Arborist Report Addendum 3-6-20Addendum
To: Jacob Strobl
Company: Strobl Design
From: Benjamin Mark — American Forest Management
CC:
Date: 3/6/2020
Re: Proposed work near tree #106 at 9527 190th Place SW- Edmonds, WA
Greetings,
AMERICAN FOREST
MANAGEMENT
APPROVED BY PLANNING
11h7- e` D
Mar 23 1U2U
Per your request, On March 4, 2020, 1 evaluated the recent excavation near the root system of
a tree identified in an arborist report I prepared on April 17th, 2019 as #106.
The subject tree is a Douglas fir with a dripline to the south of 18 feet, 12 feet to the east, and
14 feet to the west. The dripline extends over the property line to the north. Prior to
construction, this tree was surrounded by several mature Douglas fir trees to the west, south
and east which have since been removed. The original arborist report recommended a limit of
disturbance to the roots of Tree #106 no closer than 15 feet to the south.
I visited the site to assess the subject tree's condition following excavation to the south for a
concrete foundation. I found the grade 6 feet south of Tree #106 lowered by approximately 4
feet. Several large structural roots were found cleanly cut at the face of the newly excavated
slope. Seven cut roots over 2 inches were documented. These range in diameter from 3 to 7
inches. A very large surface root at least 12 inches in diameter extends to the north and
appears unaffected by the recent work.
The cut roots represent a significant defect directly impacting the stability of this tree. Using the
International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Basic Tree Risk Assessment method, I determined
the risk currently presented by this tree under normal weather conditions over a two year time
frame to be HIGH.
This assessment is made subject to Level 2 TRAQ assessment guidelines and best management
practices and represents my observations on the day of the inspection.
I used the ISA Basic Tree Risk Assessment method and assessed this tree for risk of branch or
trunk failure. I determined the primary target in the event of failure to be the neighboring j 1� ,l'S
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11415 NE 128fh St., Suite 110, Kirkland, WA 98034 1 Phone: 425.820.3420 1 Fax: 425.820.3437 1 americanforestr_nppogemtl#soj=`i^
Memo —9527 190th Place SW, Edmonds WA
house to the north due to the prevalence of winds from the south west in this area, and all of
the roots on the south side of this tree being severed.
I determined the likelihood of whole tree failure to be probable under normal weather
conditions in a two year time frame. I also determined the likelihood of the tree striking the
target in the event of failure. Following these conclusions, I assigned the following rating:
TREE#106
WHOLE TREE failure within the following two years is PROBABLE, with a HIGH likelihood of
striking the neighboring house. It is LIKELY the probability of failure and impact would result in
SEVERE consequences such as damage to high value property, serious injury or fatality, or
major disruptions. Following the ISA TRAQ Risk Categorization Matrix, this tree presents a HIGH
risk.
Recommendations
• Adhere to City of Edmonds City Code 18.45.050 — Performance Standards for Land
Development Permits.
• Consult with your City Planner to determine options to expedite removal of this High
Risk tree.
• Obtain all necessary permits from the City of Edmonds before carrying out removal of
this tree.
There is no warranty suggested for any of the trees subject to this report. Weather, latent tree
conditions, and future man -caused activities could cause physiologic changes and deteriorating tree
condition. Over time, deteriorating tree conditions may appear and there may be conditions, which
are not now visible which, could cause tree failure. This report or the verbal comments made at the
site in no way warrant the structural stability or long term condition of any tree, but represent my
opinion based on the observations made.
Nearly all trees in any condition standing within reach of improvements or human use areas represent
hazards that could lead to damage or injury.
Please call if you have any questions or need further assistance on this project.
Sincerely,
Benjamin Mark
ISA Certified Arborist #PN-6976A
ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualified
American Forest Management, Inc. March 5, 2020
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Memo —9527 190th Place SW, Edmonds WA
Looking down at the face of the excavated slope and recently assembled concrete fnnn for the
foundation. Note the largest root cut is at the surface and is approximately 6 feet from the
trunk of#106.
American Forest Management, Inc. March 5, 2020
AMERICAN FOREST MANAGEMENT
Date: 3.42020
4 Inspector: Benjamin Mark
TREE RISK ASSESSMENT SUMMARY
Site: 9527 190th Place SW
Edmonds, WA 98020
DBH Height
Tree ff species (inches) (feet) Location Defects Failure Impact Con Rocommrndation
Recent excavation and all roots cut 6
On slope near north
feet south of this tree. Newly
106
Douglas fir
39
115
property line.
exposed interior tree.
Probable
High
Severe
High
Remove
Likelihood of Failure
Imminent - started or likely in near future
Probable - expected in normal weather conditions
Possible - could occur, but unlikely in normal weather conditions
Improbable - not likely in most weather conditions
Likelihood of Impact
Very Low - remote, protected target, rarely used
Low - not likely, protected target, occasionally used area
Medium - 50/50 chance of impacting target
High - most likely, fully exposed target, constant occupancy
Likelihood
of failure
Likelihood of Impacting Tar,
t
VeryLow
Medium
High
Imminent
Unlikely
Somewhatlikelyl
Likely
Very like)
Probable
Unlikely
Unlike lv
Somewhat LikelyLikely
Possible
UnlikelyUnlikel
Unlikelv
Somewhat Likelv
Im obabie
Unlikely
Unlikelv
Unlikely
Unlikely
Consequences of Failure
Negligible - no injury, repaired or replaced, low -value
Minor - moderate property damage, minor injury, small disruptions
Significant- high property damage, considerable disruption or personal injury
Severe - damage to high value property, serious injury or fatality, major disruption
Likelihood of failure
& Impact
Consequences
of Failure
Neglialble
Minor
Si nificant
I Severe
Very likely
Low
Moderate
High
Extreme
Likely
Low
Moderate
High
High
Somewhat likely
Low
Low
Moderate
Moderate
Unlikely
Law
Low
Low
Low
Low - mitigation may be appropriate, lower work priority
Moderate - mitigation and/or retention and monitoring
High - mitigation measures must be taken
Extreme - mitigation measures as soon as possible
� may- � ��', r •�. .�.
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April 171h, 2079
Page 1
Table of Contents
1. Introduction...................................................................................................................................................... 2
2. Description.......................................................................................................................................................2
3. Methodology...................................................................................................................................................2
4. Observations................................................................................................................................................... 3
5. Discussion..........................................................................................................................................................4
6. Tree Protection Measures...................................................................................4
Appendix
Site/Tree Photos — pages 6-7
Tree Summary Table - attached
Tree Conditions/Tree Plan Map
AMERICAN FOREST MANAGEMENT, INC.
April 171h, 2079
Page 2
1. Introduction
American Forest Management was contacted by Jacob Strobl, architect at Strobl Design and asked to
compile an arborist report for a parcel located within the City of Edmonds.
The proposed development encompasses Snohomish County Parcel #00434600007901. Our
assignment is to prepare a written report on present tree conditions, which is to be filed with the
preliminary permit application.
This report encompasses all of the criteria set forth under the City of Edmonds tree regulations
(Chapter 18.45 of the Edmonds Community Development Code - ECDC).
Dateof Field Examination: .................................................................................................... April 12, 2019
2. Description
Fifteen significant trees with a caliper 6 inches or greater 4 feet above grade (or diameter at breast
height - DBH) were located and assessed on the property. None of these trees are considered non-
viable due to poor health condition, however there are two standing dead snags in this grove.
Additionally, two neighboring trees with driplines that extend over the property line were also
assessed for potential impacts from the proposed development.
Every tree included in this report was identified in the field with a numbered aluminum tag. These tag
numbers correspond with the attached Tree Summary Table and Tree Map. Several trees were found
which did not appear on the original survey. These were added on the attached Tree Summary Table
and their approximate location added to the Tree Map. Their actual location should be verified in an
updated survey. The tree summary table provides descriptive data for all assessed trees, including
drip -line measurements.
3. Methodology
Each tree in this report was visited. Tree diameters were measured by tape. This required removing
some ivy from each tree to get an accurate measurement. The tree heights were measured using a
digital clinometer. Each tree was visually examined for defects and vigor. The tree assessment
procedure involves the examination of many factors:
• The crown of the tree is examined for current vigor. This is comprised of inspecting the
crown (foliage, buds and branches) for color, density, form, and annual shoot growth, limb
dieback and disease. The percentage of live crown is estimated for coniferous species only
and scored appropriately.
• The bole or main stem of the tree is inspected for decay, which includes cavities, wounds,
fruiting bodies of decay (conks or mushrooms), seams, insects, bleeding, callus development,
broken or dead tops, structural defects and unnatural leans. Structural defects include
crooks, forks with V-shaped crotches, multiple attachments, and excessive sweep.
• The root collar and roots are inspected for the presence of decay, insects and/or damage,
as well as if they have been injured, undermined or exposed, or original grade has been
altered.
Based on these factors a determination of viability is made. Trees considered 'non -viable' are trees
that are in poor condition due to disease, extensive decay and/or cumulative structural defects, which
exacerbate failure potential. A 'viable' tree is a tree found to be in good health, in a sound condition
AMERICAN FOREST MANAGEMENT, INC.
April 7 7'h, 2079
Page 3
with minimal defects and is suitable for its location. Also, it will be wind firm if isolated or left as part
of a grouping or grove of trees.
The four condition categories are described below:
Excellent — free of structural defects, no disease or pest problems, no root issues, excellent
structure/form with uniform crown or canopy, foliage of normal color and density, above average
vigor, it will be wind firm if isolated, suitable for its location
Good — free of significant structural defects, no disease concerns, minor pest issues, no significant root
issues, good structure/form with uniform crown or canopy, foliage of normal color and density,
average or normal vigor, will be wind firm if isolated or left as part of a grouping or grove of trees,
suitable for its location
Fair — minor to moderate structural defects not expected to contribute to a failure in the near future,
no disease concerns, moderate pest issues, no significant root issues, asymmetric or unbalanced crown
or canopy, average or normal vigor, foliage of normal color, moderate foliage density, will be wind
firm if left as part of a grouping or grove of trees, cannot be isolated, suitable for its location
Poor — major structural defects expected to cause fail in the near future, disease or significant pest
concerns, decline due to old age, significant root issues, asymmetric or unbalanced crown or canopy,
sparse or abnormally small foliage, poor vigor, and/or not suitable for its location
The attached Tree Summary Table provides specific information on tree sizes and drip -line
measurements.
4. Observations
Most of the subject parcel was covered in dense mats of English ivy which is climbing into the canopy
of the majority of the trees included in this report.
Twelve of the 15 significant trees found here are Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) all but two of
which are in good condition, the others are in fair condition. These range in caliper from 15"-44". Most
are on the larger end of this range with an average caliper of 35.75"
Trees #101-107 are Douglas fir situated near the northern edge of the subject property. Most of
these form a grove of contiguous canopy cover which includes trees north of the property line. There
are two standing dead snags in this grove. Trees #101 and #106 are the only trees able to be
retained in the proposed site plan due to the necessary excavation cut on the hillside. There are likely
large structural roots on this slope which would be destroyed at the planned grade.
Trees #108-1 1 2 are Douglas fir in the center of the parcel. All of these will need to be removed for
the proposed structure to fit within the front yard setback. Limits of disturbance are shown for some
trees which are proposed for removal in case revised plans include their retention.
Other species present are red alder (Alnus rubra), big leaf maple (Acer macrophyllum), and bitter
cherry (Prunus emarginata). These are all located along the raised grade within the proposed building
footprint. These are considered 'pioneer species' trees which are often the first to naturally germinate
in open areas. These are fast growing when young, and quickly reach maturity. Their branch strength is
rated as weak. A typical characteristic of these trees upon reaching maturity is to shed limbs as they
become host to decaying fungi and eventually fall from primary stem failure.
AMERICAN FOREST MANAGEMENT, INC.
April 171h, 2019
Page 4
Neighboring Trees with Overhanging Canopies
Tree #201 is an apple (Malus sp.) with two primary stems for a calculated 8" DBH which has been
regularly pruned to maintain a height of 12'. This tree is part of a small orchard in the southwest
corner of the neighboring property. Its canopy extends approximately 12' over the east property line.
This tree is below the existing driveway grade 6' to the west.
#202 is a Douglas fir with a DBH of 14" growing just north of the property line in a grove which
includes trees #101-107. It is in fair condition with a thin canopy as a result of being dominated by
the larger trees nearby.
5. Discussion/Recommendations
Due to lack of existing targets, no high -risk tree conditions were observed at the site. All subject
trees would be rated as low to moderate risk under an ISA Level II Basic Assessment, however this
assessment is a limited by the extent of ivy coverage on their lower trunks. A reassessment upon
final building and grading plans would be prudent.
Given the proposed site plan, few of the trees found on the property are able to be retained. These
trees are primarily Douglas fir and will help maintain a buffer to the property to the north.
The neighboring trees to the north are not likely to sustain damage related to construction if all work
performed remains outside of their Limits of Disturbance (LOD). The ground to the south of them on the
subject property is sloped and there are several large trees which are not able to be retained (#102,
#103, #104, and #105) due to the excavation cut to meet planned grade. Neighboring tree #202 is
located at the top of the slope and is dominated by the larger trees to the south. This has led it to
developing a thin canopy and likely a relatively small structural root system due to the larger trees
sheltering it from prevailing winds. Removing these trees, particularly #105 will open up tree #202 to
more severe exposure than it has previously received.
The extent of drip -lines (farthest reaching branches) for the subject trees to be retained can be
found on the tree summary table at the back of this report. The recommended LOD measurements
can also be found on the tree summary table. The LOD measurements are based on species, age,
condition, drip -line, and prior improvements. These shall be referenced when determining the
feasibility of retention.
6. Tree Protection Measures
The following general guidelines are recommended to ensure that the designated areas set aside for
the preserved trees are protected and construction impacts are kept to a minimum. Tree protection
should adhere to best management practices for tree and soil protection during development activity.
1. Tree protection fencing shall be erected around retained trees and positioned just beyond the drip -
line edge prior to moving any heavy equipment on site. Doing this will set clearing limits and avoid
compaction of soils within root zones of retained trees.
2. Any existing improvements to be removed within the drip -lines or tree protection zones shall be
removed by hand or utilizing a tracked mini -excavator.
3. Excavation limits should be laid out in paint on the ground to avoid over excavating.
AMERICAN FOREST MANAGEMENT, INC.
April 171h, 2079
Page 6
Photos
#108 #109 #106 #110 #111 #112
AMERICAN FOREST MANAGEMENT, INC.
Note ivy on
stems
F/• , .'// �)�iy�Fc' t .mot . �'. ! �T "i;':�!t :� � Y a
�' �• � .. F* i.l ,'.a,y�r�piy j/•/� •�i�;y.l�, r, ...} .� •�•%"y-Y `:•Tr'--,
Z�Tr:V;.1:,f •. i•,� `. � w••••yI _,,,. � , trl�,'4Y���.e:• .: �•�',
(Tree Summary Table !
!American Forest Management, Inc.
'For: 19527 190th PI SW Edmonds WA
Date:
4/11/2019
Inspector:
Ben Mark
I
iTaci#
, ID Genus species DBH inches Height feet
Drip -Line / Limit of Disturbance feet
Condition
Viable
I yes/no
Proposal
Comments
I N S E W
101
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
37
107
21
14
Good
Yes
Retain
Trunk touches utiliUy lines. Ivy. Limbed up @ 30' and thin above
102
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
15
85
12
14
6
Good
Yes
Remove
Added to map
103
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
27
95
16
14
10
Good
Yes
Remove
Next to snag
104
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
34
110
24
19
22
Good
Yes
Remove
105
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
36
105
14
19
22 / 15
Good
Yes
Remove
No canopy north
106
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
39
115
18 / 15
12
14
Fair
Yes
Retain
Possible decay present in main stem. Added to map
107
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
41
97
15
16
22 / 16
Good
Yes
Remove
Good taper
108
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
39
64
28
18
25
Fair
Yes
Remove
Broken at 38'
109
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
44
118
20
12
20
Good
Yes
Remove
Stout taper. Added to map
110
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
38
120
26 / 15
6
19
Good
Yes
Remove
Dense ivy on south side. Just south of dead Douglas Fir
111
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
35
117
25 / 15
15
Good
Yes
Remove
112
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
44
105
16
16
16
Fair
Yes
Remove
Broken at 39'. New leader and lesser codominant. Added to map
113
Alder
Alnus rubra
14
51
16
16
20
12
Fair
Yes
Remove
Leans east. Added to map.
114
Bitter Cherry
Prunus emarginata
11
48
6
10
7
11
Fair
Yes
Remove
Broken top. Added to map
115
Big Leaf Maple
Acermacrophyllum
20
61
12
16
14
14
Fair
Yes
Remove
lAdded to map
Nailghbof
Trees
201
jApple
Malus sp
5.6
12
12/6
Good
Yes
202
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
14
Fair
Yes
Leans west . thin crown
Drip -Line and Limits of Disturbance measurements from face of trunk I
!Trees on neighboring ro erties - Drip -line and Limits of Disturbance measurements from property lines
Calculated DBH for multistem trees: The DBH in BOLD is the square root of the sum of the DBH of each
individual stem, squared. Example 3
stem DBH = Square Root stem! 2 + stem2 2 + stem3 2