Arborists Reports

Arborist Reports

(Danger Tree, Arborist Reports, Tree Removal Permits) 

Windfirm tree services has two ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) TRAQ (Tree Risk Assessment Qualification) certified staff members on board who, combined, have decades of experience in assessing and managing trees.

In addition, team leaders are ISA Certified Arborists. They hold the BC Parks Wildlife and Danger Tree Assessment certification, the minimum requirement for assessing trees in parks, campgrounds and other public areas.

We are pleased to offer the following services in the Sea to Sky corridor, West Vancouver, North Vancouver and Bowen Island.

  • Danger Tree Assessments

  • Tree Inventory Assessments

  • Firesmart Assessments

  • Arborist reports (to aid permit applications for bylaw in Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton, North Vancouver, and West Vancouver)

Read more below to learn more about each assessment, or contact us if you have any questions.

Get Expert Tree Assessments For Your Property in Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton, West Vancouver & North Vancouver.

Danger Tree Assessments

We are able to offer assessments in accordance with the BC Parks Wildlife and Danger Tree Assessment protocol; this assessment standard is designed for assessing large areas of ground quickly and efficiently. Typical areas where this would be suitable are Parks, Campgrounds, Interpretive Trails etc.

We are also able to offer TRAQ assessments; this is a higher level of assessment where multiple targets are involved and designed to be used in a residential or commercial setting. TRAQ assessments are required for tree removal permits in North Vancouver and West Vancouver municipalities.

Tree Inventory Assessments

Tree inventory assessments are used prior to development applications and are used to map the location, species, size and condition of trees that might be directly impacted by construction. This information can be used in the early stages of planning to decide what trees are suitable for retention and how they can be protected during construction.

Firesmart Assessments

Many municipalities, Including Whistler, require an Arborist Firesmart Assessment to be submitted alongside the broad-scope Firesmart Assessment (FSA). This must identify suitable trees for removal and retention, specify the scope of work and tie into the FSA. Read more.

Arborist Reports

For tree removal in protected areas or riparian zones.

In the municipalities of Squamish, Whistler and SLRD an arborist report is required for tree removals within protected or riparian zones. These reports must be completed by a certified arborist and detail tree size, species, condition and relevant reasons for removal, and any mitigation recommended within the protected zone. 

Safety. Knowledge. Quality. Windfirm

Frequently Asked Questions - Consulting & Assessments

What does a consulting arborist do?

A consulting arborist is a professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and protection of trees. They have extensive knowledge and experience in assessing the health of trees and developing tailored management plans to help preserve them. Consulting arborists can provide services such as tree inventory surveys, hazard assessments, arborist reports, and danger tree assessments.

What is the difference between consulting and certified arborists?

Typically, a consulting arborist is a certified arborist who decided to focus on providing clients with reports, rather than providing tree services on-site. By doing so, they are more familiar with local bylaws and can provide objective, independent advice on tree-related matters such as risk assessment, tree preservation programs on construction sites, or diagnosing trees with defects.

What is a TRAQ arborist?

A TRAQ (Tree Risk Assessment Qualification) arborist is an ISA-certified professional with additional training to conduct quantitative tree risk assessments. This certification requires a knowledge of the assessment process, including identifying hazards and weaknesses in trees, analyzing risk factors, and recommending mitigation or removal of potentially hazardous trees. TRAQ arborists must pass an exam to become certified and complete a minimum number of hours in continuing education each year to maintain their credentials.

When do I need an arborist report?

You might need an arborist report if you plan to develop land where trees are present, as it objectively assesses tree health and potential hazards. A qualified arborist can assess the condition of trees, recommend steps for preserving them, or remove hazardous ones that could be a risk to people or property. An Arborist report can also help determine whether specific construction activities may cause damage to a tree or disrupt its root system. In addition, an arborist report can provide detailed advice on protecting existing trees from diseases and pests.

Why should I hire Windfirm for an Arborist Report?

With over 30 years of experience caring for coastal trees, we know precisely what recommendations to include in our arborist reports/suggestions to help you make informed decisions about your trees. Our team of certified arborists is knowledgeable and experienced in all aspects of tree care and can provide you with the best advice on maintaining your trees' health and safety.