FAQ's
How do you remove a tree?
There are quite a few options for removing a tree. It can be fallen at the base, climbed (with or without climbing spurs) and taken down in sections, removed with a crane, and in some situations even taken down using explosives. All choices depend on the surrounding buildings and trees, the integrity of the tree itself and the skills of the removal specialists.
Safely removing a tree practically never involves using a ladder!
How long will it take?
This depends, a very simple removal where a client wants to keep the bucked up wood for themselves might take half a day. A complex removal involving multiple trees or damaged structures might take multiple days. We also have ongoing hazard tree removal projects that take more than one season.
All the timing is very dependent on weather and prioritizing safety, there are often times in the summer where it becomes hazardous to operate a chainsaw for risk of fire. Of course, high winds, freezing temperatures and rain also impact the length of time a removal will take.
When is a removal recommended?
It's very hard to know when a tree is hazardous if you aren't an experienced professional. We are always happy to come and assess for you!
A tree that looks healthy from the outside may in fact be structurally unsafe; and a tree that looks unhealthy might have the option of being pruned or treated instead of removal.
Factors like root rot and early beetle infestations are hard to spot, but can sometimes be successfully mitigated if treated early.
Do I have to be at home?
Tree work can be interesting and cool to watch, but it is also very risky. In general, the further you and your family are away from our operation, the safer and faster the work. We may also ask you to move vehicles or objects from a certain zone, or ask you to exit via a different route if the tree is very close to the house.
Staff and client safety is ALWAYS a priority and we take this very seriously.
How much will it cost?
All trees are different, and all properties are too, so this question can really only be answered clearly by our professionals after an assessment: however, most removals will cost between a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Number and qualifications of staff needed, use of specialized equipment such as bucket trucks or stump grinders as well as complexity of tree and proximity to structures, all greatly impact the expected cost. We provide estimates for free, and they stay valid unless major conditions change.
Do I need a permit or anything?
Most municipalities have their own rules regarding tree removal, there are no current bylaws in effect that require residents in Grand Forks or Christina Lake areas to seek permission from the local government before removing a tree on their own property. Below are links to the RDKB and City of Grand Forks bylaws.
https://rdkb.com/Regional-Government/Who-we-are-what-we-do/Policies-and-Bylaws
https://www.grandforks.ca/document-library/#elf_l1_QnlsYXdz
Large trees such as maples and oaks in certain areas of a community can sometimes be considered as beneficial for the environment, economy, and health; and labeled as heritage trees. To be considered a heritage tree, it must be significant culturally, socially or historically, and considered a prominent community landmark.
It is also worth noting that trees on your property in close proximity to a neighboring property may be of emotional or physical importance to others, such as providing shade for animals. If possible, talk with your neighbors before removing any significant tree.