The overriding objective of an arborist involved in a development project is to save every tree on the site. Is this statement true or false?

The statement is false because the overriding objective of an arborist in a development project is not solely to save every tree on the site. While maintaining tree health and preserving trees whenever possible is an important part of an arborist's role, development projects must often balance various factors, including safety, structural integrity, site design, and compliance with local regulations and building codes.

In practice, arborists assess trees for their health, stability, and contribution to the ecosystem, while also considering the needs of the development project, which may necessitate the removal of certain trees. This approach allows for an informed decision-making process regarding tree preservation versus removal, ultimately leading to the establishment of beneficial landscaping plans that incorporate appropriate trees while ensuring the project's goals are met.

In summary, the focus of an arborist is to make balanced decisions that serve both the health of the trees and the requirements of the development, rather than a blanket objective to save every single tree.