REPS 5. Appendix E - Arborist assessment

    4. Methodology


The area was physically surveyed and assessed using non-invasive Arboricultural techniques.
Assessment of the trees was conducted using Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) from Mattheck
& Breloer (1994 & 1999), with additional references from Matheny & Clark (2004), Londsdale
(1999) and Harris (1999 & 2004). Additional references to tree anatomy and structure are
taken from Shigo (1986 & 1991), including references to roots from Perry (1982).

Specifications on protection of trees and tree roots during construction activities are taken
from AS4970-2009, including additional references from Urban (2008). Specifications for tree
pruning are taken from AS4373-2007, with additional references from Shigo (1986 & 1991).
Tools used to perform this Arboricultural assessment included:


       •   Digital photos were taken with an Apple iphone.
       •   A Zeppelin builders tape was used to measure distances from the borders of
           infrastructure to the adjacent trees, and DRF to calculate RPZ.
       •   A Thor X710 sounding hammer was used to detect for decay.




1
    DBH (Diameter at Breast Height) – The diameter of a trees trunk measured at 1.4m above ground level
2
    DRF (Diameter at Root Flare) - The diameter of a tree measured just above the root flare at ground level

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