GIANT Locust Tree Removal | Too Close For Comfort

In Part 1 of this massive locust tree removal, we take on a tree that’s been growing way too close to the house for way too long. With limited drop zones, tight rigging angles, and brittle wood, this removal required precision, planning, and a whole lot of skill.

We’re using the Good Rigging Control System (GRCS) to safely lower heavy limbs, along with Milwaukee battery-powered chainsaws for clean, efficient cuts high in the canopy. Our team of certified arborists combines modern gear with amazing climbing techniques to break this tree down safely and systematically—without damaging the roof, siding, or expensive pool just feet below.

This video features:

🪢 Technical rigging with the GRCS
⚡ Battery saws in real-world arborist use
🧗‍♂️ Tree climbing techniques
🏡 Navigating structure hazards and tight quarters
🌳 How we tackle large removals in residential settings

Whether you’re a homeowner curious about how pros remove large trees near homes, or an arborist looking for real-world footage of safe, advanced rigging, this series walks you through it all.

Filmed by Rooted's very own, Steven Letzelter - on-site, in real working conditions.

Location: St. Louis Metro Area
Tree: Mature Honey Locust
Hazards: Pool, fencing, house, siding, and landscape below

Crew:
Andy – Climber, ISA Certified Arborist, CTSP, TRAQ
Mat – Second Climber, ISA Certified Arborist
Thomas – Foreman, Rigging (GRCS), ISA Certified Arborist, CTSP
Steven – Second Rigger and Camera Operator, ISA Certified Arborist
Jason Perez - Arborist Apprentice
Alex De Wan- Arborist Apprentice

🛠️ Gear Featured:
-Milwaukee M18 Top Handle Chainsaw: https://acmetools.pxf.io/aOnvzj
-Milwaukee M18 Dual Battery Chainsaw: https://acmetools.pxf.io/K0javN
-Pole Pruner https://acmetools.pxf.io/zxNZ5r
-Pole Saw https://acmetools.pxf.io/gO1MeA
-Stihl MS 261 C-M 16inch Professional Chainsaw:
https://acmetools.pxf.io/MADyEM
-500i 25” chainsaw: https://acmetools.pxf.io/RGOmNv
GRCS
Tree Austria Pro Saddle
Akimbo
Drenaline Static Rope
Bobcat MT100
Bandit Chipper
Milwaukee Super Hawg
Milwaukee BOLT Helmet System + Accessories – Affiliate Links
🎥 Filmed and edited by Rooted’s own Steven Letzelter
📲 Follow us for more behind-the-scenes on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube — @RootedArborists

🔔 Stay tuned for Part 2, where we take down the main spar and finish the job clean.

🔔 Subscribe for more real-world tree work, gear reviews, and behind-the-scenes from the Rooted Arborists crew!

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