"Minimizing Tree-Related Incidents: The Urgent Need for Technological Innovations in the Tree Care Industry"

"Minimizing Tree-Related Incidents: The Urgent Need for Technological Innovations in the Tree Care Industry" by Tony Martinez

2/24/2023

As living organisms, trees are constantly evolving and have a higher likelihood of declining health as they age. However, incidents involving falling trees have been on the rise in recent years, resulting in loss of life, severe injuries, and property damage. The tragedies in the Cities of Whittier and Anaheim California, where falling trees claimed human lives, highlight the urgent need for the tree care industry to identify and mitigate hazardous trees.

As a Certified Arborist and innovator in the tree care industry, I have researched how technology can be used to minimize tree-related incidents. While anyone can identify inconsistencies in a tree without technology, such as looking for symmetry, balance, and recent wounds, tree care contractors often do not invest enough time in better understanding the liability that exists with larger trees in urban areas. Therefore, once a company has decided to improve the management of hazardous trees, they should explore all possible technology to mitigate risk and invest in keeping families safe.

Regrettably, some municipalities and government agencies have outsourced the management of their trees to Arborist contractors who may have become complacent. Although methods that were effective in the past may no longer be adequate, the indemnification clause in contracts has shifted liability without a corresponding shift in responsibility as the tree owner. Therefore, it's important for government agencies and their staff to assist in identifying hazardous or declining trees and to seek out and demand more from their contractors while also embracing technological advancements.

Many agencies have become too comfortable with the status quo and have not explored other vendors who may be poised to lead the industry into a revolutionary change. Tree risk assessment is an added cost to managing entire urban forests, but it’s dwarfed compared to the lawsuit payouts. The settlements become public information and can be easily found. The budget allocated to the tree department plays a significant role in reducing liability exposure for clients.

At our company, we have a pruning motto that guides our practices: "We do what's right for the tree, while reducing the risk for the client through the use of technology." While protecting certain species is essential, we must also be prepared to make tough calls when necessary, in an ethical and humane manner, to reduce the risk of harm to people and property.

It is high time for the tree care industry to adapt and minimize the risks associated with hazardous or declining trees. Government agencies and their staff must play an active role in identifying and mitigating such risks, and demanding more from their contractors to embrace technological advances. The tree care industry must use technology and innovative techniques to reduce incidents involving falling trees and ensure the safety of people and property. I challenge my Certified Arborist colleagues and competitors to join me in this effort. By doing so, we can revolutionize the industry, minimize tree-related incidents, and reduce the risk of harm. It is crucial to remember that while trees are living creatures, they are both an asset and a potential hazard. Together, we can make a significant difference and ensure the safety of our communities.

Tony Martinez is the President of North Star Land Care based out of the City of Downey, CA, located in the South-East region of Los Angeles County. With over 28 years of experience as a Certified Arborist, Tony is a true expert in his field. In fact, he made history by becoming the youngest internationally certified arborist at the age of 18 in 1993.