Arboriculture – Section Felling a Cedar Tree
Section Felling a Cedar Tree: A Delicate Operation in Conservation
In this project, our team were tasked with the careful removal of a large cedar tree that had become a safety hazard. Over the past 5 years or so this beautiful tree had begun to lean to an alarming angle, resulting in the lifting of the root plate at the base of the tree. The cause of this was found to be Ganoderma adspersum – a fungus which causes white heart rot at the base of the tree stem.
For the past 5 years the tree had been cordoned off and it was hoped that this would be enough to allow it to remain standing safely. However, with its location in a conservation area, the risks posed by the cedar were significant. Positioned near ornamental trees and well-used public grounds, the tree was at risk of falling and causing serious damage to its surroundings, as well as potentially injuring anyone nearby. Due to these concerns, it was regrettably decided that the only course of action was to remove the tree. Permission was sought and obtained from the local council to proceed with section felling – a careful technique in which the tree is dismantled in sections from the top down to control its fall.
The Process of Section Felling
Our trained arborists needed to approach this project with precision and care. Section felling is often used in conservation areas where straight felling isn’t feasible due to the proximity of other trees, buildings, or people.
The process initially involved using our MEWP to remove branches from the main stem. The trunk was then removed in manageable sizes allowing us to bring the tree down without damage to nearby people or property.
Each cut was carefully planned to ensure stability throughout the process. Removing this cedar wasn’t just about clearing a hazard; it was about maintaining respect for the conservation area and minimising disruption to the surrounding habitat.
Making the Most of a Fallen Giant
While it’s always sad to say goodbye to such a grand tree, our customers were committed to making sure it continues to contribute to the site in new ways:
- Planking for Benches: Large sections of the cedar will be milled into planks, which can be used to make benches for around the grounds. These benches will give visitors a place to rest and reflect in the beautiful surroundings.
- Retaining Wall Flowers Beds: Some of the planks will also be repurposed to replace retaining walls for flower beds around the estate. The planks are pegged in place, creating a rustic, sustainable structure for the gardens.
- Christmas Decorations: Finally twigs and pine cones were collected to provide natural decorations and a touch of woodland charm to the hall’s Christmas displays this year, bringing the cedar’s legacy into the festive season.
I just wanted to thank Russ and his team for their magnificent work last week removing our cedar of Lebanon. The job was done with professional skills and efficiency for which we are extremely grateful given what a sad and sensitive job it was to undertake.
