140-4Effectiveness of Best Management Practices to Reduce Soil Compaction Around Trees in Construction Sites.

See more from this Division: S06 Soil & Water Management & Conservation
See more from this Session: Impact of Soil Management On Soil Quality
Monday, October 22, 2012: 1:45 PM
Duke Energy Convention Center, Room 235, Level 2

Francisco Arriaga, USDA-ARS, Auburn, AL, Arnold M. Brodbeck, Auburn University, Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, Bay Minette, AL and William J. Rowe, Auburn University, Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, Thomasville, AL
Soil compaction from vehicular traffic around existing trees in construction sites is a major issue resulting in high tree mortality rates. Although some BMP recommendations are available, their effectiveness in reducing soil compaction has not been tested. A study was conducted to evaluate the usefulness of three available BMPs on reducing soil compaction. The impact of repeated traffic was also assessed. Preliminary data shows that these BMPS are somewhat effective in avoiding soil compaction, but avoiding or reducing vehicular traffic around trees altogether is still a better option.
See more from this Division: S06 Soil & Water Management & Conservation
See more from this Session: Impact of Soil Management On Soil Quality