Abstract

RAY, BOB. 1987. Save trees before construction damage hits. Am. Nurseryman 165(4): 88-90.

New roadways, drainage areas and utilities are a part of modern urban development. However, many property buyers assume that the builder or developer has taken care so that the trees won’t die. They realize their mistake when it’s too late and the trees are already declining. When I tell owners that their trees are dying from soil compaction, earth fill and gas caused by decaying vegetation left on the original grade, the disappointment they feel is often devastating. Many times clients purchased their property primarily because of the existing trees. I have seen several customers sell their homes as a result of tree loss. It is my opinion that construction damage kills more trees annually that all insects and diseases combined. I am convinced that this type of tree loss can be prevented. Had I been called before construction began, my advice could have prevented the problem altogether.

• © 1988, International Society of Arboriculture. All rights reserved.