Hazardous Removals
The first thing I see as I arrive on site is a 120 foot Norfolk Pine with 80 foot Dual Tops. At the bottom at around 30 feet, the crotch is clearly unstable and has 3 feet of included bark. As I sharpen the chainsaw, the owners son walks out to greet me. I think, "I'm really glad I ordered a 18 ton 75 foot boom crane from Kikiaola Construction."
As the crane rolled up, I felt confident we have the right equipment to move forward with this hazardous tree removal. With my experience and education I firmly believed that this job would be deadly without the correct equipment, and without the crane I would not have moved foward.
The first strap is firmly attached and pulled tight by the crane. This strap is rated to lift the weight estimated of the first cut.
That's not nearly enough for the Farr Better Tree Service rating system. I put 1 20 ft doubled strap just for extra assurance that the job will be completed safely.
I'm about to make my first cut. Having a 440 Magnum Stihl with a 20 inch bar above my head feels different than the average tree-trimming experience.
Here is a great shot of the crane lifting the first cut.
The first cut is by far the most dangerous cut. I'm a bit calmer now that the crane has taken possession of the codiminant leader, the most dangerous part of the tree because of the included bark at the bottom.
I'm controlling this 6000 lb branch by rigging a control line. We will keep clear of the nearby power lines and homes.
The second cut is not nearly as stressful.
As I connect the dominant leader, I send for the camera to take a few pictures at 75 feet.
Nice view of the mountains from up here.
Nice roof shot.
Good one, but never look down.
Good shot of liabilities on-site.
Shot of the crane operator.
Second cut goes a lot smoother. I feel more relaxed.
You learn to like the sawdust in your face.
As the crane tightens its pull, the branch starts to rotate and disconnect.
I move down a little to keep my head intact.
A collective sigh of relief is heard as the second branch clears all obstacles and is removed.
Time for a rest, the hard work is over.
It feels good to rest my legs. The tree spikes are hard on my knees.
As I think of this feat; achieved. The tree, and the people involved, I feel the decision to remove this grandfather tree saved the family from a very real hazard and risk to their lives and property.
Happy Family.