Proper techniques and safety measures are vital when felling trees. These do not only ensure that you establish a safe working environment, but also contribute towards effective operation and post tree felling clean up. It is especially important when using a chainsaw.
First of all, check whether there are any major obstacles such as buildings, roads or telephone or power lines in the vicinity. Even though this step may seem obvious, it is an important one. Make sure that you deploy proper warning signals on and near busy roads.
The next step would be to study the tree carefully while estimating the growth and length of the branches correctly. Take the direction of the wind into account. Wind direction will have an effect on the direction in which the tree is going to fall. Use a plumb line if you are not entirely sure of the direction. Then clear the area around the tree, as well as the direction of falling.
As soon as you have cleared the area, put out warning signs in the relevant direction. Double-check that you have enough fuel for the operation. Then start clearing the trunk of any twigs or branches that may be obstructive. The safest way to do this is to use a pulling chain downwards from the top.
Now that the trunk is clear of twigs, it is time to make the felling cut. The technique used for this depends on the size and slope of the tree and of course the size of your chainsaw.
Be sure to check the tree for any diseases and rot infestation. A discoloured or swollen trunk is a clear sign. Such rot would most likely be higher up in the trunk. The fibres of the tree are very week and therefore you need to take extreme caution.
The best tree felling option is to leave an extra high trunk or stump. The size of the tree determines the forestry equipment which will be used. There are different tools available for different tree sizes, while smaller trees do not require special equipment.
To determine the height of a tree, take the following steps:
- Select a stick of the same length as the distance between your forehead and your hand when your arm is fully stretched to the front.
- Stand away from the tree and hold the stick in your outstretched hand, so that it is in a vertical position to the tree and rectangular to your body.
- Move towards or away from the tree till the stick appears as tall as the tree.
- The distance between you and the tree will now be equal to the height of the tree.
- Should a tree not have a straight trunk, or be leaning away from or towards you, measure it from the side for more accuracy.
Wood chipper equipment to process tree trunks into wood chips
After trees have been cut down, a wood chipper would be the ideal machine to convert trees into wood chips. Various machines are available for various jobs. Smaller machines such as Bandit’s Hand-Fed Chippers are ideal for smaller trees, which include fruit trees and shrubs. If you are looking for a wood chipper that can turn much bigger trees into mulch, your best bet would be a Bandit Whole Tree Chipper, or even Bandit’s The Beast Whole Tree Recycler.
Should you not want to buy your own machine from ABC Bandit Chippers, you can always opt to rent wood chipping equipment from WP Chipper Hire & Sales.