HomeMy WebLinkAboutAttachment C_Arborist ReportArborist Report: Dead Cottonwood Tree Due to Beaver Damage
Date: 8/18/2024
Prepared by: Jake Johnson, Board Certifled Master Arborist #UT4117B
Contact Information: 425-359-2120, Jakej@bigtreesupply.com
1. Introduction
This report documents the assessment of a dead cottonwood tree (Populus trichocarpa)
located at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center, Renton Washington. The tree in question has
died because of signiflcant beaver damage.
2. Tree Description
• Species: Black Cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa)
• Height: 60-75ft
• Location: West of athletic flelds along water
3. Assessment of Damage
Upon inspection, it is evident that the tree has suffered extensive damage caused by
beaver activity. The following observations were made:
• Girdling: The base of the tree has been girdled, with the bark and cambium layers
completely removed around the circumference of the trunk. This has disrupted the
tree's ability to transport nutrients and water.
• Structural Integrity: The removal of bark and cambium has severely compromised
the structural integrity of the tree. The lack of nutrient fiow has led to the tree's
death.
• Beaver Activity: Evidence of beaver activity is clear, with gnaw marks visible around
the trunk. The location of the tree near a water source, such as a river or stream,
makes it particularly vulnerable to beaver damage.
4. Current Condition
• Health: The cottonwood tree is dead. There are no signs of leaflng, budding, or new
growth.
5. Recommendations
Given the current state of the tree, the following actions are recommended:
1. Immediate Removal: The dead cottonwood tree should be removed as soon as
possible to mitigate any potential hazards.
2. Stump/trunk and Debris: Remove top growth and leave 15-20ft habitat snag from
trunk. Distribute debris in native area along waterfront to create additional wildlife
habitat.
3. Replacement Planting: Replace the cottonwood and consider installing protective
barriers around the base of young trees to prevent future damage.
6. Additional actions: There is an adjacent cottonwood of similar size which has
approximately the same amount of beaver damage. Tree is currently healthy and showing
no signs of distress, however considerations may want to be taken to remove this tree at
the same time.
Signature:
Jake Johnson
UT-4117B
8/19/2024