Insights from the Canopy

Trees are a valuable part of any property, but when they become unstable or damaged, they can quickly turn into a serious safety risk. In Alberta, where strong winds, heavy snow, and changing weather conditions are common, trees can deteriorate faster than many homeowners realize. Knowing the warning signs of a dangerous tree can help you act quickly and avoid

Removing a tree might seem like a straightforward task, especially for homeowners who are comfortable with tools and outdoor work. However, tree removal is far more complex—and dangerous—than it appears. In Alberta, where weather conditions, tree size, and property layouts vary widely, deciding whether to remove a tree yourself or hire a professional is an important decision. This guide will

What Is Tree Topping (or “Top Reduction”)? Have you ever considered getting your trees topped? Sometimes also called “top reduction,” this practice involves cutting a tree’s upper branches or canopy dramatically—often leaving large stubs or multiple new “leaders” where the original top was removed. In the past, especially in areas with tall spruce trees (which you’ll find around Calgary and

Why Chainsaw Pants and Chaps Are Essential PPE for Tree Work It’s Tool Tuesday again, and today we’re diving into one of the most important pieces of safety gear in any tree worker’s kit: chainsaw pants and chaps. Whether you’re an arborist, a weekend warrior, or just cleaning up storm-damaged trees on your acreage near Calgary, protective legwear can be

Why We Live Where the Trees and Wildfire Meet We are fortunate to call this beautiful forest‑ed area home — and many of us chose it because of the scenery, the trees, the natural surroundings. But with that privilege comes responsibility. According to FireSmart Canada, areas where human development meets natural vegetation are known as the wildland‑urban interface (WUI). FireSmart

How Do You Get a Rope Up in a Tree? Here’s the Arborist’s Answer It’s Tool Tuesday, and today we’re answering one of the most common questions we hear on Calgary job sites: “How do you get the rope up there without climbing?” Whether we’re removing a dangerous spruce in Redwood Meadows or prepping for a high limb rig-out in

Yes — Carpenter Ants Are in Alberta! And They’re Living in Your Trees If you’ve noticed large black ants around your yard or firewood pile, you’re not imagining things. Alberta — especially forested communities like Redwood Meadows and Bragg Creek — is home to carpenter ants, and they’re more common than many homeowners realize. Unlike termites, carpenter ants don’t eat

Why Rescue Gear Like the ISC D4 and HaulerBiner Matters in Arborist Work Welcome back to Tool Tuesday, where we share the tools that make Red Mountain Rigging one of Calgary’s most safety-driven tree service companies. And yes… ANSI Z133 is making another appearance — because when it comes to arborist operations, safety is never optional. According to ANSI Z133

The Mystery of Grubs in Your Firewood, Solved Have you spotted little white grubs in your firewood lately? If you live in Calgary, Redwood Meadows, or Bragg Creek, you’re not alone. These “worms” are actually round-headed borer larvae, most likely from the white spotted sawyer beetle (Monochamus scutellatus). They’re common in coniferous firewood — especially white spruce — and while