ERCA Taking Extra Steps For Tree Risks

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The Essex Region Conservation Authority has now put into place a Tree Risk Management Policy.

“In general, we have been inspecting trees based on usage of our various properties and proximity to sanctioned trails, parking lots, or other areas where people may congregate, and around our facilities for many years,” explains Kevin Money, ERCA’s Director of Conservation Services. “This policy formalizes that practice. It includes annual inspections of properties identified as high risk by staff with appropriate qualifications, such as our ISA Certified Arborist. Inspections at low risk areas will occur on an as-needed basis”.

Under the policy, parking lots, access roads, areas around building and where people are likely to congregate will be inspected twice each year – once when leaves are on the trees and once when they have fallen. Special event locations and routes will be inspected between five and ten days prior to the event date. Inspections for hazard trees following severe or catastrophic weather shall commence in two business days, or less, following the event.

“It’s also important to note that staff have the ability to act immediately to address any threats to worker or public safety, without having to consult with our Forester,” Money goes on to say. This allows site superintendents the flexibility to restrict access to an area until the hazard tree has been removed or otherwise abated. The policy also confirms that in all cases, ERCA shall abide by the Species at Risk legislation.