Tree Protection

  1. Keep construction offices, vehicle movement, parking, equipment, supply storage, and construction activities at least 26 feet from dripline of trees that will remain after completion of the project. (Specification 2031).
  2. Require temporary (protection) fencing as specified in the plans or ordered by the Engineer prior to the start of construction activities. (Specification 2031 & 2572).
  3. If trees identified to remain are damaged, contact the Office of Environmental Stewardship Roadside Vegetation Management Unit for determination of tree survival.
  4. Pruning of trees must be completed by an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist.  Exempt: newly planted trees under landscape contract. 
  5. Avoid injury or pruning of oak trees above and below ground during April, May, and June. When injury does occur in these months, apply wound dressing (latex paint) immediately.
  6. Ensure that clean root cutting is done as specified in the plan, if no method is listed, make the cut with either vibratory plow or trencher.
  7. Utilize trees (wood chips/mulch) on site for erosion control, construction pads, and other Project related needs prior to removing chips from the site.
  8. Removal of trees/mulch from site must follow MN Department of Agriculture plant pest quarantine requirements.

References: Specifications 1713, 1716, 2031, 2101, 2104, 2571, and 2572. Also see the Inspection and Contract Administration Guidelines for MnDOT Landscape Projects.