Tree Surveys. Veteran tree surveys, tree surveys to BS 5837: 2005 plus tree management plans.

At LandVision we are often asked to undertake a tree survey. Our first question to our client is; “what is the purpose of the tree survey?” Here we investigate different types of tree survey available.
First of all, is it just one tree which you would like us to survey? Or, maybe a population of trees such as groups on campuses or business parks? Very often with single trees, a tree inspection is called for. This is an in depth examination of the tree for a hazard assessment or an amenity value tree assessment. This type of tree survey may be required if the client wishes to remove a tree previously protected under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), if the tree is dead, dying or dangerous.
Another reason for a tree inspection might be that further management of a veteran tree, such as an old yew or an Oak, is required, in order to prolong the tree's life. A Veteran tree inspection will lead to an informed management plan being written for the detailed up keep of the veteran tree. This type of tree inspection is detailed. It not only looks at the structural aspects of the tree, at any pests and diseases found, but it will also look at the wildlife potential and the ultimate longevity of this veteran tree. So, a tree inspection can be for a single or individual trees and this is a detailed tree inspection.

When tree surveys are of populations of trees, they tend to be less detailed and can vary from the basic naming or “stock take” of trees to the more detailed survey for BS; 5837:2005. Finally, the tree survey might be a tree safety survey.

Areas which may require a tree survey are public open space, street trees, campuses, parks and gardens. The survey might be for bringing a local authority's TPO register up-to-date, or for investigating the planting potential within an area where mature trees already exist. BS: 5837: 2005 (Trees in relation to construction) and trees in relation to other planning related law to do with trees and wildlife, are also some areas of tree survey work that LandVision undertake.

If you have an inquiry about a tree, why not give us a ring? It is useful if you can send us plans of the existing site and of the proposed development if these are available. We will then be able to assess the extent of the survey and special engineering solutions where these are required. You can take a look at our tree page on;
www.landvision.co.uk or ring 01892 782200.

Green infrastructure, incorporating green roofs and Sustainable urban drainage schemes enhances biodiversity

Green infrastructure, incorporating green roofs and Sustainable urban drainage schemes enhances biodiversity as well as optimising the aesthetic potential of green spaces through linkage; helping to achieve sustainability and lowering CO2 emissions over time; with greater net benefits for wildlife and urban environments than the ad hoc addition of individual components on their own.
So, what exactly is green infrastructure?
Green Infrastructure includes these components; green roofs, sustainable urban drainage schemes (SUDS), garden trees, wildflower meadow creation and enhancement, wildlife habitat creation, ecological enhancement, biodiversity action plans, linking of green space, urban woodlands, street trees, urban parks and public open spaces. The combined benefits of green roofs, Sustainable urban drainage schemes, rainwater harvesting schemes, biodiversity action plans and green space allocation and the ethos of linkage of all these components, through sustainable ecological “green” design is currently being encouraged in landscape planning.
More benefits?
Green infrastructure helps to aid biodiversity, increases energy efficiency in buildings and decreases storm water runoff, minimising peak water flows.
Therefore, using green roofs (and also green walls), maximises habitat creation potential, with wildlife benefits in built up urban areas, whilst minimising & slowing down storm water runoff from buildings, aiding flood alleviation schemes. They cool buildings in hot weather with less need for air conditioning and trap dust and other pollutants, improving air quality & lowering temperatures in “urban heat islands”.
What angles allow a safe green roof to be installed?
If the angle of the roof is between 2 and 20 degrees then you should be able to install a simple green roof. When angles of less than 2 degrees or greater than 20 degrees are involved, more complex design considerations will need to be taken into account. The installation of green roofs on angles of more than 30 degrees is not recommended, unless you have specialist advice available to you.
Underlying roof structure, will the roof structure of the roof of your shed/garage/house take the extra weight that the green roof will put on it?
A simple, light weight green roof will weigh between 60-150 kg per square metre; calculations must also include the weight of water held in the roof and snow loading. If you are in doubt, you should consult an architect/engineer.
Green Roofs have 5 main layers; planting layer, planting substrate (this should be 80% inorganic and 20% organic compost), filter layer(Light weight geotextile/landscape fabric), drainage layer (especially important for roofs of less than 10 degree angle), and finally a waterproof/ root proof membrane layer.
For details on Flooding go to www.landvision.co.uk . We will be adding a web page shortly on how to install your Green Roof. Alternatively contact us at; charmaine@landvision.co.uk with your query.