Dyna Root & Dyna Tree
Why would you need Dyna Root or Dyna Tree?
Trees require structural integrity to support their own weight combined with external forces such as wind and rain to remain stable. There are many damaging agents that can diminish the structural integrity which can make trees unstable. For damage above ground, we can make visual assessments and if necessary, carry out more detailed assessment with low invasive diagnostic equipment such as the Picus and the Resi drill.
Where there is a possibility that the tree might be unstable because of underground damage or decay in the roots there are limited options for assessment because it is not possible to access the entire root plate without impacting further on tree stability.
Low Invasive
Quick to install
Real World Measurements
What is Dyna Root & Dyna Tree?
Dyna Root and Dyna Tree are low invasive tests that measures the subject tree’s dynamic response to actual wind loading in real time. Dyna Root records root plate movement and Dyna Tree records if the tree trunk bends and by how much.
Data recordings from individual measuring devices used for the test are time synchronised so that any movement in relation to wind pressure can be evaluated. The proprietary software uses statistical analysis to check the data and time series analysis to acknowledge the impact of ‘mass dampening’ - the effect of the tree crown swaying – absorbing and redistributing wind loading so it is diminished by the time it reaches the root plate. The evaluation produces a safety factor and associated risk assessment, i.e. a minimum safety factor below which the potential for tree failure is increased.
Dyna Root and Dyna Tree do not purport to deliver absolutes so our experience and expertise to interpret results is still an essential part of any assessment with careful consideration of the tree in its setting.
What does it entail?
The Dyna Root uses sensitive inclinometers to measure root plate inclination in windy weather. Dyna Tree uses elastometers to measure the bend in the stem in windy weather. It may not always be necessary to install the elastometers.
Testing needs a minimum wind speed of 35km for a typical measurement period of 3hrs; Dyna Root entails installation of an inclinometer at the root collar and Dyna Tree, if to be used, 2 elastometers perpendicular to each other on the stem at between 1 and 2m height. Installation only requires small wood screws. A dual axis anemometer for measuring the wind speed and direction is mounted on a 10m portable mast that is erected as near as possible to the subject tree without exposure to the wind being obstructed by other trees or buildings. The mast can be van mounted or erected to free stand in open space but the latter requires a minimum of 10m2 space for correct installation of the guide ropes.
Depending on the site location the hardware can be left to record and collected after a suitable interval.
Data evaluation is then a desk top exercise from which a written report of findings, opinions and recommendations can be produced.
When would you use it?
We would recommend its use where there is a concern about the stability of the tree because of evidence of wood decay fungi in the roots, root collar and stem base or visual evidence of adaptive growth at the base that might indicate wood decay or damage.
It can be used where a tree has been exposed to new wind forces by removal of adjacent trees or buildings. If roots have or may have been damaged by trenching or construction work, we can use Dyna Root to make assessments on tree stability to qualify if it can be reasonably safely retained.
The evaluations can be used as evidence-based justification for recommended works where a tree might be protected by Tree Preservation Order or to mitigate where there has been a breach of a tree preservation order or planning conditions, such as might occur on construction sites.
If you think it might be of use to your specific issues or you would like to know more just call the office.
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