I have overheard comments about problems with the Trunk Formula Method (TFM) being used in appraisals. I am curious about any cases thrown out or lost in court. Did we lose because of the methodolgy of TFM, or did we lose because of an inability to explain the process for determining cost factors, such as basic cost, installed cost, replacement cost. Or, was the appraised cost too high (reasonable). Please comment. Thanks

Reply to post by Bill Cassel, on August 05, 1998 at 10:43:45:

Hi bill, how ya doin? I have never had the formula thrown out as not being legitimate, and have had cases awarded exactly on my appraisal as well as some that were considerably less. I understand there may be some areas that don't recognize it at all. What is everyone elses experiences>
very treely,
Lew

Reply to post by lewbloch, on August 05, 1998 at 10:43:45:

Please tell me of this Trunk Formula Method of tree evaluation. I have always used the Thyers Method which works well
Two trees I valued for Sydney Airport when negatiating for advertising space and a group of trees when developers wanted to build another concrete block.
http://www.intercoast.com.au/thyer-p/treeval.html
chech this site out.
Looking forward to a reply

Reply to post by Rodney M Page, on August 06, 1998 at 18:59:30:

Rodney, the Trunk Formula Method isis one of the valuation methods defined by the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers in the US. It is well described in the Guide for Plant Appraisal, eighth edition, available from
American Society of Consulting Arborists
15245 Shady Grove Road
Suite 130
Rockville, MD 20850
(301) 947-0483

or from
International Society Of Arboriculture
PO Box 3129
Champaign, IL 61826-3129

I would be interested in more information on the Thyers Method you mentioned. How does it work? What criteria are used in formulating the value?
Russ Carlson, ASCA
Tree Tech Consulting