Rooted in Science Since 1976
Fostering sustainable landscapes & natural areas through peer-reviewed scientific information
A Legacy of Learning with Dr. Alex Shigo
After graduating from college, Pete met Dr. Alex Shigo, a pathologist who was working for the U.S. Forest Service in Durham, NH. While working for the Forest Service, Dr. Shigo determined that a longitudinal dissection of a tree would provide more accurate information on heart rot, decomposition, and other commonly held theories that were incorrect.
From this research, the concept of “Compartmentalization of Decay in Trees” (CODIT) was developed by Dr. Alex L. Shigo in the 1970s. This model was created to explain how trees respond to wounds and limit the spread of decay and disease. In 1977, he collaborated with Harold G. Marx to publish the model.
Dr. Shigo’s research and personal communication provided Pete with a single guiding principle: by touching trees, we learn how to listen, and sound science dictates the treatment.
Together with his wife and business partner, Gloria, Pete has spent more than forty years translating peer-reviewed research into practical, on-the-ground solutions. From structural pruning and advanced diagnostics to soil remediation and long-term ecosystem planning, every recommendation P.C. Hoag & Co. provides is vetted against current literature and their own rigorous field observations.
1. Contact & Initial Conversation
Give us a call or reach out online to discuss your concerns. Whether you're seeing unusual symptoms, planning ahead, or unsure where to start, we’ll help determine if an on-site consultation is needed.
2. On-Site Evaluation & Diagnosis
Our ISA-certified arborist visits your property to assess tree health, soil conditions, structural risks, or invasive vegetation. We use observation, diagnostics, and decades of experience to craft a science-backed plan tailored to your landscape.
3. Service Plan & Scheduling
We deliver a clear, actionable proposal—whether it's pruning, disease treatment, deep watering, or tree removal. Once approved, we schedule services with minimal disruption and full cleanup included.
Why Choose Us?
45 Years of Proven Craft
Family‑run since 1976, caring for New Hampshire’s landmark trees and landscapes.
ISA‑Certified Arborists
Every crew includes certified pros trained to ANSI A300 & Z133 safety standards.
Preservation‑First Approach
We treat building sites as a living canvas—marking valuable trees & shrubs for retention.
Data‑Driven Health Plans
Inventories, diagnostics, and treatments are backed by detailed field data and industry research.
24 / 7 Emergency Response
Storm or hazard? We mobilise instantly and, when needed, bring in Moore’s Crane Rental.
Local, Trusted, Insured
A+ BBB rating, full liability insurance, and deep roots in the Lakes & White Mountains.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an arborist?
An arborist is a certified and trained professional who specializes in improving and sustaining the health and appearance of individual trees and shrubs.
How does an Arborist differ from an ISA Certified Arborist?
ISA Certified Arborists are individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge in the art and science of tree care through at least three years of experience and have passed a comprehensive examination. They are also required to recertify every three years with a mandatory 30 hours of continuing education.
How often should I have my trees pruned?
Every three to five years is a good rule of thumb for tree pruning, but it depends on the tree. Storm events may also cause damage that should be addressed immediately. It’s a great idea to have our arborists evaluate your trees annually.
What do you do with trees/branches you remove from my yard?
When we prune or remove trees on your property, we will remove everything upon completion. We will recycle all trees, branches and plant material from your job. We also have our own chipper that allows us to mulch all branches on site.
Voices From the Canopy
Homeowners, business owners, and town officials alike count on PC Hoag & Co. to protect the trees that define their properties. Here’s what a few of them had to say.
Besides doing the required work, Pete (certified arborist) spent a good amount of time explaining why I should trim the oaks, not take them down. He also provided a little consulting and some resource information on trees. My property and driveway were undamaged and his crew did a good job cleaning up. He and his crew were friendly and came across as honest. Tree work is hazardous, so it isn’t cheap. Pete wasn’t the least expensive tree service out there, but his overall value makes me want to use him for any tree work I need done in the future.
Steven A.
Pete is an arborist, not just a guy with a chainsaw. He has worked with us for about 10 years and we have come to rely upon him to ensure that our trees and shrubs get the right attention. Currently we have him working on a number of tree limb cleanup items as well as removing a tree that had been damaged during house construction years ago. He has the right equipment and people to get the job done and is a true professional. Highly recommended.
Roman L.
Working with matthew was a great pleasure. I found him to be very professional and he did an excellent job keeping me up to date with latest weather expectations and how it may impact our scheduled date. The p.c. Hoag team came in when they said they would and did an excellent job and cleaned the job site as if they were never there. Great job and I appreciated the winter discounted rate.
Marco C.
Quick, professional and clean work. Pete’s crew took down and removed 2 small trees, pruned our apple tree, forsythia, burning bush, and another. He also purchased and installed our new Thornless Hawthorn.