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HomeMy WebLinkAbout319 Plaza 06.15.2026 Arborist LetterA R B O R S T A R T R E E C A R E S O L U T I O N S 21 2 9 I ND I A N S P R I N G S DR I V E · 9 04 -8 59 -0 04 5 · A R B O R S T A RJAX @ G M A IL .C O M Tree Inventory/Removal Report Inspection Date: 06/15/2026 P R E P A R E D F O R Sarah White 319 Plaza, Atlantic Beach, FL, 32233 +19046313356 P R E P A R E D B Y David Martin Sales Arborist ArborStar Tree Care Solutions 2129 Indian Springs Drive 904-859-0045 Notice of Disclaimer Assessment data provided is based on visual recording at the time of inspection. Visual records do not include testing or analysis and do not include aerial or subterranean inspection unless indicated. The assessing firm is not responsible for discovery or identification of hidden or otherwise non-observable risks. Records may not remain accurate after inspection due to variable deterioration of surveyed material. Risk ratings are based on observable defects and mitigation recommendations do not reduce potential liability to the owner. T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S Summary 2 Site Observations 3 Methods 4 Limits of the Assignment 5 Tree Survey / Data 6 Tree #1 — Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)7 Tree #2 — Lagerstroemia indica (Crape Myrtle)8 Tree #3 — Lagerstroemia indica (Crape Myrtle)9 Tree #4 — Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)10 Tree #5 — Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)11 Tree #6 — Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)12 Tree #7 — Common Hackberry 13 Tree #8 — Common Hackberry 14 Tree #9 — Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)15 Tree #10 — Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)16 Tree #11 — Quercus virginiana (Live Oak)17 Tree #12 — Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)18 Tree #13 — Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)19 Conclusion 20 Glossary of Terms 21 S U M M A R Y 13 T R EES AS S ESS E D 4 S P E C IES I DENT IF IED 13 D E F E C T S N O T E D 13 A CT IONS R EC O MM E N DE D The purpose of this arborist report is to provide a comprehensive risk assessment of the trees located at 319 Plaza, Atlantic Beach, FL, 32233, commissioned by the property owner, Sarah White. The assessment was conducted by David Martin, a certified arborist with expertise in tree risk evaluation. The site is a residential property characterized by sandy and loamy soil, with environmental conditions including wind, salt spray, flooding, and drought. A total of 13 trees were evaluated using a Level 2 Basic Tree Risk Assessment, which involves ground-level visual observation in accordance with ANSI A300 standards and ISA Best Management Practices (BMPs). The inspection took place on June 15, 2026. This report will detail the findings of the assessment, including individual tree evaluations, risk ratings, and management recommendations. The trees assessed include species such as Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm), Lagerstroemia indica (Crape Myrtle), and Quercus virginiana (Live Oak). The report will categorize the trees based on their risk levels and provide specific management actions such as pruning, monitoring, or removal as necessary to mitigate potential hazards. S I T E O B S E R V A T I O N S Site Condition Value Site Type Residential Site Changes None Observed Soil Type Sand, Loam Compaction Level Moderate Standing Water No Sun Exposure Partial Shade Overhead Utilities Yes Underground Utilities Yes Weather Exposure Wind, Salt Spray, Flooding, Drought M E T H O D S Species: Tree genus and species were identified. Diameter at Breast Height (DBH): Trunk diameter was recorded to the nearest inch at 4.5 feet above grade. Height: Approximate tree height was visually estimated with a variance not to exceed +/- 10'. Crown Spread: Approximate crown diameter was visually estimated with a variance not to exceed +/- 10'. Condition: The arborist evaluated structure and health. Excellent, good, fair, poor, or dead were used to describe conditions. Risk Level: Observable defects were evaluated using None, Low, Moderate, High, or Critical. Targets: Structures/items within potential impact zones that could sustain damage or pose a risk to life. Recommendations: Recommendations were provided in alignment with client objectives and arboricultural best management practices. L I M I T S O F T H E A S S I G N M E N T 1. The observations, findings, and recommendations presented in this report are based on conditions that existed at the time of the assessment and are limited to the scope of work outlined herein. Tree conditions are dynamic and can change rapidly due to weather events, biological processes, or site modifications. 2. A visual inspection methodology was used to develop the findings, conclusions, and recommendations contained in this report. Unless otherwise noted, no invasive or advanced diagnostic techniques were employed during the assessment. 3. Where site conditions limited access, measurements were estimated using professional judgment and standard arboricultural estimation methods. 4. This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of the client identified herein. The arborist assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information contained in this report. T R E E S U R V E Y / D A T A Tree Inventory Tree Species DBH (in) Height (ft)Health Condition Risk Action Tree 1 Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)12 30 Good Good Low Prune Tree 2 Lagerstroemia indica (Crape Myrtle)4 15 Good Good Low No Action Tree 3 Lagerstroemia indica (Crape Myrtle)8 15 Good Fair Low Prune Tree 4 Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)14 25 Good Good Low No Action Tree 5 Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)12 25 Good Good Low No Action Tree 6 Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)12 30 Good Good Low Monitor Tree 7 Common Hackberry 6 25 Fair Fair Moderate Remove Tree 8 Common Hackberry 7 30 Fair Fair Moderate Remove Tree 9 Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)20 52 Fair Poor Moderate Remove Tree 10 Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)14 30 Good Poor Moderate Remove Tree 11 Quercus virginiana (Live Oak)28 40 Good Fair Moderate Prune Tree 12 Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)12 30 Good Good Moderate Prune Tree 13 Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)12 30 Fair Poor Greater Than Moderate Remove 1 2 3 4 56 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 T R E E #1 — S A B A L P A L M E T T O (C A B B A G E P A L M ) Species Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm) DBH (in.)12 in Height (ft.)30 ft Spread (ft.)10 ft Health/Vigor Good Condition Good Risk Level Low Targets Sidewalk/Pedestrian walkways, Utilities Failure Profile Whole Tree Wind Exposure Full Crown Size Medium Crown Density Normal Defects Notes No visible defects in the root, trunk, or crown. The tree is structurally sound with a healthy crown and no signs of decay or disease. Action Prune — The Sabal palmetto appears healthy with no significant structural defects. The likelihood of failure is improbable due to the tree's robust structure and good condition. Regular monitoring is recommended to ensure continued health and safety, especially given its proximity to pedestrian walkways and utilities. Pruning Recommendations Crown clean T R E E #2 — L A G E R S T R O E M I A I N D I C A (C R A P E M Y R T L E ) Species Lagerstroemia indica (Crape Myrtle) DBH (in.)4 in Height (ft.)15 ft Spread (ft.)12 ft Health/Vigor Good Condition Good Risk Level Low Targets Structure, Driveway/Pavers Failure Profile Branch Wind Exposure Partial Crown Size Medium Crown Density Normal Defects Notes No significant defects were observed in the root, trunk, or crown areas. The tree appears structurally sound with a healthy crown and no visible signs of decay or disease. Action No Action — The Crape Myrtle is in good health and condition with no significant defects observed. The likelihood of failure is improbable due to the tree's structural integrity and healthy appearance. Monitoring is recommended to ensure continued health and to address any future issues that may arise. T R E E #3 — L A G E R S T R O E M I A I N D I C A (C R A P E M Y R T L E ) Species Lagerstroemia indica (Crape Myrtle) DBH (in.)8 in Height (ft.)15 ft Spread (ft.)12 ft Health/Vigor Good Condition Fair Risk Level Low Targets Structure, Driveway/Pavers Failure Profile Branch Wind Exposure Partial Crown Size Medium Crown Density Normal Crown Defects Heavy lateral weight or unbalanced crown structure Defects Notes The crown of the Lagerstroemia indica exhibited heavy lateral weight, resulting in an unbalanced crown structure. No significant defects were observed in the roots, trunk, or biological aspects of the tree. Action Prune — The primary concern for the Lagerstroemia indica is the heavy lateral weight in the crown, which creates an unbalanced structure. This condition poses a low risk level to nearby structures and the driveway/pavers. Pruning is recommended to address the crown imbalance, with a scheduled urgency for action. Specifically, a crown clean is advised to mitigate the risk of branch failure and maintain the tree's health and structural integrity. Pruning Recommendations Crown clean T R E E #4 — S A B A L P A L M E T T O (C A B B A G E P A L M ) Species Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm) DBH (in.)14 in Height (ft.)25 ft Spread (ft.)10 ft Health/Vigor Good Condition Good Risk Level Low Targets Structure Failure Profile Whole Tree Wind Exposure Partial Crown Size Medium Crown Density Dense Defects Notes No visible defects in the root, trunk, or crown. The tree is structurally sound and healthy. Action No Action — The Sabal palmetto appears structurally sound with no visible defects in the trunk or crown. The tree is healthy with a dense crown and no signs of decline. Given its location near structures, regular monitoring is recommended to ensure continued health and stability. T R E E #5 — S A B A L P A L M E T T O (C A B B A G E P A L M ) Species Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm) DBH (in.)12 in Height (ft.)25 ft Spread (ft.)15 ft Health/Vigor Good Condition Good Risk Level Low Targets Structure Failure Profile Whole Tree Wind Exposure Full Crown Size Medium Crown Density Normal Defects Notes No visible defects in the root, trunk, or crown. The tree appears structurally sound with a healthy crown and no signs of decay or disease. Action No Action — The Sabal palmetto appears healthy with no significant structural defects. The likelihood of failure is improbable due to the robust nature of the species and the absence of visible defects. Monitoring is recommended to ensure continued health and stability. T R E E #6 — S A B A L P A L M E T T O (C A B B A G E P A L M ) Species Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm) DBH (in.)12 in Height (ft.)30 ft Spread (ft.)15 ft Health/Vigor Good Condition Good Risk Level Low Targets Structure Failure Profile Whole Tree Wind Exposure Full Crown Size Medium Crown Density Dense Defects Notes No visible defects in the root, trunk, or crown. The tree is structurally sound with a healthy crown. Action Monitor — The Sabal palmetto appears structurally sound with no visible defects in the trunk or crown. The tree is in good health with a dense crown typical for the species. Monitoring is recommended due to its proximity to the structure, but no immediate action is necessary. Pruning Recommendations Remove deadwood Photos Crown overview T R E E #7 — C O M M O N H A C K B E R R Y Species Common Hackberry DBH (in.)6 in Height (ft.)25 ft Spread (ft.)20 ft Health/Vigor Fair Condition Fair Risk Level Moderate Targets Structure Failure Profile Branch Wind Exposure Partial Crown Size Medium Crown Density Dense Crown Defects Heavy lateral weight or unbalanced crown structure, Weak branch unions Defects Notes The tree has moderate crown defects, including heavy lateral weight and potential weak branch unions. These defects increase the risk of branch failure, especially under wind stress. Action Remove 6 inch diameter Common Hackberry — Not protected (less than 8” DBH) Photos Crown overview T R E E #8 — C O M M O N H A C K B E R R Y Species Common Hackberry DBH (in.)7 in Height (ft.)30 ft Spread (ft.)25 ft Health/Vigor Fair Condition Fair Risk Level Moderate Targets Structure Failure Profile Branch Wind Exposure Partial Crown Size Medium Crown Density Dense Crown Defects Heavy lateral weight or unbalanced crown structure Defects Notes The Common Hackberry exhibited a crown defect characterized by heavy lateral weight or an unbalanced crown structure. No significant defects were observed in the root, trunk, or biological categories. Action Remove 7 inch diameter Common Hackberry — not protected (less than 8” DBH) Photos Crown overview T R E E #9 — S A B A L P A L M E T T O (C A B B A G E P A L M ) Species Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm) DBH (in.)20 in Height (ft.)52 ft Spread (ft.)9 ft Health/Vigor Fair Condition Poor Risk Level Moderate Targets Structure, Sidewalk/Pedestrian walkways Failure Profile Branch Wind Exposure Partial Crown Size Large Crown Density Normal Defects Notes The crown has some dead fronds that should be pruned to maintain health. No significant structural defects observed. Action Remove 20 inch diameter Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm) — heavy confliction/bark rub with oak Photos Crown overview Trunk / base detail Defect detail T R E E #1 0 — S A B A L P A L M E T T O (C A B B A G E P A L M ) Species Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm) DBH (in.)14 in Height (ft.)30 ft Spread (ft.)11 ft Health/Vigor Good Condition Poor Risk Level Moderate Targets Structure Failure Profile Trunk Wind Exposure Full Crown Size Medium Crown Density Normal Biological Defects Woodpecker holes indicating internal decay or insect presence Defects Notes No significant defects were observed in the root, trunk, or crown zones. Biological defects included woodpecker holes, which may indicate internal decay or insect presence. Action Remove 14 inch diameter Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm) — heavy confliction/bark rub with oak Photos Crown overview Trunk / base detail Defect detail T R E E #1 1 — Q U E R C U S V I R G I N I A N A (L I V E O A K ) Species Quercus virginiana (Live Oak) DBH (in.)28 in Height (ft.)40 ft Spread (ft.)35 ft Health/Vigor Good Condition Fair Risk Level Moderate Targets Structure Failure Profile Trunk Wind Exposure Partial Crown Size Large Crown Density Normal Trunk Defects Leaning trunk (especially with soil displacement) Crown Defects Heavy lateral weight or unbalanced crown structure Defects Notes The tree has a severe lean towards a nearby structure, which is a critical defect. The crown is unbalanced, adding to the risk of failure. No significant root or biological defects were observed, but the structural issues are concerning. Action Prune — The tree exhibits a significant lean towards a nearby structure, increasing the risk of failure. The combination of trunk defects and the lean suggests removal is the best course of action to prevent potential damage. Pruning may be considered if removal is not immediately feasible to reduce weight and risk. Pruning Recommendations Crown clean, Structural pruning, Remove deadwood, End-weight reduction Photos Crown overview Trunk / base detail Defect detail T R E E #1 2 — S A B A L P A L M E T T O (C A B B A G E P A L M ) Species Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm) DBH (in.)12 in Height (ft.)30 ft Spread (ft.)10 ft Health/Vigor Good Condition Good Risk Level Moderate Targets Structure Failure Profile Trunk Wind Exposure Full Crown Size Medium Crown Density Normal Trunk Defects Leaning trunk (especially with soil displacement) Defects Notes The tree exhibits a moderate lean towards the nearby structure, which could pose a risk in high winds. No significant root or crown defects are visible. Action Prune — Conflicting with oak Pruning Recommendations Crown clean Photos Crown overview Trunk / base detail T R E E #1 3 — S A B A L P A L M E T T O (C A B B A G E P A L M ) Species Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm) DBH (in.)12 in Height (ft.)30 ft Spread (ft.)10 ft Health/Vigor Fair Condition Poor Risk Level Greater Than Moderate Targets Structure Failure Profile Trunk Wind Exposure Full Crown Size Medium Crown Density Normal Trunk Defects Cavities or hollows, Decay, rot, or fungal conks, Large open wounds or bark loss Biological Defects Fungal conks, mushrooms, or brackets on trunk or roots, Soft, punky, or decayed wood Defects Notes The Sabal palmetto exhibited significant trunk defects, including cavities or hollows, decay, rot, or fungal conks, and large open wounds or bark loss. No root or crown defects were observed. Biological defects included fungal conks, mushrooms, or brackets on the trunk, as well as soft, punky, or decayed wood. Action Remove 12 inch diameter Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm) — Due to the presence of severe trunk defects and biological decay, the risk level for the Sabal palmetto was assessed as greater than moderate, with potential failure impacting nearby structures. Prompt removal is recommended to mitigate the risk of trunk failure. Should the tree be preserved against recommendation, no pruning or plant health care actions were suggested as alternatives. Photos Crown overview Trunk / base detail Defect detail C O N C L U S I O N Of the 13 trees assessed, 6 were rated as Low risk, 6 as Moderate risk, and 1 as Greater Than Moderate risk. The tree with the highest concern is a Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm) with a DBH of 12 inches, which exhibited significant trunk defects including cavities, decay, and fungal conks, leading to a Greater Than Moderate risk rating. The recommended action for this tree is removal due to the severe trunk defects and biological decay, which pose a risk to nearby structures. Management actions recommended include the removal of 5 trees, pruning of 4 trees, monitoring of 1 tree, and no action required for 3 trees. The removals are primarily due to structural concerns such as heavy lateral weight, unbalanced crown structures, and trunk defects. Pruning is advised for trees with unbalanced crowns or leaning trunks to reduce the risk of failure. Monitoring is suggested for trees in good condition but located near structures to ensure ongoing stability and health. These actions are intended to address the identified risks and maintain the safety and integrity of the property. G L O S S A R Y O F T E R M S ANSI A300 A set of industry standards for tree care practices, including pruning, cabling, and bracing, to ensure safety and quality. Branch A secondary limb growing from the trunk or another branch of a tree. Cavities or hollows Openings or voids in the trunk or branches of a tree, often caused by decay or damage. Common Hackberry A species of tree, scientifically known as Celtis occidentalis, known for its tolerance to various environmental conditions. DBH Diameter at Breast Height, a standard method of measuring the diameter of a tree trunk at 4.5 feet above the ground. Decay The process of decomposition in wood, often caused by fungi, leading to structural weakness. Dense crown density A tree crown with closely packed foliage, indicating a high number of leaves and branches. Driveway/Pavers Hard surfaces used for vehicle access and parking, often made of concrete or stone. Fair (condition rating)A condition rating indicating that a tree has some defects or signs of stress but is generally stable. Fair (health rating)A health rating indicating that a tree shows some signs of stress or decline but is not in immediate danger. Full wind exposure A condition where a tree is fully exposed to wind from all directions, increasing the risk of wind-related damage. Fungal conks Fruiting bodies of fungi that appear on tree trunks or branches, indicating internal decay. Good (condition rating)A condition rating indicating that a tree is structurally sound with no significant defects. Good (health rating)A health rating indicating that a tree is healthy with no signs of stress or disease. Greater Than Moderate risk level A risk level indicating a higher likelihood of failure than moderate, requiring prompt attention. Heavy lateral weight or unbalanced crown structure A condition where the crown of a tree is unevenly distributed, increasing the risk of branch failure. ISA International Society of Arboriculture, an organization that promotes the professional practice of arboriculture. Lagerstroemia indica (Crape Myrtle)A species of flowering tree known for its vibrant blooms and smooth bark. Large crown size A tree crown that is significantly larger than average, often extending over a wide area. Large open wounds or bark loss Significant areas of missing bark or open wounds on a tree, often leading to decay. Leaning trunk (especially with soil displacement) A trunk that is not vertical, often due to root instability or soil movement, posing a risk of failure. Level 2 Basic Assessment A visual inspection method for assessing tree risk, focusing on ground-level observations without invasive techniques. Low risk level A risk level indicating a low likelihood of tree failure, requiring minimal intervention. Medium crown size A tree crown of average size, neither particularly large nor small. Moderate risk level A risk level indicating a moderate likelihood of tree failure, requiring some management action. Monitor An action recommendation to regularly observe a tree's condition to detect changes or emerging risks. No Action An action recommendation indicating that no immediate intervention is required for a tree. Normal crown density A crown density that is typical for the species, with a balanced distribution of leaves and branches. Partial wind exposure A condition where a tree is partially shielded from wind, reducing but not eliminating wind-related risks. Poor (condition rating)A condition rating indicating significant structural defects or instability in a tree. Prune The act of selectively removing branches from a tree to improve structure or reduce risk. Pruning The process of cutting away dead or overgrown branches to improve a tree's health and structure. Quercus virginiana (Live Oak)A species of oak tree known for its wide, spreading canopy and resilience in coastal environments. Removal The complete removal of a tree from a site, often due to safety concerns or poor condition. Remove An action recommendation to cut down and eliminate a tree from the property. Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm) A species of palm tree native to the southeastern United States, known for its resilience and distinctive fan-shaped leaves. Sidewalk/Pedestrian walkways Paved paths intended for pedestrian use, often adjacent to streets or buildings. Soft A term describing wood that has lost its structural integrity, often due to decay. Structure Buildings or other constructed elements on a property that may be impacted by tree failure. TRAQ Tree Risk Assessment Qualification, a certification for arborists to assess tree risk according to standardized methods. Trunk The main stem of a tree, supporting the branches and leaves. Utilities Infrastructure such as power lines or water pipes that may be affected by tree growth or failure. Weak branch unions Points where branches join the trunk or other branches, which may be structurally weak and prone to failure. Whole Tree A failure profile indicating the potential for the entire tree to fail, rather than just parts of it. Woodpecker holes indicating internal decay or insect presence Holes created by woodpeckers that may suggest underlying decay or insect infestation within the tree. mushrooms Fungal growths that appear on or near trees, often indicating decay or poor health. or brackets on trunk or roots Fungal structures that grow on tree trunks or roots, often indicative of decay. or decayed wood Wood that has decomposed, losing its strength and integrity. or fungal conks Fruiting bodies of fungi that appear on trees, indicating decay. punky A term describing wood that is soft and crumbly, often due to decay. rot The decomposition of wood, often caused by fungal activity, leading to structural weakness. A RB O R S T A R T R EE C A R E S O L U T I O N S Confidential — Prepared for Sarah White