Is it a good idea to cut down an old tree?

• <div><p>Trees are beneficial to the environment and wildlife. If you have an old tree, but it’s healthy, it may be best to avoid cutting it down. However, if it’s showing signs of bug infestation, disease, or is potentially hazardous, then you should <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/tree-removal/">contact a tree removal company</a> to cut it down. </p><p>If you are unsure whether you should have it removed or not, then speak with an arborist to determine what is best.</p></div>

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Q: What is the difference between tree trimming and tree pruning?

• <div><p>Although the terms <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/pruning-vs-trimming.htm">tree trimming and tree pruning</a> are used interchangeably, they are very different types of tree maintenance. Tree trimming involves enhancing the appearance of your tree by removing unruly branches, providing your tree with ample sunlight and nutrients and prevents unsightly overgrowth. </p><p>Tree pruning helps keep your trees disease-free. This process removes unhealthy growths, dead branches, and other unhealthy parts of the tree. It&rsquo;s more common for deciduous and ornamental trees but not so common for evergreen trees. To determine which method you need, discuss it with a tree trimming specialist.</p></div>

Q: Do arborists climb trees?

• <div><p>Not every arborist climbs trees, but most will do so if that&rsquo;s the best method for assessing or treating a tree. Arborists have a variety of tree climbing gear and safety equipment to choose from when climbing trees. Consult your local arborist about their tree-climbing plan if your service requires that type of task. </p></div>

Q: What is the highest level of arborist?

• <div><p>If an arborist is certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), the highest level of certification available is ISA Board Certified Master Arborist. According to the ISA, this credential is reserved for arborists &ldquo;who have reached the pinnacle of their profession.&rdquo; Check your arborist&rsquo;s credentials before hiring to confirm their level of training and expertise. </p></div>

Q: How long will it take to grind a tree stump with a stump grinder?

• <div><p>It will take you anywhere from 15 minutes to two hours per tree stump to grind and remove the stump from the ground. The larger the size, the longer it will take to remove the stump. Also, keep in mind that rocky soil may require <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/excavation-companies/">local excavation services</a> to loosen up large boulders before you can begin to remove the tree stump.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Tree Service pros in Fort Totten, ND

*The Angi rating for Tree Service companies in Fort Totten, ND is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Tree Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Tree Service companies in Fort Totten, ND is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Tree Service needs.

Last update on October 21, 2025

Reviewed in October 2025
Very responsive to text or call. Gave clear timelines of expected project. I asked for a more detailed billing and was given one pretty quickly. Pleased with the work and the clean up afterward.
Codes Contracting
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Reviewed in February 2023
He does a really good job, great at communication, overall great contractor!
D.Decouteau's Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2021
I appreciate the fact that Toby came over to adjust the sensors without a charge. He also followed up a couple days later with a phone call.
Reierson Overhead Doors
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Reviewed in August 2019
They did a nice job and cleaned up afterward!
Dakota Mud Jack, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2018
Rob was very knowlegable and reliable.
B.A.R.S. Construction
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Reviewed in July 2018
He was excellent and professional and extremely fast to give the estimate and the next day to start and finish the job. I would recommend this company to others.
Andrew Turner Painting
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Reviewed in May 2015
They have a wide variety of packages.
Midcontinent Communications
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Find Tree service pros in Fort Totten

4 Seasons Services

New to Angi

Tree RemovalTree Stump - Remove

Serving Fort Totten, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests and make their concerns the basis of our business

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Tough Go

New to Angi

Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Trimming+3 more

Serving Fort Totten, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your property with respect and care. We offer tree trimming and removal services that are customizable to the needs of the home or business owner. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

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P.P.L.C.

New to Angi

Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Trimming+1 more

Serving Fort Totten, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We offer only the best in quality workmanship and professional courtesy. We specialize in all phases of commercial and residential landscaping. We are committed quality work and outstanding results & are strongly involved in local community activities. We look forward to working with you!

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A Painter

New to Angi

Tree Stump - RemoveTree Stump - Remove - For Business

Serving Fort Totten, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 1985

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

With years of experience serving the area, we are your solution for all your Handyman and painting needs. We take great pride in our extreme professionalism, timeliness and superior customer service on every job. We make sure to develop a lasting relationship so that the next time service is needed there will be no question on who to call. Check out our 5 star reviews from happy customers! Call us today so we can discuss your needs and make a plan that fits your budget. Satisfaction guaranteed!\n\n

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T's Construction

New to Angi

Tree RemovalTree Stump - RemoveTree Trimming

Serving Fort Totten, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

We have 12+ years experience on our staff. We guaranty all of our work to the finest quality. There is no job to big or to small that we cant handle in a very timely manner.

Serving Fort Totten, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Free estimates

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity, and treats your home as if it were our own. Our services include retail, builder and commercial blinds, shades and shutters. Paying close attention to the details of each project that we're involved with. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction! Call us for your FREE home or commercial consultation.

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Volk Excavating

New to Angi

Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Stump - Remove+1 more

Serving Fort Totten, ND and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Volk Excavating is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

Response time8 hrs

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Tree Service questions, answered by experts

Although the terms tree trimming and tree pruning are used interchangeably, they are very different types of tree maintenance. Tree trimming involves enhancing the appearance of your tree by removing unruly branches, providing your tree with ample sunlight and nutrients and prevents unsightly overgrowth.

Tree pruning helps keep your trees disease-free. This process removes unhealthy growths, dead branches, and other unhealthy parts of the tree. It’s more common for deciduous and ornamental trees but not so common for evergreen trees. To determine which method you need, discuss it with a tree trimming specialist.

Not every arborist climbs trees, but most will do so if that’s the best method for assessing or treating a tree. Arborists have a variety of tree climbing gear and safety equipment to choose from when climbing trees. Consult your local arborist about their tree-climbing plan if your service requires that type of task.

If an arborist is certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), the highest level of certification available is ISA Board Certified Master Arborist. According to the ISA, this credential is reserved for arborists “who have reached the pinnacle of their profession.” Check your arborist’s credentials before hiring to confirm their level of training and expertise.

It will take you anywhere from 15 minutes to two hours per tree stump to grind and remove the stump from the ground. The larger the size, the longer it will take to remove the stump. Also, keep in mind that rocky soil may require local excavation services to loosen up large boulders before you can begin to remove the tree stump.

Trees are beneficial to the environment and wildlife. If you have an old tree, but it’s healthy, it may be best to avoid cutting it down. However, if it’s showing signs of bug infestation, disease, or is potentially hazardous, then you should contact a tree removal company to cut it down.

If you are unsure whether you should have it removed or not, then speak with an arborist to determine what is best.

The Fort Totten, ND homeowners’ guide to tree services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Catherine Hiles
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May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
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How to Find a Good Tree Removal Service
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Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 2026
Is It Time to Remove That Tree? The Pros and Cons of Hiring a Tree Service
You suspect that the leaning oak tree in the back needs to come down, but can you just handle it yourself? Here are the pros and cons of calling a tree service.