Moving Giants Tree relocation is an eco-friendly alternative to removal By Veronica Sparks
moves and transplants trees across the country and around the world. “I mean, we don’t ever get people pro- testing because there are trees being moved. Generally, there are people out there cheering you on, which is really fun.” Aesthetic Benefits For new developments, the presence of mature trees can cause big prob- lems during the construction process, but their presence also benefits the property aesthetically. They provide an instant landscaped feel that new plant- ings cannot match. Clients who choose tree relocation over removal avoid the years it can take for new trees to mature, thus allowing them to enjoy the benefits of mature trees immediately. This is especially important in fast-developing urban ar- eas where time and aesthetic value are of paramount importance. Property Value Tree relocation is not just about pre- serving nature but also about asset management.
In the world of arboriculture, tree care professionals love growing, maintain- ing, and preserving the beauty of mag- nificent trees across the US. That’s why tree relocation has emerged as a vital, sustainable solution that balances de- velopment needs with environmental preservation. Unlike traditional tree removal — which results in the death and discarding of a tree — relocation offers a method to preserve mature, valuable trees while accommodating urban expansion and landscape redesigns. However, moving a large tree can be an immense task that requires a complex and multifaceted approach. “There are definitely risk factors. You can’t just start digging and ripping up the roots of this tree,” says Trev- or Holland of Big Trees of California , which moves and transplants trees across southern California. “Every- body knows we’re saving the life of this tree. Everybody understands and appreciates that.” THE “WHYS” OF TREE RELOCATION With urban and suburban expansion oen comes the need to clear many ar-
eas of trees. Relocating a tree most of- ten stems from the need to clear a site for construction or to enhance a land- scape aesthetically without sacrificing mature trees. While this practice is oen met with disdain and even protest from the pub- lic, there are several compelling rea- sons why tree relocation is becoming a preferred alternative to tree removal. Environmental Benefits Large, heritage trees are irreplaceable assets to our communities, and they provide substantial environmental benefits. Among those benefits are air purification, carbon sequestration, and heat reduction. Preserving these significant trees through relocation not only maintains their environmental benefits but also helps sustain biodiversity. In urban areas, mature trees are particularly valuable for their ability to mitigate the heat island effect, making urban environments more cost-efficient and livable. “Everybody’s pro tree,” says David Marks, central division vice presi- dent of Environmental Design, which
Large, mature trees are oen consid-
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