August 22, 2025
Straight boom or “stick” cranes were a game changer to the tree care industry when they were first used to assist in removing trees over two decades ago. However, since then, grapple cranes have increasingly become popular in the tree care industry.
What is a Grapple Crane?
A grapple crane is essentially a knuckleboom, which is an apt description since the boom articulates like the joints of one's finger. Furthermore, the business end of the boom features a grapple and saw combo that grips the tree parts, cuts them free and lowers them to the awaiting ground personnel to process.
Practical Application:
Traditionally, crane assisted tree removals occur when access is limited for standard tree care equipment, the tree is huge and impact to the clients landscape has to be kept to a minimum. In the case of tree removals done with a grapple crane, the process is much more efficient as it largely diminishes the need for a climber since the operator controls the machine with a remote.
Unique to Us:
It’s pretty common to see stick cranes poking through the canopy of our Urban Forest but the grapple crane is much less so. When we purchased our machine in 2018, there were roughly 70 of these modern marvels in the US. Since then, the number of grapple cranes have increased tenfold throughout the country, however, we continue to be the only company in the area to own and operate one.
Why NUF:
From the beginning, we have invested in state of the art technology to make our operations more efficient, less impactful to landscapes, and safer for our crew members. At NUF, we’re committed to providing the best tree care measures in the industry and when a removal is called for, we’re the most equipped to do it. Call today to set up a consultation with one of our Certified Arborists and to learn more about us and the services we provide.
