How One Portsmouth Tree Business Is Benefitting from Irene [VIDEO]

While Irene caused many Portsmouth businesses to loose goods and customers for days due to a loss of electricity, the storm has given a much-needed boost to tree-removal businesses, such as here in Portsmouth. 

“Before the storm we would get an average of 10 calls a week. Now, we are getting 10 calls a day. It’s very good for us because in the beginning of the year. With a terrible economy, the last things people think about are their trees,” said Henry Carvara, co-owner of Moonlight Tree.

Carvara said his business picked up in June and he had enough work to last him three to four days. At the present, he said he has enough work for three to four weeks ahead.

“I think this will push us through the winter. It’s not going to be bread and water now,” he said with a laugh.

“People say this was a small storm and have begun to be worried about their other trees. Basically, it’s a chance for the homeowner to focus on what could happen next time and have time to act on it,” said Carvara.

Considering the amount of work in front of them, Moonlight Tree has adopted a hit-and-run approach.

“We are getting rid of very hazardous situations now. There are trees and limbs that have fallen and need to be taken care of right away. Then we will go back and finish up later with the smaller stuff,” he said.

Carvara says homeowners can save money, their property and their trees by including an on-going maintenance program year-round. 

“For the most part, all that is required is pruning. But remember pruning is only needed every five to eight years. It’s not like lawn care that costs $40 a week,” said Carvara.

Besides an on-going maintenance program, the best way to help the trees in your yard is through research, according to Carvara. 

“There are online programs where you can put your house in and add landscaping. After that you can age it 20 years to see what it looks like. That 3” diameter tree is now 50” in diameter and is covering your roof,” he said.

This type of research helps the homeowner carefully consider what they are plating and where.

“Consider the nursery stock you are selecting and talk to an expert. It's best thing anyone can do,” Carvara said.

Moonlight Tree is located at 129 Gormley Ave., Portsmouth. Free estimates are available.

Download the movie