[CANUFNET] post for forum

[pwynnyczuk at richmondhill.ca]

Hello,
My understanding is the roots will likely have been killed by the effects 
of the gas on the soil microbes. I'm not a scientist, but usually there is 
easier movement of gas/air along the interface between the soil and roots 
as there is usually some movement which would prevent a tight seal. This 
along with soil contraction when there are drought conditions would open 
the soil up for further movement.
Suggest determining the state of the buds and prepare a valuation for the 
tree, wait till next Spring and decide on its fate and subsequent Gas 
Company responsibility for the damages, if it does not leaf out. Tree 
Ownership will determine who is to pursue the Gas Company.
Just advice..
Regards,
Peter Wynnyczuk



"Guy Martin" <gbmartin at langleycity.ca> 
Sent by: canufnet-bounces at list.web.net
 
10/31/2007 11:32 AM
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Hi all,
 
I received a request for service from a resident here in the City of 
Langley. There is an A. platanoides in his front yard approx 30 years of 
age and in good health…or it was.
He says it defoliated approximately two months ago. Last night he called 
the Natural gas company as he and his neighbors had evidence of a gas leak 
in his front yard. They dug up and repaired the leak. He figures this leak 
may have been on going for a couple of months, as they smelt gas of and on 
over that period. The soil is going to be removed (just the stuff they 
excavated) and replaced. When I arrived the smell was incredible…so much 
so that I thought it was still leaking but it was coming from the 
contaminated soil. I understand that the natural gas will deplete the soil 
of oxygen. The actual leak and excavation was/is approximately 8 meters 
from the trunk and just outside of the drip line. My question is what 
effects will this have on the long term health of the tree? I am going to 
investigate into the health of the tree to the best of my knowledge later 
in the week but was looking for some insight on this situation. Any help 
would be greatly appreciated.
 
Guy Martin
Head Gardener/Arborist
City of Langley
 

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