Crane-Assisted Cottonwood Removal
Codi Coghlan
In this video, Moses Cooper, owner of Momentum Tree Experts, guides us through a sensitive tree removal project in the Hermosa Valley wetland. With twelve years of experience as a Certified Arborist, Moses focuses on minimizing environmental impact throughout the process. The project involves the careful removal of two large broadleaf cottonwoods, each about 85 feet tall.
To reduce disturbance, Moses and his team use a 40-ton crane. This allows them to make fewer cuts and lift the trees away from the canopy. By utilizing advanced aerial rigging techniques, they ensure efficient wood removal while minimizing harm to the surrounding ecosystem.
Tree removal is never an easy decision, especially when the trees have been part of the landscape for many years. Moses understands the challenge of removing these cottonwoods, which are in decline due to Cytospora canker, a fungal infection that commonly affects trees like aspens and blue spruces. He approaches the task with empathy, recognizing this is a natural part of the trees’ lifecycle.
Looking ahead, Moses and his team plan to plant trees in place of the cottonwoods. They aim to replace the two large trees with ten to twelve drought-resistant species better suited to the area’s changing climate. This proactive approach helps ensure the health and resilience of the urban forest for future generations.
At Momentum Tree Experts, sustainability and thoughtful tree care guide every project. Moses and his team are committed to preserving the beauty of the landscape while enhancing its ecological health. Their focus on planting trees and maintaining a resilient urban forest creates a lasting legacy for the community.
Join Momentum Tree Experts in building a stronger, more sustainable forest for the future.
🌳 Glossary
- Canopy: The upper layer of a tree formed by its branches and foliage. It plays a crucial role in photosynthesis and provides habitat for various species.
- Crown: The totality of a tree’s branches and leaves extending from the trunk or main stems. It’s often used interchangeably with “canopy.”
- Broadleaf Cottonwood: A species of poplar tree native to North America, known for its broad leaves and rapid growth. It’s commonly found along rivers and streams.
- Aerial Rigging: A technique in arboriculture where ropes and pulleys are used to safely lower tree limbs and sections during pruning or removal, especially in confined spaces.
- Boom Height: The maximum vertical reach of an aerial lift or bucket truck. It’s essential for accessing tall trees during maintenance or removal.
- Turret: The rotating base of an aerial lift that allows the boom to pivot horizontally, providing a wider range of motion for the operator.
🌲 What Happens to the Tree After It's Cut Down?
At Momentum Tree Experts, the journey of a tree doesn’t end once it’s cut down. The wood is processed into chips using a chipper. These wood chips serve multiple purposes:
- Mulch Production: The chips are stored at our headquarters, where they’re available for pickup. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health.
- On-Site Usage: In some projects, the mulch is utilized directly on job sites to enhance landscaping and soil conditions.
- Deliveries: Upon request, we deliver wood chips to individuals and organizations, supporting community gardening and landscaping efforts. This sustainable approach ensures that every part of the tree is repurposed, contributing positively to the environment and community.
Nancy Brockman