HomeMy WebLinkAboutArborist Report
Oak Tree Assessment
529 Leda Lane
Arcadia, CA 91006
Prepared for:
Win May-Property Owner
July 20, 2023
Prepared by:
Ron Serven, Growth Rings Services
International Society of Arboriculture- Certified Arborist/Municipal Specialist # WE-5812
International Society of Arborists-Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAQ)
American Society of Consulting Arborists-Registered Consulting Arborist- RCA#709
6882 Calmbank Avenue
LaVerne, CA 91108
(626) 712-3745
growthringsservices@gmail.com
growthringsservices.com
Growth Rings Services 529 Leda Lane-Oak Assessment 7/20/2023 2
Table of contents
Google Map of Property/Tree Location----------------------------------------------------------------3
SUMMARY ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3-5
INTRODUCTION ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5-8
Background and History ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------5
Assignment-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5-7
Limitations of Assignment -------------------------------------------------------------------------------7
Purpose and Use of the Report ----------------------------------------------------------------------7,8
OBSERVATIONS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8,9
Investigative Methods -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8
Site Observations ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8
Subject Tree Observations ----------------------------------------------------------------------------8,9
Related Pests, Flora, and Fauna-----------------------------------------------------------------------9
TESTING & ANALYSIS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------9
DISCUSSION/CONCLUSIONS---------------------------------------------------------------------9,10
RECOMMENDATIONS -----------------------------------------------------------------------------10,11
SUBJECT OAK TREE/SITE PHOTOS----------------------------------------------------------12-20
ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS ------------------------------------------------------------21,22
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS ---------------------------------------------------------------23
Growth Rings Services 529 Leda Lane-Oak Assessment 7/20/2023 3
SITE PLAN
SUMMARY
I determined that overall, the subject Quercus agrifolia (Coast Live Oak) tree is in good
health but is very poorly structured, the trunk has a 50 degree lean to the southwest
(towards the garage structure) and the canopy has a significant imbalance of foliage
and branches due to all developing branches on the north side cut back significantly by
Southern California Edison to maintain the required high tension line clearance. In
viewing the tree from afar the Coast Live Oak tree is a very prominent part of the side
yard and appears to be a viable tree but the continued growth of the tree along with
necessary safety pruning deems the tree as a potential hazard and corrective measures
would likely make very little impact in improving the conditions. The subject tree is most
likely 40+ years old and may have been poorly staked when planted, resulting in the
considerable lean of the tree. With the canopy size/growth restricted on the north side
of the tree due to the necessary pruning, significant limbs in excess of 10” in diameter
would need to be made which may result in stress to the tree and potentially create a
source for decay to enter into the branch stem and/or main trunk of the tree which could
lead to branch or trunk failure. While the condition overall of the subject tree is good,
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there are observed concerns including the overall structure of the tree as well as
negative impacts to the property that are problematic currently and expected to
increase. Coast Live Oaks overall are a very hardy, moderate to fast-growing trees but
do have brittle wood which is subject to breakage. Coast Live Oaks are also extremely
susceptible to insect, disease, and herbicide damage, which makes it an undesirable
tree in many areas.
Additionally, the majority of the tree canopy extends over the garage structure at the
subject property and the Win May family have great concerns related to the possible
property damage and potential life and safety issues from limb and/or entire trunk failure
which may result in substantial damage to the garage as well as the failure could impact
the inhabitants of the house if near the failure. The balance of the subject tree has
pruned has been from time to time in an effort to reduce any potential failures the risks
related to the tree remain. Coast Live Oak trees are known for their large/expansive
canopies and needed pruning to keep the tree in scale for a small growing space
presents extreme challenges.
Finally, the tree roots from the subject Coast Live Oak tree may by contributing to
damages to the adjacent driveway. The damage is not significant but expected to
worsen as the root system continues to expand and grow in all directions from the base
of the Oak tree. Pruning or remove the roots would not be advised due to the potential
impact to the health and stability of the subject tree.
Based on my findings, observations, and expected growth of the tree and potential life
and safety issues from potential limb and/or entire trunk failure that could result in
substantial damage to the garage and safety concerns related to the inhabitants of the
house if near any unexpected limb or trunk failure, it is my opinion that the Coast Live
Oak tree be removed.
The City of Arcadia typically requires a replacement tree(s) be planted as the result of
an approved tree removal. The City Code reads as follows:
9110.01.080 Tree Replacement
1. Tree Replacement. For every protected tree that was approved to be removed, it
shall be replaced with a minimum of two (2) new 24-inch box trees. When it is
appropriate, the Director may modify, waive, increase, or reduce the tree
replacement requirement.
2. Follow-up Report. The Certified Arborist, at the expense of the property owner,
shall submit a follow-up report to the City that the work was completed, and to
the satisfaction of the Director.
Based on my observations and viewing of the existing trees on the property, I also
recommend that only one (1) 24” Oak box Oak tree replacement be required to be
planted on the property and the tree be planted in a more appropriate location where
the tree can grow and not negatively impact the property in the future. An additional
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tree could be planted in the front yard area with the current available space or in the
general area where the existing Oak is located but thorough stump and stump grindings
removal from both the adjacent Elm stump and Oak tree of with new soil exported would
be recommended due to potential negative interface and impacts to new root
development from old, decaying root system. A small growing would be recommended
due to limited grow space due to adjacent utility lines.
All work should be performed by a state licensed tree contractor with a city
business license and an approved tree removal permit as required to be posted at
the site during the work.
INTRODUCTION
Background/History
On July 10th, 2023, I received a message from Win May, current property owner at 529
Leda Lane in the City of Arcadia, regarding a potentially hazardous Quercus agrifolia
(Coast Live Oak) tree located in the side yard of the subject property and adjacent the
garage structure. Ms. May is looking to potentially remove the subject tree due to the
damages to the existing garage as well as potential life/safety concerns related to
potential limb and/or trunk failure in the future. Ms. May secured my services to conduct
the site visit and to provide a detailed written arborist report with all observations,
findings and recommendations related to the subject Coast Live Oak tree.
Assignment
Ms. May requested me to provide a visual inspection of the subject Coast Live Oak tree
to evaluate the current health and observable conditions in and around the base of the
trees that may be of concern. The Quercus agrifolia (Coast Live Oak) tree is included in
the list of “Protected Trees” in the City of Arcadia Tree Preservation Ordinance.
On Tuesday, July 18th, 2023, I conducted my site visit. During the site visit I performed
a visual inspection of the subject Coast Live Oak tree focusing on the current health,
overall structure, and observable conditions as well as any possible mitigation
measures that could be implemented to improve the health of the subject tree if needed
or to mitigate the structural concerns. In addition, I performed a root collar and trunk
inspection to identify any possible signs of decay or other disease concerns. Finally, I
made recommendations based on my observations as to if a tree or trees should be
removed due to the existing conditions that are present as well as any potential
negative impacts to the property in the future.
Ordinance No. 2323 protects both Oak and Sycamore trees. The regulations (Chapter 7
of the Arcadia Municipal Code) provide that the following trees shall not be removed,
relocated, damaged, or have their protected zones encroached upon unless an Oak
Tree Permit is granted.
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1. Quercus Engelmannii (Engelmann oak), or Quercus agrifolia (Coast Live Oak, or
California Live Oak) with a trunk diameter larger than four (4) inches measured at a
point four and one-half (4½) feet above the root crown, or two (2) or more trunks
measuring three (3) inches each or greater in diameter, measured at a point four and
one-half (4½) feet above the root crown.
2. Any other living oak tree with a trunk diameter larger than twelve (12) inches
measured at a point four and one-half (4½) feet above the root crown, or two (2) or
more trunks measuring ten (10) inches each or greater in diameter, measured at a point
four and one-half (41/2) feet above the root crown.
3. Platanus racemosa (Sycamore) with a trunk diameter larger than six (6) inches
measured at a point four and one-half (4½) feet above the root crown, or two (2) or
more trunks measuring four (4) inches each or greater in diameter, measured at a point
four and one-half (4½) feet above the root crown.
Exceptions:
The following situations are exempt from the Oak Tree Permit requirements:
• Tree removal has been specifically approved as part of a development permit,
i.e., tentative parcel map, conditional use permit, modification, etc. This is called
a “Combined Permit.
• Removal or relocation of oak trees is necessary to obtain adequate line-of-sight
distances, as required by the Director of Public Works.
• Actions taken for the protection of existing electrical power or communication
lines or other property of a public utility.
The City of Arcadia requires that an application must be filed with Planning Services
and must include an evaluation from a Certified Arborist as to the condition of the tree(s)
that is to be removed.
Oak Tree Permit Requirements for Removal of Diseased and/or Hazardous Oak
Trees:
• An application must be filed with Planning Services and must include an
evaluation from a Certified Arborist as to the condition of the tree(s) that is to
be removed. The Development Services Director or designee then has seven
(7) working days to approve or deny the application.
• If the permit if not utilized within twelve (12) months from the date of approval
or conditional approval, the application shall become null and void.
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• If the application is denied, the decision may be appealed to the Planning
Commission. The fee for an appeal shall be the same as for an Architectural
Design Review.
After the initial telephone conversation referenced above, and a site visit on May 5th, we
agreed that my assignment is as follow:
1. Provide a written arborist report including the following:
• Summary of site and tree observations from site visit.
• Results of tests performed on site.
• Opinion as to overall health, vigor and structural condition of the subject Coast
Live Oak located in the side yard area of the subject property on the 6th Avenue
side.
• Evaluate the current damages to the shared property line wall to best determine
if any viable options are available to keep the subject Coast Live Oak tree.
• Evaluation of the existing tree roots and what impacts they may be presenting to
the surrounding area.
• Recommendations on any necessary mitigation measures or request for removal
based the on findings.
Limitations of the Assignment
• The recommendations and conclusions provided in this report around the health
of the tree and the overall condition of the tree is based on visual observations
conducted at ground level only. No digging or trenching was conducted to
uncover roots below the surface. A canopy inspection from a bucket truck or by
climbing the tree was not conducted.
• A formal Advanced Hazardous Tree Risk Assessment was not performed on the
subject trees.
• No trunk drilling or internal trunk decay assessment with a Resistograph device
was performed on the subject trees.
• The heath condition of the tree is static and can quickly change and/or be
impacted by weather conditions including wind, rain, earthquake, or a
combination of these at any level. Continued assessment is necessary to
note and changes that may be unforeseeable.
• No inspection was conducted under the house or the neighbor’s property to the
west regarding existing or potential root growth and negative impacts.
Purpose and Use of the Report
The purpose of this report is to provide a summary of the overall health, vigor and
structural condition of the subject Coast Live Oak located on the side yard area of the
subject property. My additional focus was to best determine if the tree should be
pruned, treated, monitored, or removed based on the current health and structural
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stability of the tree as well as potential property damage and/or injuries to inhabitants of
the subject property. This report is an attachment for the tree removal application that
shall be submitted by the property owner and is required by the City of Arcadia to be
included with the application.
OBSERVATIONS
Investigation Methods
The primary tasks listed in the “assignment” section above is to first of all, perform a
visual inspection of the subject tree and site area to evaluate the current health and
overall condition.
In addition, I decided to perform a root collar and trunk inspection to determine if and
roots and/or trunk decay was present. I utilized a small hand trowel to remove areas of
soil around the roots for inspection as well as a small rubber mallet to sound the trunk
and to note any irregularities in the wood.
Finally, the “assignment” included evaluating and confirming any current and/or
potential future negative impacts to the property from the root systems on the subject
trees. Also, to determine if any the tree should be removed based on the current
conditions as well as future concerns that may be expected.
Site Conditions/Observations
When I first arrived at the site to inspect the subject trees, I performed a general
evaluation of the area within proximity to each tree. The site is located within the City of
Arcadia. The neighborhood is composed of single-family homes. The drip line
environment of subject Coast Live Oak tree is a non-irrigated planter area, the garage of
subject property at 529 Leda Lane, and concrete walkways adjacent to the subject
Coast Live Oak and the driveway on the neighboring property at 1233 Sixth Avenue.
Subject Tree Observations
Tree #1-Quercus agrifolia-Coast Live Oak/California Live Oak
• Single trunk-14” (inches) at standard height (DBH) and a canopy radius of
approximately 39 feet.
• The height of the tree is approximately 35 feet.
• The grow space for the expected root system and canopy is greatly limited due to
the location of the subject Coast Live Oak tree.
• The tree has good root flare and trunk taper and is maintaining a traditional form for
the species.
• Approximately 80% of canopy on the south side of the tree.
• Evidence of ongoing/significant canopy pruning on the north side of the canopy by
Southern California Edison to maintain the required high tension line clearance.
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• Overall poor structure/canopy imbalance as a result of ongoing Southern California
Edison to maintain the required high tension line clearance.
• The limbs are normal in size but poorly distributed on the north side of the canopy
due to Edison pruning.
Related Pests, Flora, and Fauna
• No significant pests or other pathogens observed on or around the subject Coast
Live Oak tree.
TESTING and ANALYSIS
First, I conducted a visual inspection of the canopy, trunk, and surround roots on the
tree to determine if there were any concerns present. The Coast Live Oak tree crown
has a couple dead limbs in the canopy and one large scaffold limb that failed and is
lying on an adjacent stem.
Next, I performed a visual root collar inspection on the subject Coast Live Oak tree to
identify any possible root disease or decay that may present. A root collar excavation is
the process of removing the dirt, pulling back turf or removing other foreign materials
such as rocks from around the trunk of a tree to inspect the base. This is done to
investigate the extent of decay that is present or to view the structure of the roots to see
if there may be a girdling root issue or other issues. Girdling roots are roots that have
been misdirected and grow around or across the tree trunk causing tree health issues. I
did not observe additional trunk or root defects during this inspection process.
Finally, I also sounded the base of the tree to determine if there were any potential
areas of decay in the trunk that could compromise the structural integrity of the tree.
The sounding was performed around the entire perimeter of both trees just above the
natural grade around the trunk of the tree. I did not note any noticeable changes in
sound around any areas of the trunk of the tree.
DISCUSSION/CONCLUSIONS
I determined that overall, the subject Quercus agrifolia (Coast Live Oak) tree is in good
health but is very poorly structured, the trunk has a 50 degree lean to the southwest
(towards the garage structure) and the canopy has a significant imbalance of foliage
and branches due to all developing branches on the north side cut back significantly by
Southern California Edison to maintain the required high tension line clearance. In
viewing the tree from afar the Coast Live Oak tree is a very prominent part of the side
yard and appears to be a viable tree but the continued growth of the tree along with
necessary safety pruning deems the tree as a potential hazard and corrective measures
would likely make very little impact in improving the conditions. The subject tree is most
likely 40+ years old and may have been poorly staked when planted, resulting in the
considerable lean of the tree. With the canopy size/growth restricted on the north side
of the tree due to the necessary pruning, significant limbs in excess of 10” in diameter
Growth Rings Services 529 Leda Lane-Oak Assessment 7/20/2023 10
would need to be made which may result in stress to the tree and potentially create a
source for decay to enter into the branch stem and/or main trunk of the tree which could
lead to branch or trunk failure. While the condition overall of the subject tree is good,
there are observed concerns including the overall structure of the tree as well as
negative impacts to the property that are problematic currently and expected to
increase. Coast Live Oaks overall are a very hardy, moderate to fast-growing trees but
do have brittle wood which is subject to breakage. Coast Live Oaks are also extremely
susceptible to insect, disease, and herbicide damage, which makes it an undesirable
tree in many areas.
Additionally, the majority of the tree canopy extends over the garage structure at the
subject property and the Win family have great concerns related to the possible property
damage and potential life and safety issues from limb and/or entire trunk failure which
may result in substantial damage to the garage as well as the failure could impact the
inhabitants of the house if near the failure. The balance of the subject tree has pruned
has been from time to time in an effort to reduce any potential failures the risks related
to the tree remain. Coast Live Oak trees are known for their large/expansive canopies
and needed pruning to keep the tree in scale for a small growing space presents
extreme challenges.
Finally, the tree roots from the subject Coast Live Oak tree may by contributing to
damages to the adjacent driveway. The damage is not significant but expected to
worsen as the root system continues to expand and grow in all directions from the base
of the Oak tree. Pruning or remove the roots would not be advised due to the potential
impact to the health and stability of the subject tree.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on my findings, observations, and expected growth of the tree and potential life
and safety issues from potential limb and/or entire trunk failure that could result in
substantial damage to the garage and safety concerns related to the inhabitants of the
house if near any unexpected limb or trunk failure, it is my opinion that the Coast Live
Oak tree be removed.
The City of Arcadia typically requires a replacement tree(s) be planted as the result of
an approved tree removal. The City Code reads as follows:
9110.01.080 Tree Replacement
1. Tree Replacement. For every protected tree that was approved to be removed, it
shall be replaced with a minimum of two (2) new 24-inch box trees. When it is
appropriate, the Director may modify, waive, increase, or reduce the tree
replacement requirement.
2. Follow-up Report. The Certified Arborist, at the expense of the property owner,
shall submit a follow-up report to the City that the work was completed, and to
the satisfaction of the Director.
Growth Rings Services 529 Leda Lane-Oak Assessment 7/20/2023 11
Based on my observations and viewing of the existing trees on the property, I also
recommend that only one (1) 24” Oak box Oak tree replacement be required to be
planted on the property and the tree be planted in a more appropriate location where
the tree can grow and not negatively impact the property in the future. An additional
tree could be planted in the front yard area with the current available space or in the
general area where the existing Oak is located but thorough stump and stump grindings
removal from both the adjacent Elm stump and Oak tree of with new soil exported would
be recommended due to potential negative interface and impacts to new root
development from old, decaying root system. A small growing would be recommended
due to limited grow space due to adjacent utility lines.
All work should be performed by a state licensed tree contractor with a city
business license and an approved tree removal permit as required to be posted at
the site during the work.
Growth Rings Services 529 Leda Lane-Oak Assessment 7/20/2023 12
SUBJECT OAK TREE/SITE PHOTOS
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Assumptions and Limiting Conditions
I Ron Serven, certify the following:
• No warranty is made, expressed or implied, that problems or deficiencies of the
trees or the property will not occur in the future, from any cause. The Consultant
shall not be responsible for damages or injuries caused by any tree defects and
assume no responsibility for the correction of defects or tree related problems.
• The owner and client of the trees may choose to accept or disregard the
recommendations of the Consultant or seek additional advice to determine if a tree
meets the owner’s risk abatement standards.
• The Consultant has no past, present or future interest in the removal, retention, or
preservation of any tree. The opinions contained herein are the independent and
objective judgements of the Consultant related to circumstances and observations
make on the subject site.
• The recommendations contained in this report are the opinion of the Consulting
Arborist at the time of the inspection. These opinions are based on the knowledge,
experience, and education of the Consultant.
• The field inspection was a visual, grade level tree assessment.
• The Consultant shall not be required to provide testimony, provide site monitoring,
provide further documentation, be deposed, or to attend any meeting without
subsequent contractual arrangements for additional fees for such services as
described by the Consultant.
• The Consultant assumes no responsibility for verification of ownership or location of
property lines, or for results of any actions or recommendations based on inaccurate
information.
• This Arborist report may not be reproduced without the expressed written
permission of the Consulting Arborist and the client to whom the report was
provided to. Any changes or alteration of this report invalidates the entire report.
• Consulting Arborists are tree specialists who use their education, knowledge, training,
and experience to examine trees, recommend measures to enhance the beauty and
health of trees, make recommendations to prevent or minimize damage to trees
during and after construction projects, and attempt to reduce the risk of living near
Growth Rings Services 529 Leda Lane-Oak Assessment 7/20/2023 22
trees. Clients may choose to accept or disregard the recommendations of the
arborist, or to seek additional advice.
• Consulting Arborists cannot detect every condition that could possibly lead to the
structural failure of a tree. Trees are living organisms that fail in ways we do not fully
understand. Conditions are often hidden within trees and below ground. Arborists
cannot guarantee that a tree will be healthy or safe under all circumstances, or for a
specified period of time. Likewise, remedial treatments, like any medicine, cannot be
guaranteed.
• Treatment, pruning, and removal of trees may involve considerations beyond the
scope of the arborist’s services such as property boundaries, property ownership, site
lines, disputes between neighbors, and other issues. Arborists cannot take such
considerations into account unless complete and accurate information is disclosed to
the arborist. An arborist should then be expected to reasonably rely upon the
completeness and accuracy of the information provided.
• Trees can be managed, but they cannot be controlled. To live near trees is to accept
some degree of risk. The only way to eliminate all risk associated with trees is to
eliminate all trees.
Thank you and feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
Growth Rings Services 529 Leda Lane-Oak Assessment 7/20/2023 23
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS
The International Society of Arboriculture
Hereby Announces That
Has Earned the Credential
ISA Certified Arborist ®
By successfully meeting ISA Certified Arborist certification requirements
through demonstrated attainment of relevant competencies as supported by
the ISA Credentialing Council
21 July 2001
Issue Date Expiration Date Certification Number
31 December 2025
Caitlyn Pollihan
CEO & Executive Director
Ron Serven
#0847
ISA Certified Arborist
WE-5812AM
The International Society of Arboriculture
Hereby Announces That
Has Earned the Credential
ISA Certified Arborist Municipal Specialist®
By successfully meeting ISA Certified Arborist Municipal Specialist certification
requirements through demonstrated attainment of relevant competencies as supported
by the ISA Credentialing Council
6 May 2006
Issue Date Expiration Date Certification Number
31 December 2025
Caitlyn Pollihan
CEO & Executive Director
Ron Serven
WE-5812AM
The International Society of Arboriculture
Hereby Announces That
Has Earned the Credential
ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification®
By successfully meeting ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification certification
requirements through demonstrated attainment of relevant competencies as supported
by the ISA Credentialing Council
13 July 2022
Issue Date Expiration Date
13 July 2027
Caitlyn Pollihan
CEO & Executive Director
Ron Serven