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2 <br />Tree Hazard Evaluation <br />Identifying and managing the risks associated with trees is a subjective process. <br />The evaluation involves examining a tree for structural defects and associating <br />those defects with a known pattern of failure, factoring in site specific elements <br />and rating the degree of risk. Tree hazard assessment involves three <br />components: 1) a tree with the potential to fail, 2) an environment that may <br />contribute to that failure and 3) a person or object (target) that would be injured <br />or damaged. Trees grow in a generally predictable manner, based on a set of <br />recurring themes and patterns. Structural defects and weakness may be the <br />result of normal growth and development events such as re-sprouting from <br />stumps, poor branch spacing and wound response. <br />Evaluation Cycle <br />Since site characteristics and tree development change over time hazard <br />evaluation must occur annually on a regular basis. <br /> Note: Deviations from the evaluation cycle may occur due to severe <br />environmental changes i.e. storms and wild land fires. Also evaluator may <br />determine in the field that based upon combined evaluation factors specific to the individual tree, it may be necessary to re-evaluate in between scheduled cycles. <br /> <br />Types of Inspections <br />Three levels of inspection have been identified for use in the recreation areas. <br />They are defined based on existing use patterns and associated inspection <br />intensity deemed appropriate. <br /> Individual Trees – Each tree in the specified area will receive a 360- <br />degree visual inspection for defects. This means close visual <br />evaluation, including tests with various tools as warranted. Facilities <br />requiring individual tree inspection include parking areas, sports fields, <br />playgrounds, day use areas, park maintenance facilities, and occupied <br />structures. <br /> Walk Through – Includes a walk through of the specified area while <br />visually scanning for potential hazards. Walk through inspections are <br />performed in areas defined as frequently used paths or trails <br />designated or undesignated. <br /> <br />Inspection Types Keyed to Use Areas or Management Zones <br /> Undeveloped Areas <br />o Ordinarily no inspections are called for in these areas. Visitors are <br />expected to know that they are responsible for their safety in such <br />areas. Information pertaining to the safety and maintenance of <br />these areas will be readily available to the public. <br />558