888 Seminole Road Arborist Letter 03.06.201841 Inch Live Oak Tree Assessment
888 Seminole Road
Atlantic Beach, Florida
By
Vita Virtus, LLC
David Hart
International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist
(Certification # FL-6059A)
On March 6, 2018, David Hart of Vita Virtus, LLC (VV) examined a live oak (Quercus
virginiana) at the residence of 888 Seminole Road in Atlantic Beach, Florida. The
purpose of this examination was to assess the tree's condition and viability, as well as
its potential for remaining in a healthy and safe condition. Evidence of heart rot was
observed extending from the base of the tree to the crotch of the tree approximately
seven feet above the ground where the tree has two major codominant stems (pictures
of the tree follow). The evidence of heart rot in the crotch, trunk, and base of the tree is
an indication that the structural integrity of the tree has been compromised. Of
particular concern for this tree is the evidence of heart rot seen in the crotch of two
codominant stems. Typically, strong branch attachments develop when the size of the
branch is less than one-half the diameter of the parent stem, while a codominant stem
branching arrangement tends to be weaker. The problem of the subject tree's
codominant stem arrangement is exacerbated by the heart rot in the crotch of the
codominant stems.
The Atlantic Beach tree ordinance helps to prevent the loss of the ecological functions
and the human values uniquely provided by mature trees. However, the condition of
trees and their own distinctive situation in the landscape must be considered when
assessing the future viability of trees and the assured safety of people and property.
Due to the condition and location of the subject tree, it is my opinion and
recommendation that the subject tree should be exempted from the Atlantic Beach tree
ordinance and removed from the property to eliminate the threat it poses in its current
condition to people and property.
Picture 1. View of live oak tree.
Picture 2. View of heart rot in trunk, base, and in crotch of tree.
Picture 3. View of heart rot in crotch of tree.
Picture 4. View of heart rot in crotch, base, and trunk of tree.
Picture 5. View of heart rot in crotch of tree.
Picture 6. View of heart rot in crotch and trunk of tree.
Picture 7. View of heart rot in crotch and trunk of tree.
Picture 8. View of heart rot in trunk and base of tree.
Picture 9. View of heart rot in crotch, base, and trunk of tree.