Letter from the CEO

I remember the feeling of uncertainty we faced last winter and for the early part of this year. We did what we could to keep our customers and employees safe while providing uninterrupted services in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, even during the height of the pandemic. I’d like to thank all our customers for your patience with scheduling your service and our employees for responding to the challenges we faced in 2020 and still maintaining the highest level of service that our customers have come to expect from Almstead. We have come out of this stronger.  From safety training and additional staff to new trucks and equipment, we are well prepared to provide you with the best tree, shrub and lawn care in the coming year and beyond.

 

We are happy to present another informative issue of Arbor Notes. As you can see in the “Almstead About Town” section, we are slowly resuming our community outreach after a brief hiatus because of Covid. My brother, Michael Almstead, and our Connecticut Branch Manager, Gary Norman conducted an air-spading and soil biology class for students at Naugatuck Valley Community College. Michael and Jon Olsz, our safety specialist, also conducted a pro-bono safety training workshop for the ground staff of the Rockefeller State Park.

 

The cover story in this issue is about the Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) — a pest that has become a cause of great concern in our region and beyond. You may have seen reporting of it in the mainstream media already. We wanted to present you with the most updated information as well as treatment options. Armyworm is another pest that is new in our region and capable of destroying lawns very rapidly and thoroughly. Call us right away if you discover them on your property.

 

We also have topical information on services that are important during this time of year. Getting your trees inspected by an arborist and taking action before we face a winter storm can reduce the risk of tree failure. This also ties in with an article about our Tree Risk Assessment Services and the TRAQ methodology we use for it. Winter protection with an antidesiccant application can protect your evergreen trees and shrubs from moisture loss during winter. This is especially critical for the first winter if the evergreen was planted this season and recommended for the first three years until it is established. Did you know that pruning your trees in winter is good for your trees and can save you money? Contact your local branch office to schedule these winter services.

 

Have a wonderful and safe Holiday Season!

 

Sincerely,

 

 

 

 

Ken Almstead, CEO

- International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist #NY-0335

- ISA "True Professional of Arboriculture” Award (2017)

- ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ)

- Member American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA)

- NOFA Accredited Organic Landcare Professional

- New York and New Jersey State Certified Pesticide Applicator

- Soil Foodweb Certificate from the Sustainable Studies Institute

- Mauget Tree Injection Certified Applicator