[CANUFNET] Constructing Driveways within Critical Root Zones

[Geri Poisson]

We had a project where the client wanted to raise the grade over the root zone of a 100+ cm DBH White Oak. The city accepted a plan to use a plastic grid filled with gravel (see attached) laid over the existing grade to avoid compaction and allow infiltrations.  I’m not sure that it has been constructed yet, so I can’t speak to how successful the method will be in protecting the tree’s health and survival, but the city accepted it.

Geri Poisson, B.A. (Hons.), Dipl. Eco. Restoration / Terrestrial Ecologist, ISA Certified Arborist
Beacon Environmental
6 Cumberland St., Barrie, ON L4N 2P4
T) 705.999.4935 x249  C) 705.828.1196
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From: CANUFNET <canufnet-bounces at list.web.net> On Behalf Of Astrid Nielsen via CANUFNET
Sent: July 10, 2020 11:15 AM
To: Canadian Urban Forest Network <canufnet at list.web.net>
Cc: Astrid Nielsen <astrid.nielsen at dendronforestry.ca>
Subject: [CANUFNET] Constructing Driveways within Critical Root Zones

Hello Canufnet members,

I have a client that is building two homes on an infill lot where there is a very large (106 cm), healthy silver maple. He is very willing to explore different options for working around the tree that would cause minimum disruption to the roots.

Does anyone have examples of building driveways within the critical root zones of large trees that have managed to prevent significant root damage and tree decline? Specifically, he is considering a type of elevated driveway that would not require the severing of roots or significant soil compaction, and dissipate the pressure through posts. Although the posts would cause some root damage, it would be significantly less than excavation for a standard driveway. If anyone has examples of this type of engineering, I would be grateful if you could share it with me.

Thank you,

Astrid

______________________________________
Astrid Nielsen, MFC
Ontario Registered Professional Forester
ISA Certified Arborist®
ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualified

astrid.nielsen at dendronforestry.ca<mailto:astrid.nielsen at dendronforestry.ca>
+1.613.805.WOOD (9663)

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