Roots and the Pneumatic Soil-Excavation Tool
I consider roots to be the most critical part of any tree, shrub or plant. Without healthy roots, a plant will not perform. I have noticed that the more vibrant the plant is below the ground, the more vibrant the plant will be above ground. Two important functions of the root system are to anchor […]
Do’s and Don’ts for Safely Operating Mini and Compact Skid Steers and Loaders
What a godsend the mini and compact skid steers and loaders are! These small packages have helped to get big-time muscle into some tight spaces. They have sped up jobs. They have taken a lot of manual labor out of tree care. And, speaking of labor, manufacturers point to how they can offset the growing […]
Women’s PPE: Safety for Everyone
Safety is top priority in the arboriculture industry, and to ensure that everyone stays safe, we all need access to gear that fits properly. When I started working in the industry 15 years ago, I was eager to climb trees and work with crews and gain their respect because of my passion, strong work ethic […]
An Equipment Evolution for Mechanical ROW Management
Less than a generation ago, climbers working with bucket trucks and chippers ruled when it came to the clearing and maintenance of rights of way (ROWs). Today, a combination of purpose-built cutters, grinders and mower/mulchers can clear up to two miles a day. Overhanging issues contributing to this evolution include labor shortages, safety concerns and […]
Caring for Your Battery-Powered Chain Saw
As one might expect, the maintenance and care of battery-powered chain saws is easier and less expensive than that of their gasoline-powered counterparts. Other than bar and chain maintenance, which is essentially the same with a gas-powered saw, maintenance for battery-powered saws pretty much boils down to keeping the battery charged and properly cared for. […]