At Owens Brothers Tree Service, we successfully removed a massive Ailanthus altissima tree, commonly known as the “Tree of Heaven,” from West 88th Street in Manhattan, directly across from the Dwight School on the Upper West Side on Central Park West. This invasive species, notorious for its rapid growth and destructive potential, had reached a critical point, threatening the safety of a neighboring six-story brownstone.
The tree split down the middle and was at risk of falling, so immediate attention was required. Our 12-man crew from Owens Brothers Tree Service began trimming the limbs & removing the tree at 7 a.m. The complexity of the operation necessitated a multi-pronged approach:
- Climbing and Dismantling: Two experienced tree climbers from Owens Brothers ascended the tree, carefully trimming, cutting, and removing branches and limb sections to reduce the risk of damage to surrounding structures. This meticulous process ensured that each piece fell safely away from the building.
- Ground Crew Coordination: The remaining Owens Brothers crew members worked in tandem on the ground, receiving the dismantled sections and transporting them through a ground-floor apartment. Due to the tree’s immense size, debris removal required a strategic, incremental approach.
- Equipment and Expertise: The operation involved specialized equipment, including cranes and rigging, to maneuver the heavy tree sections safely. The Owens Brothers crew’s expertise in urban tree removal was crucial in navigating the urban environment’s tight spaces and logistical challenges.
Why Remove the Ailanthus?
While resilient and adaptable, the Ailanthus is an invasive species (and is technically a weed) due to its negative impacts on the ecosystem.
- Outcompetes native plants for resources
- Acts as a host tree to the Spotted Lanternfly
- Has a weak wood structure, making it prone to breakage and damage
- Spreads aggressively through root suckers and seeds
- Grows incredibly quickly
Ailanthus trees can damage infrastructure, sidewalks, and buildings in urban settings. Their rapid growth often necessitates frequent pruning and maintenance.
Key Takeaways:
This incident is a stark reminder of the challenges urban trees pose, particularly invasive species. It highlights the importance of:
- Regular Tree Inspections: Early detection of tree health issues can prevent them from escalating into safety hazards.
- Proper Tree Maintenance: Regular pruning and trimming care can mitigate the risks associated with large trees.
- Invasive Species Management: Efforts to control and remove invasive species are crucial for maintaining a healthy urban ecosystem.
- Professional Tree Removal: Should be conducted by trained professionals with the appropriate equipment and expertise, like the skilled team at Owens Brothers Tree Service.
If you have concerns about a tree in your neighborhood, don’t hesitate to contact Owens Brothers Tree Service. Our experienced team can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action to ensure the safety of your property and community.
