August 8, 2025
As evidenced by the existence of a Champion Tree Registry, people are especially drawn to the stately charm of mature trees. However, as trees age they become more likely to develop health and structural issues if they are not properly cared for. As Certified Arborists, we are trained to identify problematic features in trees and for those of us who hold a Tree Risk Assessment Qualification, we have the ability to assign a risk rating to trees as well.
What is TRAQ?
The Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) is an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) credential that demonstrates a professional’s ability to assess tree risk using a standardized, systematic approach.
Three Concepts:
The three key components of a tree risk assessment are: the likelihood of failure, potential targets and the consequences of failure. To further explain, the likelihood of failure assesses the probability that a tree or a part will fail. As for the potential targets, that’s essentially what the tree and/ or its parts would hit if they fail. Lastly, the consequences of failure quantifies what level of impact the tree would have on its targets.
TRAQ and New Urban Forestry
Of the 5 ISA Certified Arborists on staff at New Urban Forestry, three of us are TRAQ Certified. This credential has been an important tool as it helps us to communicate the difference between perceived risk, which can be subjective, and a quantifiable level of risk based on studies, observation and science. Our goal in doing so is to educate our clients and help them make informed tree care decisions.
Call NUF Today!
While it’s not necessary to perform a risk assessment on every tree, it is important that your trees be monitored and cared for by an ISA Certified Arborist at NUF. Give us a call today to set up an appointment with our friendly staff to learn more about the TRAQ and discuss your tree care needs. As always, life is better with trees, trees are better with us.
