Pruning/Trimming

Trees may need pruning for a variety of reasons:

· to remove diseased or storm-damaged branches
· to thin the crown to permit new growth and better air circulation
· to reduce the height of a tree
· to remove obstructing lower branches
· to shape a tree for design purposes

Tree trimming is often a preventative solution to more costly problems in the future. Because each cut has the potential to change the growth of (or cause damage to) a tree, no branch should be removed without a reason. Removing leaves reduces photosynthesis and may reduce overall growth. Understanding how a particular tree responds to pruning is essential when selecting branches for removal.

Generally careful thinning can allow 30-50% more light into a given area. Raising the skirt of a tree, that is selecting certain lower branches for removal, can also have a dramatic impact on light levels.

There are times when, due to a tree’s placement or condition, it becomes necessary to decrease its size. The proper methodology for this is known as crown reduction. It is NOT synonymous with tree topping. Topping is one of the most destructive things that can be done to a tree. It increases the chance of insect infestation and disease and it exponentially increases the overall risk of the tree. Tree topping is also antitheses to proper size control. Most trees will replace their lost height in a third of the time it took to reach it in the first place. Some trees can grow up to ten feet a year after having been topped. Crown reduction on the other hand trains a tree to maintain a certain stature. Cuts are made to viable laterals and the tree continues to grow normally.

Tree pruning requires special equipment, training and experience. If the tree pruning work requires climbing, the use of a chain or hand saw, or the removal of large limbs, then using safety equipment, such as a climbing saddle, lanyard and ropes is a must. Our climbing certified arborists can provide a variety of services to assist in performing the job safely and reducing risk of personal injury and damage to your property. They also are able to determine which type of tree pruning is necessary to maintain or improve the health, appearance, and safety of your trees.

Hazardous Removals

We remove all sizes and quantities of trees using methods similar to trimming trees. We perform in either front or back yards with our aerial trucks or by climbing with rope and saddle. Our experienced tree cutters and climbers can rope tree branches and logs away from any obstacle under a tree. Our professionals are among the best in close quarter tree removal. We chip all the brush and haul all the wood away. All product is 100% recycled. Cleanup is accomplished by raking and air blowing thoroughly.

Chipping

With three large Morbark chippers, capable of chipping a 15-inch diameter log, Alta is well equipped to handle all your chipping needs.

Stump Grinding

Left to nature, it can take 20 years or more for a stump to decompose and return back to the soil. As a result, that unattractive tree stump could be in your way for a long time, creating a hazard or just a nuisance to work around.

Once a tree has been removed, we can grind out the stump immediately. This area can then be restored to lawn, a plant bed, or the location of a replacement tree without having to wait for nature to take its course. No unsightly rotting stump, no sink-hole waiting to happen, no toxic chemicals which can be harmful to you or your pets.

Stump grinding is a cost effective way to permanently remove the stump and make the area safe and attractive again.

Fire hazard Reduction

Ladder fuels advance the spread of fire from one fuel source to another. The key to effective fuel reduction is to space trees and shrubs far enough apart so that a fire will not have a logical path of advancement. Remember, ladder fuel reduction also accomplishes real estate value enhancement and is a good way to clean up a large subdivision, prior to initial lot sales.

Tree Preservation

Large, mature trees are becoming scarce. Truly ancient specimens are extremely rare. It is in our best interests as caretakers of the land to do our utmost to prevent needless tree removal. To accomplish this, urban trees require well planned, consistent maintenance. The sooner such a program can be implemented the greater the chances are for a tree’s long-term survival.

Cabling/Bracing

Cabling is performed as a preventative safety measure. Trees that are damaged or that have the potential for causing damage by splitting or falling are often cabled to help reduce the risk of further damage. Cabling can also be used to help stabilize a multi-trunked tree.

Additional Services

Arborist Reports - Written documentation needed for permits, legal proceedings, or general knowledge. 

Diagnosis - In depth analysis of a tree’s condition.

Evaluations – Appraisals of trees and shrubs for insurance purposes, due to damage.