In 1988 the Arboricultural Association published a booklet on Tree Survey and inspection, with a second edition in 1994 followed by this guide in 2005, reviewed in 2015. There have been significant developments since the original publication, including a range of new publications in arboriculture, updates to British Standards, considerable growth in the use of computer technology and improved technical instrumentation. All these developments may contribute to the increased effectiveness and accuracy of surveys. However, there remains a risk that the basic requirements of surveying may not be clearly understood, with possible adverse consequences for the surveyor, the client and (not least) the trees.
This guide seeks to assist the tree surveyor to improve the process of providing an efficient and cost-effective service.
It is not intended to provide detailed procedures for tree inspection, or to replace the range of existing guidance on tree health and condition. Instead, this guide seeks to:
- assist in the clarification of survey objectives;
- signpost surveyors to where they may find appropriate information;
- ensure that surveyors meet their duty of care; and
- identify opportunities for the use of technology to assist with collection, storage, sharing and presentation of data.