Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Professional Tree Services in Manhattan, Kansas
Wildcat Tree Service has proudly served the Manhattan, Kansas community since 1969, specializing in low-impact tree removals, technical rigging, stump grinding, and pruning. Our founders, Charly Pottorff and Ron Yankowski, built a legacy rooted in expertise and conservation, with Charly developing innovative large tree removal techniques and Ron contributing his athletic discipline from a professional football career. We prioritize sustainable practices by recycling every part of a tree through sawmilling, chipping, and splitting, while offering high-grade lumber and firewood products.Our bilingual team combines decades of experience with state-of-the-art equipment to ensure safe, efficient services that enhance property value and aesthetics. Recognized as a Minority Woman-Owned Business and registered under the System for Award Management (SAM), we serve both residential and commercial clients across multiple communities, including Manhattan, Junction City, and Wamego.
Services
Tree Removal
Stump Grinding
Tree Pruning
Cabling/Bracing
Lumber Milling
Firewood Sales
Mulch Production
Emergency Services
Gift Certificates
Recycling Programs
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- Serving Manhattan since 1969 with proven tree care expertise
- Bilingual English/Spanish service available
- Emergency services accessible 24/7 via email
- Committed to 100% recycling of all tree materials
- Minority Woman-Owned Business with SAM certification
Associations and certifications
- System for Award Management (SAM)
What people say
Superb job cleaning up
Professional and can-do
Minimal damage to the yard
Fair price
5 star company
Services
Tree Removal
Professional tree removal using state-of-the-art lowering devices to safely dismantle trees without property damage. Our experts assess tree health, location, and structural risks to determine optimal removal strategies. Ideal for hazardous or unsalvageable trees, this service restores property safety while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Stump Grinding
Complete stump elimination with industrial grinding equipment that converts stumps into mulch. We restore lawn surfaces by covering ground areas with quality soil. This service improves yard aesthetics and eliminates tripping hazards while preparing sites for replanting or landscaping projects.
Tree Pruning
Precision pruning to enhance tree health, structural integrity, and visual appeal. Our certified arborists employ proper techniques to remove deadwood, improve air circulation, and shape canopies. Regular pruning prevents disease spread and reduces storm damage risks while maintaining natural tree form.
Cabling Systems
Structural reinforcement for trees with weak branch unions or compromised trunks. We install high-strength cables and rods to distribute weight and prevent catastrophic failures. This service preserves valuable trees while protecting property and ensuring public safety through proactive risk management.
Custom Lumber Milling
Transformation of removed trees into premium lumber slabs for furniture and architectural projects. Our sawmilling process captures unique grain patterns and natural edges, providing clients with one-of-a-kind materials. This sustainable practice repurposes urban timber into functional art pieces and construction materials.
People
Charly Pottorff
Founder
Charly Pottorff founded Wildcat Tree Service in 1969 after developing tree climbing skills in Maryland. He pioneered large tree removal techniques and authored training programs for arborists. Charly also established Charly's International, a supplier of arborist gear, and promotes physical fitness through ISA Jamboree events.
Ron Yankowski
Co-Founder
Ron Yankowski co-founded Wildcat Tree Service with Charly Pottorff in 1969. After playing professional football for the St. Louis Cardinals, he focused on technical tree removals. His athletic background contributed to the company's emphasis on precision and safety in complex tree operations.
Questions
What tree services do you offer?
We provide complete tree care including removal, pruning, stump grinding, cabling systems, and emergency storm damage response. We also offer custom lumber milling and recycled wood products.
Are you available for emergencies?
Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency tree services via email. Our team responds promptly to urgent tree hazards and storm damage situations outside regular business hours.
Do you recycle removed trees?
Absolutely. We recycle 100% of tree materials through sawmilling, chipping, and splitting. Removed trees become firewood, mulch, and premium lumber products to minimize waste.
What payment methods do you accept?
For firewood purchases we accept cash or check. Commercial service payments can be arranged through our standard invoicing process during project consultation.
Which areas do you serve?
We serve Manhattan, Junction City, Wamego, Ogden, Clay Center, Alta Vista, Council Grove, Wakefield, and Milford. Contact us for specific location verification.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes, we provide gift certificates for tree care services and wood product purchases. Certificates make ideal gifts for homeowners needing professional tree maintenance.
