CATS Arborist Albuquerque Urban Forestry & Environmental Care 3

Question 1

Which insect pest poses the greatest current threat to Albuquerque's Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) trees?

Accepted Answer

Elm bark beetle (Scolytus multistriatus)

Answer

The elm bark beetle (Scolytus multistriatus) is a primary vector of Dutch elm disease and commonly damages Siberian elms in Albuquerque.

Question 2

Under Albuquerque's Right-of-Way permit requirements, who is responsible for obtaining permits before removing a street tree?

Accepted Answer

The certified arborist or licensed contractor performing the work

Answer

The licensed contractor or certified arborist performing street tree work in Albuquerque's ROW must obtain the required city permit.

Question 3

What does 'integrated pest management' (IPM) prioritize when treating tree pests in Albuquerque's urban forest?

Accepted Answer

Monitoring, biological controls, and least-toxic interventions first

Answer

IPM prioritizes monitoring and biological or cultural controls before resorting to chemical treatments, minimizing environmental impact.

Question 4

In Albuquerque, cottonwood trees (Populus fremontii) along the Rio Grande bosque are protected primarily because they:

Accepted Answer

Form critical riparian habitat and are native keystone species

Answer

Rio Grande cottonwoods are native keystone riparian species that support biodiversity and are protected under bosque conservation policies.

Question 5

What is the most common structural defect found in mature cottonwood trees in Albuquerque that arborists must assess?

Accepted Answer

Co-dominant stems with included bark

Answer

Co-dominant stems with included bark create weak branch unions prone to failure, a common defect in mature Albuquerque cottonwoods.

(CATS) Certified Arborist Tree Service of Albuquerque Practice Test