Whether pruning for aesthetics or safety, Blackhawk Tree does not use spikes or hooks. 

We adhere to the with industry standards set by ANSI (American National Standards for Arboriculture). Spikes and hooks puncture the bark, phloem and cambial tissue of the tree allowing viruses, bacteria and insects to enter.

Climbing without the use of spikes and hooks takes more skill and more time; industry standards may be shortcut when a company does not have the properly trained and equipped skilled climbers; their rates, if they seem too good to true, reflect working quickly, working improperly, for which you will pay the price with damage to your trees.

Deadwooding of branches decreases the potential of damage to anything under the spread of the canopy.

Branch removal of selected live branches (ones that are overly heavy, or to increase clearances under the tree) also allows more sunlight to reach the ground. 

Thinning the canopy keeps the overall size and shape of the tree by removing only selected branches (ones that are rubbing, split or somehow defective).  The increased airflow within the canopy helps the overall health of the tree and also allows more sunlight to reach the ground.

We will be glad to discuss your choices to maintain and improve your trees and property; we provide a free written estimate blackhawktree@gmail.com or 469-1340.