Hello good treefolk..Ive recently been browsing through this rather interesting forum,and have been impressed,educated and inspired by some of the posts and threads.Im hoping that some of you knowledgable chaps may wish to share ideas and opinions on an interesting ash that I looked at recently.The client and others living in the locality are very keen to retain this unique specimen for as long as possible(which is a view i share completely).However,he(the client)is from the "let nature take its course"camp(where I often also reside!).In this case,though,we have a beautiful specimen,undoubtedly quite old,that has lost most of its structural integrity.I believe,that in order to prolong the lifespan of the tree,a management plan needs to be implemented.I have suggested a light crown reduction and thin,and reductions to three larger limbs in order to reduce weight.these would obviously be sensitive and if deemed necessary,be done over as long a time span as required.This would be coupled with a cobra bracing system and possibly some form of internal prop system to alleviate the possibility of inward collapse.I have pointed out the obvious soil piled up around the root zone,and suggested immediate removal.
I have seen the tree in full leaf and its crown appears full and healthy.Having visited the site many times since late summer,I have seen no fungal fruiting bodies.
The old cob barn is being renovated,and tree is approx.8 metres from the building.
I would be really interested to hear from anyone with experience in maintaining old specimens like this,and any thoughts or opinions people might have,particularly on the internal prop suggestion.Hope the photos help.Thanks all.