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Because of their significant impact on property value, trees and vegetation can either help or seemingly hinder development. In order to protect trees with a higher conservation value, local governments may impose restrictions on the size and scope of development. However, the Arborist’s role is to seek a balance between ecology, economy and legislation. The NSW Native Vegetation Act 2003 provides the guidelines for a level 5 arborist report to outline management strategies of native vegetation on a regional basis.

Understanding the benefits and vital role of native vegetation within the local habitat means seeing its intrinsic value. The Native Vegetation Act 2003 exists for landholders as individuals to look towards the collective benefit for every living thing lucky enough to call the beautiful State of New South Wales home.

Why Native Vegetation Needs Protection

The Native Vegetation Act 2003 relates to the long-term, sustainable management and conservation of Australia’s native vegetation. Native vegetation holds significant value for social, economic and environmental interests. The State of New South Wales seeks to protect its native vegetation in order to preserve biodiversity;

“Biodiversity is the variety of all forms of life – the different plants, animals and microorganisms, the genes they contain and the ecosystems of which they form a part.” – M Özyavuz

• Native trees, shrubs, and grasses are deep-rooted perennials that provide important natural habitats for Australian wildlife and contribute to the retention of water quality and quantity, prevention of salinity and treatment of wastewater.

• In addition to preventing land degradation, soil erosion and landslip, it can also act as a buffer to flood impacts. Native vegetation plays a vital role in plant pollination and insect control. Furthermore, looking below the surface, it plays an important role in soil fertility and nutrient recycling.

• Indigenous vegetation is defined as any vegetation, or a combination of species of vegetation, that existed in the State prior to European arrival. These often include trees and vegetation that form part of an area of heritage or cultural significance. For example, trees planted to commemorate a significant historical event or directly associated with a public figure, ethnic or community group. For Aboriginal people, land is life-sustaining in every aspect: spiritually, physically, socially and culturally.

“For Aboriginal peoples, country is much more than a place. Rock, tree, river, hill, animal, human – all were formed of the same substance by the Ancestors who continue to live in land, water, sky.” – Ambelin Kwaymullina 

• Maintaining this connection is vital to preserve history and pave the way for a sustainable future for younger generations. Native vegetation contributes significantly to the particular character of a landscape or townscape because it existed long before modern settlements, frequently serving as an edge zone along waterways, public roads or highways. 

• When thinking towards the future, native vegetation must be considered for its role in creating urban canopies, which reduces the urban heat island effect. This green solution existed long before modern settlements and can readily be adapted in the present to promote a sustainable future.

Urban Development Through The Eyes Of The Arborist

In accordance with The Native Vegetation Act 2003, landholders will be required to submit a draft property vegetation plan to the Director-General for approval by the Minister, which will include provisions for native vegetation management on the land.  

A registered vegetation plan might outline the planning procedures regarding the broadscale clearing and thinning, routine agricultural management or restoration of natural vegetation. In some cases, it’s even possible to obtain external financial incentives for managing natural resources from relevant designated bodies.

When urban development takes place through the eyes of the Arborist, a deeper connection with the environment is formed. Understanding any compromise or restrictions that might arise from having protected vegetation on land earmarked for development ‒ from the early stages ‒ allows for the best decisions regarding the direction in which the project should be taken.

Failure To Comply With The Native Vegetation Act 2003

If there is any reason to believe that a landholder is in violation of the Act, the Director-General may, by written notice, issue an order directing the development to cease with immediate effect. 

• Failure to comply with an order results in a punishable offence. The maximum penalty for corporations is 2,000 penalty units, with 200 penalty units added for each day the offence continues. Any other offenders face 1,000 penalty units, with 100 units added for each day the offence continues. The financial ramifications of this are significant because one penalty point in New South Wales holds a monetary value of $110.

• The council will additionally take responsibility for any corrective measures that could result in the long-term hindrance of the development application. 

Since 1788, at least two-thirds (61%) of New South Wales’ original native vegetation has been cleared, thinned or otherwise disturbed. The percentage of cleared vegetation varies by region and has exceeded 90% in some instances. 

Clearing any area of natural vegetation has the potential to have a significant impact on biological diversity. While it may take years to notice negative consequences, reversing them would take decades.

Sustainable, Corrective, Restorative And Conservatory Management Solutions

With adherence to The Native Vegetation Act 2003 and the support, insight and expertise of a consulting level 5 Arborist, you as a landowner can take corrective, restorative and conservatory long-term and sustainable management of native vegetation, helping to form a mutually and symbiotic relationship with the land we all call home.

An outlined property vegetation plan must remain effective for the duration specified in the plan; in the case of the planned management of native vegetation, this can be up to 15 years. 

Regulations make provision for reviews of property vegetation plans to take place after ten years. This type of long-term solution must take into account changing legislation as well as a host of ecological, economic and environmental variables. 

The Support Of A Consulting Level 5 Arborist

Any property vegetation plan must be approved by the Minister to come into effect. Therefore, it is imperative to contract the consultancy of a level 5 arborist. From the first evaluation to the finalised vegetation plan, Treescience offers over 35 years of experience within the municipality, commercial and private sectors.  

When it comes to preparing a level 5 Arborist report as well as various assessments or planning procedures that comply with the local New South Wales government and consenting authorities, we are committed to finding research-driven project solutions that are smart, creative and sustainable. For more information, get in touch with the team or call 1300 731 859.

The laws and regulations that preserve vegetation from damage and removal differ significantly throughout Australia’s states and territories. What they have in common is that they are all issued by state and territory legislatures as Acts of Parliament (and Regulations).

The Australian Standard AS4970-2009: Protection of Trees on Development Sites serves as the foundation for all legislation relating to the protection of vegetation and the preservation of sustainable urban forestry. 

Level 5 Arborist consultants can offer expert legal advice, assessment and reporting per New South Wales state and local city guidelines, which all require proper risk and asset management systems. 

Appraisal Of The Australian Standard AS4970-2009 

Prior to 2009, there was very little consistency in the laws pertaining to managing trees on urban, commercial and government development sites, which put the health of urban forests and human safety at risk. It left no standardisation over measurements of tree protection zones, leaving less focus on the actual protection and preservation of urban forests and more emphasis on developing standards on which to base planning procedures. 

The Standard has received widespread stakeholder support. Engineers and planners have embraced it because it gives clarity and a framework for resolving disputes in courts and before administrative tribunals.  

Shifting The Focus To The Standardized And Collective Preservation Of Australia’s Urban Forests 

The Standard is truly beneficial for Arboriculture because it has standardised practice and virtually eliminated any disputes over measurements and tree protection zones, and shifting the focus towards the collective preservation of Australia’s vegetation in harmony with its infrastructure. 

Furthermore, it views trees as assets worth managing and protecting. This offers consistency with regard to the funding arrangements for local authorities.  

The Need For A Legal Arboricultural Expert 

Consenting authorities and legal organisations require specific degrees of credentials and expertise. According to the Australian Standard AS4970-2009: Protection of Trees on Development Sites, anybody writing a report or conducting arboricultural supervision must have at least an AQF Level 5 in Arboriculture. 

This Standard is intended as a guideline for Arborists to assist and advise government departments, building contractors and others involved with private, commercial and governmental development projects.  

The ultimate goal is the establishment of planning procedures within local and state governments, including the relevant guidelines of the Australian Standard.  

In New South Whales, before undertaking any urban, commercial or governmental development projects, the qualifications and legal expertise of an Arborist are required in order to supervise and draft Arborist Reports and Impact Assessments using the Australian Standard AS4970-2009 Protection of trees on development sites as a point of reference. 

Looking For A Legal Arboricultural Expert In New South Wales? 

Arboriculture is a synthesis of the practical, legal and academic, where experience strengthens the calibre and quality of advice a consultant can provide. 

As authors of various government policies and recommendations affecting our industry, Treescience possesses senior-level arboricultural specialist experience and can aid with a broad range of arboricultural and legal matters. Additionally, given our university education and practical expertise, each member of our team exceeds the mandatory requirement as AQF Level 5 consultants as per the standards set by AS4970-2009. 

Since the early 1990s, Treescience has provided expert witness testimony on several occasions at different court levels in relation to arboriculture issues in the state of New South Wales. We offer over 35 years combined experience delivering consulting services to commercial, residential and government clients across Australia. For a wide scope of Arboricultural Services, get in touch with us today.

In accordance with the Natural Assets Local Law 2003 (NALL), the Brisbane City Council has the jurisdiction to safeguard important vegetation throughout the city by means of a Vegetation Protection Order (VPO). 

Having protected vegetation on a property or development site does not preclude one from using the land or managing vegetation; it simply means that Councils may request arborist reports and assessments to support an application for these operations. This means that AQF level 5 Arborist services in Brisbane are required to prepare an arborist’s report for the assessment and advice of any Council application to carry out work on protected vegetation. 

Understanding VPOs and identifying whether a property or development site contains protected vegetation are the first steps to working in accordance with Vegetation Protection Orders. 

1. What Exactly Is A Vegetation Protection Order(VPO)? 

VPOs do not exist to halt the progress promised by urban and commercial development projects; they exist to protect vegetation and balance the city’s environment, people, infrastructure, lifestyle and wildlife. 

a) What Makes VPOs A Necessity: If maintenance or any other operations to a protected tree is carried out without the supervision, assessment and advice of a sufficiently qualified expert, it might lead to property damage, injury to people utilising the site or irrevocable damage to protected vegetation.

b) The Purpose Of A VPO: An old Aboriginal proverb provides a beautiful insight into the necessity of Vegetation Protection Orders: 

“Our spirituality is oneness and an interconnectedness with all that lives and breathes, even with all that does not live or breathe.”  

The essence of a VPO strives to uphold this sentiment. Brisbane City Council issues VPOs under the Natural Assets Local Law 2003, with the declared purpose of achieving a “balance between protecting the city’s environment and people, property and lifestyle.” 

Vegetation Protection Orders are in place to ensure: 

• The protection of the city’s biodiversity values, including but not limited to the habitat and ecological requirements of native flora and fauna.
• Preservation of natural topography such as ridgelines and steep slopes.
• Preservation of landforms such as waterways, wetlands and bushlands.
• Retention of the city’s landscape character, as well as its historical and cultural values. 

2. Identifying Whether A Development Site Contains A Vegetation Protection Order 

VPOs are issued in areas where the vegetation is at risk of being destroyed, especially when the vegetation holds significance, whether cultural or academic, or whether they are particularly aesthetic or vital to the sustainability of urban forests, home to wildlife and preservation of threatened species.  

These orders are prevalent in areas of urban development where native flora and fauna need ongoing protection. 

a) Preliminary Indications: Good indications that there is protected vegetation on a property or development site include whether it:

• Is located near or on a river or waterway corridor;
• Is situated in a bushland area or rural area
• Contains large (significant) trees, especially within an area of urban development, and
• Holds heritage or cultural significance.

b) Affirming Vegetation Protection Orders With Certainty: To determine if there is protected vegetation within a property or development site, the Brisbane City Council must be contacted directly to complete a property search. 

3. An Arborist’s Role In Vegetation Protection Orders 

To obtain a true balance between the city’s infrastructure and the land on which it is built, an AQF Level 5 Arborist’s services are instrumental.  

a) Overcoming And Understanding Legislation: VPOs are lawful documents that exist in accordance with the Natural Assets Local Law 2003 (NALL). This type of legislation may differ between states. An arborist’s services and expertise pertain to planning procedures that fall within local and state government jurisdiction and compliance while also upholding a reverence and responsibility to the land with which we are intertwined. 

b) Supporting Applications For Management On Protected Vegetation: One would be required to give an arborist report on the vegetation if an application was based on the vegetation presenting any immediate danger or hazard. An Arborist Report will assist the Brisbane City Council in evaluating an application for removing or managing hazardous vegetation protected by the NALL. 

However, even then, it does not guarantee approval. Bear in mind that only applications submitted correctly will be considered. So a consulting Level 5 Arborist’s services are absolutely vital. 

c) Risk And Impact Assessments: In cases where the application proposes to completely remove protected vegetation due to its health or to carry out significant works on vegetation that may result in its structure being altered the Council will request that an Arborist conduct a tree risk assessment based on data collected, including relevant faults, damage and defects, pests and diseases, and identify potential for failure and assign a risk rating that takes any consequences into account. 

 Arborist Services In Brisbane 

At Treescience, we are fully acquainted with the by-laws, vegetation protection orders and permits applicable to each government area in Queensland and New South Wales, including those of the Brisbane City Council. 

We consult with numerous state government agencies and advise municipalities on technical urban forestry designs and tree-related construction procedures. Additionally, Treescience has developed several regulations and recommendations for municipal governments describing best practices for urban forestry management and green engineering solutions. 

As a result of our in-depth knowledge of the law and Vegetation Protection Orders and Urban Forestry Preservation ensures that our team can provide Level 5 Arborist services in Brisbane, tailored to each relevant assessment and reporting prerequisite. Get in touch today.

Due to the still-recovering vegetation from the 2019-2020 bushfire season, below-normal fire potentials are expected across parts of the Australian Capital Territory, eastern New South Wales and eastern Victoria. 

However, bushfires are expected to occur across Australia for the current bushfire season until at least March 2022, disrupting transportation and business operations on a sporadic and localised basis. 

To mitigate risk, as part of the initial steps of any residential, commercial, government or subdivision project, a bushfire consultant must perform an impact assessment. Bushfire assessments can also be conducted on existing developments. 

The goal is the practical application of bushfire management plans that also comply with Australian standards.  

What Risk Does The 2021 – 2022 Bushfire Season Pose 

A bushfire is an unplanned and sometimes uncontrolled vegetation fire. It is a broad term encompassing grassland fires, forest fires and brush fires. Bushfires are a natural, necessary and intricate element of the Australian environment. 

Although more than 5 million hectares of land were burnt in the 2019-20 season, vast pockets of unburnt land remain, and these wooded and forested regions remain at a normal level of risk. 

Grass fires, in particular, pose a severe threat to the community. Due to the fact that they start suddenly and spread quickly, they carry significant implications for residential and commercial properties. A negative impact on infrastructure has a negative impact on the economy. 

Forecast models predict above-average fire danger in northern Western Australia owing to grass growth and dry soil and in Southeastern Queensland and northern New South Wales due to grass and crop growth. 

Factors That Impact Bushfire Risk 

The presence of fuel, oxygen and an igniting source are the primary conditions that determine whether a bushfire will occur. Factors such as ambient temperature, fuel moisture, wind speed and slope angle all influence the speed and intensity with which a bushfire spreads. 

• Season: Wildfires are a common feature of Australia’s early fall and summer seasons, especially following lengthy dry spells or periods of exceptionally high temperatures. 
• Ignition Source: A majority of bushfires in Australia are caused by natural occurrences, with lightning accounting for almost half of all ignitions. The remainder is accounted for by accidental or purposeful ignition by humans. 

This refers to both arson or intentional fire breaks designed to control vegetation, which turn into raging bushfires due to unforeseen changes in conditions. 

Unfortunately, both intentional and unintentional fires are more common near inhabited areas and pose a more significant threat to infrastructure.  

• High Temperature And Low Humidity: Vegetation and other fuel sources are much closer to their ignition point at high temperatures. The preheating of surrounding fuel sources means a greater risk of bushfires spreading quickly. 

Additionally, drier air promotes fires of greater intensity than does moist air. Vegetation releases its moisture quickly when humidity is low, becoming more combustible and flammable. 

As a result, the duration since the last rainfall and the quantity of rain received are important factors in determining bushfire risk. A  moisture deficit (Drought factor) is an indication of severe bushfire weather conditions. 

• Wind Speed: The role of wind speed in creating dangerous conditions for bushfires is greater than the effect of temperature and humidity. This is because wind drives fire into new fuel sources; it dries vegetation, bringing it to ignition point and providing a constant oxygen supply. 

In addition, burning embers are carried through the air in an occurrence known as  Spotting. In high wind speeds spotting may occur up to 30 kilometres downwind of the fire front. This causes the rapid spread of bushfires. 

• Slope Gradient: Radiation and convection preheat the fuel sources during bushfires. As a consequence, flames accelerate while ascending and decrease when descending.  

The steepness of the slope has a significant impact on the speed of bushfires spreading. For every 10-degree gradient increase in a slope, the speed of an advancing fire front is doubled; for a 20-degree slope gradient increase, a fire front will travel four times faster than on flat ground. 

What Is A Bushfire Impact Assessment And Why Is It Necessary

The 2019 – 2020 bushfire season resulted in a $20 billion impact on the economy. In addition to this, the loss of life, homes, properties and livestock have a profound effect on communities and individuals. During the Black Summer Fires, recorded losses amounted to 18,983,588 hectares being burned, 3,113 homes and 33 lives lost across 15,344 bushfires. 

A Bushfire Assessment Report may range from determining the severity of a structure or planned development’s probable exposure to ember attack, radiant heat and direct flame contact, to more complex Bushfire Management Plans that align with bushfire construction requirements.  

Bushfire assessments are needed for the protection of urban, residential and commercial development under the Australian Standard AS 3959-2018 Construction of Buildings in Bushfire Prone Areas.  

These assessments are carried out by Bushfire Consultants to ensure the practical application of relevant planning, design and construction, legislative compliance pertaining to the planned and existing developments to mitigate damage and loss within bushfire prone areas. 

Need A Bushfire Consultant? Get In touch today. 

TreeScience offers Bushfire Assessments for residential, commercial, government and sub-division developments, as well as building recommendations and compliance with Australian standards. 

Our bushfire consultants are University of Melbourne accredited Bushfire Risk Assessment Practitioners (AQF Level 8) and Bushfire Planning & Design (BPAD) Level 2 and 3 practitioners.

[REFERENCES] 

https://www.bfcs.com.au/bushfire-assessment-risk-hazard-reports

https://www.bushfireprone.com.au/faqs/

https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/ten-impacts-australian-bushfires

https://www.bushfirecrc.com/news/media-release/wind-and-bushfire-weather

https://www.ga.gov.au/scientific-topics/community-safety/bushfire

https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/545001/australia-threat-of-bushfires-present-nationwide-through-march-2022

Bushfire Assessments

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-09-02/large-parts-of-australia27s-south-face-higher-risk-of-bushfires/4929700

https://eos.com/blog/wildfire-prevention/

https://treenet.org/resources/wildfire-tree-management-and-the-arborist-3-tree-management-and-wildfire/

Soil is an essential component of the urban landscape. Consequently, soil characteristics have an impact on the health and sustainability of urban forestry, ranging from nutrient content and retention capabilities to pH levels and pathogen presence. 

Using the latest scientific principles, an AQF Level 5 Arborist’s Analysis assesses soil conditions, providing insight and evaluation towards the correct soil management actions. For any urban, residential and commercial development projects, these actions, when applied, will improve tree species diversity and site quality. 

As part of this analysis, using the latest in industry-leading technologies, an arborist will build a picture in order to develop an advanced understanding of a tree’s structure, soil microbiology and root positioning underground. 

There are four stages included in soil analysis: 

1. Collection of soil samples
2. Laboratory analysis
3. Interpretation of data
4. Suggestions for fertiliser or other management practices 

The Importance Of An Arborist Soil Analysis 

Urban tree management is a continuous effort to mediate between the preservation of urban forestry and the subterranean stresses they face as a part of the artificial habitat in which they live. 

In urban settings, soil characterisation and analysis are vital because natural resources are extensively utilised and play an essential role in maintaining ecosystems.

 “It is in the roots, not the branches, that a tree’s greatest strength lies.” 

– Longevity Of Urban Projects And Improved Quality Of Life

Inadequacies in the physical composition of soil have devastating impacts on the longevity of urban projects. Comprehensive data on soil profiles and root mapping systems will assist municipal planners in determining optimal land usage and management strategies. In addition, this knowledge has the potential to benefit the public immediately and have a significant influence on human health and urban quality of life.  

• True Environmental Sustainability In The Fight Against Climate Change 

For true soil sustainability to be achieved, an arborist’s analysis determines the appropriate use of various cost-effective tree fertilisation methods and management tactics that work in harmony with the surrounding environment and promote the development of a better soil profile. 

Using soil microbes to feed urban forests trumps man made fertilisers and toxic chemicals such as methane, carbon dioxide, ammonia and nitrogen, whose release has significantly increased the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This, in turn, contributes to global warming and climate change. 

Treescience employs the latest scientific principles, industry-leading tools such as Grow-gun, Air Knife, Microscopic Analysis and Wood/Soil DNA Sequencing to eliminate speculation. Our assessments and reports provide a comprehensive understanding of a tree’s structure, soil microbiology and composition and root positioning underground.  

An AQF Level 5 Arborist Soil Analysis is vital for implementing cost-saving tree fertilising techniques and management strategies for achieving the perfect balance between the artificial environments trees face in an urban forestry setting and urban forests’ role in a sustainable environment.  

Contact Treescience for a comprehensive and expert soil analysis to ensure the longevity and sustainability of your next development project. 

Treescience is a forward-thinking, socially conscious arboricultural consulting firm with over 35 years of experience. Our respected team of specialists consistently provides cost-effective, timely solutions, guidance and consultation for even the most complex planning and legal issues through Level 5 Arborist Report, Assessment and Consultancy, while drawing on indigenous sustainability as a conceptual framework.  

Treescience prides itself as a leading Aboriginal Arborist Consultancy in the municipal, commercial and private sectors. With innovative and large-scale methodology, we can achieve a balance of social, environmental and economic benefits to communities across Australia, keeping in mind any legislation regarding future developments. 

Creating Balance Between Communities And The Environment Through Good Stewardship And Comprehensive Knowledge 

Drawing on the qualities of good stewardship traditionally exemplified by Aboriginal people in their interactions with the environment, we understand that any environmental decisions taken must ultimately fulfil communities’ needs. We believe that we can provide important perspectives regarding the impact of economic decisions on the environment through comprehensive environmental knowledge. 

A Wealth Of Experience 

Our elite team holds a combined knowledge of urban forest principles and comprehensive tertiary qualifications. Our senior scientist and organisation leader has an AQF Level 9 in Arboriculture and a Master’s degree and certifications in all areas of urban forestry and complex legal matters. 

Our arborists and consultants hold a minimum AQF level 5 in Arboriculture with five years post-graduate experience, where key members are AQF level 6. 

Our certified wildfire consultants have an AQF level 8 (Bushfire Management & Planning) from the University of Melbourne, as well as a Bushfire Planning and Design (BPAD) – Level 2 and 3, with specialised expertise in development in bushfire-prone areas. 

Environmental Protection Through Sustainable Fire Management  

Indigenous groups have long relied on fire control as a long-term sustainable fire management method. The term “bushfire risk” refers to the impact of wildfires on communities and the environment. Our accredited Bushfire Risk Assessment Practitioners have the knowledge and ability to apply relevant planning, development and building legislation and policies pertaining to the planned environment within bushfire prone regions. 

Preserving Environments For The Benefit Of Wildlife Ecosystems And Communities Alike 

Level 5 Arborists reports are drafted for the sole purpose of preserving local ecological environments for plant species and wildlife while keeping the various community and legislative requirements at the forefront. 

These reports often contain information and solutions regarding urban forestries, such as soil and site conditions, the presence of pests and any possible disease concerns. They also detail potential implications of urban forests on commercial or residential development sites and recommendations for preserving protected tree species and the habitat requirements of local wildlife species. 

Cost Of On-Site Consultation And Arborist Reports & Assessment 

As part of the initial consultation procedure, information regarding our standard service price list will be supplied. Proposals for highly detailed work will be developed in accordance with each project’s criteria, describing the brief for services rendered and related expenses. 

“The land is my mother. Like a human mother, the land gives us protection, enjoyment, and provides our needs – economic, social and religious. We have a human relationship with the land: Mother, daughter, son. When the land is taken from us or destroyed, we feel hurt because we belong to the land, and we are part of it.”

– Djinyini Gondarra 

Treescience is a leading Aboriginal Arborist Consultancy that seeks to achieve a balance between Australian ecosystems, communities, economies and legislative entities. Need help on your next government, commercial or residential project? For expert AQF Level 5 Arborist reports, assessment and consultancy, contact us to initiate consultation and find out more about our services and cost structure.

Urban forestry, which entails nurturing and sustaining urban tree populations and individual trees, is one of the most effective strategies to enhance and preserve a city’s ecosystem. Among those involved in urban forestry are environmental policymakers, planners, educators, researchers and community activists. 

Throughout the planning and development phases, arboricultural supervision must be implemented. The consultancy of an AFQ Level 5 Arborist for Brisbane-based urban development projects will ensure that all necessary safeguards and measures are implemented throughout the projects’ phases.  

This will guarantee that each project fulfils and exceeds the requirements set by local planning authorities and municipal governments. Once the dust settles on a government urban or commercial project, you can rest assured that all necessary tree protection measures are in place, all risk factors have been assessed and mitigated and land use has been maximised for efficient and safe development. 

Let us explore key reasons why AQF level 5 Arborist consultancy will ensure the success and longevity of any project. 

1. Arborist Reports And Assessments For Assuring Compliance And Efficiency 

a) Arborist Report: Each authorising government body has its independent evaluation standards and compliance criteria in relation to a Development Application (DA). The application of Arborist reports has become more frequent in the past decade to manage and preserve Australian urban forests. Most councils have stringent requirements for the credentials of personnel who draft arborist reports. For example, the ‘Australian Standard AS4970-2009: Tree Protection on Development Sites’ specifies that only Certified Arborists possessing an AQF Certificate 5 may prepare Arborist Reports. 

A Level 5 Arborist consultancy has a thorough understanding of applicable legislation and tree preservation constraints to assess and provide reports on projects, thus saving time-consuming, costly and potentially dangerous outcomes. 

b) Arboricultural Impact Assessment: This type of tree assessment considers how a planned development will coexist and interact with trees and ecosystems in the present and future. The AIA requires the identification of all potential issues at an early stage, allowing these issues to be addressed and resolved as part of the planning process before a decision is made, avoiding the need for a lengthy list of planning requirements or costly backtracking on your development that may result in delays. 

2. Protecting The Balance Between Urban Forests And Human Settlements 

a) Root Systems – Subsurface tree roots are investigated using root mapping. Root mapping is performed to find structural woody roots to minimise root loss. Tree roots are adaptive, unpredictable, unique and site-specific and trees located near human settlements and infrastructure are not renewable resources. Asymmetric root systems are caused by previous utility service installation cutting the roots of street trees without adequate guidance. Roots often grow along service lines and cause interference. Damaged roots may recover if cut appropriately, aiding in the effective retention of trees in urban areas. 

b) Soil Profiles: Arborists achieve true sustainable soil fertility without the use of toxic and expensive chemicals by establishing cost-effective tree fertilisation procedures and management plans in ways that complement the environment and contribute to the development of a healthy food soil profile. These sustainability models ensure the health and safety of communities and ecosystems. 

3. Combat Climate Change Through Urban Forestry Management And Preservation 

a) Improved Accuracy In Models For Carbon Sequestration: Local governments and residents alike have been spending heavily to improve public health and well-being through the use of green space. Although models have been established to leverage the benefits supplied by urban trees, more precise site- and species-specific data may improve the accuracy of these models. This is where the consultancy of Level 5 Arborists in any development project is vital. 

Carbon sequestration is essentially taking in and storing carbon. The most frequent example in nature is photosynthesis, where trees and plants store carbon as they absorb carbon dioxide. Trees and plants are crucial participants in climate change mitigation because they absorb carbon that would otherwise ascend into the atmosphere and trap heat. This natural form of carbon sequestration serves as a fundamental reason to preserve the world’s urban forests. 

b)The Management Of Urban Heat Islands: Urban heat islands form when cities eliminate natural environmental and land cover in favour of high concentrations of pavement, buildings, roads and other heat-absorbing and retaining surfaces. This results in increased energy prices, air pollution levels and heart-related disease. Climate change is anticipated to result in more frequent, more intense, and longer summer heatwaves. Therefore, urban forestry preservation is more essential than ever. 

4. Identify And Mitigate Public Risk  

a)Tree Inventories: This report provides methods of strategic urban forestry planning and management, containing data on identification numbers, species, age, measurements, health and structure, and location of trees. 

An arborist will learn a great deal about faults in trees that present symptoms and signs of concern by conducting a tree inventory. A thorough examination will also uncover information regarding a city’s potential tree risk factors, allowing for proactive management to mitigate risk and improve public safety. 

b) Bushfire Assessments: Bushfire management is becoming more critical in Australia’s coastal regions. Climate change estimates indicate that coastal regions in the southeast and southwest of Australia will become hotter and drier, increasing the likelihood of bushfires. Simultaneously, these places are growing increasingly urbanised. As a result of this cumulative impact, coastal communities are more prone to bushfires.  

Effective solutions for managing urban development in bushfire-prone coastal environments are critical to avoid any repeat of the types of disaster the country faced in early 2020. 

5. Legal Protection Through Expert Witness Services

Since the early 1990s, Treescience has provided expert witness services in arboriculture cases at various court levels in Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales.

Treescience lead scientist and organisation head Jason-Jay (JJ) Naylor has been involved in utility, municipal and urban arboriculture institutional projects, providing assistance in the preparation of training programs, risk matrices, auditing, research, technical reports and the preparation of statements of evidence on a variety of topics. 

Conclusion: 

Qualified AQF Level 5 Arborist services are multifaceted, ensuring the longevity of commercial, governmental and residential projects by ensuring compliance, environmental sustainability, public safety and solid legal advice. 

To initiate the consultancy of Level 5 Arborist in Brisbane or to find out more on which arboricultural consulting service you might need, contact Treescience today.

One of the most common misconceptions of developers in today’s socially conscientious and often conservative society is that “we will make the landscape better, let them wait and see”.

Not only is community consultation paramount for the success of your next low, high, small or large density development, but also embracing the surroundings, environment and embracing that which came before you or the big idea your and your investors rode in on.

Apart from being the experts who provide the much-needed reports required by council, consulting arborists provide a wide range of essential skills and services that could assist in your project being approved faster, gaining community support sooner and in the end providing higher returns on your development investment.

It isn’t simply about which trees to prune, which to remove and which must stay on your development site, but how your architectural designs work with, and within the urban landscape in which it sits.

Consulting arborists with experience in working with residential, commercial, town planning and everything in between can provide design solutions and expertise around how to work ‘with’ the trees, flora and other key council considerations, not simply avoid or remove them from the site. It’s about looking at the holistic site, and balancing the needs, wants and demands of the community, the council, the developers as well as the present and future requirements of the site – turning it into a desirable space.

Some of the services of consulting arborists can be project supervision, consultation and reporting, detailed tree inventory services and cost-saving tree fertilising techniques and management strategies all of which can save your project valuable time and money!

What is involved in project arborist supervision services?

When it comes to your next development regardless if it’s a set of small duplexes, through to a full-scale town planning site or urban complex, there are project arborist supervision services that not only ensure your project is compliant, but also any potential issues or conflicts are identified.  These can exist within with local council by-laws that are specific to that municipality, but also any potential hazards that could render your site unfit for the purpose you intend to use it for.

A competent and expert consulting arborist should be able to provide services such as those below as a minimum to assist with ‘green-lighting’ your project:

• Assessing the value and contribution of the tree(s) located on-site
• Comprehensive root investigation exploratory measures
• Pre-start meeting and certification
• Ground protection and certification
• Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) guidance
• Regular monitoring of tree health during construction
• Routine inspections
• Collaborating with the relevant representatives and consenting authorities
• Final certification for finished projects

Consultation, reporting and assessments – identity the areas of concern before they stop your project in its tracks!

There is no question that your developments progress can be slowed down, sometimes indefinitely waiting for reports. However expert consultation arborists can remove the guesswork when it comes to the site suitability, council approvals and ultimate bottom line performance of your site and development. These can include:

• Verbal Consultation
• Letter Reports
• Tree & Building Reports
• Arboricultural Appraisal report
• Preliminary Arboricultural Report
• Arboricultural Impact Assessment
• Tree Management Plans
• Tree Root Mapping
• Tree Evaluation
• Tree Inventories

How tree inventories can provide you with insights to your architectural & development strategy – save money before you start!

“A tree inventory is used to generate reports, provide strategic planning, assist with Development Applications, and urban forestry planning and management”.

Having a skilled and expert team undertaking such an inventory, your development & design team have the upper hand on any key considerations around a set of invaluable criteria including but not limited to:

• Specie
• Size: DBH, height and crown spread.
• Condition
• Damage
• Management/maintenance
• Site characteristics
• Planting spaces
• Historic/Distinctive Trees and Groves

Tree fertilising techniques and management strategies – promote the longevity of your project plan!

Using the latest scientific principles for plant and soil health care, expert consulting arborists can apply a range of cost-saving tree fertilising techniques and management strategies, that are designed to complement the surrounding environment and develop a healthier food soil profile.

Best practice operators apply industry-leading tools such as Grow-gun, Air Knife, Microscopic Analysis and Wood/Soil DNA Sequencing removes speculation, allowing an advanced understanding of a tree’s structure, soil microbiology and root positioning underground.

The key with consulting arborists is to ensure you understand what they do, how they can assist your project and also that you ask the right questions before you engage in your next project. Questions around their latest projects, clients and size of their organisation, not to mention reference and testimonials from government or large firms that they have worked with previously.

Like with all contractors a little due diligence goes a long way, however a consulting arborist can add value to your project, to your approval process and ultimately save you time and money on your next build – can you afford not to use one?

To speak to one of South East QLD and Northern NSW’s leading project & consulting arborists firms, get in touch with the team at TreeScience for an obligation free discussion on how they can add value to your next project.

At Treescience, we advise government, commercial and private clients, offering an extensive range of services in the field of arboriculture, urban forestry, soil science, project arborist supervision, tree surgery, assessments and reporting, GIS tree inventories, plant health care, and expert witness reports.

If you’re in need of arboriculture consulting or arboriculture services, contact 1300 731 859 or email info@treescience.com.au and get an understanding of where your project can go.