Certified Arborist Test Trees and Construction 3

Question 1

What is 'grade change' and why is it harmful to trees?

Accepted Answer

Adding or removing soil around a tree; it buries roots or exposes them

Answer

Changing the tree's risk rating; it confuses the arborist

Answer

Changing the tree species; it causes genetic problems

Answer

Upgrading the tree's protection status; it limits pruning

Question 2

Before construction begins, what should a consulting arborist prepare?

Accepted Answer

A tree protection plan (TPP) that includes tree inventory, protection zones, specifications for barriers, and monitoring schedule

Answer

A tree inventory only

Answer

A list of trees to remove

Answer

A landscape design for after construction

Question 3

Roots can be cleanly cut during construction using which preferred method?

Accepted Answer

Hand pruning with sharp tools (saw or loppers) to create clean cuts

Answer

A backhoe bucket

Answer

Ripping with a bulldozer blade

Answer

Any method is acceptable since roots regenerate

Question 4

What is the recommended minimum distance for storing construction materials from a tree trunk?

Accepted Answer

At the drip line or CRZ boundary

Answer

Right up against the trunk is fine

Answer

3 feet from the trunk

Answer

10 feet from any tree

Question 5

How can an arborist help mitigate damage after roots have been cut during construction?

Accepted Answer

Clean-cut the damaged roots, water deeply, mulch the root zone, and monitor for stress

Answer

Nothing can be done once roots are cut

Answer

Apply root growth hormone to the soil

Answer

Immediately prune the crown to match the root loss

Question 6

Vibration from pile driving or heavy equipment can damage trees by:

Accepted Answer

Breaking fine absorbing roots and disrupting soil structure in the root zone

Answer

Shaking fruit off the tree

Answer

Making the bark crack from shaking

Answer

Causing leaves to fall prematurely