Contents (Click To Jump)
- 1 What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Grand Rapids?
- 2 Does the City of Grand Rapids Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?
- 3 Who Is Responsible for Fallen Tree Removal in Grand Rapids?
- 4 How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Grand Rapids?
- 5 Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Grand Rapids?
- 6 What if Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Grand Rapids?
- 7 How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Grand Rapids?
What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Grand Rapids?
When it comes to the health of your trees, one of the most important things you can do is inspect them by taking regular walks around your property and looking at the leaves and bark. Sometimes the first signal that a tree is sick will be a change in leaf color. Other times, it’s the bark that looks a little off. Here are just a few of the common tree issues in Grand Rapids.
Emerald Ash Borer
The emerald ash borer, named for its green color, is a destructive, exotic beetle. This wood-boring pest is now in 35 states, including Michigan, and is responsible for killing hundreds of millions of ash trees across North America. The adult beetle does only a little damage by eating the tree’s foliage. It’s their larvae that do the killing. They will feed on the inner bark, which will disrupt water and nutrient transport through the tree. If you see D-shaped holes in the bark, or bark spitting, you may have an infestation. Sometimes, the first sign is thinning of the canopy.
Oak Wilt
If you notice that one of your oak trees starts to change to fall coloring way before the others, it may be due to oak wilt. This is a deadly fungal disease and a big problem in Grand Rapids. Starting from the top of the tree, moving downward, the leaves will wilt and brown. Within a few weeks, the entire tree will be affected and may die. If a tree is infected, all you can do is have it removed as quickly as possible to prevent the spread of the disease. Because this disease is so prevalent and fast-moving in Grand Rapids, it is best to call professionals like us for the job. We know how to safely remove diseased trees, limiting exposure to other nearby elms.
Dutch Elm Disease
Dutch elm disease is another big problem for trees in Grand Rapids. At first, you may notice the leaves wilting or shriveling. Next, the leaves and shoots will start to die off. If the branches become infected, they will be killed quickly. After this, if the disease progresses, the entire crown of the tree may be affected. This disease can travel to other elms nearby through roots, becoming out of control fast. The elm bark beetle carries and transfers the fungus that causes the disease to start. This is a difficult tree problem to have and harder to control. If your tree has any of these signs, you need to reach out to us and schedule a checkup.
Anthracnose
If you notice small, dead areas forming on the needles of your trees, followed by the needles dying off and dropping, it may be anthracnose. This is a tree disease that is caused by several varieties of fungus. Anthracnose is common in Grand Rapids, affecting primarily sycamores and white oak trees. The disease starts with a small black fungus eating the dead needle tissue. Eventually, causing large parts of the branches to turn brown as needles fall. Although anthracnose is not likely to kill your tree, it will make it weaker. If the tree is too weak, it may not make it through winter storms. The disease can be avoided by keeping the foliage dry. Try watering at the base of the tree rather than overhead, or use a drip watering system.
Does the City of Grand Rapids Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?
The city will not assist with tree removal in Grand Rapids. They will only maintain and remove trees that are on city property, unless you are the one who plants them. In that case, you will be responsible for the first year of maintenance. Even if you are responsible for it, the tree is considered property of the city. However, you need to get a permit to plant a tree and another to remove one. In Grand Rapids, all tree removals require a permit regardless if the tree is in a residential, industrial, public, or business space. This is due to the city’s preservation efforts to try and increase the canopy to 40%.
Who Is Responsible for Fallen Tree Removal in Grand Rapids?
Fallen tree removal in Grand Rapids can be a problem, especially during and after severe storms. The responsibility to have a fallen tree removed depends on where the tree falls and its state before having fallen. Below are some of the most common scenarios for who may be responsible for fallen tree removal.
If you’re a homeowner?
Homeowners in Grand Rapids are typically responsible to remove trees that have fallen onto their property. The city ordinance states that the property owner needs to take care of trees and vegetation on their own land. If the tree falls on city property, Grand Rapids will take care of it, even if the tree fell from private property. The city takes tree removal seriously, especially if a disease is suspected. If you are contacted by the city about the health or safety of your trees, it is best to respond promptly. If they ask you to remove a tree and you do not, they will take action and send you the bill.
If you’re a renter?
If you are a renter in Grand Rapids, you are not responsible for any tree removals. This is because you are not the property owner, and there are stringent rules about who can and cannot cut down trees. If a tree falls on the property you are renting, the best thing to do is contact the property owner as soon as possible so they can make the necessary arrangements.
If you’re a landlord?
Landlords are typically the property owners, making them responsible for tree removal in Grand Rapids if the fallen tree sits on their property. If you own a property and your tenant informs you of a fallen tree, you will need to take action. The best thing you can do in this situation is to contact your homeowners insurance company to see if the removal is covered. Often, if a tree falls due to natural or environmental reasons, they will take responsibility. You will still need to figure out if the cost for tree removal is more or less than your deductible.
If you’re a neighbor?
In Grand Rapids, neighbors have to follow the same rules. If a fallen tree is on their property, they are responsible for removal. If the tree that fell was not theirs, they are still responsible because it’s on their property. It’s important to talk to your neighbor or the city if you notice a sick or dangerous tree on their property. By addressing the problem before it falls, you can get out of removing it. This is because if a tree falls due to neglect, the neighbor won’t be responsible for removal if they can prove negligence.
How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Grand Rapids?
In the City of Grand Rapids, the main soil type is loamy, with sand and gravel underneath. Loamy soil is usually a mix of clay, sand, and silt, making it great for moisture retention. However, if the moisture is too high, you might start to see problems with the tree’s roots. If you suspect that the roots are beginning to rot or show signs of fungal growth, you may need to reduce watering or have the tree looked at by professionals like us. We can tell you if the tree is sick and poses any risk of falling.
Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Grand Rapids?
Weather can play a big role in the health and safety of your trees in Grand Rapids. One of the biggest problems trees face in Michigan is the cold, harsh winters. Winter storms can bring in a lot of snow and ice in this area, which may be too heavy for your tree to hold, causing fallen branches and trees. Trees that survive the winter with damage may be weaker and more susceptible to diseases and pests that come in spring and summer.
Severe thunderstorms can roll in quickly in Grand Rapids, especially in the spring and summer months. These storms can be unpredictable and, at times, even cause tornadoes. You also need to watch out for lightning during thunderstorms because trees are often struck. If a tree is hit by lightning, it can be a very hazardous situation. Lightning strikes are responsible for many fires and fallen trees each year. Making matters worse are the floods that often accompany severe thunderstorms. When a lot of rain falls in a short amount of time, flash floods may occur. This can cause trees to be partially uprooted and eventually need to be removed. Floods can also erode the soil, taking nutrients away from your trees.
What if Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Grand Rapids?
It is never good to have trees, dead or alive, near power lines. Consumers Energy should be contacted if trees near power lines need to be trimmed or removed. They are the only ones authorized to cut down or trim trees near power lines. No other people, workers, or companies can attempt clearing the branches or vegetation if not approved. If you need tree removal in Grand Rapids, which is near power lines, you will need to call Consumers Energy.
How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Grand Rapids?
The best way to find out how much tree removal costs in Grand Rapids is to get an estimate. Many factors can change the price depending on each particular job. We can give you a rough estimate based on what other people have paid to have trees removed in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The price range for the average tree removal is between $165 and $1,730. Below you will find the most common circumstances that increase the cost.
Tree Size
The biggest cost factor for tree removal in Grand Rapids is the size of the tree. The bigger and taller the tree, the more difficult it is to cut down. Taller trees are also more dangerous. Here is a general estimate of how much you could spend on tree removal based on height.
- 20-foot tree: $185 to $335
- 40-foot tree: $370 to $645
- 60-foot tree: $535 to $970
- 80-foot tree: $740 to $1480
Tree Location
Another cost factor you need to consider is the tree’s location. For example, if the tree is near power lines, you will need Consumer Energy to get involved. This can cause delays, which could cost more. If the tree is near other property and residential areas, more safety precautions will need to be in place. Trees that have already fallen and are not on any structures will cost less to remove in Grand Rapids.
Emergency Service
As you probably guessed, if you have a tree emergency, you will likely pay more. This is because tree removal companies are usually booked up. During storms, when most fallen tree emergencies occur, crews are already working around the clock. It will always cost less if you can schedule the work in advance and avoid paying overtime for labor.
