The permitting process was a success, the easy part is over, the hard part lies ahead. Development team members who focused on the permit have gone back to their offices and practices. The code enforcement people are still there, however, as are the people who opposed the development.

Now the arduous task of complying with the development agreement and tree ordinances begins. Few things can stop a job more quickly than tree violations. Nothing can ruin a developer's brand faster than the death of a highly visible tree marked for preservation. It's fodder for the news media and can be very costly. Dead trees don’t come back to life. Mistakes with trees cannot be swept under the carpet; they are too big; they are too visible.

Trees won't save themselves. Specifications must now be implemented. From barricades and periodic site inspections to root and canopy pruning, the job is under a microscope. Insect and disease protection, nutritional and soil amendments – the job goes on, sometimes for years. Reports to owners and regulatory agencies are necessary.

The consulting arborist of record must have a depth of resources, including other certified arborists on staff, certified pest control operators to identify and prescribe treatments for pests, a strong administrative office staff in practice management, an accounts manager, and the ability to refer qualified sub-contractors throughout the state.