We are building a fence and on a tight schedule. In order to prep we had to take out a massive hedge. Hiding in the hedge were pipes and wires and a giant fallen log with huge roots. We couldn't move ahead with that tree there unless we rerouted the fence.

We talked about trying to chainsaw it up and move the pieces but it was intimidating to us amateurs because of its size and shape.

A family member suggested a tree company but warned they were pretty busy this time of year and it would be spendy.

The day we uncovered the tree I stayed up really late thinking about what to do. I hated delaying the fence project or having to relocate it. So I started researching Humboldt tree companies and noticed that Coastal Tree Service had very good reviews and lots of them.

The next morning (Friday) I called first thing and Tommy called me back a few hours later. I emailed him some images which he reviewed while we were talking, and offered to come out that same day to take a look.

In person Tommy was knowledgeable, friendly, and clearly experienced. He took a look at the log/stump and explained how he would handle it (fallen log to person nearby who would use it for firewood + chipper for the rootball). I told him what I was willing to pay and he agreed he could manage that, and agreed to come out Tuesday.

I could hardly believe he could do the job for a reasonable price and within just a few days. It looked like I'd be able to salvage my fence project.

Tuesday rolled around and Tommy fit me in at the end of what was a very long day for him. I had to run an errand and when I returned Tommy had chipped the whole log and the root. He explained the log had been rotten so was useless as firewood. Also, as a bonus, he chipped the roots of the hedge we'd taken down.

This was great because it created a plethora of wood chips to help level the uneven ground, and saved me from digging out what were essentially tree roots from where the hedge was.

I feel like I got really lucky with Coastal Tree and Tommy. Great company, outstanding customer service, and Tommy is a heckuva nice guy, too. I cannot recommend this business enough.