Pacific Southwest Research Station

Pacific Southwest Research Station
800 Buchanan Street
West Annex Building
Albany, CA 94710-0011

(510) 559-6300

Urban Ecosystems and Social Dynamics

Urban Ecosystems and Processes

Infrastructure Conflicts

Trees need space to grow. With cities struggling to accommodate the needs of increasing populations, tree space is a precious commodity. In California alone, well over $70 million is spent each year to repair damages caused by tree roots to urban infrastructure, such as sidewalks, curbs, sewer lines, driveways, and foundations. In many cases, repairs are deferred due to budget limitations, which results in increased liability risks associated with 'trip and fall' incidents. In some cities the cost of sidewalk repair is being shifted to residents. This shift impacts residents in older areas, where trees are larger, infrastructure has deteriorated, and tree-sidewalk conflicts are most severe. We study how cities can best alter tree planting and maintenance to minimize damage to the urban infrastructure, while maintaining the health of the urban forest.

Studies

1. Compendium of Practices to Reduce Infrastructure Damage by Tree Roots1999-2002


2. Controlling Rooting Depth of Transplanted Trees


3. Costs Associated with Damage to Infrastructure by Street Trees


4. Effects of Tree Shade on Asphalt Concrete Pavement Performance


5. Street Tree-Sidewalk Conflicts in California Communities


6. Tree Roots and Sidewalk Damage