Maybe you’re desperate to remove that tree that’s hanging over your neighbor’s fence or that large tree leaning dangerously after the severe July 24 storm that hit Missoula.
However, the city government cautions citizens to opt for professionals who have the necessary background, equipment and safety knowledge to get the job done right.
The warnings come amid high demand for local tree services to deal with the thousands of fallen and damaged trees left behind by the storm.
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The most dangerous work
According to the Department of Urban Forestry, storm damage control is the most dangerous job an arborist must perform.
Maria DuCharme, a specialist in the urban forestry program, tells me that property owners must verify that arborists have a business license and liability insurance.
“With any storm like this, there’s an influx of people wanting to volunteer to help, which we really appreciate. And we’re grateful for that,” DuCharme notes. “However, when trees come down in a storm, there’s a lot of specialized training that goes into getting people to deal with that kind of thing, especially trees that are partially down or partially uprooted or land on vehicles or houses.”
Training is the key
DuCharme says there are important reasons for the training because the number of fatal accidents among arborists is at least 15 times higher than all other industries, so she says they must have the appropriate certification.
“These situations require skills that you acquire over a long period of time. Things that you have to learn on the job, so to speak. And there are also schools where arborists learn these things. It’s not something you just do.”
Dennis Bragg Photo
Protect yourself
DuCharme said property owners should make sure anyone they hire has a business license and adequate liability insurance. Residents can check the ISA website to check references and find a qualified contractor.
If a tree is in the city right of way, overhangs, or poses a hazard to the public, you can find more information on this Missoula website.
Allow changes
The Department of Urban Forestry has suspended the permit process for boulevard trees that have already fallen. If a tree in the city right-of-way needs to be removed or trimmed to prevent storm damage, contractors or property owners should contact the Department of Urban Forestry at [email protected] to obtain a tree trimming permit.
7 unexpected objects that can start forest fires
Due to extreme drought conditions across the state, the Michigan DNR is reminding residents to be aware of the following everyday items that can inadvertently start a fire.
Gallery credit: Lauren Gordon
