How is risk defined in the context of tree assessment?

In the context of tree assessment, risk is best defined as the combination of the likelihood of an event occurring and the severity of the potential consequences if that event were to happen. This definition encapsulates not only the chance that a tree might fail or cause damage but also the impact that such failure could have on people, property, and the environment.

Understanding risk in this holistic manner allows tree professionals to prioritize their management actions based on both the probability and the potential severity of the outcomes. For example, a tree that is very likely to fail but poses minimal risk to people or property may not need as urgent attention as a tree with a moderate likelihood of failure but significant potential consequences, such as proximity to roads or structures.

This nuanced understanding is crucial for effective tree risk management, which strives not just to prevent tree failures but also to minimize the consequences of those failures when they occur. Thus, the accurate assessment of risk aids in making informed decisions regarding tree care, preservation, or removal.