I have often been told that data is all that matters when it comes to Oak Wilt (or any tree) solutions. The confusing part is people say it with a straight face… Do they need to be made aware of how wrong that statement is? It’s the exact opposite of saying the Data does not count at all. They are equally misleading.
What is data anyway, but a pile of information. How you use that pile can alter the theories, the solutions, and the final outcomes in a big way. That is where intuition comes in. Intuition comes from the sub-conscience “Experience” we have. The more experience we have, the more reliable our intuition, and the more value the data has..
Static data is a huge part of coming to a conclusion… in math. With living things? You give static data less weight. Living things are always changing, adapting, surprising you. Anyone with kids knows that much.
Think of the most important decisions you’ve made in your life. How much of that decision did static data play? Did you choose your spouse based on the data? Is there some data that will help you find that perfect companion? No. There is no one size fits all solution in choosing a spouse… or in solving a tree problem. It doesn’t work that way.
What is data for then? It is a starting point. I read and consume a lot of Tree test data, and it is fun. After reading I have to mix it up with my field experience on the topic, and apply them both. In my 35 years of Tree Care, I’ve learned a lot in the field. If I were to leave intuition out of my equation, my approach would be no different than all the others.
It’s always best to consider other options regarding your trees. We are constantly taught that Injections are the answer to many tree problems, but history will not be kind to those teachings, or those that pushed them. It really doesn’t take much to conclude – all those drill holes in the tree can’t be good.
Einstein once said “The only thing that interferes with my learning, is my education” I know exactly what he means now.