Workman Forestry LLC

Meet Kretzschmaria deusta or Brittle cinder fungus (bad news for trees). It’s a parasitic fungus, which means it infects live trees.

This is one to watch out for. This fungus is a bit unusual in that it doesn’t look like your typical recognizable fungus – no “mushroom” here. Just grey or black crusty stuff. The grey crust with white edges is the new growth of the fruiting body of the fungus (fruiting body = what holds the spores = mushroom in some cases) and in this species typically emerges in spring and early summer. As it ages it turns darker in color, finally black and brittle – hence the name brittle cinder. In fall and winter, the evidence of infection remains as the brittle black crust.

This fungus is bad news because it degrades both of the structural components of wood: lignin and cellulose (analogy- if we think about concrete, it’s like degrading both the cement and the metal reinforcement). Trees with this infection are known for sudden collapse. It is somewhat aggressive spreading fairly quickly.
Inspect the bases, lower trunks and even branch junctions of trees for this fungus – we see it in all these locations. If you find this, move your car! or whatever else is under the tree. Contact a knowledgeable arborist to determine the urgency of tree removal. Unfortunately, there is no cure.

Gainesville Ecologically Oriented Tree Care Company Seeking Arborist/Climber and Ground Persons.
Arborist/Climber experience: Two or more years of climbing experience. Must have good working knowledge of proper pruning techniques and be familiar with Florida trees. Must have good working knowledge of rope work and safe rigging practices. Experience as Safety Coordinator a plus. ISA Certified Arborist or CTSP preferred but not required.
Arborist/Climber duties: Provide rigging support to Aerial lift operator. Climb from rope and harness and or use spikes. Operate aerial lifts as needed. Operate tractor/loader. Ability to function as foreman for a small crew. Other duties as directed. Support and interface with sales arborist to coordinate jobs.
Ground person experience: Use of hand and power tools, driving trucks and trailers, use of wood chipper are desired. Training available. Willingness to work in all weather conditions.
Ground person duties: Keep work areas clear and safe moving brush to and feeding wood chipper. Clean work area of debris leaving work site neat and orderly. Maintain, repair and operate hand tools, leaf blowers, chain saws and other power equipment. Use ropes and hand lines to lower limbs. Work with the team, supporting foreman, climber and aerial lift operator. Complete tasks in a safe and efficient manner. Operation of trucks, loaders and other equipment as assigned. Service and repair equipment. Other duties as directed.
All Candidates must be in good physical condition with a valid and clean driver’s license. CDL A or B is desired but not required. Team work is a must. Good communication skills and ability to professionally and politely interface with clients required. Opportunities for training. Competitive wages, benefits.
Contact Kelly at 352-727-8347
Workman Forestry / www.workmanforestry.com / [email protected]

Gainesville and surrounding communities.... We have clean hardwood mulch for sale and delivery.