Visual Inspection according to Prof. Dr. Claus Mattheck
VTA – Visual Tree Assessment
The VTA method is an internationally spread and acknowledgment method for tree inspection, hazard symptoms are construed, defects are confirmed and measured and criteria of failure are assessed. VTA helps to distinguish apparent hazardous trees from those that are really hazardous. This way safe trees are protected.
VTA gives information about the body language and the mechanics of trees and instructs you in the correct use of our test and measuring instruments.
The partial stages of the VTA method:
1. Inspection for detect symptoms
Body language of trees
Growth defects
Appearance of the bark
Crown and leaves
Fungal fruiting bodies and their body language
Local environment of the tree
2. Confirmation of defects and measurement
Drilling Resistance Measurement (IML-RESI Systems)
Sound velocity measurement (IML Micro Hammer)
Measurement of the wood strength (Fractometer)
Annual ring analysis (IML Measuring Table)
3. Assessment of the defect
Criteria of failure for hollow or decayed trees
Criteria of failure for root damages
Criteria of failure for trees that are healthy but high trees (H/D ratio!)
4. Determination of further actions
Pruning
Mechanical aid (crow securing system, stilts,…)
Replacement of the tree
Advantages of the VTA method:
The VTA method is applied all over the world. The VTA method focuses on the comprehension of the body language of trees
Sound measurement and drilling techniques only are supposed to confirm and dimension detected defects.
The one who knows the body language of trees will be able to distinguish between hazard trees and trees that only appear to be a hazard tree. He will fell less trees and increase the security of traffic.
Distinguishing between foreseeable and unforeseeable accidents, the VTA method makes its contribution to law and order. Founded liability claims can be settled and unfounded ones can be rejected.
Therefore, the VTA method is neither pro-tree nor anti-tree. In the event of damage, this method makes it possible to obtain a suitable decision.
Examination for the graduation as certified tree inspector according to VTA
With Prof. Dr. Claus Mattheck and his friends Stupsi the hedgehog & Pauli the bear!
Since 2006 Prof. Dr. Claus Mattheck offers examinations. The goal is to get a high quality and scientifically up-to-date tree inspection. Requirement for the admission is the documented participation in the following seminar.
- Intensive introduction
- Biomechanical evaluation of wood destroying fungi in trees
- VTA Elite Seminar / Tree Engineering
More information with the organizer:
Seminar Office Erika Koch
Fasanenhofstr. 94A
70565 Stuttgart
Germany
Phone: +49 (0) 7141 7157564
Fax: +49 (0) 711 7156410
Website: www.vta-seminare.de