Protecting trees during construction and development projects is important as trees provide numerous benefits and become collateral damage easily. Tree preservation plans, aeration, proper pruning and tree care practices, mulching, and protective barriers are among the methods that can be used to protect trees from being damaged during construction work. A professional arborist can help assess trees, create tree preservation plans, and provide guidance on proper pruning and tree care practices. It is the property owner and construction company’s responsibility to ensure that trees are protected during development work, and immediate assistance should be sought if a tree is damaged.
Ways to Protect Trees During Construction and Development Projects
Trees are a vital part of our environment, and apart from their aesthetic value, they provide numerous benefits such as reducing air pollution, providing shade, and preventing soil erosion. However, when construction and development projects are taking place, trees often become collateral damage.
Construction and development projects impact trees in various ways, including root damage, soil compaction, and physical damage to the trunk and branches. However, several ways can be employed to protect trees during construction and development projects.
This article offers essential tips on ways to protect trees during construction and development projects.
1. Assessment of Trees
The first step towards protecting trees during construction and development projects is to perform an assessment of the trees on a property. This assessment should be done by a professional arborist or tree care specialist, who understands the needs and requirements of trees. They will also assess and determine the best way to protect the trees from damage during the construction phase.
2. Tree Preservation Plans
Tree preservation plans are essential for protecting trees during construction and development projects. The plan outlines how the trees will be protected from damage during the construction phase, and the steps that will be taken for their care after construction. This plan is created by the arborist and is a requirement by most cities and states.
3. Protection during the Construction Phase
During the construction phase, trees should be protected from physical damage. Protective barriers are essential to prevent damage to the bark and branches of trees. These can be made from materials such as plywood, plastic, and fencing. Likewise, signage should be placed around protected trees outlining the steps taken to protect them.
4. Aeration
Soil compaction is one of the main causes of tree damage during construction and development projects. Aeration can help to alleviate this problem by increasing the amount of oxygen, water, and nutrients that reach tree roots. This process can be done by using equipment that punches small holes in the soil around the tree.
5. Mulching
Mulching is an essential process for trees, providing numerous benefits such as retaining moisture and regulating soil temperature. It also helps to prevent soil erosion and suppresses weed growth. During construction and development phases, mulching can help to protect a tree’s root system by providing a protective layer for the roots.
6. Proper Pruning and Tree Care Practices
Proper pruning and tree care practices are essential for maintaining healthy trees during the construction and development phase. Pruning should be done by a professional arborist and should focus on removing dead or dying branches, promoting healthy branch growth, and creating a balanced and attractive tree canopy.
FAQs:
1. What are the benefits of protecting trees during construction and development projects?
Protecting trees during construction and development projects is essential as it helps to maintain a healthy environment, protect wildlife, and improve the aesthetics of the area.
2. How can a professional arborist help in protecting trees during construction and development projects?
A professional arborist can help in the assessment of trees, create a tree preservation plan, and provide guidance on proper pruning and tree care practices.
3. What are some of the challenges faced when protecting trees during construction and development projects?
Some of the challenges faced when protecting trees during construction and development projects include root damage, soil compaction, physical damage to the trunk and branches, and limited space for protective barriers.
4. Who is responsible for protecting trees during construction and development projects?
The responsibility of protecting trees during construction and development projects lies with the property owner and the construction company responsible for the project.
5. What should be done if a tree is damaged during construction and development projects?
If a tree is damaged during construction and development projects, a professional arborist should be called in immediately to assess the damage and provide an appropriate course of action for the tree’s care.
