In this Bainbridge Island project, Cleartree LLC worked with two neighboring property owners to improve tree health, reduce branch failure risk, and address a declining tree that was selected for removal.
The project included a tip-load reduction on a mature sweet gum tree, deadwood removal and structural pruning on several Douglas firs, and the removal of a tree that later revealed internal decay within the trunk. Using our 92-foot Dino lift, our crew was able to safely access the canopy and complete the work while minimizing impact to the surrounding landscape.
Sweet Gum Tip-Load Reduction
The first portion of the project focused on a mature sweet gum tree. While healthy overall, several over extended limbs carried significant weight toward the outer ends of the canopy.
Using our 92-foot Dino lift, we performed a selective tip-load reduction to reduce the load on the branches while maintaining the tree’s natural appearance.
By shortening overextended limbs, we reduced leverage forces during wind events while preserving the character and beauty of the tree.
Douglas Fir Pruning & Deadwood Removal
Several mature Douglas firs on the neighboring property also required attention.
Our crew removed dead, broken, and declining limbs throughout the canopy while performing selective tip-load reduction cuts ranging from approximately 10% to 30% on overextended branches.
This preventative pruning helps reduce the likelihood of branch failures while improving overall canopy structure.
The 92-foot Dino lift allowed our crew to safely access the upper canopy and complete the work while minimizing impact to the surrounding landscape.
Hazard Tree Removal
One tree on the property was selected for removal following an evaluation by a consulting arborist.
During the assessment, the arborist used a mallet to sound the trunk. Variations in the sound produced during testing helped identify an area of internal decay that could not be fully evaluated from a visual inspection alone.
Based on those findings, removal was recommended as the most appropriate long-term option for the tree.
After the tree was removed, the stump revealed the area of internal decay within the trunk that had been identified during the assessment.
While the tree was not considered an immediate failure risk, the decay confirmed the arborist’s findings and demonstrated the value of professional evaluations when concerns arise about a tree’s condition.
Final Results
By the end of the project, both properties benefited from improved tree health, reduced risk, and a cleaner, more manageable canopy.
The combination of strategic pruning, deadwood removal, and hazard tree removal helped preserve the remaining trees while addressing potential issues before they became larger problems.
If you have mature trees that require pruning, deadwood removal, or evaluation for potential hazards, Cleartree LLC provides professional tree care services throughout Bainbridge Island and Kitsap County.
Call (360) 890-3124 to schedule an estimate.
