multiple men and chainsaws days to clear a length of trees, tree shears are a perfect way to clear the same volume in hours from the safety of a cab, and with the added advantage of the TMK being able to place the tree on the ground immediately after cutting. Come and look at the full range of shears we have on display including the smaller TMK200, the versatile TMK300 or the heavier duty TMK400. This year we are showing these shears in different situations and the additional options available and showcasing the new Turbo-Ram on the TMK400 for that extra power. We are also excited to have new products on the stand. Having recently become a dealer for Rabaud excavator attachments, come and talk to us about the vast range of products on offer for forestry, agriculture, maintenance, and arboriculture. We will have a variety of attachments on display such as the Mulching Head and many others. With Rabaud’s focus on innovation, if you can think of a problem, we might have the solution.

Toro

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

APF Preview.indd 37

Promax Access, the UK’s longest established Spider Access Platform sales company, is attending its eighth APF exhibition. Promax Access will be exhibiting their new innovative Tracked Access Platforms from their 13–43m working height range. On display will be a new Spider 27m, featuring the heavy duty chassis option and a number of Spider platforms fitted with optional insulated cages. Details of the new fully insulated Spider 22m–46Kva tracked chassis access platform will also be available, awaiting its official launch later this year. Every machine in the Promax Spider range is now supplied as standard with a clear pictorial diagnostic display to provide immediate operator assistance when required. Pop along to experience the strong build quality, user-friendly controls and operating systems, big ground clearance and great terrain ability of this established range of safe work platforms.

Stand: 1325 -1345 Tree Diagnostics

Toro, a global leader in turf and landscape maintenance equipment, will be attending this year’s APF Exhibition in the Midlands. With a range of market leading, innovative products to showcase, this will be Toro’s first time at the event, hosted in the grounds of Ragley Hall in Alcester. Visitors to APF, the largest event of its kind in the UK, will be able to find Toro at stand 1320–1340 where the team will be giving demonstrations and answering questions. Toro will be showcasing 11 high quality pieces of machinery at the event, including the TX1000W – a wide compact utility loader, Toro’s Mid-Size Walk Behind Mower, and the STX-26 and STX38 Stump Grinders. Visitors will be able to view the products and the accompanying attachments so they can understand the full capabilities of the machinery.

Stand: 1895 -1920

Stand: F5C

Tree Diagnostics specialises in non-injurious tree investigation equipment to assess ‘tree stability & safety’ and ‘decay & defects’ in trees. Pocket devices such as the TreeSonic or Microsecond Timer quickly identify the issues in trees. The ArborSonic 3D (Sonic Tomograph) and ArborElectro (Electrical Impendence Tomograph) show the extent of decayed areas, active fungi and supporting wood. When combined with biomechanical data in the software, this generates a safety factor. Dynaroot provides information on tree and root plate stability using the power of the wind. When combined with wind measurements this provides a safety factor and is a cost-effective alternative to tree pulling. The Fakopp Tree Root Detector enables the location of principal roots to be located and mapped, to inform claims for damage or identify appropriate locations for construction.

Pro Arb | September 2018 37

30/08/2018 10:48

4EST RANGE HIGH MECHANICAL IMPACT RESISTANCE SAFETY BOOTS FOR FORESTRY OPERATIONS WITH BRUSHCUTTERS Introduction

Forestry work is among the activities characteristic of rural areas, one of the most dangerous and where there are many serious accidents. In previous years there have been accidents at the level of the lower limbs in forestry operations, particularly to the feet, which involved the use of brush cutters and other manual cutting tools, and thus require special safety measures. The most common accident causes using brushcutters are: - Projection of variable size particles (less than 5mm diameter) with velocities in the order of 200m/s, resulting from the fragments of cutting discsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; wear; - Projection of steel fragments (with several dimensions and random directions) with velocities around 200m/s due to the impact between the disc and anthropogenic materials and/or natural materials, such as rocks in the ground; - Projection of anthropogenic materials namely wires that are used in agricultural infrastructures such as in wire fences. The wires when rolled into disks and/or sickles reach rotation speed of 200m/s extending it according to their section, usually less than 4mm diameter.

Advert template.indd 12

Experimental

The Portuguese Safety Footwear manufacturer Lavoro proposed to the Centre for Forest Fire Studies (CEIF) of ADAI - University of Coimbra a partnership in order to: test and validate different samples of material combinations available on the market that could promote the manufacturing of footwear more resistant to the impact of sharp objects; test and evaluate if the different types of material samples perforate or not using steel projectiles, with distinct forms and sizes, fired at different velocities (between 200 and 400m/s). A new and original structure was built and a methodology was developed to evaluate the different materials used in the manufacture of the boot.

23/08/2018 11:07

ELITE

LOG GRIPPER

THOR SHERWOOD

DAINTREE

Results/Conclusions

From the test results achieved, the final product (THOR boots) was created and it includes the following specifications: - The estimated velocity in the projection of metal particles which are released from the disks of the brushcutters in forestry operations will be approximately 200 m/s it was simulated at laboratory with speeds of 200 m/s and 400 m/s and in the general the materials had a good performance; - Specially designed to protect against flying objects when using a brushcutter or a trimmer; - Tested to objects launched at a velocity up to 300m/s; - Manufactured from very strong hardwearing material; - Lightweight cool and comfortable to wear; - Smooth and padded panel on the flexing back part zone. Thor boots have a unique system of internal protection against cuts and perforations, duly tested by independent laboratories. This article was selected and presented in ECPC (European Congress of Protective Clothing) in May 2018. info@lavoroeurope.com +351 253 520 669 Advert template.indd 13

THOR

23/08/2018 11:08

KIT

e h t t e e M supplier

The many benefits of Buxton’s

FROM THE UK’S TOP ARBORISTS, TO THOSE JUST STARTING OUT, CUSTOMERS SOON BECOME FIRM FANS OF THIS FAMILY BUSINESS, WHICH OFFERS AN INCREDIBLE RANGE TO SUIT EVERY NEED, AND WITH PLENTY OF EXPERT ADVICE ON HAND TOO. MANAGING DIRECTOR NEALE HOPLEY TELLS PRO ARB WHAT GIVES THE BUSINESS A WINNING EDGE

he fact there is a large tree in the showroom tells you that this is the place where professional arborists will feel right at home. Buxton’s, based in Penkridge, near Cannock Chase in Staﬀordshire, is a family ﬁ rm that attracts customers from all over the UK. Managing director Neale Hopley has been at the business for more than 30 years; it was founded some 50 years ago by his father in law, Bernard Buxton, a farmer who found there was local demand to repair and

sell chainsaws. A shop and workshop then developed and with the range continuing to expand, the rest, as they say, is history. The business is still set on the family farm with the land being used as an arable farm and as stables and grazing for horses. Some of the farm buildings have been converted into showrooms, which aﬀords plenty of space to display and repair machinery. Neale now leads a team of 24, which includes arborists and mechanics. Face to face wins out Buxton’s stocks every kind of climbing equipment, vast amounts of clothing and PPE gear, tools and machinery along with all the spares and parts needed to keep arborists on the job. The company has an excellent website and oﬀers next day delivery on all stock items, plus many special deals to tempt online buyers.

40 Pro Arb | September 2018

Meet the supplier.indd 40

But, as Neale explains, face to face is invariably the preferred port of call. “If you can, come into the store where there really is no substitute for being able to see the equipment in person. You may want to try on a pair of boots or see how a harness fits – being able to ask knowledgeable people about tools and clothing is invaluable.” Being an arborist is a dangerous career and safety and comfort are a priority. This is why kit needs to fit correctly and be of high quality and as Neale says: “Your life can literally depend on it, so professional arborists will only buy products they trust. We only sell quality brands manufactured within Europe and USA. What is more, they need to make sure tools and kit are properly maintained and inspected.” Neale continues: “Arborists never buy used climbing kit because you never know what has happened to it in the past. All new equipment is certified, guaranteed and traceable so you can have confidence that it won’t let you down.” From small acorns Because of their commitment to quality and service, Buxton’s benefits from high levels of

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

30/08/2018 11:10

KIT xxxxx The sales team: Neale, Mark, Jonno

xxxxx The arb team: Jacob, Tom, Kelly customer loyalty and repeat business. “Over the years we’ve seen many students come in to visit us, often with their parents, to buy their ﬁrst climbing kits and tools. It’s an important investment for them and getting it right can ensure they go on to learn to climb easily and safely. They can then add to the basic kit as their skills develop.” Looking at the overall sector, Neale explains there is an established career path within arboriculture which allows practitioners to continually learn and develop their skills over their lifetime. Many entrants come from colleges or via apprenticeships and start as ground workers and climbers in a contractor’s team. As they develop they may become team leaders or contracts managers working in larger companies.

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

Meet the supplier.indd 41

xxxxx The whole team He emphasises that professional tree care companies offer a high level of service and carry out excellent work based on an expert knowledge of trees. They also need the correct insurance, have all their equipment checked regularly, ensure their staff are trained and updated and that all their work is carried out safely and legally. Furthermore, any companies which are Arboricultural Association approved contractors will have their work and paperwork systems inspected regularly. Raise public awareness He adds there are, unfortunately, some companies operating that are unqualified, uninsured and who carry out low quality work for a low price. These companies call themselves ‘tree surgeons’, but bring down the reputation of the whole industry because of their lack of customer care and lack of understanding of trees. Neale believes there needs to be more public awareness of the work done by professional arborists so that homeowners do not get caught out by the rogue element “who simply butcher trees and disappear.” But, for those committed to offering high standards of service, arboriculture can offer a rewarding career and Neale concludes: “There’s

xxxxx Extensive workshops no doubt that tree climbing is a physically demanding job, which requires a high level of fitness. It favours the young, but there are plenty of opportunities within the industry including tree surveyors, consultants, tree officers, lecturers, trainers or assessors. “So, it can be a career for life and encouragingly, we are also now seeing more girls enter the industry, which can only be a good thing.” Find out more by visiting the store at: Buxton’s Coppice House Teddesley Road Penkridge, Stafford ST19 5RP Or online at: www.buxtons.net You can also meet Buxton’s at the APF Exhibition

Pro Arb | September 2018 41

29/08/2018 10:19

Safe and cost effective working at height for forestry & tree work

14 - 57m Working Heights

24/7 Working Hours

Traffic Management

Site Surveys

PROTECTOR ULTRA The innovative safety boot for forestry workers. > Class 2 cut protection > VIBRAM® rubber outsole > Robust thick velour leather upper > Fully waterproof & breathable GORE-TEX® for all seasons

Kingstown Broadway Kingstown Ind Est Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 0HA Tel.: 01228 591091 sales@workware.co.uk

High performance footwear that will not let you down across forestry, emergency services, military, police, workwear and leisure.

www.haix.co.uk

Visit us at the APF Show. Stand 1980 – 2000 of the demonstration site. Special Offer – Claim 20% off your first machine hire

To claim call 0844 288 9338 and quote APF2018* *Terms and conditions apply see wilsonaccess.co.uk/apf for full details. Offer expires 31/12/18

6277 AFI - WA ARB Magazine Advert 91x240mm AW.indd 1 Advert template.indd 14

16/08/2018 12:02 24/08/2018 12:17

KIT

Packing a FOCUS ON Skid Steers

powerful punch THESE COMPACT AND MANOEUVRABLE MACHINES HELP TAKE THE STRAIN OUT OF HEAVY DUTY EXCAVATION WORK

kid steers are so called because their wheels typically have no steering mechanism and are in a fixed straight line. By turning the left and right wheel pairs at different speeds, the machine turns by skidding its wheels across the ground. Recent models that could suit arborist firms include:

JCB

Kanga

his year, celebrating 25 years of skid steer production, JCB has launched seven new large platform skid steer loaders and compact tracked machines. The machines feature a new Hi-Viz boom, mounted 50mm lower to further improve visibility from the cab. Other features include: •E nclosed quick hitch protecting all internal components •P rotected tilt cylinder allowing cab to be raised with boom in any position •1 0% increase in tilt cylinder breakout force on 250 and 270 models •1 5% wider opening door improving operator access

anga Loaders are powerful, highly manoeuvrable, portable hydraulic power packs, which by virtue of their ingenious design, are transformed into high performance, multi taskers and are capable of running a multitude of hydraulically powered attachments with compatible flow rates. They can also be used in the harshest terrains and in the most demanding and varied of applications, in addition to being highly reliable. The 2 series Kanga (Kid) is the smallest machine in the range and ideal for accessing confined spaces/narrow access. The tracked version is only 820mm wide, allowing access to the rear of most domestic properties. Being only 1560mm long and weighing only 475kg, the Kanga 2 series is easily transportable on the back of most modern pick-ups or small plant trailers. Even the larger 5, 6, 7 and 8 series machines will fit into the back of many pick-up trucks, negating the need for specialist transport, a common problem with many physically larger machines.

Based on the firm’s large skid steer platform, the previous 225 becomes the 250 and the 260 is renamed the 270. The 300 and the 330 remain unchanged. On the compact tracked loader side, the 225T is now the 250T, the 260T becomes the 270T and the 300T is unchanged. JCB has also increased the door opening angle by 15%, from 40 degrees to 55 degrees, to make entry and exit easier.

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

Skid Steers.indd 43

JCB remains the only manufacturer to offer the single loader arm design, with a full cab door, for ease of access. There is no requirement for the operator to climb over attachments to enter or exit the cab, and air conditioning has also been improved. Upgraded heater vents prevent rattle during travel, reducing noise levels for the operator, while a new front screen, with lighter frame offers improved forward visibility, helped in part by moving the wiper motor to the left hand side of the window. In addition, the start up procedure has been simplified, to just three easy steps.

Pro Arb | September 2018 43

29/08/2018 10:39

KIT

F O C USSteeorns S k id

CASE Construction Equipment

ASE has added performance with increased operating capacity, and upgraded emission standards of its four most technologically advanced skid steer loaders and compact track loaders. A number of detail enhancements have also been made across the range of nine skid steer loaders and four tracked loaders. CASE was the first construction equipment manufacturer to offer both selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and as cooled exhaust gas recirculation as solutions towards meeting emissions standards. SCR improves fuel efficiency, keeps exhaust temperatures down, removes the need for exhaust gas recirculation, and eliminates the need for diesel particulate filters.

44 Pro Arb | September 2018

Skid Steers.indd 44

The 90 hp Compact Hi-eSCR engines, designed and manufactured by CASEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s partner company FPT (Fiat Powertrain Technologies), have higher combustion efficiency, enabling lower heat rejection and a reduction in exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) rate from 25% to 10%. It offers better load response, enabling the engine to react more quickly to sudden demands for increases in torque. Meanwhile, the radial lift SR270 and vertical lift SV340 skid steer loaders replace the previous top-of-the-range SR250 and SV300 models. The radial lift TR340 compact track loader replaces the TR320. The vertical lift TV380 track loader also achieves lower emissions.

The rated operating capacity rises from 1135kg in the SR250 to 1225kg in the new SR270; from 1360kg in the SV300 to 1545kg in the new SV340; and from 1451kg in the TR320 to 1542kg in the new TR340. Vertical lift models come with a stronger lift arm, and reinforced H-link and upper chassis. These models have wide cabs, with 360 degree visibility, boosting safety. The heavy-duty rear door, which covers radiators, is also now a standard feature on SR270, SV340, TR340 for additional protection. CASE is also introducing new, heavy duty buckets with bolt-on teeth that are easy to replace with standard wrenches, meaning increased tearing power and ideal in rough terrain.

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

29/08/2018 10:40

* High quality arboriculture & chainsaw related training

* Specialist utility arb training * Industry recognised qualifications * Tailor made training and workshops * Training for both individuals and organisations * Tree surgeon fast track courses

t: 033 345 678 86

e: training@hi-line.co.uk

f: www.facebook.com/HiLineTraining

Se Bentle e us at y Wo 28 - 3 odfair Septe 0th mber

w: hi-line.co.uk/training

i: www.instagram.com/hilinetraining

COME AND VISIT US AT STAND D14A AT THE APF SHOW

• • •

  PF at A d n t us Visi 20 - 22 r w Sho ptembe Se

* Emergency First Aid at Work +F

Stump grinder and Chipper Hire, short or long term hire available! Stump grinder and Chipper sales, new or used with part exchange and finance available! Servicing available for all chippers, also offering on site servicing!

NEW

MODEL

NEW

MODEL

Quality Machinery

Speaks For Itself

Qu Mach

Speaks F

Covering the South West!

www.marshalllogging.co.uk tel: 01892 770788 . mob: 07836 274164 Tel: 01963 370752 ● Fax: 01963 373915 ● www.landpoweruk.com

email: sales@marshalllogging.co.uk

Common Lane, Yenston, Templecombe, Somerset, BA8 0NB

Advert template.indd 15

30/08/2018 12:01

KIT

FOCUS ON Chippers

Chipping away MANY ARBORISTS VIEW THEIR CHIPPER AS A VITAL PIECE OF EQUIPMENT, MAKING THE OVERALL CLEAN UP PROCESS FAR EASIER AND CREATING AN END PRODUCT THAT CAN HAVE MULTIPLE USES

It is positive to note that woodchips are increasingly being purposed for a variety of uses, such as garden mulches, animal bedding and even biofuels, while other uses include garden mulches and animal bedding. Arborists may find that chips in sufficient quantity can provide an additional revenue source and even though a quality chipper can be a sizeable investment, owning one can also do much to boost efficiency and professionalism.

All-terrain options with the TW 280TVGTR while navigating uneven and sloping ground up to 30 degrees. The extra-wide feed funnel enables better visibility and ease of feeding, while the 280mm by 210mm in-feed aperture can process up to 6.5 tonnes per hour. Autofeed control for smooth operation combined with a heavier rotor help get the job done quicker. The TW 280TVGTR has a low

Case study – The Tree Feller and the Först ST6P

he Tree Feller Surgery has recently invested in its first Först woodchipper for its growing fleet. According to managing director Charles Fowler there were many reasons to invest. “One of the main factors was because the throw of the chippings is considerably superior compared to any other machines we have used in the past. We’ve always been faced

46 Pro Arb | September 2018

Chippers.indd 46

with the problems of clogging and having to shovel wet conifer towards the back of the van, but the Först ST6P comes with an open top flywheel system with large gusseted fraught fins at the rear, combatting the cause of blockages and firing it to the back of the van. The level of control we’re able to have over the roller speed and also the size of the woodchip is impressive.

vibration and ergonomically designed rideon platform for comfort and safety. There are also additional safety controls, such as reverse feed rollers overriding the stop bar or the carefully positioned air filter intakes to draw in cool, dust-free air. Available to view at the APF Show on stand 1640-1680 or visit www.timberwolf-uk. com/products/tw-280tvgtr-chipper

©Leela Wanless

imberwolf’s new TW 280TVGTR variable tracked wood chipper makes tackling difficult ground conditions easy. The Wolftrack variable tracking system features heavy duty twin arms supporting each track, providing dynamic control over track width, ground clearance and machine tilt angle, giving users greater control and comfort, particularly

The one touch operating buttons are much more user friendly being located on both sides of the hopper. You can lock the hopper down making it more secure too. In addition, the machine is powered by petrol, meaning lower emissions and cleaner burning, which is a nice added benefit.”

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

29/08/2018 09:36

Commercial Vehicles with Body Conversion New vehicles for the Arb industry supplied throughout the UK

6â&#x20AC;?, 7.5â&#x20AC;? & 8â&#x20AC;? Tracked Chippers

6â&#x20AC;? Towed Chippers Stump Grinders - 28hp, 50hp & 75hp â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Available with fully welded aluminium bodies, Arb conversions to used & factory tippers Tow bars, tool boxes, LED lighting & sign writing available Finance options available

Call 020 8539 0611 www.tipmaster.co.uk

Tracked Access Platforms 14m, 15m, 19m & 20 Metres

Reaching heights safely Telephone: 0118 940 1740 Email: info@dbm-hire.co.uk web: www.dbm-hire.co.uk

Save money with our powered access solutions

THE UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LARGEST & MOST EXCITING TREES & TIMBER SHOW

www.promaxaccess.com

Reaching heights safely Quick and easy access for roof repairs, both internal and external

Compact machines able to access difficult to reach areas Manoeuvres through standard gateways and narrow paths Low ground

www.promaxaccess.com Save money with our pressures avoiding â&#x2013; Extensive range of compact damage to drives, powered access solutions

2018 FEATURINGâ&#x20AC;Ś.. THE WORLD POLECLIMBING CHAMPIONSHIPS - EUROPEAN CHAINSAW CARVING CHAMPIONSHIP - STIHL TIMBERSPORTS - WOODLAND CRAFTS - HORSE LOGGING - WORLD LOG TO LEG CHAMPIONSHIP - UK FORWARDER DRIVING COMPETITION - FENCING IN THE 21ST CENTURY VINTAGE MACHINERY - FOREST WORKER ZONE ARB WORKSHOPS - TREE HEALTH SEMINARS 300+ EXHIBITORS - 2 Â˝ MILES AND ÂŁ50 MILLION OF WORKING MACHINERY

RAGLEY ESTATE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; WARWICKSHIRE

20 - 22 September 2018 BOOK TICKETS NOW AT WWW.APFEXHIBITION.CO.UK OR 01428 723545 Email: info@apfexhibition.co.uk

tracked â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Spiderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; access platforms

paths and lawns Quick and easy access for roof Dual powered repairs, both internal andfor external silent, or internal â&#x2013; Compact machines able to access fume free working difficult to reach areas Site to site Manoeuvres through standard transportation on gateways standard and narrow paths plant trailer â&#x2013; Low ground pressures avoiding Full range of damage to drives, vehicle compact paths andmounted lawns access platforms â&#x2013; Dual powered for silent, or internal Avoids costly hire fume free charges working

Compact machines able to access difficult to reach areas Manoeuvres through standard gateways and narrow paths Track widening system & greater ground clearance

Site to site Cost effective transportation on investment standard plant solutions / low cost â&#x2013; trailer of ownership

Established 1999 A full range of compact vehicle mounted access platforms which can be quickly set up on a standard driveway or single lane carriageway. Insulated cage options available.

Full range of compact vehicle mounted access platforms

Promax Access Ltd

Promax Access Ltd Avoids costly hire charges 01226 716657 Unit 8, Acorn Phase 3, Cost effective High Street, Grimethorpe, 01226 716658 investment Barnsley, South Yorkshire S72 7BD solutions / low cost of ownership Tel: 01226 716657 Email: sales@promaxaccess.com A full range of compact vehicle mounted access platforms which can be quickly set up on a standard driveway or Web: www.promaxaccess.com Fax:Insulated 01226 716658 single lane carriageway. cage options available. Unit 8, Acorn Phase 3, High Street, Grimethorpe, Barnsley, South Yorkshire S72 7BD

Email: sales@promaxaccess.com Web: www.promaxaccess.com

Telephone:

Fax:

Members of the International Powered Access Federation

Promax Access Ltd Unit 8, Acorn Phase 3, High Street, Grimethorpe, Barnsley, South Yorkshire S72 7BD Email: sales@promaxaccess.com Web: www.promaxaccess.com

promax advert.indd 1 Advert template.indd 16

Telephone:

01226 716657

Fax:

01226 716658

Members of the International Powered Access Federation

27/07/2016 10:23 29/08/2018 11:04

KIT

A breath n o s u c F o w e r s of fresh air lo B

H U S Q VA R N A’ S B L O W E R S TA R G E T A R B O R I S T S

Husqvarna oﬀers a range of diﬀerent blowers with ergonomic design to take the strain out of operation – crucial for arborists working long hours, without sacrifcing power.

525BX PETROL BLOWER • Fan and housing design layout reduce gyroscopic forces, resulting in easier handling and less arm fatigue • In lined outlet design means the fan

B R I N G O N T H E B I L LY G O AT Billy Goat wheeled vacuums are suitable for lawns and hard surfaces to inhale and bag up debris and are built to last. The range features 13 products, the newest being the KV601, added in 2018. Simple operation, strong suction and reliability are key features and the model has a Briggs & Stratton Professional series engine. It also has low emissions, designed to meet EU directive requirements. The range oﬀers hand and self-propelled models, featuring 27” width with a ﬁve blade impeller and serrated edges. The KV Series is

48 Pro Arb | September 2018

Blowers.indd 48

WITH AUTUMN JUST AROUND THE CORNER, HERE ARE SOME EFFICIENT WAYS TO MAKE THE CLEAN UP OPERATION A BREEZE

housing is designed so the air stream is in line with the handle, making the machine easy to manoeuvre • Cruise control allows the user to set the power of the blower, reducing the need to ﬁnd your sweet spot on the trigger • X-Torq® is Husqvarna’s patented engine technology, giving more power when needed but with less fuel consumption and emissions • Low Vib® is Husqvarna’s anti vibrations system; levels are reduced to 1.2 m/s² • Smart Start® means eﬀortless starting for the user • A combination of fan housing design and X-Torq engine results in high blowing capacity RRP: £295.00

• Integrated batteries are compact, a Bli300 will give up to 1h 5min blowing time on one charge, with a charging time of 1h from 0% to 100% or just 35min from 0% to 80% • Backpack batteries are ergonomically designed to distribute weight evenly • Easy operation with an intuitive keypad interface. Simply insert the battery, press the power button and squeeze the trigger • savE™ Mode can be switched on from the keypad, maximising the run time • Cruise control means blowing speed can be set at a speciﬁc rpm RRP: £350.00 (exc battery) www.husqvarna.com/uk

536LIB BATTERY BLOWER • Husqvarna Battery Series has a “one battery ﬁts all” solution, for the 536LiB – seven options of battery are available

also available with an on-board 2” chipper to help clear branches. Billy Goat also produces the heavy duty MV Series, aimed at professionals and ideal for larger properties, commercial sites and council applications. With a 29in width, MV Series models have a 151 litre collection capacity for clearing large areas. All Billy Goat vacuums are also available with optional hose kits. KV601 RRP: £1070.00 TKV650SPH (with chipper) RRP: £1790.00 www.billygoat.co.uk

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

29/08/2018 09:25

Orion Forestry

Tel: 01962 857951

Authorised Dealer

PCW5000 Petrol Powered Capstan Winch Safe rope winch Anchor anywhere 1000kg pull, 4 stroke, Only 16kg

Logging Arches

SHOWROOM AT

OrionForestry.co.uk Takeley Business Centre 01279 813591

Come and see us at stands F1 & F2 at the APF Show, and can be reached online, in-store or over the phone with latest products and free advice!

Dunmow Road, Takeley, CM22 6SJ

W S O NT SH OU C IS

Agents for

Tree

Equipment Sales & Hire

Transport Services

Tel: +44 (0)1280 705353 Fax: +44 (0)1280 702849 E-mail: info@m-trac.co.uk

Woodchippers

Diagnostics Hi-tech tree

• Easyline 150M and Easyline 150 PTO • NHS 220 F • NHS 180M Standard Line investigation equipment suppliers

Importers for Fakopp and Others Microsecond Timer Dynaroot – Root Stability Static Wind Load ‘Tree Pulling’ ArborElectro Impedance Tomograph

Full range of models for 2018

Investigation service available

Easyline 150M and Easyline 150 PTO

Arborsonic 3D Tomograph

NHS 220

NHS 180M Standard Line

S U P P LY - T R A I N I N G - S U P P O R T

Contact Ian Barnes

01423 323851

07831 530563

www.treediagnostics.co.uk

Advert template.indd 17

Visit us at www.m-trac.co.uk

24/08/2018 12:26

KIT

R E A DY product TO WO R K :

dna

akita chainsaws have gained a high reputation among arborists for their power, performance, reliability and value. The latest one to check out is the Makita DUC254Z 18V Brushless Top Handle Chainsaw LXT. It uses a single 18V lithium-ion battery and generates a 570W output providing ample power to run at up to 24 metres per second matching the performance of a petrol machine. The brushless motor

50 Pro Arb | September 2018

PRODUCT-DNA.indd 50

M A K I TA’ S N E W TOP HANDLE C H A I N S AW

ensures longer runtime, substantially greater power and lower maintenance. Safety first This new model features the main power switch with auto-off function, making it one of the safest chainsaws on the market. It automatically turns the machine off if the operator does not grip the lock-off lever within 10 seconds of turning the machine on. Equally, the auto-off function kicks in

if the operator does not trigger the switch within one minute, even if the lock-off lever is gripped. Pros only This is a top-handle model and should only be used by trained and certificated professionals. Light and compact, weighing just 2.8kg and being cordless, it is designed for operators when climbing and for single handed use, and so is ideal for tree pruning. The DUC254Z features a variable speed control trigger, electric chain brake and kickback brake. This model also provides a soft start function which accelerates the motor into action reducing the sudden torque load on start up. Sold as body only, this LXT chainsaw has an oil capacity display, hanging hook and captive nuts. Makita’s cordless chainsaws offer low noise in operation, low vibrations for operator protection and comfort, zero emissions to protect the environment and unbeatable charge times. The Makita range of cordless and 2-stroke chainsaws is comprehensive to cover the needs of professional users and industry applications.

WWW.PROARBMAGAZINE.COM

29/08/2018 16:09

WEE CHIPPERS

M100

M200

M250

M300

M400

M500

Call us for more information or visit our stand number 1940-2000 at APF 2018 | 01476 568384

Secateurs, hedgeshears and the world’s finest pruning saws in superb, tempered Japanese steel KST 230

unfogable mesh eye protection KST 217

Silky Fox Saws

KST 103

www.meshsafetyglasses.com 01254 377 467

Foxley Estate Office, Mansel Lacy, Hereford HR4 7HQ

Hayauchi 490

Pocketboy 170

Tel: 01981 590224 Fax: 01981 590355 enquiries@silkyfox.co.uk

Visit silkyfox.co.uk to find your local stockist

TRAINING High quality arboriculture, forestry, first aid

the interactive app 1 2 3 4

Go to the app store search ‘PRO ARB’ download the free app choose and download your issue

Advert template.indd 18

and chainsaw related training Industry recognised qualifications Tailor made training and workshops Tree surgeon fast track courses t 033 345 678 86 e training@hi-line.co.uk w hi-line.co.uk/training f hilinetraining i instagram.com/hilinetraining

30/08/2018 10:26

COME AND SEE OUR LIVE DEMONSTRATIONS AT

THE APF SHOW

CALL US ON 01926 484673 OR VISIT WWW.FUELWOOD.CO.UK FOR FURTHER DETAILS.....

FUELWOOD FULL PAGE.indd 12 Advert template.indd 19

23/08/2018 11:08 10:46