Why Hire an Expert for Ash Tree Removal
Prior to the emerald ash borer’s discovery in 2009 in St. Paul, Minnesota, approximately 20% of the urban canopy were ash trees. As this destructive pest continues to kill all unprotected ash trees, many homeowners are facing the reality of needing to remove a declining tree in the near future.
Whether your local city has tagged your tree for removal or you determined removal was necessary, you may be wondering how best to remove it. Our experts have answered the most frequently asked questions about ash tree removal, including why hiring an expert is the best option for this specialized and potentially hazardous service.
Should I cut down my ash tree?
Losing a mature tree is devastating to many homeowners. Perhaps you rely on a mature ash tree to provide valuable shade. Or, the costly removal is not within your budget. Unfortunately, many homeowners across the Minneapolis and St. Paul metro are currently being confronted with cutting down an ash tree. Below are the most common reasons your ash tree will need to be removed:
- The forester or other city official has determined your tree is a safety risk due to its decline and has marked it for removal.
- A tree care professional has inspected your ash tree and recommended removal due to declining health.
- You have personally determined your ash tree is in decline, and removal is necessary.
Dead ash trees are dangerous to cut down. They are particularly hazardous, as their dead wood becomes very brittle and can break unexpectedly. Not removing an ash tree in an urban environment poses a large safety risk–and you, the homeowner, can be held liable.
Can I cut down my ash tree myself?
How do I get rid of an ash tree?
The best way to get rid of an ash tree is to contract with a reputable tree care company with ISA Certified Arborists on staff. Your city may publish a list of tree care companies licensed to perform services. Otherwise, you can search for an ISA Certified Arborist through the International Society of Arboriculture’s website.
Seven questions to ask when getting an ash tree removal bid
- Is the company licensed and insured?
- What training does the crew have on removing ash trees?
- How will you remove it safely?
- Is the removal plan clear, and does it include protection for the landscape and structures below?
- Does the bid include debris hauling, clean-up, and specialized equipment if needed?
- Do you coordinate with the utilities for line drops and markings for stump removal?
- Is stump removal priced separately?
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