Good tree protection starts with planning. At this stage changes can be made to move buildings, parking lots, utility lines, etc. And, schedules and expectations can be established to ensure the trees get what they need when they need it and provisions can be made for after care. There are a few specific strategies that need to be articulated at the planning stage.
First, when drawings are created, plan for as much distance as possible between trees and any physical structures. It is very possible to build up close to many species of trees, but it is good practice to give the trees as much room as you can.
Talk to a few arborists before the planning is finalized. This is good opportunity to get feedback from multiple tree preservation professionals and make a decision as to who will help you manage the trees before a shovel hits the dirt. This will also allow you to budget your tree conservation efforts before you are in too deep and no monies have been appropriated.
Here is a checklist of things that should be covered before the construction process begins:
where will you get mulch to protect root zone, and get it down before activity?who will be responsible for putting up tree protection fencing?when will provide tree pruning and treatments?have a meeting with the general contractor to inform him of tree protection measures?ensure that local ordinance requirements are met and any appropriate paper work is submitted.
Putting up signs will also help with overall awareness regarding tree preservation on the construction site. This will let workers know trees are important to you and that individuals will be held accountable.
It’s a good idea to start fertilization / treatment services prior to ground breaking. For my fertilizer services we do regimented treatments that are run on a time schedule. Different treatments are done at different times of the year. Not all tree services work this way. Whether it is part of a program or one stand alone treatment. It is best to get the first application done early.