Trees and Construction Flashcards
6 cards from real Certified Arborist Test practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Trees and Construction flashcards as text
What is the Critical Root Zone (CRZ) and how is it typically calculated?
Answer: A circular area around the trunk; typically 1 foot of radius per inch of trunk diameter
The CRZ is typically calculated as 1 foot of radius for each inch of trunk diameter at breast height (DBH). This area contains the most critical structural and absorbing roots.
What is the most common cause of tree death during construction?
Answer: Root damage from excavation, grade changes, and soil compaction
Root damage is the #1 killer. Construction activities sever roots through trenching, suffocate them through soil compaction and grade changes, and alter drainage patterns.
How does soil compaction from construction equipment harm trees?
Answer: It reduces soil pore space, limiting oxygen and water availability to roots
Heavy equipment compresses soil, collapsing the pore spaces that hold air and water. Roots need oxygen to function; compacted soil can effectively suffocate the root system.
What type of barrier is most effective for protecting trees during construction?
Answer: Chain-link or sturdy wooden fencing installed at the drip line or CRZ
Sturdy physical barriers (chain-link or wood fencing) at the CRZ or drip line are the most effective protection. They physically prevent equipment and material storage from entering the root zone.
A builder needs to trench through a tree's root zone for a utility line. What is the preferred alternative method?
Answer: Use directional boring (tunneling) to go under the root system
Directional boring (horizontal directional drilling) tunnels beneath the root zone without disturbing roots or soil. This is the preferred method when utilities must pass through a CRZ.
A tree shows crown dieback 2 years after nearby construction. Is this construction-related?
Answer: Yes, tree decline from root damage often takes 2-7 years to manifest in the crown
Root damage symptoms are delayed because trees have stored energy reserves. Crown dieback, reduced leaf size, and branch death from construction damage typically appear 2-7 years after the damage occurs.