We just wrapped up one of the most technical and challenging removals we’ve ever taken on — four huge Cottonwood trees located between Grand Island Saddle Club and Kuester Lake.
Two of the trees were large.
Two were absolutely massive.
This was not a “drop and go” job. Every cut had to be controlled. Every pick had to be engineered.
Day 1:
We removed two of the large cottonwoods using our Merlo Roto grapple saw crane, allowing us to safely dismantle sections without climbers in the tree for those picks.
Day 2:
For the two massive cottonwoods, we brought in a 110-ton crane along with a professional climber and advanced rigging techniques.
Day 3:
Hauling off logs and final cleanup
This project took 2.5 days, full focus, and a crew completely locked in from start to finish.
Large cottonwoods near lakes and high-use areas can become significant liabilities. Deadwood, structural defects, and sheer mass make removal a serious operation — one that requires:
There is no substitute for preparation and teamwork on jobs like this.
I couldn’t be more proud of our crew’s skill, grit, and professionalism. Jobs like this showcase what happens when the right equipment meets the right people.
At McEndarfer Tree Service, we specialize in complex removals where precision matters.
If you have a large or high-risk tree near structures, water, or tight access areas — let’s talk.
Tree removal and crane
February 27, 2026
Grand Island, NE
