David L. Cowles, Jr., R.L.A. / 2285 Trescott Drive / Tallahassee, FL 32308 / (850) 545-7035 / www.cowlesLA.com

ARBORIST FIELD REPORT
Capitol Grounds (House)
Structure and Site Drainage Design and Repair
Parking Garages #29, #30 and #31
400 South Monroe Street / Tallahassee, FL 32399
July 3, 2019
CLA Project No. 265.001 / 2019

Introduction
During a site meeting on July 2, 2019 with the architect (+HoyStarkHagan), building
contractor (Ajax), consulting arborist (CLA) and working arborist (AAA), additional
information concerning tree #229 was discovered. This tree is a 33” DBH live oak as
identified on the arborist report dated May 14, 2019.
Assessment
Live oak trees are often multi-trunked or develop a branching structure that does
not contain a central leader. This type of co-dominate branching can form
included bark in between the two competing branches, which can be a weaker
union – resulting in a higher risk of splitting / failure.
Although the tree is in good condition, it exhibits a co-dominate branching
structure, and a cause for new safety concerns. The presence of the newly
observed cracks associated with several main co-dominate branches suggests the
tree is at a higher risk of failure than normal. The exact risk potential is unknown, but
considering the targets would be heavy pedestrian use, immediate action is
recommended for the health, safety and welfare of the public. See photos
(attached).
Mitigation
Solutions to minimize risk were discussed and listed below.
1. Crown pruning to thin the branching and reduce weight in the canopy would
help to reduce risk, but will have to be perpetually managed.

 Capitol Grounds (House) / Structure and Site Drainage Design and Repair – Arborist Field Report
7/3/2019

2. The installation of cables and / or rods to hold the canopy together would be
expensive.
3. Supporting post(s) would be functional but unattractive.
4. A combination of the above, but this tree (appearing to have no significant
historical value) may not warrant the expense. There is the possibility that this
tree may still fail regardless of these solutions.
5. Removal and replanting with a healthier specimen(s) would eliminate the
current risk altogether, but is more of a long-term solution. The immediate
loss of shade may be unpopular.
If needed, AAA can provide quotes for these solutions in order to make a cost
comparison.
Conclusion
For safety reasons, it is the preference of CLA and AAA to remove the tree and
replant with a large specimen (or multiple smaller species) as directed by the
project Landscape Architect (Patrick Hodges, R.L.A.)
If other solutions (to leave the tree in place) are pursued, then the previously
proposed mitigation shall be performed, in conjunction with any risk abatement
work in the canopy. The continual management and assessment will be essential if
this tree is preserved.
Professional Certification

David L. Cowles, Jr., R.L.A.
Florida Reg. No: LA6666917
ISA Certified Arborist # FL-5314A

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 Capitol Grounds (House) / Structure and Site Drainage Design and Repair – Arborist Field Report
7/3/2019

PHOTOS:

co-dominate branching in the upper trunk

recent crack along branch union
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