Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 02/04/2013

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Feeder Roots — a complex system of small annual roots growing outward and predominantly upward from the system of "transport roots ". These roots branch four or more times to form fans or mats of thousands of fine, short, non -woody tips. Many of these small roots and their multiple tops are 0.2 to 1 mm or less in diameter, and less than 1 to 2 mm long. These roots constitute the major fraction of a tree's root system surface area, and are the primary sites of absorption of water and nutrients. Maior Woody Roots — first order tree roots originating at the "root collar" and growing horizontally in the soil to a distance of between three (3) and fifteen (15) feet from the tree's trunk. These roots branch and decrease in diameter to give rise to "rope roots ". The primary function of major woody roots include anchorage, structural support, the storage of food reserves, and the transport of minerals and nutrients. Root Collar — the point of attachment of major woody roots to the tree trunk, usually at or near the groundline and associated with a marked swelling of the tree trunk. Root Respiration — an active process occurring throughout the feeder root system of trees, and involving the consumption of oxygen and sugars with the release of energy and carbon dioxide. Root respiration facilitates the uptake and transport of minerals and nutrients essential for tree survival. Rope Roots — an extensive network or woody second order roots arising from major woody roots, occurring within the surface 12 to 18 inches of local soils, and with an average size ranging from .25 to 1 inch in diameter. The primary function of rope roots is the transport of water and nutrients, and the storage of food reserves. Soil Compaction — a change in soil physical properties, which include an increase in soil weight per unit volume and a decrease in soil pore space. Soil compaction is caused by repeated vibrations, frequent traffic and weight. As related tree roots, compacted soil can cause physical root damage, a decrease in soil oxygen levels with an increase in toxic gasses, and can be impervious to new root development. Transport Roots — the system for framework of tree roots comprised of major woody roots and rope roots. TREE PRESERVATION POLICY CITY OF ANDOVER COUNTY OF ANOKA STATE OF MINNESOTA APPENDIX B RECLAMATION OF THE GROWING SITE: 1. A tree's ability for adequate root development, and ultimately its chances for survival, is improved with reclamation of the growing site. a. Whenever possible, the soil should be brought back to its natural grade. Unnecessary fill, erosion sedimentation, concrete washout and construction debris shall be removed. When machinery is required for site improvements, it is recommended that a "bobcat" or similar light weight rubber tire vehicle be used so as to minimize soil compaction. 10