An Example Tactical Approach to Management of Trees in Recreation Areas
I. Stratify the area into risk zones, on a map, e.g.:
- = Low risk areas such as woods, open fields or areas with
trees and low foot traffic and no property, as well as roads leading into
campgrounds and picnic areas.
- = Moderate risk areas, such as foot paths, open picnic
areas without fixed picnic tables, etc.
- = High risk areas, such as picnic grounds, campgrounds,
restrooms, shelters and other structures, parking lots, interpretive signs and
kiosks along trails, and any other places where people might congregate.
II. Examine the trees in high risk areas systematically, looking
at all the trees in these areas.
- The Forest Service recommends two inspections annually: one
during leaf-on and one during leaf-off. A minimal policy would specify that
high risk sites be inspected annually. Areas other than those at high risk may
be inspected at longer intervals, but regular inspections are important.
- There may be hazardous trees even in low-risk areas. Trees in
these areas should be examined periodically to remove standing dead trees and
major dead limbs, especially where they overhang roads or paths.
III. Evaluate and inspect each individual tree in high hazard
zones.
- Try to document the fact that all trees on the site have been
inspected, not just those deemed hazardous. It is not necessary to number each
of the trees, but if the manpower is available and the area is small enough,
this is the best way to document that each tree was inspected.
- Trees should be inspected in a systematic fashion, including
roots, trunk and crown. It doesn't matter in what order these are examined, as
long as the inspector is consistent. Inexperienced hazard tree inspectors
should work in teams of two or more.
- Some schemes recommend the use of two teams: one to examine
all trees on the site to identify hazardous trees, and another (usually the
site manager) who examines only the hazardous trees and prescribes treatment.
This might be a good interim method for agencies with an inexperienced tree
inspection workforce.
IV. Promptly
implement any corrective actions to be taken. If workforce time is limited,
address high priority hazardous trees
first. |
