Trees and forests - Verdant Ecology

Trees and forests

We offer services in consultancy, practical work, teaching/training and research.

BS5837

Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction.

Tree surveys, Tree Constraints Plans, Arboricultural Impact Assessments, Tree Protection Plans and Arboricultural Method Statements.

Determining which trees to retain during development and how to do so successfully.

Top tip – get this done before you design your layout because trees will influence it.

Note – we assess bat roost potential at the same time so you don’t have to pay for two different surveys.

Proper protection system (although the fence should have been right on the edge of the ground protection)

Health and safety

Hazard and risk assessment in relation to property damage and personal safety.

We are supporters of the NTSG publication (https://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/research/common-sense-risk-management-of-trees/)

We use VTA (Visual Tree Assessment). We favour THREATS or ISA’s TRA systems.

We are not big fans of internal decay detecting devices because interpretation of their output is no less subjective than VTA but we do use them in some cases.

Bark-ringed tree – great habitat creation or H&S nightmare?

Many species of tree are ‘meant’ to become hollow

This oak has ‘included’ a Victorian metal tree guard or old bench

Agroforestry

Jay loves agroforestry! There is overwhelming evidence to show that trees (and diversity) as part of agricultural systems increase yields overall and in the medium to long term by moderating weather extremes, protecting and improving soils, creating structural layers, diversifying crops, encouraging biodiversity, reducing inputs (irrigation, pesticides or fertilisers) and making more robust ecosystems.

Traditional cider orchard being planted, Surrey

Research

We have connections with eminent researchers in universities, NGO, and government agencies who can help you conduct research into any aspect of forests, from predicting harvests to remote sensing to assessing the role of decomposers.

Studying the effects of acid rain, Poland

Spruce bark beetle pheromone traps, Czech Republic

Studying how forests recover after fire, Croatia

Forestry establishment trial plots, Surrey

Management

We are experts in tree and woodland management. From planting design and implementation, through establishment plans and aftercare, to harvesting (whether that be a seed, a fruit crop, the timber itself or use by the public).

Chestnut coppice, Surrey – traditionally for walking sticks, nowadays for fencing materials

Formative pruning of cork oaks, Andalucia

Seeking a balance – when you do something positive for one thing, It harms something else.

We love a pollard – they can increase the lifespan of a tree many times over

Training

Whatever aspect of ecology you want to learn, we know someone who can teach you. We run courses with our associates (e.g. CIEEM, EuCAN, Species Recovery Trust or Kew Gardens) or create and deliver bespoke events.