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Risk assessment and tree evaluation

Tree structure and biology

• See: Introduction
• See: Wood
• See: Root system
• See: Lower trunk
• See: Trunk, branches, and unions
• See: Canopy
• See: Force distribution
• See: How trees grow

Tree defects

• See: Decay development

Potential causes of risk

Tree strength and weakness

• See: Strength of different trees
• See: Strength of different parts
• See: Strength reduces with age

Impairment of uniform stress distribution

• See: Distribution of loading
• See: Interruption of growth by living agents
• See: Inadequate root anchorage

Damage to existing support

• See: Direct physical injury
• See: Cracks from mechanical loading
• See: Decay
• See: Risk not related to mechanics

Reducing risk

• See: Limit large low branch removal
• See: No flush cuts
• See: Pruning
• See: Planting properly
• See: Avoid root damage

Remedial Actions

• Move the target
• Remove the defective tree or parts
• See: Reduce the load on defective part
• See: Root collar exam and treatment
• See: Support systems
• See: Lightning protection systems
• See: Hire an arborist

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