What is the purpose of a tree risk assessment rating system?

• A. Determine tree age
• B. Estimate timber value
• C. To categorize hazard severity and likelihood of failure and guide mitigation and client communication
• D. Decide number of branches to prune

Answer: (C)

A tree risk assessment rating system is used to quantify hazard and guide actions by combining how likely a tree is to fail with how severe the consequences would be if it did. The rating system provides a standardized scale that scores both hazard severity (how bad a failure would be) and likelihood of failure (how probable it is to occur). This lets you compare trees objectively, set priorities for work, and choose appropriate mitigations such as pruning to reduce risk, cabling or bracing, supports, or removal. It also supports clear communication with clients about the level of risk, recommended actions, and what to expect in terms of safety and cost. It’s not about measuring the tree’s age, estimating timber value, or deciding how many branches to prune. Those factors fall outside the purpose of a risk rating system.