Crane-assisted rigging is a complex layering of skills, equipment and knowledge. Like many involved tasks, it looks relatively simple when done well. However, the truth is that when poorly planned, cranes and trees can be a difficult combination. Add in [...]

Teaching, training and understanding the forces generated while rigging trees can be challenging. Even as experienced arborists and professional trainers, we have had the experience of looking into the eyes of rigging trainees and knowing, “They don’t get it!” This [...]

Recently, Girard Tree Service LLC, which I co-own and operate with my wife, Heide, was asked to take down a lightning-struck white pine tree (Pinus strobus) on an island here in New Hampshire. Due to the remote location and terrain, [...]

A couple of years ago, we were contacted to remove a linden tree growing on the side of a cliff at the Elora Gorge, on the Grand River about 70 miles west of Toronto in Ontario, Canada. The [...]

With so many flashy devices and gear options available within the tree industry, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and stick with the basics – or even just resort to the trusty “cut and chuck” to get the job [...]