New Search
David Reed August 17, 1999 <br /> David Reed & Associates <br /> Dear David, <br /> I'm writing to express my concern regarding the summertime watering of the saddle area <br /> Douglas -fir trees. The targeted plantings are grouped under the drip line of the large fir (in the <br /> root zone) where these large trees are most sensitive to saturated soils. Windthrow evidence has <br /> shown that root health and development have been impacted by poor drainage and excess <br /> moisture at this site. <br /> As you know, soil conditions and root health are an important part of the "hazard triangle <br /> " analysis of windthrow safety. While it is certainly not the predominate factor, irrigation is a <br /> risk where it creates saturated conditions on poorly drained soils. In my view this is especially <br /> true where it impacts the root zone in August and September, when Douglas -fir trees in their <br /> natural state are adapted to having the ground very dry. <br /> In view of the tree health and windthrow safety risks, I would recommend that the <br /> broadcast irrigation in the saddle area be halted as soon as possible. <br /> Sincerely, <br /> Scott Ferguson <br /> Individual Tree Selection Management, Inc. <br />