Expenditures associated with conflicts between street tree root growth and hardscape in California

Abstract

A survey of 18 California cities indicated that approximately $70.7 million (se $11.1 million) was spent annually statewide due to conflicts between street tree root growth and sidewalks, curbs and gutters, and street pavement. The largest single expenditure was for sidewalk repair ($23 million, se $9.5 million), followed by curb and gutter repair ($11.8 million, se $2.6 million), and trip and fall payments and legal staff time ($10.1 million, se $2.2 million). Property owners paid 39% and 17% of tree-related sidewalk and curb and gutter repair costs, respectively. Substantial funds were invested to remove and replace trees in conflict with hardscape ($6.8 million, se $3.6 million), and for inspection and repair administration programs ($5.9 million, se $1.3 million). Root pruning ($2.5 million, se $2.0 million) and root barriers ($676,854, se $175,655) were the most important mitigation and prevention measures. Restricted planting space and the type of tree species selected were reported as the most important factors responsible for hardscape damage

Citation

McPherson, E.G. 2000. Expenditures associated with conflicts between street tree root growth and hardscape in California. Journal of Arboriculture. 26(6): 289-297.