Trees and Infrastructure
Whether they are considered part of a community’s infrastructure or in conflict with it, trees are inextricably part of what makes a community livable. Compatibility with other infrastructure components should always be a goal — and it is an achievable one.
“Infra” is from the Latin word meaning “below.” Infrastructure in a community has come to mean that which creates the foundation for all else that makes life livable for residents.
Traditionally, infrastructure refers to streets, water and sewer systems, power lines, and other facilities that are essential for all else to function. Today, a case can be made that trees belong on this list. Sometimes referred to as “green infrastructure,” trees are fundamental to making any community a pleasant and healthy place in which to live and work.
Like other components of infrastructure, trees provide a service. Unlike other components, these services — such as controlling stormwater or reducing air pollution and energy consumption — increase over time. An older pipe deteriorates. An older tree retains more rainwater in its crown, sequesters more carbon in its trunk and branches, and provides more shade. Of course, older trees reach a point of needing to be replaced, but until then, the value of their services only grows.
Another difference is that few residents emotionally connect with pipes or wires. Trees, on the other hand, provide important meaning and memories in our lives.
Not everyone embraces the concept of trees as infrastructure. It is hard to love a tree when the sidewalk lifts dangerously or branches hide a vital street sign. In some cases, trees conflict with other important parts of the infrastructure. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent or reduce the conflicts.
In This Bulletin
Here’s what’s inside:
- Making Trees and Sidewalks Compatible – steps to ensure both safe sidewalks and healthy trees
- Encourage Deep Root Growth – strategies for watering and root barriers
- Living With Signs – the right techniques to ensure coexistence of trees and signs
- Sharing Space with Technology – solar panel and 5G considerations
- Right Tree, Right Place – preventing conflicts by selecting the right tree for the right location
