Professional Tree Care with Over 26 Years of Expertise
Expert care. Every tree. Every season.
Providing Reliable, Customized Tree Care Solutions Backed by Decades of Expertise and Integrity
With decades of expertise and a commitment to preserving the natural environment, we are a fully licensed and insured tree care company offering comprehensive tree care and vegetation management solutions. Co-Owner, Zeno Acton’s certification by the International Society of Arboriculture underscores our dedication to professional excellence and responsible care for trees and landscapes in the area.
Based on 59 Google reviews Our Story
With over 26 years of expertise, co-owner’s Zeno and Erin Acton are dedicated to sharing the art and science of arboriculture with their community. Zeno has been practicing arboriculture since 2000, is an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist (#WE-6881B) and received a Bachelors of Science Degree in Environmental Horticulture and Urban Forestry (Restoration emphasis) from UC Davis. In addition, he is qualified in tree risk assessment through the ISA and is a member of the American Society of Consulting Arborists.
Erin is the first stop in the client process and she understands that each client is unique and she strives to make them feel valued by creating positive, memorable experiences and fostering a culture of respect and appreciation in every interaction.
Meet Our Team
At the heart of our company are co-owners Zeno and Erin Acton, whose passion for arboriculture and customer care drives everything we do.
Together, Zeno and Erin lead our team with a shared vision of excellence, education, and environmental stewardship.
Why Acton Arboriculture?
Acton Arboriculture is a locally owned and operated company serving the tree care, restoration and consulting needs of Nevada County and Placer Counties. Serving the community since 2008, Erin and Zeno have built their business on the values of integrity, trust and customer satisfaction. That is reflected through their personalized service, thoughtful solutions and quality work. Zeno, a Nevada County native, takes pride in serving the community he knows and loves. The entire Acton Arboriculture, Inc. crew are dedicated to improving and maintaining plant and vegetation health at the wildland urban interface. We look forward to building and maintaining your trust.
Highly trained crew with the creativity and tools to solve complex tree-related problems.
26 years of industry experience
Deep roots in the community: Zeno born and raised in Nevada City
Comprehensive Tree Care Services Tailored to Your Needs
We take pride in delivering a comprehensive range of tailored services that align with your specific requirements, enhancing your experience and outcomes.
- Tree Removal
- Reduction Pruning
- Pruning Out Dead Branches
- Pruning to Improve Form
- Structural Pruning
- Vista Pruning
- Ornamental Tree Pruning
- Mistletoe Abatement
- Shrub, Vine & Hedge Pruning
- Cabling, Guying & Staking
A strategic vegetation management approach helps maintain the health and biodiversity of ecosystems, reduces the risk of wildfires by controlling overgrowth and ensures the safety and reliability of infrastructure, such as power lines and roads, by preventing vegetation interference.
- Forest Thinning
- Forest Restoration
- Defensible Space Brush Removal
- Native Re-vegetation
- Root Collar Excavation
- Root Zone Restoration
- Root-Safe Trenching
- Root-Safe Soil Cultivation
Proper tree placement, soil preparation, and ongoing care promote healthy growth and aesthetic appeal for years to come.
- Planting
- Transplanting
Expert advice and assessment from certified arborists regarding tree health, safety, and care practices.
- Disease Diagnosis
- Tree Risk Assessment
- Tree Inventory
- Tree Preservation During Construction
- Site Evaluation
- Vegetation Management Planning
- Arborist Reports
- Conflict Resolution
Explore our gallery
Discover the artistry and expertise behind Acton Aboriculture with this look at some of our completed projects.
What Our Clients Are Saying
See the difference through the eyes of our community! Our video reviews feature real stories and experiences from those who have benefited from our services. Watch as clients share their successes, challenges, and how our solutions have made a positive impact.
Video Reviews
See the difference through the eyes of our community! Our video reviews feature real stories and experiences from those who have benefited from our services. Watch as clients share their successes, challenges, and how our solutions have made a positive impact.
Get Your Estimate Today
To receive a work estimate or tree health and risk consultation, please fill out the form and hit submit.
Frequently Asked Questions about our Tree Care Services
What is an arborist?
An arborist is a professional who specializes in the care, maintenance, and management of trees, shrubs, and other woody plants. They are knowledgeable about tree biology, health, pruning techniques, disease & pest management and are often involved in planting, diagnosing problems, and ensuring the overall health and safety of trees in various environments, from urban landscapes to natural forests.
What is a board certified master arborist?
A Board Certified Master Arborist is an elite designation awarded by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) to professionals who have demonstrated extensive knowledge, experience, and expertise in tree care and management. To achieve this certification, an individual must pass a rigorous examination that covers various aspects of arboriculture, including tree biology, identification, pruning, pest management, and risk assessment. This credential signifies a high level of proficiency and commitment to the profession, making certified individuals trusted authorities in the field of tree care.
Why hire an arborist?
Hiring an arborist is essential for maintaining the health and safety of your trees. They possess specialized knowledge in tree biology, care techniques, and disease management, which helps ensure that trees are properly pruned, planted and treated for pests or diseases. Additionally, arborists can assess tree risks, provide proper guidance on tree selection for your landscape, and help enhance the aesthetic and ecological value of your property. Their expertise promotes longevity and vitality in your trees, ultimately contributing to environmental sustainability.
https://www.treesaregood.org/Portals/0/TreesAreGood_Why%20Hire%20An%20Arborist_0321.pdf
What is the tree risk assessment qualification (traq)?
Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) is a program developed by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) that provides training to professionals in the horticultural and arboricultural fields. It focuses on assessing the condition of trees, identifying potential hazards, and understanding risk management techniques. The program aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to evaluate tree stability, determine the appropriate response to risk levels, and communicate those findings effectively. TRAQ-certified arborists use standardized methods to promote safety and informed decision-making regarding tree care and management.
What do your services cost?
Tree service costs can vary widely depending on factors such as the size and type of tree, the complexity of the job, location of the tree in the landscape and clean up options like chipping or hauling away wood. It is best to have us out to meet with you in person and provide an estimate based on what suits your needs the best. Each work estimate is itemized and can include separate items for clean up options.
How do I know if I need a consultation or an estimate?
If you already know what you need such as a quote to take down a dead tree or a quote to prune for clearance off your home, we are happy to come out and provide an estimate, free of charge. On the other hand, if you would like an arborist to come out and diagnose diseases, evaluate tree structure and other tree concerns, to help you work out the trade-offs between different mitigation options, we recommend scheduling a consultation.
Are you licensed & insured?
Yes! We have an active license through the CA Contractors State License Board (#894296) with a C27 (landscaping) & a D49 (tree service) designation. We are fully insured through our general liability policy and carry workers’ compensation insurance on all of our employees. A copy of our insurance certificate is available for download on our ‘Resources’ page. You may also request a copy through our office.
Can I top my tree?
The short answer is, ‘No’. Topping isn’t generally recommended as it can harm the tree’s health and structure. Topping, or severely cutting back the crown, hurts trees because it removes large portions of the canopy, leading to stress and potential harm to the tree. This practice disrupts its natural growth pattern and exposes vulnerable inner wood to decay fungi. Additionally, topping encourages rapid regrowth of weak branches that can be dangerous, increasing the likelihood of future maintenance issues. Overall, topping diminishes the tree’s health, vitality, and structural integrity. You should consult with an expert arborist, like us, for the best approach based on the specific species and condition of your tree.
https://www.treesaregood.org/Portals/0/TreesAreGood_Why%20Topping%20Hurts_0321.pdf
What is the best time to prune my tree?
The best time to prune your tree typically depends on the tree species and your goals. Proper timing reduces stress on the tree and minimizes the risk of disease. Most species can be pruned year-round like oaks and ornamental trees such as maples but certain species are susceptible to pests and disease so it’s best to know what your tree’s requirements are. Certain species like our native pines (ponderosa pine and sugar pine) are susceptible to bark beetles so the best time to prune is in the winter months when bark beetles are less active. Fruit trees also need to be pruned in the winter months before bud break in the spring. Of course there are other factors to consider as well. The prevalence of certain tree diseases can vary from year to year due to a combination of factors such as weather conditions, climate changes, pest populations, and tree health. For example, wet and humid conditions can promote fungal diseases, while drought stress can make trees more susceptible to infections. Furthermore, changes in environmental conditions and the life cycles of pathogens and pests can lead to fluctuations in disease outbreaks, making certain years more prone to specific tree diseases. As your tree experts, we are knowledgeable in all tree species in our area and can let you know what is best for your trees.
How often should I prune my trees?
The frequency of tree pruning depends on the species and age of the tree, as well as the purpose of pruning. Generally, young trees should be pruned annually to promote a strong structure, while mature trees can be pruned every 3 to 5 years, or as needed to remove dead or diseased branches. It’s important to monitor the tree’s health and growth, adjusting the pruning schedule as necessary.
How can I tell if my tree is sick?
To determine if your tree is sick, look for signs such as discolored leaves (yellowing or browning), wilting, premature leaf drop, stunted growth, visible pests or insect activity, peeling bark, or unusual growths like mushrooms. Additionally, check for decay in the trunk or roots, and assess the overall shape and vigor of the tree. If you notice any of these symptoms, it may be beneficial to consult with an arborist for a professional assessment. Arborist experts, like us, can determine the factors that contributed to the tree’s decline and provide solutions to mitigate them going forward.
My tree has a cavity in the base, should I fill it?
Filling a tree cavity with cement, spray foam or whatever else you can conjure up is not recommended, as it can trap moisture and lead to decay or harm the tree’s health. There is no structural continuity between cavity fillers and wood. Cavity fillers also complicate tree inspection and removal. If the tree is structurally compromised, consult an expert arborist, like us, for the best course of action.
Do you have a bucket truck?
We don’t utilize a bucket truck, we climb! Since we are located in the mountainous terrain of the Sierra Nevada foothills, accessibility issues create challenges when trying to get close enough to the tree with a bucket truck. We have many talented and skilled climbers who can tackle both routine maintenance and complex removals. If we feel that a tree is unsafe to climb, which does happen, we will bring in a specialized boom lift to complete our work safely.
What is spurless climbing?
Spurless climbing refers to a method of ascending without the use of metal spikes or spurs that can damage the tree’s bark and cambium layer and can transmit disease. Our climbers use ropes, friction hitches, cams, mechanical devices and other gear to ascend safely and efficiently while minimizing harm to the tree. This approach is often favored in arboriculture for tree maintenance and care, as it maintains the health and longevity of the tree. Tree spikes should only be used for tree removal.
Contact information
Location
PO Box 17, Grass Valley, CA, 95945
Working hours
Monday-Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM