How does tree species impact risk assessment?

The impact of tree species on risk assessment is significant because different species exhibit varying levels of susceptibility to diseases, pests, environmental stressors, and structural failures. Each species has unique biological and ecological characteristics that influence its resilience and vulnerability. For example, some species may naturally have a greater resistance to certain diseases or pests, while others may possess a structure that is more prone to breakage during storms or high winds.

Understanding these differences helps arborists and risk assessors evaluate potential hazards associated with individual trees or groups of trees more accurately. For instance, if a certain species is known to have shallow root systems, it may be more susceptible to uprooting in saturated soil compared to a species with deep, robust roots. Additionally, knowledge of a tree's typical growth patterns, longevity, and response to stress can inform better management decisions and risk mitigation strategies.

In contrast, suggesting that all tree species have the same risk factors discounts the distinct characteristics of different species that can significantly alter their risk profiles. Ignoring species type in assessments overlooks essential information that can lead to inaccuracies in determining risk levels, while focusing solely on native species unnecessarily narrows the scope of risk assessment, ignoring the presence and role of non-native species in the landscape.