Tree Abuse can include a number of things such as damage to the root system, severe neglect of tree nutrition, the alteration of the natural shape of the tree, or hatracking.

THE RESULTS OF HATRACKING OR IMPROPER PRUNING

Starvation
Good pruning practices rarely remove more than 1/4 to 1/3 of the crown, which in turn does not seriously interfere with the ability of a tree's leafy crown to manufacture food.

Insects and Diseases
The large stubs of an improperly pruned tree are more susceptible to insect damage and fungi.

Weak Branches
The wood of a new branch that grows after a larger one is removed is more weakly attached than a branch that develops more normally.

Tree Death
Some species of trees will not tolerate improper pruning and die shortly after being topped or hatracked.

Ugliness
An improperly pruned tree is a disfigured tree. Even with its regrowth, it never regains the grace and character of its species. The landscape and the community are robbed of a valuable asset.

Cost
To a worker with a saw, hatracking a tree is much easier than applying the skill and judgement needed for good pruning. Improperly pruning a tree may cost less in the short run. However, the true costs are hidden. These include reduced property value, the expense of equivalent replacement, increased future maintenance, and the risk of liability from weakened brances.

Liability
The weakened wood from an improperly pruned tree is much more susceptible to breakage. The breakage may result in legal liability.

ALWAYS USE A QUALIFIED ABORIST

Beware of Door Knockers
Most reputable companies have all the work they can handle without going door to door.

Make Sure They Are Registered
All tree services are required to be registerd with the city and to maintain a copy of their license on the job site.

Ask for Local References
Experience, education, and a good reputation are signs of a good aborist.

THERE ARE PENALTIES FOR TREE ABUSE

The owner of the property on which tree abuse occurs may be required to replant an equivalent tree.

TREE REMOVAL REQUIRES A PERMIT

A tree permit is required if a tree has at least 3" in trunk diameter, or if a Palm has at least 8' in trunk height on all but developed, single family property. On developed, single

family property, a tree needs at least 18" in trunk diameter to require a removal permit. Exempted are Australian Pines, Brazilian Pepper, and Melaleuca.

Alway make sure your Tree Trimmer is registered with the City, and has the proper references and qualifications, or this could happen to you!