How Tree Felling Is Planned

Tree Felling is the process of cutting a tree down in a controlled manner. This can be required for a number of reasons including if it is dead, damaged or if it poses a safety risk. Tree felling is a complex and risky procedure which requires expert knowledge, skill and equipment. It is vital that the process is carefully planned in order to ensure the safety of those working on the site and those passing through the area.

The first thing to consider is the area where the tree will fall. This is particularly important if the forestry site is near to a public road or any other area where people regularly pass by. If this is the case, then warning signs should be put up to alert any passers by. It is also important to identify any major obstacles such as overhead power lines or buildings. Once these factors have been taken into consideration it is time to start planning the felling process.

It is always advisable to use a professional Arborist for the process of felling as it involves using dangerous and heavy tools such as chainsaws, axes and wedges. It is also essential that the correct safety equipment is worn, including helmets, eye protection and hearing protection.

In order to ensure the safety of those carrying out the work, a ‘plumb line’ should be used to help determine where the tree is leaning. This is a slanted piece of wood which is placed against the side of the tree and aimed at the top of the tree. This helps to confirm the natural direction of the lean, which is often difficult to determine by simply looking at a tree.

Once the felling direction has been determined, a ‘notch cut’ is made to prepare the tree for falling. This is a V-shaped cut, which is made on the side of the tree in its intended felling direction. A back cut is then made on the opposite side of the notch, a few inches above it. This weakens the base of the tree further, helping to guide it in its fall direction.

Throughout the process, the feller should keep a safe distance from the tree. This distance is usually equal to the height of the tree and should be clearly marked out with flags or warning signs. It is also advisable to make sure there are at least two escape paths in the event that something goes wrong. These should be clear of any obscuring branches or shrubs and should run away from the tree at around a 45-degree angle in both directions.

Once the notch and back cuts have been made, it is a good idea to check the direction of the lean with a plumb line again. Once this has been done, the back cut can be made to complete the process of felling the tree. A skilled Arborist will then use the power of the saw to cut through the rest of the tree, causing it to fall in its desired direction.

source https://tropicaltreeservicesnt.wordpress.com/2024/09/21/how-tree-felling-is-planned/