A. Tree Removal. Tree removal will be the District’s treatment of last resort. Our ultimate goal is to preserve the health and life of trees when possible. However, the safety of HCS property is the utmost priority. Some common reasons for tree removal include: • Tree is dead or dying; • Tree is storm damaged; • Tree is considered a hazard; • Tree is crowding out other trees or causing them harm; • Tree is blocking the way of future construction. 1. Definition of Tree Removal. The actual removal of a tree FORTY-EIGHT (48) inches in height or greater (above ground) by digging up or cutting down, or the effective removal through damage which causes or may reasonably be expected to cause a tree to die, including but not limited to damage inflicted upon the root system by machinery, storage of materials, and soil compaction; changing the natural grade above the root system or around the trunk; damage inflicted on the tree allowing infection or infestation; pruning in a manner which does not comply with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) a 300 Pruning Standards; girdling; paving with asphalt, impervious concrete or other impervious material. 2. Turf Removal. Any turf that is removed during the tree removal process shall be replaced with turf that matches the existing area. B. Tree Trimming/ Pruning. The common reasons for tree trimming/pruning are: • Aesthetics; • To train the tree; • Care for and maintain tree health; • Improve the quality of flowers, fruit, foliage or stems; • Restrict the growth for landscape effect or failure of the plant. 1. Definition of Tree Trimming/Pruning. The removal or reduction of certain parts of the tree that are not required. 2. Turf Removal. Any turf that is removed during the tree trimming/pruning process shall be replaced with turf that matches the existing. C. Tree Stump Removal. In the event a tree has been cut down and a stump is left remaining, the District will require the stump to be removed. 1. Stump Grinding. When stump grinding services are required, the service shall include the grinding process, clean-up and removal of debris offsite. Offeror will be asked to quote prices for grinding services for the following: • Stumps less than 24” (diameter) • 24” to 36” stumps (diameter) • 36 ½ ” to 48” stumps (diameter) • 48 ½” and larger stumps (diameter) 2. Stump Digging. In some instances, stump grinding will not suffice and digging the stump up will be required. The stump should be routed to a depth that will allow the proper function of the area: if turf is planned, the stump should be at least 8 to 12 inches below the ground level. If landscaping or replanting is anticipated, the stump should be removed to a deeper level, depending on the intended purpose. Stump digging will include digging up the stump, removal of stump and debris, leveling and backfilling the hole with clean soil. Offeror will be asked to quote prices for digging services for the following: • Stumps less than 24” (diameter) • 24” to 36” stumps (diameter) • 36 ½ ” to 48” stumps (diameter) • 48 ½” and larger stumps (diameter)