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Attachment 1 Exhibit 7w tTl .ly y (� V H K R! 0 PRELIMINARY ARBOWST REPORT Highlands Lot 7 Los Gatos, California Prepared for. Suzanne Avila Town of Los Gatos Community Planning Department 110 E. Main Street Los Gatos, CA 95031 Prepared by. Deborah Ellis, MS. Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist Registered Consulting Arborist #305, American Society of Consulting Arborists Board Certified Master Arborist WE -04578, International Society of Arboriculture Certified Professional Horticulturist #30022, American Society for Horticultural Science Deborah Ellis, MS j, Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist ,Service since 1984 JANUARY 16, 2014 ©Deborah Ellis, 2014. This report may be reproduced in whole or in part by only the client and the client's authorized representatives and only for use with the subject project and /or property. All other reproduction requires the expressed written or verbal consent of Deborah Ellis prior to reproduction. PO Box 3714, 5aratoga,CA 95070. 408 - 725 -1357. decah@pacbell.net. Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist Service since 1984 Table of Contents TREEMAP ........................................................................................................................................................................ .. ............................2 SUMMARY ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 2 Description of Project: ............................................................................................................. ......... 2 Descriptionof Existing Trees: ................................................................................................. *-**** Table1 Summary Tree Table ................................................................................................................................................................... "Fair Suitability ..............................4 5 Table 2 Trees with /Good" Preservation Table 3 Trees with "Fair" Preservation Suitability ................................................................................................................................. ............................... Table 4 Trees with "Fair /Poor ", "Poor ", "Unacceptable" or "Uncertain" Preservation Suitability .............................................. ..............................6 RECOMMENDATIONS............................................................................................................................................................................ ..............................7 APPENDIX............................................................................................................................................................................................... ..............................8 Table5 Complete Tree Table .................................................................................................................................................................. ..............................8 10 Explanation of Tree Table Data Columns: ................................................................................................ ........................... SupportingInformation .................................................................................................................................................................... .............................13 13 eport....................................................................................................................................................................... Purpose & Use of Report.. ....................................................................................................................... **­­**­*­­******* .............................13 ............................ 13 ............... Observations........................................................................................................................................................................................... .............................14 TreeProtection Distances .................................................................................................................................................................... .............................15 .............................15 3to5XDBH........................................................................................................................................................................................ .............................15 OTPZ(Optimum Tree Protection Zone) .......................................................................................................................................... .............................16 TreePhotos ............................................................................................................................................................................................. Assumptions& Limitations .................................................................................................................................................................... .............................18 .............................20 Glossary ............................................................................................................................. ............................... ...................... Cover photo: Lot 7 viewed from Santella Court. Coast live oaks #614, 615 and 619 are labeled. All photos in this report were taken by D. Ellis on January 13, 2014. PO Box 3714, Saratoga, CA 95070. 408 - 725 -1357 decah@pacbell.net. http: / /www.deCah.com. I TREE MAP Deborah Ellis, A S Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist Service since 1984 t___9— / r nNa Fair /Good or / m ' a Good _ _�__ — * fair _""--- --_ —_._ * — --- - -_ ^ Fair /Poor, Poor or / #626 - --- — —"'"�, Unaceptable .0 #625 #607 #624 Ak A* #618 #623 #608 0 Alk 1 #622 D * . #609 $ e^m / * #621 Alk . #620 A #619 #610 #606 #605 / 1#617 #616 * / o � � #615 #604 #6.11 � A #603 #614 S'q�T m F �q Cpv #601 PO Box 3714, 5oratoga,CA 95070. 408 - 725 4357. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. 0 0 4. Page 1 of l l Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist R Horticulturist Service since 1984 SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: A single family home will be designed within the Least Restrictive Development Area (LDRA) shown on the Tee Exhibit Plan. After reviewing this Preliminary Arborist Report, the project architects and engineers can try to design the improvements in order to retain trees with "Fair /Good" or "Good" preservation suitability. DESCRIPTION OF EXISTING TREES: There are 26 protected trees' within the or on the border of the LDRA on Lot 7. These trees are described briefly the Summary Tree Table (Table 1) on page 4 and in greater detail in the Complete Tree Table (Table 5) beginning on page 8. No tree disposition recommendations provided in this report, because construction plans have not yet been developed, and so this is a Preliminary Arborist Report. The tree Preservation Suitability ratings and Tree Root Protection Distances will be helpful to the project architects however, in deciding which trees to retain and how far improvements should be located from these trees, during the design process. Trees are coded as to their preservation suitability on the Tree Map on the previous page, and also in the Summary Table. In addition, trees in the various preservation suitability ratings have been grouped into separate tables for quick reference, as listed below: • Eiaht trees are classified as having "Fair /Good" preservation suitability. These are the better trees on the site, and those that are most worthy of retaining or transplanting. They are listed in Table 2 on page 5. Note that no trees were listed as having "Good" preservation suitability on this site. • Five trees are classified as having "Fair" preservation sufiabifity. These are "so -so" trees and I do not recommend going through too much trouble to retain them. They are listed in Table 3 on page 5. Thirteen hees are classified as having "Fair /Poor" or "Poor" preservation suitability. I would not put any effort into retaining any of these trees, which are listed in Table 4 on page 6. Those trees listed as Poor ( #6o6, 611, 614) should be removed unless they will be I For the purpose of this project, a protected tree in Los Gatos as defined in the Los Gatos Town Cade Division 2 Tree Protection 5ecoon Z4. iu.uzsv u Scope of Protected Trees is any tree with a 4 -inch or greater diameter of any trunk, when removal relates to any review for which zoning approval or subdivision approval is required. Town Street trees of any size are protected. Fruit trees less than 18 inches in trunk diameter are exempt. PO Box 3714, Saratoga, CA 95070. 408 - 725 -1357. decati acbell.net, http: / /www.decoh.com. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. Page 2 of 11 Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist Jt]� located for from improvements or people. Several of the "Fair /Poor" trees are recommended to be examined in greater detail by Service siltce 1984 the arborist. • The deciduous trees (blue oaks) should be re- evaluated again after full leaf -out, around mid -June. Several of these trees had some dead branches but it is difficult to accurately assess the percentage of dead branches, thus the true condition of these trees while they are leafless during the winter. • As the construction plans for the project are developed I will review these plans and produce additional reports describing the expected impact of construction on those trees that will remain. I can work with the architects to reduce construction impacts to trees where possible. I will eventually prepare a Final Arborist Report listing trees to remain, trees to be removed and tree protection specifications for those trees that will remain. My general impression of the trees on this site is, They are not in good condition. Many trees have canopies that are abnormally sparse, and many of the trees have been pruned very poorly, resulting in less- than - desirable structure. It is possible that that the vigor of some of these trees may improve if they receive rainfall (or supplemental water) this winter, but the drought which is now beginning its fourth year is at least partially responsible for the condition of the trees. I should also note that there has been a lot of vehicle activity on this lot; with heavy equipment coming very close to and in some cases nicking the trunks and branches of trees. This vehicle traffic also causes soil compaction, which is very damaging to trees — especially already weakened trees. Materials and some debris from construction on other sites are also being stored on this site, which can be damaging to trees. The key trees for this site are: The eight trees with "Fair /Good" preservation suitability ratings. These are the best trees within the LRDA. They are coast Dive oaks #602, 606, 610, 6159 619 and 623 and blue oaks #603, 604 and 606. PO Box 3714, Saratoga, CA 95070. 408 - 725 -1357. decahCipacbell.net. http: / /www.decah.com. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. Page 3 of 11 TABLE 1 SUMMARY TREE TABLE ree # Commoh , Name 7rttok 1 diam: Pteservafinn Suitability 601 roast live oak 122 Fair /Poor 602 coast live oak 5 Fair /Good 603 blue oak 16 Fair/Good_ 604 blue oak 18 _ Fair /Good 605 blue oak 13 Fair 606 blue oak 13 Fair /Good 607 606 609 blue oak coast live oak coast live oak 13 25 20, 10 Fair7Po_or Poor Fair /Poor 610 coast live oA 1 Fair/Good _) 611 coast live oak 18,19 IPoor 612 coast live oak 20 (2) Fair /Poor 613 coast live oak 17 Fair /Poor Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist Service since 1984 TIi'ee # . . Cummbh + tVamr3 gunk' 5(5iam. Pretervullon Sultebility 614 coast live oa car 615 coast live oak 14,16,19 Fair /Good _ 616 coast live oak 13 Fair /Poor 617 coast live oak 17,20 Fair /Poor 618 coast live oak 12,18 Fair /Poor _ 619 620 621 coast live oak coast live oak coast live oak 19,20 13 15 Fair /Good Fair Fair 622 coast live oak 5,4,3,2 Fair 623 coast live oak 20 Fair /Good J 624 coast live oak 13 Fair /Poor 625 coast live oak 24 Fair /Poor 626 blue as 12 Fair 26 Trees Po Box 3714 Saratoga LA 95070 408 - 725 -1357 decah @pacbell.net. http: / /www.deccih.com. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. Page 4 of 11 605 'jblue oak 113 620 coast live oak 13 j 621 coast live oak 15 622 coast live oak 5,4,3,21 626 Iblue oak 112 I if 8 Trees 46 5 Trees if r' P Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist PO Box 3714, 5aratoga, CA 95070. 408 - 725 -1357. decah @pacbell.net. http: / /www,decoh.com. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16., 2014. Service since 1984 Page 5 of 20 Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborlst & HortICUltUrlSt Service since 1984 TABLE 4 TREES WITH "FAIR /POOR" "POOR" "UNACCEPTAB "UNCERTAIN" PRESERVATION SUITABILITY l'.2•, 1 a p7• 601 coast live oak 22 Fair /Poor 607 blue oak 13 Fair /Poor 608 coast live oak 25 Poor 609 coast live oak 20, 10 Fair /Poor 611 coast live oak 18,19 Poor 612 coast live oak 20 (2) Fair /Poor 613 coast live oak 17 Fair /Poor 614 coast live oak 45 Poor 616 coast live oak 13 Fair /Poor 617 coast live oak 17,20 Fair /Poor 618 coast live oak 12,18 Fair /Poor 624 coast live oak 13 Fair /Poor 625 coast live oak 24 Fair /Poor 13 Trees PO Box 3714 Saratoga CA 95070 408 - 725 -1357 decah @pacbell.net. http: / /www.decah.com. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. Page b of 20 RECOMMENDATIONS Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist P ,Service since 1984 1. Which trees to retain? Try to design around and retain as many of trees as possible with "Fair /Good" preservation suitability ratings. Trees with "Fair" preservation suitability should be saved when possible, but I don't recommend making a significant effort to save them. No effort should be made to retain trees with "Fair /Poor" or "Poor" preservation suitability. Trees with "Poor" preservation suitability are best removed and replaced with new, young healthy trees of species that are native to the immediate area. "Fair /Poor" trees recommended for further evaluation by the arborist should be evaluated in greater detail if they may remain. If no further evaluation will be performed on these trees then it is probably best to remove these them for reasons of safety. 2. The deciduous trees (blue oaks) should be re- evaluated by the arborist again after full leaf -out, around mid -June. Several of these trees had some dead branches but it is difficult to accurately assess the percentage of dead branches, thus the true condition of these trees while they are leafless during the winter. 3. As a part of the design process, try to keep improvements (and any additional over - excavation or work area beyond the improvement) as far from tree trunks as possible. 3xDBH2 should be considered the absolute minimum distance from any disturbance to the tree trunk on one side of the trunk, for root protection. If there will be disturbances on multiple sides of the trunk, then 5xDBH or greater should be used. Tree canopies must also be taken into consideration when designing around frees. 4. Please submit the proposed site plan and other construction plans to me for review of construction impacts to trees, when these plans are available. 5. The Los Gatos Tree Protection Directions will be included in the Final Arborist Report for this project. See paqe 11 for PO Box 3714, Saratoga, CA 95070. 408 - 725 -1357. decah @pacbell.net Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. /www.decah.corn. Page 7 of 20 1 Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist Service since 1984 APPENDIX TABLE 5 COMPLETE TREE TABLE _a ....... to t., tZ This Table is continued through page 10. uara netas in me roure via cnNIUn _� ECTION ON DITIOM �r° ANCE$ Species 7CO) Tree & Trunk Preservation t ` d, x # - Common Diam. •Sixes o Suitability 4 '.n m G Name K N p N 30'20 50 50 Fair /Poor Could remove this tree and keep better adjacent tree (#602) instead. See 5 9 16 601 22 02 below. Quercus _... oak Fair /Good _ Ten inches from tree 0601 - may be a sucker of 601. Could remove 601 and 1 2 3 602 coast live 5 12'10. 75 70 keep this tree (602) instead - 602 is a better tree with a longer life ahead of it, oak and its growth is impeded by 601. 602 could also be transplanted if necessary. -. - 4 6 16 603 Quercus 16 0'30' 70 70 Fair /Good douglasii, blue oak 4 7 18 604 blue oak _ 18 45`35', 75 60 Fair/Good - 3 5 13 605 blue oak 13 35'25; 60 65 Fair 3 5 13 606 blue oak _ 13 38'25 _70 60. Fair /Good /Poor - Large mechanically- caused wounds to trunk. Some branches of this tree are 3 5 13 607 blue oak 13 5`35 50 50 Fair obviously dead, but can't tell what percentage, so can't judge condition very ell. This and all of the other deciduous trees (blue oaks on this lot) should be rechecked in early summer (e.g. June) to better assess their condition. Lower trunk hollow with cavity opening to outside - can see wood decay conks 6 10 18 608 1coast live 125 30`30 60 20 Poor inside cavity, and cavity is filled with wood rat droppings which are pouring out oak PO Box 3714, Saratoga, CA 95070. 408 - 725 -1357. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. Page 8 of 20 Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist - - Semite smcr 19R1 [Species �CONDITIONr - _ t ION - -- (Tree -. &. Trunk Size Preservation # Common Diam. . Suitability Name 0 v a x x W a x k 609 coast live 20, 10 35.30 60 SO:Fair /Poor E - {Small cavity opening at lower trunk may lead to a larger hollow T� oak interior - this should be rechecked if tree may be retained. 6 110 18 610 coast live 21 45'40 70 60Fair /Good oak 5 1 9 15 611 coast live 118,19 2.35 40 40'Poor Canopy very sparse and a cavity in the lower trunk. 7 12 21 " oak 612 coast live 0 (2) 35.25 60. 50; Fair /Poor Eight inch diameter scaffold branch over cul-de -sac is hollow ak and has several bird nest holes in R. 5 8 14 613 coast live 17 35`25 50 50 Fair /Poor Bark falling off trunk at 4.6 feet above the investigate oak ground - further. 4 7 g 614 coak oast live 45 0`45 40 20 Poor Three trunks at 4 feet (22& 18 inch diameters). The 22 inch trunk is hollow and I can see daylight through it. 11 19 45 615 'coast live 14,16,19 50'50 70 60.FairlGood 8 - 14 .. -... 25 oak 616 coast live 13 20.15 - 60 40 Fair /Poor Severe trunk crook because the tree very is grove- oak _.. affected. 3 5 6 617 coast live ;17,20 oak 45'45 45 80 Fair/Poor - Canopy very sparse. Two trunks joined at the back. Some basal decay in one 7 .._ trunk. 12 21 618 coast live 12,18 35`30 50 40 Fair /Poor Lower trunk sweeps and has a significant p oak crook -tree is very 9 grove affected. 6 10 18 619 coast live ,19,20 5 "50; 70 60 -Fair /Good _ - oak 7 12 22 620 coast live 13 22'20 60 60 Fair _ oak ­five 3 5 6 621 coast 45'22 60 60 Fair 4 6 7. oak PO Box 3714, Saratoga, CA 95070. 408 - 725 -1357. decay@pgcbell.net. http: / /www.decah.com. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. Sanunry 1A MA Page 9 of 20 Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist & Horticulturis Service since 1984 EXPLANATION OF TREE TABLE DATA COLUMNS: 1) Tree Number (the field tag number of the existing tree). Each existing tree in the field is tagged with a 1.25 inch round aluminum number tag that corresponds to its tree number referenced in the arborist report, Tree Map, Tree Protection Specifications and any other project plans where existing trees must be shown and referenced. 2) Tree Name and Type: Species: The Genus and species of each tree. This is the unique scientific name of the plant, for example Quercus agrifolia where Quercus is the Genus and agrifolia is the species. The scientific names of plants can be changed from time to time, but those used in this report are from the most current edition of the Sunset Western Garden Book (2012) Sunset Publishing Corporation. The scientific name is presented at its first occurrence in the Tree Table, along with the regional common name. After that only the common name is used. F PO Box 3714. Saratoga. CA 95070. 408 - 725 -1357. decay@pacbell.net. http: / /Www.decoh -COM. I Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. Page 10 of 20 CONDITICIN - PROtErfioN.. DISTANCES Species ,Nft (Tree & Trunk Sias' ' Preservation Notes ' # i Comman Diam. Suitability o o F Name rn O ro N -_ -4 - -.._. 622 coast live 5,4,3,2 20'18 60 50 Fair .Stump sprout tree. 2 4 5 oak 623 coast live 20 50725 65 60 Fair /Good 5 8 1s oak 624 ,coast live 13 8`25 50 46 Fair/Poor 3 5 6 625 .coast live 24 30 "30 70 50 Fair/Poor Lower trunk hollow and with a cavity opening to the outside — should be 6 10 18 :oak investigated further if tree may be retained. 626 i blue oak 12 50 "30 70 60 _ Fair Small lower trunk wound has sapwood fungal wood decay conks — preferably 3 5 12 investigate further. EXPLANATION OF TREE TABLE DATA COLUMNS: 1) Tree Number (the field tag number of the existing tree). Each existing tree in the field is tagged with a 1.25 inch round aluminum number tag that corresponds to its tree number referenced in the arborist report, Tree Map, Tree Protection Specifications and any other project plans where existing trees must be shown and referenced. 2) Tree Name and Type: Species: The Genus and species of each tree. This is the unique scientific name of the plant, for example Quercus agrifolia where Quercus is the Genus and agrifolia is the species. The scientific names of plants can be changed from time to time, but those used in this report are from the most current edition of the Sunset Western Garden Book (2012) Sunset Publishing Corporation. The scientific name is presented at its first occurrence in the Tree Table, along with the regional common name. After that only the common name is used. F PO Box 3714. Saratoga. CA 95070. 408 - 725 -1357. decay@pacbell.net. http: / /Www.decoh -COM. I Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. Page 10 of 20 Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist 8 Horticulturis Service since 1984 3) Trunk diameter (at 3 feet above the ground). This is the trunk diameter measurement height required by the Town of Los Gatos, in lieu of DBH'. For multi -trunk trees, trunk diameter is measured for the largest trunk and estimated for all smaller trunks. A number in parentheses (e.g. 2) after the trunk diameter(s) indicates that it was not possible to measure the trunk at 3 feet (due to tree architecture) and so the diameter was measured at this alternate height (in feet), which reflects a more realistic trunk diameter for the tree. Examples: an "18" in the Diameter column means that the tree has a diameter of 18 inches at 4.5 feet above the ground. An "18 (2)" means that trunk diameter was 18 inches at 2 feet above the ground. I8, 7, 5" means that this is a multi -trunk tree with trunk diameters of I8, 7 and 5 inches at 3 feet above the ground. 4) Size: tree size is listed as height x width in feet, estimated and approximate and intended for comparison purposes. 5) Condition Ratings: Trees are rated for their condition on a scale of zero to 100 with zero being a dead tree and 100 being a perfect tree (which is rare — like a supermodel in human terms). A 60 is "average" (not great but not terrible either). There are two components to tree condition — vigor and structure, and each component is rated separately. Averaging the two components is not useful because a very low rating for either one could be a valid reason to remove a tree from a site -- even if the other component has a high rating. Numerically speaking for each separate component: • 100 is equivalent to Excellent (an 'A' academic grade), 80 is Good (8), 60 is Fair (C), 40 is Poor (D), 20 is Unacceptable (F) and 0 is Dead. Relative to the scope of work for this report tree condition has been rated but not explained in detail and recommendations for the management of tree condition have not been included. The tree owner may contact Deborah Ellis for additional information on tree condition and specific recommendations for the general care of individual trees relative to their condition. The condition of the tree is considered relative to the tree species and present or future intended use of the site to provide an opinion on the tree's Preservation Suitability Rating (i.e. "Is this tree worth keeping on this site, in this location, as explained in Table 6 on the next page. This is based upon the scenario that the tree is given enough above and below- ground space to survive and live a long life on the site. Ratings such as "Fair /Good" and "Fair /Poor" are intermediate in nature. The Preservation Suitability rating is not always the same as the Condition Rating because (for example) some trees with poor condition or structure can be significantly improved with just a small amount of work —and it would be worthwhile to keep the tree if this were done. is tree trunk diameter in inches "at breast height ", measured at 4.5 feet above ground level. This is the forestry and arboricultural standard measurement that is also used in many tree- related calculations. PO Box 3714, Saratoga, CA 95070. 408- 725 -1357. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. /www.decoh.corn. 11 of 20 Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist Service since 1984 S 't b'lit Ratin Ex lanation continued on the next pa e 1 able 6 Preservation u a r Such trees are rare but they have unusually good health and structure and provide multiple functional and aesthetic benefits to the environment and the users of the Excellent site. These are great trees with a minimum rating of "Good" for both vigor and structure. E uivalenttoacademic rade'A'. have minor to moderate structural or condition flaws that can These trees may some be improved with treatment They are not perfect but they are in relatively good Good condition and provide at least one significant functional or aesthetic benefit to the environment and the users of the site. These are better than average trees lettodemic rade'B'. Thuivaese trnees hacaave moderate or greater health and /or structural defects that it may or may not be possible to improve with treatment. These are "average" trees — not great but not so terrible that they absolutely should be removed. The majority of trees on most sites tend to fall into this category. These trees will require more Fair intensive management and monitoring, and may also have shorter life spans than trees in the "Good" category. Retention of trees with moderate suitability for preservation depends upon the degree of proposed site changes. Equivalent to academic grade 'C'. These trees have signincard structural defects or poor health that cannot be reasonably improved with treatment. These trees can be expected to decline regardless of management. The tree species themselves may have characteristics Poor that are undesirable in landscape settings or may be unsuitable for high use areas. I do not recommend retention of trees with low suitability for preservation in areas where people or property will be resent. E uivalent to academic grade 'D'. These trees are dead and are not suitable for retention in their location. In certain settings however, (such as wilderness areas, dead trees are beneficial as food and None shelter for certain animals and plants including decomposers. Equivalent to academic 2rade 'F'. 14. Notes: This may include any other information that would be helpful to the client and their architects and contractors within the scope of work for this report, such as a more detailed explanation of tree condition or expected construction impact. When reasonable, methods of reducing construction impact (including design changes) are presented here. 15. Tree Protection Distances (See page 15). a. Root Protection: • 3 and SxDBH: Both the 3 and SxDBH distances are listed for each tree. For multi -trunk trees 100% of the DBH of the largest trunk is added to 50% of the DBH for all other trunks in order to compute the operational DBH to use for these the Tree Protection Distance calculations. PO Box 3714 Saratoga CA 95070 408- 725 -1357. decah @pacbell.net. http: / /www.Cecan.com. I Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. Page 12 of 20 Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist • OTPZ (Optimum Tree Protection Zone): This is calculated as per the text, Trees & Development Matheny et al., International Society ofCe 1984 Arboriculture, 1998. This method takes into account tree age and the particular tree species tolerance of root disturbance. Because it may not be possible to maintain the OPTZ distance recommended for trees on many projects due to crowded site conditions, the Arborist may omit this requirement and list only the 3 and 5xDBH distances. b. CanOPy Protection: Additional space beyond root zone protection distances may be necessary for canopy protection. SUPPORTING INFORMATION PURPOSE & USE OF REPORT report is to identify and describe the existing protected trees on site This survey and report was required by the Town of Los Gatos as a part of the building permit process for this project. The pur ose of the - - their size, condition and suitability for preservation. The audience for this report is the property owner, developer, project architects and contractors, and Town of Los Gatos authorities concerned with tree preservation and tree removal. The goal of this report is to preserve the existing protected trees on site that are in acceptable condition, are good species for the area and will fit in well with the proposed new use of the site. METHODOLOGY I performed a basic evaluation of the subject trees on January 13, 2014. Tree characteristics such as form, weight distribution, foliage color and density, wounds and indicators of decay were noted. Surrounding site conditions were also observed. Evaluation procedures were taken from: • Guida for Plant Appraisal, 9th edition, 2000, authored by the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers (CTLA) and published by the Intemational Society of Arbori culture (ISA). • Species Classification and Group Assionment published by the Western Chapter of the International society of Arboriculture (WCISA), 1992. • Tree Hazard Evaluation Form taken from Evaluation of Hazard Trees in Urban Areas, 2n° Arboriculture, 1994. Ed., Matheny &Clark, International Society of The above three references serve as industry professional standards for tree and landscape evaluations. PO Box 3714, Saratoga, CA 95070. 408 - 725 -1357. decah@pacbell.net. http: / /www.decah.com. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. Tanuary 16, 2014. 13 of 20 Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist & Horticulturis Service .since 1984 I measured the trunk diameter of each tree with a diameter tape at 3 feet above the ground, which is the required trunk diameter measurement height of the Town of Los Gatos. Trunk diameter was extrapolated to DBH (diameter at breast height, 4.5 feet above the ground) because DBH is also used calculate tree protection distances and other tree - related factors. The DBH figure is not included in the Tree Tables, but I have used it to estimate construction impacts to trees. Trunk diameter was rounded to the nearest inch. I estimated the tree's height and canopy spread. Tree Condition (structure and vigor) was evaluated and I also recorded additional notes for trees when significant. Tree species and condition considered in combination with the current or (if applicable) proposed use of the site yields the Tree Preservation Suitability rating. The more significant trees (or groups of trees) were photographed with a digital camera. Some of these photos are included in this report, but all photos are available from me by email if requested. There were no construction plans available at the time that this report was prepared. My evaluation and recommendations therefore, are based upon the site "as is ", but understanding that it will someday be developed. I could not therefore, provide an Expected Impact of Construction rating. OBSERVATIONS SITE CONDITIONS There are no improvements on this lot. Site topography is mostly sloping with a more level area up near the cul -de -sac of Santella Court, which will be used for the building pad. Sun exposure for the trees varies from full to partly shaded, depending upon proximity to existing buildings and to other trees. Vegetation is native to the immediate area and of natural growth (it was not planted). There are two tree species within the LDRA; these are coast live oak (an evergreen oak species) with a lesser number of blue oaks, which are deciduous. PO Box 3714. Saratoga, CA 95070. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. Page 14 of 20 TREE PROTECTION DISTANCES 3TO5XDBH Deborah Ellis, MS p Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist Service since 1984 No one can estimate and predict with absolute certainty how far a soil disturbance such as an excavation must be from the edge of the trunk of an individual tree to affect tree stability or health at a low, moderate or severe degree -- there are simply too many variable involved that we cannot see or anticipate. 3xD8H however, is a reasonable "rule of thumb" minimum distance (in feet) any excavation should be from the edge of the trunk on one side of the trunk. This is supported by several separate research studies including (Smiley, Friedrich, & Hendrickson 2002, Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories. L)BHis trunk "diameter at breast height" (4.5 feet above the ground). This distance is often used during the design and planning phases of a construction project in order to estimate root damage to a tree due to the proposed construction. It tends to correlate reasonably well with the zone of rapid toper, which is the area in which the large buttressroots(main support roots close to the trunk) rapidly decrease in diameter with increasing distance from the trunk. For example, using the 3X DBH guideline an excavation should be no closer than 4.5 feet from the trunk of an 18 -inch DBH tree. Such distances are guidelines only, and should be increased for trees with heavy canopies, significant leans, decay, structural problems, etc. It is also important to understand that in actual field conditions we often find that much less root damage occurs than was anticipated by the guidelines. 3xb9H may be more of an aid in preserving tree stability and not necessarily long -term tree health. 5X DBH or greater is the "preferred" minimum distance which should be strived for, and this distance or greater should probably be used when there are multiple trenches on more than one side of the trunk. The roots beyond the zone of rapid taper form an extensive network of long, rope -like roots one to two inches in diameter. These woody perennial roots are referred to as transport roots because they function primarily to transport water and minerals. Maintaining a 5xDBH tree protection zone or greater around a tree will preserve more of these transport roots, which will have less of an impact on tree health than if the excavation were closer to the trunk. OTPZ (OPTIMUM TREE PROTECTION ZONE) OTPZ is the distance in feet from the trunk of the tree, all around the tree, that construction or other disturbance should not encroach within. If this zone is respected, then chances of the tree surviving construction disturbance are very good. This method takes into account tree age, DBH and the particular species tolerance to root disturbance. Although there are no scientifically based methods to determine the minimum distance for construction (for example, root severance) from trees to assure their survival and stability, there are some guidelines that are often used in the arboricultural industry. The most current guideline comes from the text, Trees & Development, Matheny et al., International Society of Arboriculture, 1998. The tree protection zone calculation method in this text was used to obtain the OTPZ's provided in this report. Due to the crowded, constrained nature of many building sites it is often not be possible to maintain the OPTZ distance recommended for many of the trees -- therefore I have also listed alternate distances of 3 and 5X DBH (see paragraph above). PO Box LA 95.070. 408 - 725 -1357. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. Page 15 of 20 TREE PHOTOS Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist Seance since 1984 Coast live oaks #611,613 and 614. 613 and 614 are close to 5antella Court while 611 is farther back. Unfortunately, all of these trees have "Fair /Poor" or "Poor" preservation suitability. Oak #614 has a hollow lower trunk that you can see daylight through. PO Box 3714, Saratoga, CA 95070. 408- 725 -1357, decah @pacbell.net. http: / /www.decah.com. Page 16 of 20 Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. Blue oaks #603 — 606. All of these trees have "Fair /Good" preservation suitability except for #605 which is listed as "Fair ". These are some of the better trees on site and it would be nice to save them PO Box CA 95070. 408- 725 -1357, ArboriSt Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. .net. http: / /www.decah.com, Page 17 of 20 Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist Semice since 1984 ASSUMPTIONS & LIMITATIONS 1) Tree locations were provided by HMH Engineers and are shown on the Tree Mao on page 1 of this report. The tree map is a reduced partial copy of the Lot 7 Tree Exhibit Plan that I was given. Tree locations are assumed to be accurate but should be verified in the field. 2) Trees on neighboring properties were not evaluated. 3) The Information contained in this report covers only those items that were examined and reflects the condition of those items of the time of inspection. 4) Loss or removal of any part of this report invalidates the entire report. 5) Possession of this report, or any copy thereof, does not Imply right of publication for use for any purpose by any person other than to whom this report is addressed without my written consent beforehand. 6) This report and the values represented herein represent my opinion. My fee fs in no way contingent upon the reporting of a specified value or upon any finding or recommendation reported. 7) This report has been prepared in conformity with generally acceptable appraisal /diagnostic /reporting methods and procedures and is consistent with practices recommended by the International Society of Arboriculture and the American Society of Consulting Arborists. 8) My evaluation of the trees that are the subject of this report is limited to visual examination of accessible items without dissection, excavation, probing or coring. There is no warranty or guarantee, expressed or implied, that problems or deficiencies of the plants or property in question may not arise in the future. 9) 1 take no responsibility for any defects in any tree's structure. No tree described in this report has been climbed and examined from above the ground, and as such, structural defects that could only have been discovered have not been reported, unless otherwise stated. Structural defects may also be hidden within a tree, in any portion of a tree. Likewise, root collar excavations and evaluations have not been performed unless otherwise stated. 10) The measures noted within this report are designed to assist in the protection and preservation of the trees mentioned herein, should some or all of those trees remain, and to help in their short and long term health and longevity. This is not however; a guarantee that any of these trees may not suddenly or eventually decline, fail, or die, for whatever reason. Because a significant portion of a tree's roots are usually for beyond its d6pline, even trees that are well protected during construction often decline, fail or die. Because there may be hidden defects within the root system, trunk or branches of trees, it is possible that trees with no obvious defects can be subject to failure without warning. The current state of arboricultural science does not guarantee the accurate detection and prediction of tree defects and the risks associated with trees. There will always be some level of risk associated with trees, particularly large trees. It is impossible to guarantee the safety of any tree. Trees are unpredictable. PO Box 3714, Saratoga, LA 95070. 408- 725 -1357. decah @pacbell.net. http ; / /www.decah.com. Page 18 of 20 Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. Deborah Ellis, MS consulting Arborist a Horticulturist jj� Service since 1984 I certify that the information contained in this report is correct to the best of my knowledge, and that this report was prepared in good faith. Thank you for the opportunity to provide service again. Please call me if you have questions or if I can be of further assistance. Sincerely, L4t4Ll/✓ °i -i7.i �ycrMh'jAa Deborah Ellis, MS. ' Consulting Arborist & Horticulturist Certified Professional Horticulturist #30022~', °� ASCA Registered Consulting Arborist #305 I.S.A. Board Certified Master Arborist WE -457B ter` PO Box 3714, Saratoga, CA 95070. 408 - 725 -1357. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. /www.decah.com. Page 19 of 20 Deborah Ellis, MS Consulting Arborlst & Horticulturist "J�Gj. Service since 1984 GLOSSARY 1) Basic Evaluation (of Trees): A visual evaluation of the tree from the ground, without climbing into the tree or performing detailed tests such as extensive digging, boring or removing samples. This is an initial screening of the tree after which the evaluator may recommend that additional, more detailed examination(s) be performed. 2) Conk: the fruiting body (reproductive structure) of a wood decay fungus, from which spores are released. It usually assumes a "shelf -like" orientation when growing from the side of a trunk or branch. On top of roots, conks often assume a flat or "tabletop" shape. Conks are often a sign that extensive decay has already occurred within the wood. 3) Crooks are unnatural bends or sharp angles in branches or trunks caused by the removal a nd also over some inevitable decay from a pruning other attached branches or trunks; often with a vertical growing side branch at the end. This concentrates weight at the end of the branch, a wound. 4) Deciduous: a plant that sheds all its leaves at a specific time of the year, usually during the winter when the weather is cold. As oppose to "evergreen" which are plants that retain their leaves in living condition all year long, never dropping all their leaves at once. 5) Dripline: the area under the total branch spread of the tree, all around the tree. Although tree roots may extend out 2 to 3 times the radius of the dripline, a great concentration of active roots is often in the soil directly beneath this area. The dripline is often used as an arbitrary "tree protection zone ". 6) Grove: is a group of trees that located close together that shelter each other from wind and the elements, having "knit" canopies. If of e same species, there is usually root grafting between trees, which lends support from the ground, as well as water and mineral sharing. Removal of one or some grove members could cause remaining members to be unstable due to a reduction of previous shelter. Grove trees often have asymmetrical canopies when viewed as individuals. 7) Root collar excavation and examination: The root collar Qunction between trunk and roots) is critical to whole -tree health and stability. A root collar excavation carefully uncovers this area (with hand digging tools, water or pressurized air). The area is then examined to assess its health and structural stability. Buttress roots may be traced outward from the trunk several feet. 8) Sapwood: the young, outer rings of wood that conduct the water and food for the tree. Sapwood is lighter in color than the underlying heartwood (non- conducting wood). 9) Scaffold branch: a primary structural branch arising from the trunk of a tree. Usually the largest and often the lowest branches of the tree. 10) Suckers are secondary upright shoots arising from the roots or root collar (junction between roots and trunk) of a tree, or below the graft union. On a grafted tree the suckers (originating from the stock which includes the roots), are often not the same plant species as the scion (the grafted, desirable aboveground part). Suckers can be a nuisance in landscape situations. In nature however, suckers can serve to keep a tree alive after fire or mechanical damage that kills or removes the aboveground part of the tree. 11) Stump sprout trees are the result of a tree trunk being cut down to a short stump close to the ground. If the tree survives, it sends out many small shoots (suckers) from around the cut stump. Some of these suckers may survive and grow to become significant trunks. These trunks are spaced very close together and usually have included bark between them, which reduces the strength of their union. Such trunks are prone to failure. Stump sprout trees can be very structurally unsound, particularly as they become large and old. There is often a great deal of decay associated with the mother stump, which can also reduce mechanical stability. PO Box 3714, Saratoga, LA 95070. 406- 725 -1357. Arborist Report for Highlands Lot 7. January 16, 2014. Page 20 of 20