Contents (Click To Jump)
- 1 What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Chadds Ford?
- 2 Does the City of Chadds Ford Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?
- 3 Who Is Responsible for Fallen Tree Removal in Chadds Ford?
- 4 How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Chadds Ford?
- 5 Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Chadds Ford?
- 6 What If Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Chadds Ford?
- 7 How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Chadds Ford?
What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Chadds Ford?
Pest infestation and disease are the biggest threat to trees in Chadds Ford.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources, “the insects and diseases that have caused the most damage in terms of defoliation and mortality during recent years include Emerald Ash Borer, Gypsy Moth, Hemlock Wooly Adelgid, Beech Bark Disease, and Oak Wilt”.
The Emerald Ash Borer first started appearing in the region around 2007. Originating in Asia, it is believed the beetle arrived in the U.S. via cargo-carrying ships in 2002. To prevent further spread in Chadds Ford, homeowners should inspect Ash trees on their property for signs of infestation. Look for the presence of a metallic green beetle, snake-like patterns on the trunk, D-shaped holes, and increased woodpecker activity.
The Spotted Lanternfly also poses a serious threat to the trees of Chadds Ford. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture states that in addition to damaging trees in the region, the pest is causing hundreds of millions of dollars in damage to the agricultural industry. Signs of this invasive pest include oozing sap, curling leaves, and a black sooty mold present on surrounding structures. Residents report seeing hundreds of these invaders during the spring and summer months.
As the trees of Chadds Ford continue to age, they have lessened their ability to fight off disease-causing pathogens and the devastating effects of pest infestation. Trees have difficulty fighting off non-native pests, with even healthy trees succumbing to the damage these insects cause.
Does the City of Chadds Ford Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?
A tree removal permit is not required in Chadds Ford if the tree is planted on your residential property. The Township maintains all trees situated on public streets and right-of-way areas.
Any tree located on private property is the responsibility of the homeowner. At no time is a resident of Chadds Ford permitted to trim, prune, or otherwise remove a tree located on public property.
Who Is Responsible for Fallen Tree Removal in Chadds Ford?
Trees fall unexpectedly all the time, especially when exposed to disease, pest infestation, and extreme weather conditions. When a fallen tree causes damages, who is responsible for cleanup depends on who owns the property where the tree was standing. Below are a few guidelines to help you understand liability according to the zoning laws of Chadds Ford.
If you’re a homeowner?
As a homeowner, you are obligated to maintain all trees on your property, inspecting them regularly for signs of distress. If a tree falls and you did nothing to rectify any pre-existing conditions, you could be held liable for the entire cost of tree removal and damages incurred.
If a healthy tree falls unexpectedly and causes damage to your property, contact your insurance company to file a claim. If the fallen tree lands on your neighbor’s property, their insurance company will cover the damages.
If you’re a renter?
In Pennsylvania, as in most other states, renters are not responsible for costs associated with tree removal. If a tree falls, contact your landlord immediately to make them aware of the situation. Their insurance company will handle the claim and you should not have to be involved.
We recommend securing renter’s insurance to protect your personal property in the case of unexpected damage.
If you’re a landlord?
As a landlord, you are required to adequately maintain the property, which includes all landscaping and trees. If a tree falls, it is your responsibility to have it removed safely and efficiently. The tenant is not obligated to share the cost with you, regardless of other landscaping responsibilities.
Some landlords will include on the lease that tenants must mow the grass, trim the weeds, or tend to shrubbery. It is not inclusive of trees, which are the sole responsibility of the landlord or property management company.
If you’re a neighbor?
If a tree that belongs to your neighbor falls onto your property and causes damage, contact your insurance provider to process a claim. If a neighboring tree is encroaching your property line, you may trim the branches up to the property line, but not beyond. You are prohibited from removing a tree that is not standing on your property. If you cause any injury to the tree, you could be held liable for the entire cost of tree replacement.
How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Chadds Ford?
Soil consists of several layers, each one contributing to the growth of a tree. The topsoil layer, called the A horizon, is where roots establish, containing the highest organic matter content. Decomposed plant and animal materials contribute to the breakdown of organic particles in the earth.
The B horizon is the subsoil layer, which contains concentrated levels of clay. This layer is much denser than the upper topsoil. The C horizon is weathered bedrock that holds the essential layer of the parent material. The final R horizon layer is the bedrock, with the thickness varying with each type of soil.
When soil remains in one place for extended periods, as is the case in Chadds Ford, vegetation grows on the surface, darkening the soil as organic matter gathers to create optimum conditions for healthy growth.
In Pennsylvania, trees contribute to the process through their annual release of leaves. The foliage lends to a dark, matted residue that sits upon the surface rather than adding organic matter to the soil content.
According to “An Introduction to Soils of Pennsylvania“, created by the College of Agricultural Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University, trees need a balanced range of acceptable texture, moisture, and acidity levels. In Pennsylvania, “Soils reflect centuries of rainwater flowing through them, slowly breaking down minerals. When soluble components such as the alkaline ions – calcium, magnesium, and potassium – are carried off to the groundwater, soil fertility diminishes and acidity increases”.
Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Chadds Ford?
Weather affects the soil formation in Chadds Ford. Temperature fluctuations cause the earth to expand and contract, creating a hostile environment for healthy tree growth.
The humid climate in Pennsylvania leads to an annual rainfall ranging between 34 and 50 inches. Seasonal variations in temperatures and yearly freezing and thawing lead to constantly changing conditions for trees to flourish.
Erosion caused by high winds, ice melt, and flooding conditions is a continuously serious problem in Chadds Ford. As tree roots become exposed, small cracks form, causing the limited spread of a healthy root system.
The mineral content of soil also fluctuates through the contributing water and air elements of the region.
Drought, excessive moisture, abnormal temperatures, and high winds can destroy trees that have been standing in Chadds Ford for centuries.
What If Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Chadds Ford?
PECO provides electrical power to the residents of Chadds Ford. They have a vegetation management program that includes “pruning, tree removal, mowing, and public education.”
According to the power company, approximately one-third of all power outages are a result of broken tree limbs or fallen trees coming into contact with electrical service lines.
Adhering to all state and federal guidelines, PECO inspects and maintains all trees and vegetation along their 13,500 miles of transmission and distribution lines on a five-year cycle.
The power company has a policy to remove unhealthy, invasive, or hazardous trees to maintain safe and reliable service. To report a downed tree that is encroaching on power lines, contact PECO at 1-800-841-4141.
If the tree causing the problem is on your private property, you will need to hire a contractor to take the tree down. The power company will not offer financial assistance but can shut down the power temporarily to ensure safe removal.
Never attempt to trim, prune, or remove a tree within 10 feet of a service line without first contacting PECO.
How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Chadds Ford?
No two trees are the same, making it difficult to give you an exact price for tree removal services. Several factors will affect the overall cost of taking a tree down on your property in Chadds Ford.
Type of Tree
Trees in Southeastern Pennsylvania vary in their density and hardness rating. Oak trees, for example, are extremely hard and require extra time and resources to safely remove.
A pine tree, on the other hand, is considerably lighter, costing less to remove from your property.
Size of the Tree
The biggest contributing factor to the final cost of your bill is the size of the tree. The height and diameter of the trunk are measured to provide you with a fair and accurate price.
The average cost of tree removal in Chadds Ford is approximately $662. The taller the tree, the higher the overall cost. Trees that exceed 60 feet in height could cost more than $1,500 to remove.
Health of the Tree
If a tree is already down, the biggest cost involved will be clearing the tree from your lot, removing debris, and stump removal if requested. A tree that has fallen and caused damage to surrounding structures or vehicles will require special attention to prevent further damage. A diseased tree showing signs of rot and exposed roots are also more labor-intensive to remove because of the potential risk of falling limbs and parts of the tree collapsing prematurely.