[CANUFNET] Tree limbs and potential damage to underground infrastructure

[Naomi Zurcher]

Hi Luc:

Interesting question. Many companies who install utility conduit also install protection material around the conduit. In addition, the depth of the conduit would normally preclude any impact from a falling branch.

One approach might be to find out from the local utility company how they do their conduit installations - depth below grade as well as insulating or protective materials they might install around the conduit. I would imagine this is done according to a set of Standards and knowing this Standards might better inform the discussion as you would know the specifics.

Kind regards
Naomi

Arbor Aegis
Urban Forester / Consulting Arborist
Luzern Switzerland

> 
>  
> From: CANUFNET <canufnet-bounces at list.web.net> On Behalf Of Luc Rainville via CANUFNET
> Sent: April 28, 2021 10:44 AM
> To: canufnet at list.web.net
> Cc: Luc Rainville <lr.rainville.consulting at gmail.com>
> Subject: [CANUFNET] Tree limbs and potential damage to underground infrastructure
>  
>  
> Hello CANUFNET, 
>  
> I’m working on a file and got an interning question I could not answer.
>  
> A concern was brought up with hazard trees, but specifically around the idea of branches from the tops (when falling or being felled) creating a potential for branches to impale and penetrate soils. This concern is expressed due to the presence of underground buried utilities. 
>  
> My assumption is that even if branches impale the soils when a tree comes crashing down, that this would only be for a few centimeters in depth (perhaps up to 20-30cm).
>  
> Could anyone point me to research that would support this or provide advice on depth in which branches from falling trees could penetrate soils?
>  
> Thanks in advance,
>  
> Luc M. Rainville
> EP, CRSP, ISA Certified Arborist, Can-CISEC | SE, PSAC, Arboriculteur Certifier de l’ISA, Can-CISEC
> Consultant & Technical Expert | Expert technique et consultant
> EastElm
>   
> p / t : 403-702-6648 | e / c: lr.rainville.consulting at gmail.com  <mailto:lr.rainville.consulting at gmail.com%20> 
>  w / i: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eastelm <https://www.linkedin.com/company/eastelm>
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>  
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>  
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>  
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>  

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