Trees are living, complex systems, and caring for them safely requires more expertise than most homeowners realize. An ISA-Certified Arborist is a tree care professional who has earned certification through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), demonstrating advanced knowledge in tree biology, pruning, safety, risk assessment, and long-term tree health.

A TRAQ-Qualified Arborist is a tree care professional who has earned the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ), one of the highest credentials offered by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). This qualification ensures the arborist has advanced training in evaluating tree stability, identifying potential hazards, and determining the likelihood of structural failure—especially important in regions like Corvallis that experience heavy winter storms and saturated soil conditions.

A Tree Risk Assessment is a structured, science-based evaluation performed by a trained arborist to determine the likelihood of a tree or limb failing and the potential consequences if it does. The goal is simple: protect people, property, and the long-term health of your trees.

Trees add beauty, shade, and value to your property—but they can also pose safety risks when they weaken or become structurally compromised. Many hazardous tree conditions develop gradually, while others appear suddenly after storms, soil saturation, or seasonal changes.

Tree pruning may seem simple—but it’s one of the most misunderstood and easily mishandled aspects of tree care. Homeowners often attempt DIY pruning to save time or money, only to accidentally cause long-term damage, increased risk, or unnecessary stress to their trees.

One of the most important decisions a homeowner can make is whether to preserve a tree or remove it. Trees offer beauty, shade, and value—but when they become hazardous or structurally compromised, they may pose risks to people and property.

The Willamette Valley’s weather patterns—heavy winter rain, saturated soils, high winds, and occasional snow or ice—create conditions that can significantly affect the stability and health of trees. While these natural events are common, they often leave homeowners unsure whether a tree is safe, damaged, or at risk of failure.

The Willamette Valley’s unique climate—mild temperatures, high humidity, and long rainy seasons—creates ideal conditions for a variety of tree diseases. Some are cosmetic, while others can weaken structural integrity, shorten a tree’s lifespan, or lead to hazardous failures if left untreated.

Not all tree support systems are the same. When a tree has weak limbs, structural defects, or storm-related damage, certified arborists use specialized methods to improve stability. The three most common support techniques are cabling, bracing, and propping.

While each method reinforces the tree in a different way, they all share one goal: reducing the likelihood of failure while preserving valuable trees whenever possible.