Certified Arborist Practice Exam

True/False: Moving a target is a common way to reduce risk potential:

1. True

2. False

The correct answer is: True

Moving a target is indeed a common strategy used to mitigate risk potential, especially in arboriculture and tree management. By relocating people, structures, or objects away from an area where trees may pose a risk—such as near dead branches, unstable trees, or areas affected by pests or diseases—the likelihood of injury or damage is significantly decreased. This approach is integral to maintaining safety in environments where trees are present. It's a proactive measure to avoid situations where potential hazards might cause harm. Adjusting the position of targets can be an effective way to manage risks associated with falling branches, tree collapse, or other unforeseen events. While there are other methods to manage risk, such as pruning, monitoring tree health, and implementing protective measures, physically moving targets is a direct way to reduce the exposure of people and valuable assets to those risks.