What does a Tree Surgeon in Canberra do?

If you’ve ever wondered what a tree surgeon in Canberra does, this blog article provides some answers. A tree surgeon is, in many respects, the same as an arborist: the key difference being that an arborist has had formal training in the field of arboriculture. Most tree surgeons in Canberra work alongside arborists in arboriculture businesses, such as Stump’d Tree Services.

Tree Removal

Tree removal is a core activity of tree surgery. Trees and large shrubs often require removal due to old age, diseases, or proposed construction work. A professional tree surgeon in Canberra has the right equipment and training to remove a tree safely and legally. In the ACT, large trees and scrubs are subject to the Urban Forest Act 2023.

The Urban Forest Act 2023, which replaced the Tree Protection Act 2005, stipulates that trees and scrubs that are 8-metres or taller (or have an 8-metre-wide canopy) require professional assessment before removal or trimming. Not surprisingly, arborists and tree surgeons in Canberra play a key role in educating property owners about the new legislation.

Stump Removal

Stump removal is usually required after a tree or large shrub has been removed. A tree surgeon in Canberra will either dig out the stump or use a stump grinder. In most cases, stump grinding is less invasive than digging; it also produces wood chips for the garden. Most tree surgeons recommend stump removal to reduce the likelihood of regrowth and to remove a potential trip hazard.

The tree surgeons at Stump’d Tree Services use a powerful Bandit stump grinder to remove unsightly tree stumps in Canberra and Queanbeyan. Operation of the stump grinder is conducted in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. The wood chips produced by stump grinding are suitable as mulch or compost (they add carbon to the mix).

Tree Trimming

Like tree removal, tree trimming requires high levels of physical strength and coordination, as well as climbing ability. A professional tree surgeon in Canberra has the difficult job of trimming and shaping large trees, such as eucalypts, pines, maples, and oaks. Work health and safety (WHS) is paramount in tree trimming, as falling limbs can harm people and property.

Tree trimming in the ACT is subject to the same rules as tree removal (under the Urban Forest Act 2023). Trimming a large tree or shrub may require permission from the ACT Government (City Services). An arborist or experienced tree surgeon in Canberra can advise if permission is required (by inspecting the tree or accessing the ACT Tree Register).

Hedge Trimming

The working life of a tree surgeon in Canberra wouldn’t be complete without mentioning hedge trimming. Hedges are great for privacy, aesthetics, and noise reduction. However, hedges can become unruly, lose shape, and attract diseases if they’re not trimmed regularly. Another reason for trimming hedges is to keep unwelcome guests (rodents and snakes) from sheltering in them.

To engage the services of a professional tree surgeon in Canberra, please call Leon on 0434 510 767. The skilled team at Stump’d Tree Services comprises an arborist (Leon) and several tree surgeons.