The black oak that has been standing in the way of progress at the Hendries site finally received its independent bill of health. The Mr. Matthew Largess of Largess Forestry determined the tree “is not perfect but it is a very healthy tree of its age . .  .It is not a hazard to the public. I would like to see it preserved.”

Mr. Largess, whose nickname is Twig, spoke in passionate terms about trees and his advocacy for them (“I am the voice for these trees.”) He also stated that he was “shocked at how beautiful this place [Milton] is.”

His analysis of the tree found that:

• the tree is a “champion” old growth tree that he estimates to be 202 years old
• its circumference is 15’4
• it has an average crown spread of 77.5′

In terms of its condition

• the root structure is very strong
• about 25% of the crown (i.e. the limbs and their spread) is dead
• the tree is continuing to grow at a moderate rate
• there is no mushroom growth ( a symptom of ill health)
• the trunk is straight with no lean

Largess does not favor cabling trees to support them as the cables can damage the trees as much as help. When asked about how much space it required he said that the root system typically mirrored the crown. He also stated that the root system was likely growing to the north (toward the river) as it growth would be hampered by road and sidewalk.

His report stands in contrast to that originally done by an arborist used by the developer, Connelly Construction, as well as a more recent assessment done by Maltby & Co. Mr. Largess reviewed Maltby’s assessment and noted that he (Maltby) had not performed the same tests. He stated Maltby was a fine arborist but disagreed with his findings.

Mr. Whiteside has scheduled a follow-up to hear the developer’s response for March 3rd at 7:00PM. The report from Largess Forestry is available at the Town Planner’s office and the board intends to make an electronic copy available on their website.