On TRAQ: Detecting the Hidden Hazards in Trees
Posted: 2025 | Spring | Tree Risk Assessment
To fully understand and appreciate trees, we as humans must slow down and attune to ‘tree time.’ It’s easy to forget the old majestic Oak once began as a small sapling, slowly adapting to environmental challenges throughout its life. High winds, drought, site changes, and pest issues all influence the way trees grow and thrive in their unique environment. However, when the stress on a tree overwhelms its natural ability to adapt, defects and weakness can form within the tree, often hidden under the bark or high in the crown. Unlike humans, trees do not heal their wounds; instead, they seal them off, preserving (and often hiding) evidence for the duration of its life. By uncovering the tree’s history, we can gather a clear snapshot of what the tree has gone through and forecast its future.
This need for deeper insight has led to the development of the TRAQ (Tree Risk Assessment Qualification) process, provided by the International Society of Arboriculture. TRAQ educates arborists on a systematic approach to evaluating tree hazards and the risk they pose to the surrounding environment. The assessment can range from basic visual inspection from ground level to an advanced exam using highly specialized tools throughout the tree. After completing the examination, a detailed report explains the results from the exam providing a course of action. Our clients appreciate understanding their trees’ condition based on the results. At Wachtel Tree Science, we have adapted all levels of TRAQ into our services with seven qualified arborists on staff and several advanced tools to help detect hazards in trees.
The Resistograph is a key tool for our advanced assessments. It utilizes a micro-drill bit that bores into the wood, detecting variation of sound wood and decay. It presents a graphic readout, taking our assessment from an educated guess to a data-backed, objective report. Personally, this helps me understand ‘tree time’ the clearest- watching the variation of tree rings as it reveals its history in real time. The results of the Resistograph offer clear guidance for recommended next steps for the tree, which can be hazard mitigation through pruning, adding support systems, or potential removal of the tree.
To live amongst trees and enjoy their benefits, we must accept that there is a level of risk involved. The TRAQ process aims to provide an accurate assessment of these risks, bringing peace of mind and promoting responsible management practices. If you have a tree in question that could benefit from a TRAQ assessment, please contact your Wachtel Tree Science Certified Arborist.
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