What is a tree protection zone and why is it important?
A tree protection zone is a defined area where construction activity is prohibited or restricted to protect the tree and soil from damage and to sustain the tree(s) health and stability.
During the course of residential or commercial construction projects, trees are often negatively impacted, either by ignorance or neglect. Unfortunately, it’s all too common to see heavy equipment parked or construction materials stored under a tree. Tree trunks and limbs frequently get damaged when trucks or large equipment strike them. Tree roots get cut, damaged or buried, as additional fill is placed on top of the existing soil grade.
How Do I Create a Tree Protection Zone?
Rather than attempting to mitigate the decline or death of a tree after construction impacts, here are some steps to proactively preserve and protect trees before the damage occurs:
- Walk your site and identify all trees that need protection.
- Determine the tree protection zone using the following basic calculation:
- measure each tree’s diameter 4.5 feet above grade (diameter at breast height)
- multiply this diameter by 12 inches
- factor in species tolerance, tree age and condition to determine the ideal tree protection zone for each tree
- Fence around the tree protection zone to avoid soil compaction and to protect tree roots, trunk, and limbs
- Use the smallest equipment possible or accomplish tasks by hand where feasible
- If excavation is needed, use an air spade to tunnel well under a tree’s root system rather than using a backhoe or other trenching equipment
If you haven’t been proactive and damage has already occurred to trees or compaction of surrounding soil, it’s very important to act quickly to avoid tree decline or death. Click this link to learn more about remedial treatments for trees and soils damaged by construction.
Call the Experts at Atlas Tree Care Service
The best (and most proactive) plan for protecting and preserving the health of your trees is hiring an Atlas Tree Care Service Expert Arborist. Our services include development and implementation of construction protection and management plans. We’ll schedule on-site visits to monitor your trees, ensure compliance, and limit the stress on your trees during construction. With proper care, planning, and monitoring, your treasured trees can avoid damage and continue to thrive.
