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ROOTPRUN.POL Page 1 <br /> PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT <br /> URBAN FORESTRY POLICY <br /> SUBJECT: Root Pruning <br /> GENERAL: Public trees are an important asset to preserve, protect and maintain. Proper root pruning of <br /> trees for the repair of sidewalks, driveways, curbs and other parts of the public infrastructure is essential for <br /> the welfare of the citizens of Eugene and the continued health of the Urban Forest. <br /> PROCEDURES <br /> 1. Roots 2" or less can be pruned by City concrete crews and contractors in the normal course of repairing <br /> sidewalks. Roots over 2 ", or multiple roots in which the addition of their diameters are over 2 ", will need <br /> the approval of the Tree Crew Supervisor. The Tree Crew Supervisor shall determine if the roots can be cut <br /> and if the Concrete Crew or the Tree Crew will cut them. <br /> 2. All root pruning shall be performed according to the standards and specifications of the International <br /> Society of Arboriculture. The roots shall be cut cleanly and evenly with a saw or other approved tool or <br /> equipment and not allowed to dry out. Once cut, the roots shall be covered to prevent drying out and in no <br /> instance shall they be allowed to dry out. <br /> 3. The Tree Crew Supervisor shall determine if the root pruning needs the approval of the Urban Forester. <br /> In general, if the diameter of the roots to be cut exceeds 8 ", then the root pruning will need the approval of <br /> the urban forester. <br /> 4. Trees that have severe root pruning performed on them shall be put into a tree monitoring book. The <br /> Urban Forester or Tree Crew Supervisor shall assure the information is put in to the monitoring book. The <br /> tree crew supervisor shall maintain the monitoring book and perform at least yearly health and hazard <br /> inspections on trees that have received severe root pruning. <br /> 5. The pocket guide titled: "Trenching & Tunneling Near Trees" shall be available to each employee that <br /> may be working around public tree roots. In addition, this reference shall be available in the vehicle for <br /> easy reference by the city employee. <br />