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The Legacy of Safety: How the Deadliest Hedge Influences Tree Care Practices

Update A Legacy of Courage: The 'Deadliest Hedge' in Dunedin Deep in Musselburgh lies a remarkable row of macrocarpas, known to locals as 'the deadliest hedge in Dunedin.' This 80m-long, 5m-high hedge is precariously positioned on the edge of a 40m-high cliff, posing a unique challenge to arborists. Veteran Dave McPhee, who has tended to this daunting landscape for nearly two decades, is a stalwart of the community, renowned for his bravery and expertise. Transforming Danger into Duty Dave McPhee's tenure at DM Holdings Ltd has been nothing short of legendary. In the earlier days of his career, before stringent health and safety regulations emerged, he likened maintaining the hedge to navigating a minefield. “Finding branches that would support your weight was a challenge,” he recounted. Fearless yet respectful of nature's unpredictability, McPhee emphasized the critical importance of care and attention when working on the edge of the cliff. Passing the Torch to a New Generation of Arborists At the age of 78, McPhee has chosen to hand over the reins, or rather, the saw, to his younger colleague Manoa Buiniqio, signifying a new chapter in the ongoing saga of the 'deadliest hedge.' This transition is not only symbolic but essential, as McPhee acknowledges that maintaining the hedge is now a marathon, daunting even for those half his age. Modern Techniques Enhance Safety With advancements in technology, today’s arborists are equipped with cherry pickers, providing a higher degree of safety compared to earlier methods. “We’re now able to work suspended above the hedge, which certainly has its advantages,” McPhee stated. However, he cautioned that even modern mechanisms come with risks, particularly on windy days when equipment can become unstable. What This Means for Local Tree Services The situation surrounding the 'deadliest hedge' in Dunedin serves as a microcosm of the broader arborist industry. As professionals like McPhee retire, they take with them invaluable knowledge and skills that can shape the future of tree care. For those interested in pursuing a career in this sector, there are various educational resources available, from local tree study programs to advanced climbing harness training. For Homeowners: Why You Should Consider Professional Tree Care Residential homeowners, commercial property managers, and municipalities can glean insights from McPhee's experience. Employing certified local tree experts for challenging jobs can prevent accidents and ensure the health and safety of your property. Given the complexity and hazards associated with tree maintenance, expert guidance is invaluable. Resources, such as the no-cost tree advice the community can access, offer opportunities to evaluate the health and safety of trees in residential areas. Your Next Steps: Embracing Professional Tree Care As McPhee steps back from his roles, consider what you can do to ensure your trees and hedges are safe and well-maintained. Explore tree service rates with local providers and see how they can assist you. Whether you're looking for a certified tree advisor or considering the cost to clear large trees, local professionals can guide you through the essential decisions that ensure your outdoor spaces remain healthy and safe. As we recognize the legacy of arborists like Dave McPhee, we encourage readers to embrace the spirit of community safety and continue learning about tree care. Invest in your landscape's health by seeking help from trusted local tree services or engaging in educational opportunities to learn tree science.