Affordable, Honest Tree Care in Big Rapids
We are a small, owner-operated business committed to delivering expert tree services with a focus on safety, transparency, and affordability.
Founded by Julius Neill, a tree care professional with over 15 years of hands-on experience, the company was built on the belief that everyone should have access to professional tree care, without the premium price tag. Julius began his career under the guidance of ISA Certified Arborists and went on to work with industry-leading companies across the country.
In 2025, he returned to his hometown of Big Rapids, Michigan, with a mission: make quality tree work accessible to the local community.
What sets us apart is our low-overhead model. By focusing on climbing-based techniques and leaving tree debris on-site when appropriate, we eliminate the need for costly equipment and labor—saving you money while still getting the job done safely and effectively.
If you need professional advice, pruning, or hazardous tree removal, we're here to help.
Why Choose Big Rapids Affordable Tree Care?
Affordable rates with low overhead
No heavy equipment tearing up your yard
Insured, and safety-focused
Honest, no-pressure estimates
Locally owned & operated
Frequently Asked Questions
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We specialize in climbing-based tree work including:
Tree pruning (young, mature, ornamental, and fruit trees)
Tree removal (hazardous, dead, or damaged trees)
Tree cabling, bracing, and propping
Free consultations and tree risk assessments
Full clean-up services are available. Options for discounts include: cut-and-leave, relocating brush, cutting firewood
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Our cut-and-leave model means we leave the tree debris on-site. Debris may be moved to an unobtrusive location or left where it lands for a further reduced price. This helps lower costs by avoiding the use of heavy equipment or cleanup crews. It’s a great option if you have space on your property and are comfortable managing or gradually disposing of the debris on site. Allowing tree debris to stay on-site is also better for the environment-it costs no fuel to move, and decaying wood keeps carbon in the soil.
This option is not appropriate for everyone, so full clean-up service is also available.
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Yes. We offer free 20-minute consultations with no obligation. During this time, we’ll assess your trees, discuss your goals, and provide honest recommendations and pricing. You’re under no pressure to commit.
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All work is performed by owner/operator Julius Neill, a trained professional with over 15 years of experience in the tree care industry. You’ll work directly with him from consultation to completion. No sales reps, no middlemen.
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Trees are accessed with the aid of ropes installed in suitably strong tree unions which can allow a climber to reach virtually any part of the canopy with practice and proficiency.
Tree climbing spurs are also used during tree removal only. Spurs damage the tree and should not be used for pruning.
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All tree work is inherently dangerous, but it can be safely performed by keeping a few simple rules such as: always being tied in with a rope (no free climbing), only use equipment that is rated for life support (these have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 lbs!), always be in control and know the limitations of each situation.
Hiring an experienced arborist that is safety focused is paramount. Big Rapids affordable tree care always uses personal protective equipment like helmets, chainsaw protection, and life support rated climbing equipment.
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All the photos on the website are authentic and display actual work that was performed by the company owner, Julius. They are meant to display the method and ability of an experienced tree climbing arborist.
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Yes, we are fully insured and operate with a strong emphasis on safety and professionalism. Your property and peace of mind are always a top priority. Certificate of Insurance is available upon request.
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We offer tailored pruning for a variety of goals:
Safety and clearance around buildings
Canopy elevation over driveways, lawns, and walkways
Vista pruning to open up views
Young tree pruning for long-term structure
Mature tree pruning for health and risk mitigation
Fruit and ornamental tree shaping
Deadwood removal
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While we don’t advertise 24/7 emergency services, we can often respond quickly to urgent situations. Call or text for availability if you're dealing with storm damage or a hazardous tree.
(616) 439-4344
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Avoiding large equipment helps:
Keep overhead costs low
Pass the savings on to you
Our minimalist, climbing-based approach is safe and affordable.
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Call, text, or email Julius to schedule your free 20-minute consultation, or email us for a quote or more information.
(616) 439-4344
Contact us
Call or Text
(616) 439-4344
bigrapidstree@gmail.com
Fill out the form below to request more info or get a quote, and we’ll get back to you shortly.