Right-of-Way Tree Encroachment - A Growing Issue

• Managing/removing existing trees in the ROW
• Constraining future tree growth or establishment in the ROW
• Defining approved (aesthetic) plantings, if appropriate
• Complying with federal, state and local regulations and policies

Using Technology for Better Presentation
GPS and geographic information system (GIS) technology allow ROW maintenance plans to be shown in a viewer-friendly exhibit detailing features, where they are located, and color or symbol codes for priority rankings. GIS analysis can help determine priority inspection and resulting mitigation for areas that traverse large sections of native vegetation. Concentrations of high priority removal and maintenance are better identified, presented, and budgeted for.

Graphically-enhanced maintenance plans facilitate dealings with neighboring landowners. “Neighbors are often emotionally attached to encroaching vegetation and must be contacted and informed of pending removals,” said Dudek’s Mike Huff, a certified arborist. “Before and after visuals often are necessary to show the public to obtain cooperation, particularly when replanting is required.”

Well-prepared plans facilitate better contractor management. Graphic-based, specific, easy-to-understand plans and specifications help assure that maintenance and removals are completed professionally and efficiently and avoid disturbing property outside the easement. A knowledgeable urban forestry professional must then work with the contractor, providing regular inspections and ideas to correct non-approved practices.

Periodic monitoring and database updating are required to avoid future large-scale tree and shrub removal work, resulting in long-term cost savings.

Types of Tree Encroachment Impacts Potentially Occurring within Your ROW

• Subterranean Root Impacts
  • Damage to pipeline protective coating – premature corrosion through root contact with pipeline
  • Growth under pipeline or conduit – lifting or displacement as root expands
  • Growth around pipeline or conduit – displacement, lever effect with tree failure, pressure
  • Penetration – old gaskets or fine cracks, degradation of joints
  • Soil voids – dead and decomposing roots leave soils voids and potential for pipeline failure or damage
  • Soil changes – tree transpiration can cause repeated expansion and shrinkage of soils
  • Lifting or degradation of footers of transmission towers or substations
• Surface Impacts
  • Tree failure – soil compaction, pipeline pressure, oscillations, simultaneous or multiple tree failures (increased pressures, vibration, and oscillations of soil particles above or around pipelines), transmission line impact, transmission tower or pole impact, substation impact
  • Tree failure on above ground mechanisms or pipeline
  • Trees obscure visible damage or exposed sections of the pipeline
  • Trees hinder access to damaged sections of the pipeline
• Liability Issues
  • Tree failure damage to private property or persons
  • Pipeline failure repairs delayed due to tree related access issues resulting in increased damage to private property
  • Tree removal during emergency may invite law-suit for tree replacement value
  • Unmaintained vegetation can enhance wildfire potential and intensity
• Security Issues
  • Dense vegetation and tree canopy conceal potentially dangerous activities and situations
  • Tree and brush cover can conceal minor utility failures
  • Excess vegetation provides cover for vandals, terrorists, etc., targeting above- or below-ground utilities