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BestManagementPracticesin Minnesota

BestManagementPracticesin Minnesota

ConservingWooded Areasin DevelopingCommunities

ConservingWooded Areasin DevelopingCommunities

Conserving Wooded Areas inDeveloping Communities

Best Management Practices in Minnesota

2000Revised

Northeastern Area,State & Private Foresry

USDA Forest Service

Prepared in cooperation with the following organizations:

American Society of Landscape Architects, Minnesota ChapterBuilders Association of MinnesotaCity Foresters of Eagan and PlymouthCounty Forester, Sherburne CountyHennepin ParksInstitute for Agriculture and Trade PolicyIzaak Walton League, Minnesota ChapterMinnesota Association of RealtorsMinnesota Department of Agriculture, Division of Agronomy and

Plant ProtectionMinnesota Department of Natural Resources, Divisions of Forestry

and WatersMinnesota Department of Transportation, Office of Environ-

mental ServicesMinnesota Forestry AssociationMinnesota Pollution Control Agency, Division of Water QualityMinnesota PowerNational Association of the Remodeling IndustryNorthern States Power CompanySociety of American ForestersTree TrustUniversity of Minnesota, College of Natural Resources, Depart-

ment of Forest ResourcesWestwood Professional Services, Inc.

Funding for this guidebook was provided in part by the MinnesotaLegislature through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources,Division of Forestry.

Reproduction of this guidebook is encouraged.

Editing: Mary HoffDesign and Layout: Tami Glassel, DNR Graphic Design

Drawings: Debbie SrokaProject Coordinator: Jean Mouelle, DNR Forestry

Cover photo courtesy of the city of Eagan.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSEThis best management practices (BMPs) guidebook forconserving wooded areas in developing communities ofMinnesota was developed by an advisory committeecomposed of a wide representation of stakeholders frompublic, private, and nonprofit organizations. The goals ofthese BMPs are:

• to provide communities with a better understanding andappreciation of economic, social, and environmentalbenefits of wooded areas and individual trees,

• to provide decision makers, city planners, landowners,developers, and citizens with land-use approaches toconserve the ecological integrity and functions of woodedareas, including wildlife habitat and corridors throughoutthe landscape,

• to help builders, utility companies, contractors, machineoperators, and crews minimize impacts of constructionon wooded areas and trees, and

• to provide citizens with a better place to live and work.

iii

CONTENTSSTATEMENT OF PURPOSE iii

FIGURES ix

About the urban ecosystem 1

Current status of wooded areas in developing communities 4

About the BMP guidelines 6

Economic benefits 9

Economic stability....9Increased property values....9Tax revenue....10Energy savings....11

Social benefits 12

Health benefits....12Aesthetic values....12Recreational and educational opportunities....12Screening and privacy....12Noise and glare reduction....13

Environmental benefits 13

Clean air....13Clean water....13Wildlife habitat....15

v

INTRODUCTION 1

BENEFITS OF WOODED AREAS AND TREES 9

Audience 17

Overview 17

Recommended approach and conservation options 18

Define goals....18Inventory and assess resource....19Create a conservation plan....21Identify and select land protection options....25

Check list 29

Audience 31

Overview 31

Recommended practices 32

Define goals....32Inventory and assess resource....33Create a wooded area protection plan....39Select a protection method....42Monitor and evaluate the conservation plan....47

Check list 49

v i

BMPs TO CONSERVE WOODED AREASAT THE LANDSCAPE LEVEL 17

BMPs TO CONSERVE WOODED AREASAT THE SUBDIVISION LEVEL 31

Audience 51

Overview 51

Recommended practices 52

Define goals....54Inventory and assess trees....54Select trees or groups of trees to protect....56Select building site and construction zone....58Create a tree protection plan....59Select and implement tree protection method....64Monitor and evaluate....71

Check list 74

Audience 77

Overview 77

Transportation systems 77

Types of transportation systems....77Planners of transportation systems....78Funding for transportation systems....78State road and highway design standards....79Natural preservation routes....81Reduce tree damage through subdivision trans-

portation planning....85

vii

BMPs TO PROTECT TREES AT THE LOT LEVEL: NEWCONSTRUCTION, REMODELING, AND REDEVELOPMENT 51

TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMSAND UTILITY INFRASTRUCTURE 77

Utility infrastructure 85

Types of utility infrastructure....85Reduce tree damage through utility planning....86Site readiness summary for utilities....90

Appendix 1: Resources and Reference 91

Appendix 2: Financial Assistance Programs 97

Appendix 3: Tree Species and Tolerance 101

Appendix 4: Examples of Development Plans 105

Appendix 4 a: An example of a landscape-level inventoryof natural resources, city of Burnsville....105

Appendix 4 b: An example of a city inventory of forestresources, city of Maple Grove....106

Appendix 4 c: An example of a landscape inventory andranking of natural resources, city of Woodbury....107

Appendix 4 d: A series of comprehensive resource mapsfor a subdivision development plan....109

APPENDICES 91

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ix

1 A balanced development approach includes theconservation of wooded areas and other naturalresources as shown on the aerial view to the leftbut not their complete destruction as shown onthe aerial view to the right. 2

2 Complete loss and fragmentation of woodlands aredemonstrated by comparing the area they onceoccupied, as shown in the presettlement vegetationmap (a), to the areas they occupied in thevegetation map of 1977 (b). Note that the 1977vegetation map is more than 20 years old and moreforest land has since been converted to development. 5

3 Successful conservation of wooded areas andindividual trees requires active participation of allpeople involved in the land development. 7

4 Properties surrounded with trees have higher marketvalue than treeless properties because trees are partof the property infrastructure. In addition, treesprovide a healthier and a more pleasant livingenvironment. 10

5 A windbreak on the west and north of the buildingand shade trees on the east and west of the buildingsignificantly reduce the cost of heating and cooling. 11

6 Trees clean the air by filtering dust particles,absorbing gases including carbon and nitrogencompounds, and releasing oxygen into theatmosphere. 14

7 A community forest provides recreational andeducational opportunities as well as environmentalbenefits and wildlife habitat. 15

FIGURESFigure Page

Figure Page

8 Infrared aerial photography is used by naturalresource professionals to see patterns of waterbodies, vegetation cover, and existing infrastructure. 20

9 A resource map such as this example of the city ofCottage Grove shows the location of importantfeatures of the landscape including tree stands,water bodies, historical sites, and existing land use. 22

10 People involved in subdivision developmentmay have different priorities. 32

11 A comprehensive resource map of a subdivisionsuch as this example from North Oaks showslocation of wooded areas, individual trees,water bodies, proposed developable sites, andindicates conservancy areas. 38

12 Drawing different alternative development plans forthe subdivision provides the opportunity to look atall possible options and optimize the land use andconservation effort. 41

13 Determining the construction danger zone betweenthe protective fence and the building site assists withfinal site and building design and selection of equip-ment to be used. Note that the tree protective fenceis placed in front to prevent access and disturbanceto the protected root zone. 43

14 Highly visible ribbon identifies protected woodedareas and trees. 44

15 A combination of visual fences and silt fencesprevent access to the protected root zone andconstruction damage to trees as well as runoff. 45

16 Using equipment near protected trees can causesevere mechanical injury to trees and compact soilin the protected root zone. 53

x

Figure Page

17 A resource map at individual lot level shows the loca-tion of the wooded area and individual trees, thespecies composition, and diameter of trees at breastheight. 56

18 On a wooded lot (a), selecting the center of the lot asthe building site (b) conserves less trees thanselecting the corner of the lot as the buildingsite (c), which saves more trees. 60

19 The protected root zone of a mature tree may bedetermined by projecting the dripline. 62

20 A highly visible fence and “off limits” signs shouldbe placed around the protected root zone of eachconserved tree to prevent any site disturbance andmechanical injury. 65

21 Parking equipment (a) or storing soil (b) within theprotected root zone cause soil compaction andaffect tree growth and survival. 66

22 A temporary crossing bridge can be used near theprotected root zone to minimize soil compactionand mechanical injury to the tree. 68

23 When roots are cut or severed during trenching orexcavation, immediately protect roots with a bag (a)or tarp (b) to prevent drying. 70

24 After cutting a grade near trees (a or b), build aretaining wall to prevent soil erosion. 72

25 A roadway clear zone in a wooded area specifiesstandards for conserving trees and providing saferoad. 80

26 Construction standards for natural preservationroutes are used to preserve wooded areas and treesduring road construction. 84

xi

Figure Page

27 A joint underground utility trench for electrical, gas,fiber optic, and cable television infrastructure isencouraged in wooded areas to minimize utilityeasements and enhance the conservation effort. 87

28 Tunneling below the root system is preferred overopen trenching (on right) when installing the utilityinfrastructure near the protected root zone becausetunneling impacts fewer roots and thereby increasestree survival. 88

29 Water under pressure can be used as an alternativemethod to remove soil near the protected root zoneand prevent cutting roots. 89

xii

1Introduction

INTRODUCTION

About the urban ecosystemUrban populations will continue to grow and new residen-tial subdivisions and commercial, industrial, and institu-tional centers will continue to develop. However, decisionmakers, natural resource managers, landowners, andcitizens are increasingly concerned that the urban bio-sphere is at risk under current land development practices(urban sprawl). Destruction and fragmentation of woodedareas and farmlands, loss of individual trees, and loss ofwildlife habitat threaten the ecological integrity and func-tions of natural systems and the quality of life in urbanizingareas (Figure 1, page 2).

This BMP guidebook provides communities, urban plan-ners, developers, and builders with ideas for meetingdevelopment needs and conserving wooded areas. Theguidebook is comprised of five sections. The first describesthe economic, social, and environmental benefits ofwooded areas and trees in urban areas. The second pro-vides land-use approaches to promote conservation ofecosystem integrity and functions of wooded areasthroughout the landscape. The third and fourth providestep-by-step, site-specific land development approachesand site options to minimize site disturbance and construc-tion damage to trees during development at subdivisionand lot levels. The fifth presents an overview and new,context-sensitive design for transportation systems andutility infrastructure that should be considered at all levels

2 Introduction

Figure 1. A balanced development approach includes the conservationof wooded areas and other natural resources as shown on the aerialview to the left but not their complete destruction as shown on theaerial view to the right.

3Introduction

4 Introduction

of development. The BMPs presented in the five sectionsare equally important for the conservation and protectionof wooded areas and individual trees.

Current status of wooded areas indeveloping communitiesWooded areas are complex ecosystems in which trees arethe dominant life form interacting with animals and otherplants in a delicate balance. In Minnesota, wooded areasare comprised of native deciduous forests, coniferousforests, shrublands forests, and mixed hardwood-conifer-ous forests.

Although urban areas are covered with shade trees, existingwooded areas are being fragmented and lost at rapid rates.This is the result of inefficient land-use practices for urbandevelopment and a lack of holistic approaches to incorpo-rate forested communities into land-use planning, as wellas the lack of implementation of reasonable reforestationefforts.

The extent of this destruction and fragmentation can beseen by comparing the presettlement vegetation map withthe 1977 recent vegetation map (Figure 2). The comparisonshows a significant reduction of the woodlands within thecorridor encompassing Rochester, the Twin Cities area, andSt. Cloud.

Local and regional units of government should workcooperatively and proactively with landowners, developers,builders, nonprofit organizations, and citizens to conserve

5Introduction

6 Introduction

remaining wooded areas. Cooperation can be demon-strated when counties, cities, or townships develop theircomprehensive plans and zoning ordinances and alsoduring construction.

About the BMP guidelinesThe BMPs provided in this guidebook are voluntary guide-lines; they do not supersede existing local, state, and federallaws. They are designed to provide city planners, develop-ers, builders, utilities, and contractors with a framework ofaction to be taken before, during, and after development toincrease the protection and conservation of wooded areas.

The BMPs can be effective if they are accompanied by:

•the goodwill and right attitude of all participants involvedin land development (Figure 3),

•proactive planning and use of appropriate land protectionoptions, and

•participation of natural resource professionals (e.g.,foresters, arborists).

7Introduction

Figure 3. Succssful conservation of wooded areas andindividual trees requires active participation of all peopleinvolved in the land development.

LandownersCouncils & CommissionersNatural ResourceProfessionals

Architects

UtilitiesHomeowners

PlannersEngineers

BuildersContractorsLandscape ArchitectsCity, County, TownshipAdministrators

Residents

Developers

9Benefits of Wooded Areas and Trees

BENEFITS OFWOODED AREAS AND TREES

Wooded areas have unique compositions, structures, andfunctions. They provide a wide range of economic, social,and environmental benefits.

Economic benefitsWooded areas and trees provide both tangible andnontangible economic benefits. These include:

■ Economic stabilityThe beautifying and peaceful effect of healthy tree coverenhances land value, business development, and employ-ment opportunities. Wooded areas and trees are consid-ered part of the community’s infrastructure and assets.

■ Increased property valuesWooded areas and trees increase property value andmarketability because they enhance appearance andother values. Properties with trees usually sell faster andat a higher price than treeless properties (Figure 4,page 10). Market evidence indicates that:

•Mature landscaping (lawn, flowers, shrubs, and trees)can add up to 20 percent to the value of an improvedresidential property.

•“Good tree cover” or “well-spaced” mature trees (treesplanted or preserved for aesthetics, shade, energy

10 Benefits of Wooded Areas and Trees

conservation, and screening purposes) can increase thevalue of a developed property by 6 percent to 15 per-cent, or add 20 percent to 30 percent to the value of anundeveloped property (Source: Minnesota Society ofArboriculture, 1996).

■ Tax revenueProperty taxes provide government with revenue to fundpublic services. Trees increase appraisal and sale price,and so generate higher property and sales tax revenues.

Figure 4. Properties surrounded with trees have higher market valuethan treeless properties because trees are part of the property infra-structure. In addition, trees provide a healthier and a more pleasantliving environment.


■ Energy savingsTrees are living infrastructures. Shade trees can reducethe cost of cooling by up to 25 percent during hot sum-mer months. They also reduce the impact of urban heatislands caused by the concentration of pavement, build-ings, air conditioners, and engines in urban areas. Treewindbreaks can reduce the cost of heating during coldand windy winter months by as much as 20 percent(Figure 5). Living snow fences can provide a low-costsolution to problems from drifting snow.

Figure 5. A windbreak on the west and north of the building and shadetrees on the east and west of the building significantly reduce the costof heating and cooling.


Social benefitsThe social benefits of trees include health benefits, aes-thetic values, recreational and educational opportunities,and screening and privacy.

■ Health benefitsWooded areas provide a place for mental and physicalcontentment. Research has shown that a walk in woodedareas can relieve psychological and emotional stress.Medical studies indicate that patients recover faster infacilities surrounded with trees and rooms offering viewsto wooded areas because they feel serene, peaceful, andrestful. Wooded areas and trees provide mental comfortand relaxation.

■ Aesthetic valuesWooded areas and trees add beauty and character to thelandscape, neighborhoods, and properties and enhancequality of life.

■ Recreational and educational opportunitiesWooded areas provide recreational activities and educa-tional opportunities. These include hiking, walking,watching birds and other wildlife, nature study, photogra-phy, picnicking, and camping.

■ Screening and privacyWooded areas and trees provide screening and privacy.Screening is the blocking out of an objectionable view


while privacy is the seclusion of an area from its sur-roundings (Minnesota Society of Arboriculture, 1996).

■ Noise and glare reductionWooded areas may reflect and absorb sound energy, andblock and reflect light scattering.

Environmental benefitsWooded areas and trees provide a number of environmen-tal benefits including:

■ Clean airTrees play an important role in cleaning air. They trapdust, reducing the need to clean doors, windows, decks,patios, and exterior walls. They also remove chemicalpollutants, including carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur com-pounds, from the atmosphere and release oxygen (Figure6, page 14). By trapping carbon compounds, they reducethe level of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

■ Clean waterWooded areas and trees influence water flow, filtration,runoff, soil erosion, and sediment control, and provideclean water. According to studies by the U.S. Departmentof Agriculture (1975), wooded areas reduce runoff by 5percent to 35 percent. This reduction is less than mowedgrass and pastured areas depending on soil types. Theyalso increase water percolation and infiltration. Thisfunction is of great importance to communities thatdepend essentially on ground water.


■ Wildlife habitatBirds, mammals, fish, and other wild animals are avaluable resource. For many, their survival depends onthe presence, structure, composition, and distribution ofwooded areas across the landscape (Figure 7). Habitatrequirements (shelter, food, water, diversity) vary amongspecies. For example, squirrels may require only a fewtrees, while chipmunks require a small wood lot andother wildlife species may require much larger areas.Habitat requirements for a greater number of wildlifespecies can be met in urban wooded areas by conservinga network of connected green corridors and naturalwooded open spaces across the landscape.

Figure 7. A community forest provides recreational and educationalopportunities as well as environmental benefits and wildlife habitat.

17BMPs to Conserve Wooded Areasat the Landscape Level

BMPS TO CONSERVE WOODEDAREAS AT THE LANDSCAPE LEVEL

AudienceThis section is primarily aimed toward:

• local and regional units of government, and• community and citizen organizations.

OverviewLandscape level is defined in this guidebook as the areaunder the jurisdiction of local or regional units of govern-ment (e.g., municipality, township, county, metropolitancouncil, park districts, transportation department) havingauthority over land development. The state of Minnesotahas vested land-use planning and regulatory authority inlocal units of government (Minn. Stat. § 394.21 et seq. forcounties and Minn. Stat. § 462.351 et seq. for municipalitiesand townships) to develop their own comprehensive plans.

The role of local and regional units of government usuallyextends to:

• planning, managing, and regulating urban growth,• defining types of development and creating standards,• implementing local, regional, state, and federal natural

area protection regulations, and• assessing property value and taxes.

18 BMPs to Conserve Wooded Areasat the Landscape Level

The role of community organizations may be extended to:

• providing inputs to local comprehensive plans anddevelopment of transportation systems, and

• providing inputs in land development, price, and conser-vation values.

To conserve wooded areas, local and regional units ofgovernment including decision makers, planners, andcommunity activists should work together as partners andrecognize wooded areas as community assets, adopt therecommended land-use approach, and implement conser-vation options.

Recommended approach andconservation optionsConserving wooded areas should be an integral part of landdevelopment. Wooded areas can be conserved when urbanplanners adopt the following step-by-step land-use ap-proach.

■ Define goals

Goals to conserve wooded areas across the landscapeshould include:

•protection and/or restoration of ecological integrityand functions,

•protection and promotion of connectivity and continu-ity of wooded areas across the landscape and politicalboundaries,


•establishment or creation of networks of forest commu-nities as open space, and

•protection of wildlife habitat and corridors.

■ Inventory and assess resource

A landscape-level inventory should be carried out by aninterdisciplinary team. The team should include aforester, arborist, soil scientist, wildlife ecologist, land-scape architect, other natural resource professional,planner, engineer, archeologist, community activist, andnonprofit organization representative. A resource inven-tory can be based on the model used by the MinnesotaCounty Biological Survey for assessing values andecological functions of woodlands, or on models devel-oped by municipalities such as the model used by thecity of Maple Grove (Westwood Professional ServicesInc., 1994) or the city of Cottage Grove (Bonestroo,Rosene, Anderlik & Associates, 1998). The resourceinventory includes land survey, resource assessment, andproduction of a landscape comprehensive resource map.

◆Conduct woodland survey and resource assessment

A woodland survey provides information needed tomake appropriate land-use decisions. It consists ofdelineating the tree stand, identifying and classifyingwooded areas by type and condition, and assessingtheir ecological functions as well as conservationvalues (ranking) within the jurisdiction and adjacentjurisdictions. Other natural resources, includingwetlands, farmlands, areas occupied by rare plant and


animal species, and projected greenways areas (for themetro region) can be identified, classified, and as-sessed during the woodland survey. Other pertinentinformation, including watershed, drainage, topogra-phy, soil types, existing infrastructures, and areas ofsignificant historical and cultural values can be identi-fied. Aerial photography can be used to identify re-sources prior to doing a land survey (Figure 8). Col-lected data should be accessible to landowners, devel-opers, and builders to coordinate conservation efforts.

Figure 8. Infrared aerial photography is used by natural resource profes-sionals to see patterns of water bodies, vegetation cover, and existinginfrastructure.

FPO


◆Create a comprehensive landscape resource map

A comprehensive landscape resource map is a visualdisplay of pertinent information collected during theland survey and resource assessment. The informationmust be accurate. Locations and types of wooded areasshould be recorded on the map at the appropriate scale(Figure 9, page 22). Other examples of landscaperesource maps of Burnsville, Maple Grove, andWoodbury are included in Appendix 4 (a, b, and c, page105).

■ Create a conservation plan

A conservation plan should be based on the resourceinventory and assessment data and the comprehensivelandscape resource map. The process begins with identi-fication and location of the main transportation systems,utilities, and the wooded areas to conserve.

Land surveys can have significant financial cost. TheMinnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offersa number of financial assistance programs to communitiesand local and regional units of government to do resourceinventory and assessment and to reach their naturalresource management goals. A directory of financialassistance is available, and it provides summary-levelinformation on DNR financial programs (see Appendix 2,page 97).


◆Identify and locate wooded areas

Find wooded areas within local and adjacent jurisdic-tions.

Figure 9. A resource map such as this example of the city of CottageGrove shows the location of important features of the landscape includ-ing tree stands, water bodies, historical sites, and existing land use.


◆Identify and locate site for main transportation systemsand utility infrastructure

Transportation systems and utilities are usually con-nected to existing ones. Newer utility corridors can belocated and designed in ways to conserve woodedareas.

◆Select wooded areas to conserve

Wooded areas to conserve should include those thatpossess the condition and characteristics to satisfyconservation goals. The following wooded areas can beof high priority for conservation:

✴Larger tracts of remnant wooded areas

The size of remnant tracts to give priority to dependson species composition (greater species diversity),species suitability to the site, health condition, andecological functions. A county, city, or township maymandate a specified size of remnant wooded areasfor protection.

✴Wooded areas that have the potential to be connectedto others

Continuity of wooded areas is valuable for wildlifehabitat and water quality. A county, city, or townshipmay mandate the protection of wooded areas foundin flood plains, sensitive areas of watersheds, andgreen corridors.


✴Wooded areas having significant ecological functionsand conservation values

These include soil and water conservation, wildlifehabitat and corridors, recreational and historicalvalues, or social and cultural amenities.

✴Wooded areas occupied by rare plant and animalspecies

The Minnesota County Biological Survey is conduct-ing a statewide survey for these areas and will be animportant resource for this information (see Appen-dix 1, page 91).

✴Areas with reforestation and restoration potential

Reforestation is important to achieve connectivityand continuity of wooded areas throughout thelandscape.

◆Identify developable areas

Once all of these areas, including sites for main trans-portation systems and utility infrastructure, protectedwoodlands, and developable areas, have been identi-fied, they should be recorded on the comprehensivelandscape resource map and be entered in geographicinformation systems (GIS). They should be shared withother local and regional units of government, develop-ers, builders, and private organizations to promotecontinuity and connectivity of wooded areas across thelandscape for wildlife habitat, water quality, and other


ecological, social, and environmental functions and toenhance coordination and partnerships among allstakeholders. Developers and builders should partici-pate in this process and be informed about the conser-vation goals and wooded areas set aside for conserva-tion.

■ Identify and select land protection options

Once a comprehensive landscape resource map has beendeveloped and wooded areas to conserve have beenidentified, select appropriate land-protection options.Options available to local and regional units of govern-ment include:

◆Use zoning and subdivision ordinances

Zoning and subdivision ordinances are the mostcommon land-use tools local units of government useto control development within their jurisdictions.When drafting ordinances to promote conservation ofwooded areas, consider the following:

• Gather input from developers, builders, and citizenorganizations.

• Integrate conservation values in zoning codes andpolicies.

• Identify developable subdivisions and conservationzoning districts in the comprehensive plans.


• Determine the type of development to be allowedusing information contained in the landscape-comprehensive resource map.

• Promote flexible subdivision ordinances that encour-age variable lot size and configuration, street widthand setbacks according to traffic, utility types andeasements, and creative development plans.

• Draft local woodland and tree-protection ordinancesfor both public and private property.

• Provide incentives to reduce impervious surfaces.Incentives may include reduced road width, set-backs, and parking lots. Other incentives may in-clude additional lots, tax incentives, and publicrecognition or awards such as the statewide builders’and developers’ awards.

• Promote the use of joint utility easements andtrenches for underground utilities and rights of wayfor overhead lines.

• Create a local natural resource advisory board tofoster the participation of community organizationsincluding citizens, nonprofit organizations, develop-ers, builders, and contractors.

• Create conservation overlay districts in the jurisdic-tion using comprehensive plans and zoning ordi-nances, and determine urban growth boundaries.


• Provide incentives to promote or mandate imple-mentation of conservation designs such as conserva-tion zoning designs, open space designs, conserva-tion subdivision designs, and cluster developmentdesigns. Washington County Planning and Adminis-trative Services published a comprehensive guide toopen space design development (see Appendix 1,page 91).

• Set up conservation standards based on soundprotection options of wooded areas. For example,local and regional units of government shouldpromote the conservation of 50 percent to 70 percentof wooded areas in residential zoning districts asnatural wooded open space.

• Promote new and flexible approaches to conserva-tion. For instance, the city of Eagan has established apark dedication policy in which as a general rule, 15acres of land are dedicated for park, playground, andpublic open space for every 1,000 residents. Othercommunities prohibit development on wooded areasof 10 acres and larger or have adopted a one-for-onereplacement per caliper inch. However, soundconservation plans should focus on species diversityof the woodlands, the health condition, and speciessuitability to the site. Native species that are welladapted to the local condition should be given higherconservation priority as well as species that aretolerant to site disturbances. For example, an oaksapling may be preserved instead of a mature boxelder in many sites in the metro area.


• Provide a management strategy to maintain andenhance the quality of the protected wooded areas.The management strategy should have an educationcomponent for the public and include frequentassessment of the tree and forest health (insect,disease, and stress), fire hazard (Great Lakes FireCompact, 1990), and wood utilization.

◆Consider other conservation and protection options

A number of land protection options have been devel-oped to assist landowner and local units of govern-ment. They include:

• conservation easements,• land-retirement programs,• property tax-relief programs,• restoration cost-share programs,• registry programs,• transfers of land,• deed restrictions,• mutual covenants,• management agreements,• donating land,• selling land to conservation buyers,• land exchanges,• transfer of development rights,


• purchase of development rights,• outright acquisition,• and carbon sequestration credits.

These land protection options are described in Land Protec-tion Options: A Handbook for Minnesota Landowners andNatural Areas: Protecting a Vital Community Asset. Copies ofthese publications can be obtained free of charge to residentsof Minnesota by contacting the Minnesota DNR.

Check list� Define goals

� Do resource inventory and assessment (landscapescale)

� Conduct woodland survey and resource assess-me nt

� Create a comprehensive landscape resource map

� Create a conservation plan

� Identify and locate wooded areas

� Identify and locate site for main transportationsystems and utility infrastructure

� Select wooded areas to conserve

� Large tracts of remnant woodlands

� Wooded areas that have the potential to beconnected to others

� Wooded areas having significant ecologicalfunctions and conservation values


� Wooded areas occupied by rare plant andanimal species

� Areas with reforestation and restoration poten-tial

� Identify developable areas

� Identify and select land protection options

� Use zoning and subdivision ordinances

� Determine type of development

� Residential

� Commercial

� Institutional or other

� Determine easements, types, and design oftransportation systems

� Determine easements, types, and design ofutilities

� Consider woodlands and tree preservationordinances

� Consider other conservation and protectionoptions

� Conservation districts

� Conservation easements and covenants

� Transfer of development rights

� Purchase of development rights

� Land exchange

� Land retirements

� Other land-protection options

31BMPs to Conserve Wooded Areasat the Subdivision Level

BMPs TO CONSERVE WOODEDAREAS AT THE SUBDIVISION LEVEL

AudienceThis section is primarily directed toward:

•local units of government,•landowners and developers,•builders and utility companies, and•community and citizen organizations.

OverviewThe development of a subdivision is always affected bystate and federal laws, local comprehensive plans andregulations, zoning and subdivision ordinances, codes andpolicies, and housing market demand. All people involvedin subdivision development should recognize the need andreasons to protect wooded areas and other natural areas,while complying with regulations. City planners, landown-ers, developers, and builders play a major role in subdivi-sion development by planning and creating developmentplans in conformance with municipal, township, andcounty zoning and subdivision ordinances and by oversee-ing development. However, landowners, developers,builders, local units of government, and homeowners mayhave different agendas (Figure 10, page 32).

32 BMPs to Conserve Wooded Areasat the Subdivision Level

Recommended practicesProtecting wooded areas and other plant communitiesmust begin with a plan. “A planning process begins whenthe decision to develop the land is made and finishes whenthe completed development is occupied” (Watson andNeely, 1995).

■ Define goals

Defining goals is the first step to consider in land devel-opment. The goals should include:

•conservation of green corridors,

•conservation of wooded areas as natural open space orconservancy area, and

•protection of individual trees.

Neighborhoods, homeowners• affordable price• attractive and pleasant place

to live and work• maintain biological diversity

Landowners,developers, builders

• observe zoning codes• meet market demand• maintain desirable appearance

Local units of government• fulfill development needs• control lot density• provide tax revenue• protect the environment

Figure 10. People involved in subdivision development may havedifferent priorities.


■ Inventory and assess resource

Resource inventory and assessment is an important stepin protecting wooded areas and meeting the goals. Theobjective is to create a comprehensive resource map forthe subdivision. This map will be the main document touse when making decisions.

A resource inventory and assessment for a subdivisioncan be achieved in three steps:

•evaluate existing resource information,

•conduct site review and survey trees, and

•create a comprehensive resource map for the subdivi-sion.

◆Evaluate existing resource information

A number of local and regional units of governmentcollect information on the status of natural resources.This information is useful in planning at the subdivi-sion level. Landowners and developers may takeadvantage of this information including topographicmaps, aerial photography, and information on water-sheds, wetlands, historic land uses, proposedgreenways, soils, septic system suitability, areas occu-pied by rare plant and animal species, conservationeasements, and protected wooded areas (see Appendix1, page 91). Local zoning and tree preservation ordi-nances may also provide some information andguidelines.


◆Conduct site review and survey trees

A site review and tree survey are the physical examina-tion of the resources within the subdivision andadjacent land. They include:

• identification and location of wooded areas andother natural resources, and

• delineation of potential wooded areas to protect.

A site review and tree survey must be perfo rmed by anatural re so urce pro fe s s io nal such as a fo rester, arbo ris t,o r landscape architect.

✴Obtain aerial photography

Aerial photography can provide fast knowledge ofexisting resources and adjacent areas. Agencies thatprovide aerial photography (prints or services)include the Metropolitan Council, U.S. GeologicalSurvey, or DNR (see Appendix 1, page 91).

✴Identify and locate wooded areas and other landtypes

After identifying wooded areas using aerial photogra-phy, it is necessary to physically locate the woodedareas, measure them, profile trees by species and sizedistribution, determine cover types, and draw cover-type boundaries on the subdivision map using anappropriate scale. For definitions of specific cover


types use references such as Tester, J., 1995; Wovcha,D. S., B. C. Delaney, and G. E. Nordquist, 1995;Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 1993.

Sampling techniques can be used to profile trees onwooded areas larger than 10 acres and a completeinventory of trees on wooded areas of less than 10acres. When profiling trees, highlight wooded areasand trees with historical, cultural, or biologicalsignificance. Identify wooded areas that have beenlocated or designated for protection by units ofgovernment, landowners, and/or community organi-zations, and record them on the subdivision map.Pay particular attention to younger stands of treesand trees that are suited to the site condition. Con-tact the Minnesota DNR’s Division of Fish andWildlife, Section of Ecological Services (CountyBiological Survey) to obtain information on thestatus and distribution of flora, fauna, and naturalcommunities, and the State Historic PreservationOffice to obtain other information.

Other land types, including wetlands, farmlands, andland classified as potential natural areas for rareplant and animal species, should be located, identi-fied, and recorded on the comprehensive resourcemap.

✴Delineate potential wooded areas to protect

The initial evaluation of natural resources shouldnote areas of priority for protection and conserva-tion. These areas may include:


•wooded areas protected or identified by local, state,and federal laws; policies and/or regulations, suchas wetlands, and designated greenways and naturalareas,

•wooded flood plains, wooded stream corridors,steep wooded slopes, and buffer zones. These areashave important ecological functions for waterquality and wildlife habitat, and

•remnant tracts of wooded areas at least one acre insize with healthy trees.

Remnant tracts of wooded areas may have aestheticvalues and provide recreation for surroundingneighborhoods. They may offer ecological benefits,including carbon sequestration; screening andprivacy; wildlife attraction for resting, nesting,feeding, and breeding; and energy conservation andprotection against drifting snow. All of these func-tions may have direct impact on property values andquality of life.

A site review and tree survey may have significant financialcost. The DNR provides a number of financial assistanceprograms to organizations and individuals to do resourceinventory and assessment and to reach their conservationand natural resource stewardship goals. Landowners anddevelopers may be able to receive assistance for sometypes of projects. A directory of financial assistance isavailable to identify existing financial assistance programsadministered by the DNR (see Appendix 2, page 97).


◆Create a comprehensive resource mapof the subdivision

The ultimate purpose of the resource assessment andinventory is to create a comprehensive resource mapfor the subdivision. This map constitutes the basic toolfrom which to make all decisions related to the devel-opment, including the type of the development design,location of permanent structures (buildings, roads, andutilities), and location of temporary facilities such asoffices, parking lots, equipment maintenance space,and rights of way. Record on the map pertinent infor-mation including location of wooded areas and treesby outlining their canopy or tree line, wetlands andother type of land cover, planned unit development(roads and buildings), and preserved areas. A develop-ment map from North Oaks is a good example of asubdivision resource map (Figure 11, page 38). Anotherexample from Robert Engstrom Companies shows aseries of five comprehensive steps or maps to developthe final development plan for a subdivision. The stepsor maps include site analysis, existing vegetation/woodlands, planned unit development/housing area,first development plan, and final development plan(Appendix 4 d, page 109).


■ Create a wooded area protection plan

Develop a protection plan for wooded areas based on informa-tion provided on the subdivision comprehensive resource map.The protection plan should include:

•selection and delineation of the wooded areas to be protected,and

•selection of the protection method.

A succes s ful pro tectio n plan to co nserve wo o ded areas ina sub divis io n wo uld set aside at least 50 percent to 70percent o f the to tal wo o ded area in fo rm o f natural o penspace , green co rrido rs , o r co nservancy area. A number o flo cal develo pe rs and b uilders have achieved thes e go als(e .g., develo pment plans fro m No rth Oaks and SettlerRidge). If the subdivis io n is no t co vered with wo o dedareas, an alternative plan, including refo restatio n, may beinitiated. Other techniques , including tree transplanting,can be used to save tree s .

◆Select and delineate wooded areas to protect

To achieve a successful wooded area protection plan,consider the following steps:

✴Record location of wooded areas to be protected

Select wooded areas to be protected based on thegoals and information provided on the comprehen-sive resource map. Record these areas on the com-prehensive resource map with a distinctive pattern.


✴Record all areas likely to be adversely im-pacted during construction

Wooded areas located on potentially sensitive sites such aswetlands and steep slopes may need additional protection.Identify and mark these areas as natural amenities to thedevelopment plan.

✴Record areas that can be used for reforesta-t ionand/or restoration

These areas may be located on natural drainage orsensitive sites.

✴Locate and delineate developable and buildable sites

Locate areas for development to meet subdivisiondensity requirements, road sites, and other ease-ments (sewer, water, communication and electricallines, septic system, storm water, etc.). It is necessaryto draw a few alternative sketches of concept plansbefore making a final decision. Alternative conceptplans (Figure 12) may include the lot size, location,and distribution; road and transportation systems; utilitysystems, designs, and location; and location of areas to begraded (also see Appendix 4 d, page 109).

◆Submit the development plan for approval

When submitting the final development plan, the developerand the county, city, or township planner should review theplan together.


Figure 12. Drawing different alternative development plansfor the subdivision provides the opportunity to look at allpossible options and optimize the land use and conservationeffort.

Conservation or Open-space Development (c, d,e )

Conservation Village

Limited Development

(c)

(e)

(b)

(a)

fpo

fpo

Farmstead/Subdivision

fpo

ConventionalDevelopment(Cookie-cutter Approach)

Mixed ResidentialDevelop-ment (d)fpo


■ Select a protection method

Once the development plan is approved, the developer and/orbuilder should select the protection method that consists ofseveral steps:

•Determine the protected root zone.

•Mark the protected root zone.

•Identify the grading area and method.

•Create the reforestation plan and method.

•Identify trees to be transplanted.

◆Determine the protected root zone

The protected root zone (PRZ) is defined as optimumspace needed for a group of trees or an individual tree toretain good health and vigor. The larger or wider thiszone is the better for the trees’ health and vigor. Thiszone should be protected and off limits to all constructionactivities, including driving and parking vehicles, storingmaterials, and soil excavation, to minimize site disturbanceand physical damage to trees during construction. Itshould be determined and protected before constructionbegins. A number of methods including the dripline,minimum area, site occupancy, and trunk diametermethods have been developed to determine the protectedroot zone. These methods are described in the lot-levelsection of this guidebook (see page 51). Each method has


its own merit to provide adequate protection area. How-ever, the dripline m ethod is widely recommended andused to protect mature individual trees, groups of trees, orwooded areas. The minimum area method can be usedto protect small mature individual trees, groups of trees,or wooded areas. The m inim um area m ethod can besed to protect small and young trees. On larger develop-ment sites, a construction danger zone up to 30 feetwide between the construction area and the protectedroot zone is necessary to minimize construction damageto trees (Figure13).

Figure 13. Determining the construction danger zone betweenthe protective fence and the building site assists with final siteand building design and selection of equipment to be used.Note that the tree protective fence is placed in front to preventaccess and disturbance to the protected root zone.


◆Mark the protected root zone

Once the protected root zone has been determined, theprotection method becomes a straightforward process.It consists of marking the protected area and puttingup highly visible ribbon or fencing and signs to enclosethe entire area (Figure 14). This area should be off limitsto all construction activities including parking vehicles,storing materials, and soil excavation.

If the protected areas are located on a down slope of theconstruction site or near wetlands, it is important to install acombination fence—a silt fence to prevent runoff andsediment, and a visual fence for enclosure (Figure 15).

Figure 14. Highly visible ribbon identifies protectedwooded areas and trees.

FPO


◆Determine the grading area and method

Before construction begins, evaluate the site to determinethe area that needs grading and also the percentage ofgrading needed. When filling or cutting grades near theprotected root zone, build the retaining walls beforegrading begins to prevent runoff into the protected rootzone, stabilize the slope, and prevent soil erosion. Customgrading is recommended and encouraged because itimpacts a smaller area and saves more trees than massgrading (see individual lot level, page 51).

Figure 15. A combination of visual fences and silt fencesprevent access to the protected root zone and constructiondamage to trees as well as runoff.

FPO


◆Define reforestation plan and method

On a site with few or no trees, a reforestation plan may beinitiated with well-defined goals. Goals for reforestation mayinclude the establishment of energy conservation trees, aliving snow fence, a wildlife planting, windbreaks, orboulevard trees. A reforestation plan consists of selecting themost suitable tree species and planting design to meet theintended goals. Since the timing and design of the planting areimportant, the reforestation plan should be done by a naturalresource professional.

◆Record trees to be transplanted and the site

Some trees in the construction zone and on building sites canbe transplanted to a different location. This conservationmethod can be cost effective and provide immediate func-tional and aesthetic benefits. However, tree transplanting is ahighly specialized activity that needs to be done by a knowl-edgeable and experienced person. A number of tools isavailable to transplant trees. These tools may include abackhoe, tree spade, and crane. Understanding the biologicallimitations of each tree species to tolerate disturbance and thetiming are critical for a successful transplantation. A system-atic tree care program, including irrigation and fertilization, isnecessary after transplanting. When possible, transplant treestwo to four years before construction begins.


■ Monitor and evaluate the conservation plan

A successful conservation plan requires the participation andcommitment of all parties involved in the development project.Before the project begins, communicate the tree conservationgoals and methods to all participants, including landowners,developers, builders, contractors, and utility companies. Theplan monitoring and evaluation should include education, siteinspection, and financial penalties.

◆Educate

Plan implementation should begin with education about thegoals and tree protection measures. All people involved in theproject should know about the tree protection goal andmethod. They should be informed about the protected rootzone and the purpose of protective fences and signs. Contracts(including those with subcontractors) should explicitly statethat any disturbance in the protected root zone (includinghuman or machine activity, storage of material, and soilexcavation) violates the contract and that specified penaltieswill be applied. A provision binding the contractor to thesurvival of protected trees up to five years from the datethe construction was completed should be written into thecontract.

◆Site inspection

Monitor the program as the project proceeds. Themonitoring program may include frequent visits to the siteby the landowner, local unit of government, or citizenorganization to check for violations of the tree protection


plan. Project managers, including the supervisor, superin-tendent, crew leader, or an outside consultant may beassigned this task.

◆Financial penalty

The penalty may be monetary or replacement of trees. TheMinneso ta Supplement to the Guide fo r Plant Appraisalwith Regio nal Tree Appraisal Facto rs can be used as aguide defining the financial penalty (Minnesota Society ofArboriculture, 1996).



� Inventory and assess resource (subdivision scale)

� Evaluate existing resource information

� Conduct site review and survey trees

� Obtain aerial photography

� Identify and locate wooded areas and other landtypes

� Delineate potential wooded areas to protect

� Create a comprehensive resource map of the subdivision

� Create a wooded area protection plan

� Select and delineate wooded areas to protect

� Record location of wooded areas to be protected

� Record all areas likely to be adversely impactedduring construction

� Record areas that can be used for reforestationand/or restoration

� Locate and delineate developable and buildablesites

� Submit the development plan for approval

� Select a protection method

� Determine the protected root zone

� Mark the protected root zone

� Determine the grading area and method

� Define reforestation plan and method


� Record trees to be transplanted and site

� Monitor and evaluate the conservation plan

� Educate

� Site inspection

� Financial penalty

51BMPs to Protect Trees at the Lot Level

BMPs TO PROTECT TREES AT THELOT LEVEL: NEW CONSTRUCTION,REMODELING & REDEVELOPMENT

AudienceThis section is directed toward:

• homeowners, businesses, landowners, and communities,• builders, contractors, and subcontractors, and• utility companies.

OverviewProtecting wooded areas and individual trees at the lot levelhas direct benefits to landowners, homeowners, businesses,neighborhoods, communities, and the landscape as awhole. Builders and contractors undertake construction inaccordance with zoning ordinances and should observeexisting conservation easements and covenants, includingthose related to trees.

Wooded areas and trees can be severely damaged duringland development. Construction damage to trees includesmechanical injuries, soil compaction, and soil contamina-tion (Figure 16, page 53). Mechanical injuries to trunks andbranches are the most common types of above groundinjuries. These injuries may cause trees to lose their aes-thetic value and initiate insect and disease problems suchas oak wilt. Tree roots can also suffer mechanical damagefrom excavating, grading (cut and fill), trenching, or equip-

52 BMPs to Protect Trees at the Lot Level

ment traffic within the protected root zone. Although thetree’s root injuries are difficult to see and predict, they canseverely impact tree survival and growth, predisposingaffected trees to disease and insect problems.

Soil compaction is most likely to occur when constructionequipment is driven over an area. It can also be causedwhen construction materials or equipment (includingworkers’ personal vehicles) are stored or parked near trees.Soil compaction is the main cause of tree loss followingconstruction. It is a physical compression of soil particlescaused by ground pressure and vibration from equipmentand by the weight of material stored near trees. It affectsroot growth, water percolation, gas exchange, and nutrientuptake. Severe soil compaction occurs on the topsoil withinthe first 2 to 4 inches, but may affect deeper soil. Treesaffected by soil compaction will suffocate, become stressedand vulnerable to insects and disease, and be likely to diewithin two to five years. The same fate can occur when soilfill is added within the protected root zone or drainagepatterns are altered and saturated soil conditions resultwithin the protected root zone.

Recommended practicesProactive planning and use of appropriate approaches andtools can ensure greater protection and conservation ofwooded areas and trees during construction. The followingsteps are necessary to achieve protection goals. Theyinclude goal definition, tree inventory and assessment,


Figure 16. Using equipment near protected trees can cause severemechanical injury to trees and compact soil in the protected root zone.


selection of building site and construction zone, creation ofa protection plan, selection of a protection method, andmonitoring and evaluation.

■ Define goals

The goals should include:

•protection of wooded areas and trees from constructiondamage,

•compliance with zoning regulations, conservationeasements, and covenants, and

•maintenance and enhancement of community aesthet-ics and property values.

■ Inventory and assess trees

Tree inventory and resource assessment are specializedactivities that should be performed by a natural resourceprofessional (e.g., forester or arborist). The extent of thetree inventory and assessment depends on a number offactors including lot size, cover type, and stage of devel-opment activity (new development and remodeling). Onlots of less than two acres, do a complete tree survey (thatis, the tree count by species of all trees 2 inches in diam-eter and larger). Also, assess the health and growthcondition. On lots of more than two acres, use either acomplete or partial survey, depending on the cover type.The local tree preservation ordinance may specify thetype of tree survey.


When doing a complete tree survey, measure the diam-eter of all trees and assess the health condition andgrowth characteristics of all measured trees. Trees lessthan 8 inches in diameter can be recorded by species,growth, and health condition. The diameter of treeslarger than 8 inches is measured at 54 inches above theground and slope side. The inventory should follow thesesteps:

◆Obtain or draw a boundary map of the lot

Identify corners, streets, and all easements.

◆Record the location of all trees and wooded areas

Record the location of all trees and wooded areas onthe resource map (Figure 17, page 56). A professionalsurveyor may be used to more accurately locate treesclose to the building site.

◆Do a tree survey and health assessment

This assessment includes tree identification by speciesand age class and assesses health condition by growthcharacteristics, including trunk form (linear tree,crooked trunk, or bowing), crown form, and healthcondition (presence of conks, signs of stress, pests,disease, dead branches, and wilted leaves). Treeidentification is needed to define the species distribu-tion and composition on the property; to determinesite suitability; to anticipate the cost of removing,replacing, and transplanting; to determine long-term


health and disease problems as well as silvicultural orarboricultural treatments; and if applicable, to complywith local tree preservation ordinances.

◆Record tree survey and health assessment information

Write the information gathered on the resource mapincluding the species and size. Other information suchas health condition and growth characteristics can berecorded on the map or on a separate sheet.

■ Select trees or groups of trees to protect

Use the following criteria to select trees or groups of treesto protect:

Figure 17. A resource map at individual lot level shows the location ofthe wooded area and individual trees, the species composition, anddiameter of trees at breast height.


•select trees or groups of trees as needed to comply withany local tree preservation ordinances,

•select trees and wooded areas found within conserva-tion easements or covenants,

•select trees that are suitable to the site conditions (e.g.,native species and trees with desirable growth charac-teristics),

•select trees that provide direct benefits (e.g., wildlifehabitat, shade, windbreak, screening, privacy, etc.),

•select trees that are connected to other trees (e.g.,groups or lines of trees) on adjoining property toachieve connectivity, and

•pay particular attention to younger trees that may havegreater tolerance for site disturbance during construc-tion.

◆Mark trees or groups of trees to protect

Identify protected wooded areas or trees with coloredribbon (yellow or orange). If there are fewer trees toremove than to save, it may be more cost effective tomark trees to be removed. Use a standard color.

◆Record information on the resource map

Record the location of the tree and the species name ora code on the resource map. Trees or areas to protectmay be indicated with a letter P (protect) or S (save)and trees to remove may be shown with a letter


R (remove) or C (cut). Colored markers (e.g., yellow,orange, or blue) can also be used or a combination ofletters and colored markers.

■ Select building site and construction zone

The homeowner, developer, builder, contractors, engi-neers, utility companies, and natural resource specialistsshould work together to select a building site and con-struction zone. Involving a realtor, landscape architect,and architect at the early stage of development is alsoimportant.

After reviewing all ordinances pertaining to the subdivi-sion, including setback, conservation easements, utilityand other easements, and existing covenants, select thebuilding site, construction zone, and other areas.

◆Select building and additions site and assess open space

The building site includes spaces for the main struc-ture and additions and other outbuildings, driveways,garage and parking areas, and utilities (septic systems,drain fields, sewer, gas, water, well, and communica-tion and electrical lines). The percentage of open spaceneeds to be determined when selecting sites forbuilding and additions sites. It should be part of theoverall planning process.


◆Select construction zone

The construction zone includes all access routes forconstruction equipment (trucks, tractors, utilityvehicles), parking areas during construction, a materialstorage site, an area for cleaning and performingmaintenance on equipment, and, if needed, a space fora temporary office.

◆Identify other areas

Other areas to identify may include setbacks, utilityand other easements, and areas dedicated to conserva-tion easements, covenants, and other uses. Check withlocal units of government (city, township, county),homeowner associations, and nonprofit organizations(such as the Minnesota Land Trust) for other pertinentinformation about land-use practices on the subdivi-sion (see Appendix 1, page 91).

For single family residential development in woodedlots, select the corner of the lot as the building site tominimize loss of trees and maximize tree protectionarea (Figure 18, page 60). Areas having trees of lowerconservation value or poor health can be selected asbuilding sites and construction zones.

■ Create a tree protection plan

A tree protection plan for wooded areas or individualtrees at the lot level consists primarily of protecting theprotected root zone. The protected root zone should beoff limits to any activity. More detailed guidance may be


Figure 18. On a wooded lot (a), selecting the center of the lot as thebuilding site (b) conserves less trees than selecting the corner of the lotas the building site (c), which saves more trees.

(a)

(b)

(c)


obtained from the Minnesota Extension Service publica-tion Pro tecting Trees fro m Co nstructio n Damage: aHo meo wner’s Guide (Miller et. al., 1993). A tree protectionplan follows three orderly steps:

◆Determine and delineate the protected root zone

The protected root zone is the area near trees thatshould be avoided during construction. It is defined asthe area directly below the branches of mature trees orthe dripline (Figure 19, page 62). Since roots extendbeyond this zone, the protected root zone can beextended beyond the dripline whenever possible tominimize construction damage to roots.

A number of methods have been developed to deter-mine the protected root zone.

✴Trunk diameter method

Measure the tree diameter in inches at breast height(54 inches above ground). Convert the measurementto feet or to a foot and half for every inch to obtainthe radius of the protected root zone (Coder, 1995).

✴Site occupancy method

Predict the tree diameter at breast height in inchesfor that tree at 10 years old. Multiply the number by2.25 and convert the result into feet to obtain theradius of the protected root zone (Coder, 1995).


Figure 19. The protected root zone of a mature tree may be determinedby projecting the dripline.

Protected Root Zone


✴Minimum area method

Protect an area of approximately 6 feet in radiusaround the trunk as the protected root zone.

✴Dripline method

This is the most commonly used method. The radiusof the protected root zone by the dripline methodcan be determined by two ways. The first consists ofmeasuring the distance of the branch that extendshorizontally farthest from the trunk and multiply by1.5 to obtain the protected root zone radius. Thesecond consists of projecting the tree driplinedownward to the ground and delineating the areabeneath the tree branches or crown as the protectedroot zone.

Selecting the appropriate method requires knowl-edge of the tree species and site condition. A forester,arborist, or other natural resource professionalshould make the selection. The dripline method isoften preferred to protect mature trees (individuals,groups of trees, or wooded areas). However, whenusing the dripline method for individual trees, someadjustment should be made for trees with narrowcrowns. The minimum area method can be used toprotect young trees (seedlings and saplings). Thedripline or minimum area methods offer only anoptimum space for tree survival and growth becauseroots extend far beyond the dripline or the minimumarea. Therefore, the larger the protected root zone,the better it is for the tree’s growth and survival.


■ Select and implement tree protection method

Tree protection consists primarily of preventing physicaldamage to trees from driving or parking equipment,storing materials near trees, headquartering workingcrews near trees, and disturbing the site within theprotected root zone.

◆Protected root zone does not conflict with building siteand construction zone

If enough clearance exists between the protected rootzone and the building site or construction zone, simplybuild a fence to prevent any activity and access withinthe protected root zone and hang “off limits” signs onthe fence to alert crews and other people visiting thesite (Figure 20).

A fence prevents activities such as driving or parkingequipment and storing materials such as soil fromoccurring within the protected root zone (Figure 21,a and b, page 66).

◆Protected root zone overlaps with building site

If the protected root zone overlaps with the buildingsite, decide whether to remove trees, transplant trees,change the building site or the building design, or usebuilding materials that may cause less site impact ontrees. For instance, a pervious pavement may be usedto build a driveway. A pavement type requiring athinner cross section such as concrete may be used


Figure 20. A highly visible fence and “off limits” signs should be placedaround the protected root zone of each conserved tree to prevent anysite disturbance and mechanical injury.


instead of asphalt. Geotextile materials can be used atthe bottom before pouring the concrete to reducesubbase compaction.

◆Protected root zone overlaps with construction zone

If the protected root zone overlaps with the construc-tion zone, a number of options can be used:

✴Build a travel route to minimize impact on soiland root systems

A layer of wood chips may be spread or a crossingbridge installed for temporary use (Figure 22,page 68). When using wood chips for a temporarytravel route, the thickness and structure of the wood-chip layer will depend on the type, size, and weight ofequipment to be used. The use of mixed, particle-sizewood chips spread at least 12 inches thick may beadequate. After the project is completed, the woodchips or crossing bridge must be removed and thesite restored by adding ventilation holes, fertilizating,and watering.

✴Reduce the size of the construction zoneand limit the traffic

The space allocated for the construction zone can bereduced and a limited crew allowed on the site at agiven time. Ground traffic for moving buildingmaterials or debris can be reduced by using a craneand pumping system instead.


◆Protected root zone overlaps with utility easements

If the protected root zone overlaps with utility ease-ments, trees can be removed or the building design canbe modified to comply with the easements. In a newdevelopment site, using a joint underground trench forutilities (gas, electricity, and cable) minimizes utilityeasements and site disturbance, and saves trees.Whenever cost effective and appropriate, tunneling

Figure 22. A temporary crossing bridge can be used near the protectedroot zone to minimize soil compaction and mechanical injury to thetree.


can be used instead of an open trench. When possible,manual or water-pressure trenching can also be usedto minimize impacts on tree root systems (see utilityinfrastructure, page 77).

◆Protected root zone overlaps with grading area,cut, or fill

Cutting or filling grades near the protected root zonefor road construction or the building site can affect treegrowth and vigor (Figure 23, page 70). Use customgrading instead of mass grading to minimize distur-bances and tree damage during excavation.

✴Reduce damage from cutting grades

Removing soil or cutting grades near the protectedroot zone may remove the organic soil, affect soilhydrology, deprive the tree of water and nutrients,and weaken tree resistance to wind (particularlywhen roots are severed). When cutting a grade nearthe protected root zone, prune severed woody rootsimmediately, water the soil around trees, and protectsevered roots (with a temporary structure such asblack plastic and a permanent structure thereafter)to minimize exposure to air and sun. Avoid steppercuts exceeding 4 feet and use a step-down cutapproach instead. After grading is complete, build aretaining wall, as needed, to stabilize the grade andprevent soil erosion (Figure 24, page 72).


Figure 23. When roots are cut or severed during trenching or excavation,immediately protect roots with a bag (a) or tarp (b) to prevent drying.

(a)

(b)


✴Reduce damage from filling grades

Adding soil or filling grades to level the site near theprotected root zone has immediate and long-termeffects on tree growth and survival. It may cause soilcompaction and create anaerobic conditions. Treesmay suffocate as a result. Before filling grades nearthe protected root zone, build retaining walls toprevent soil or filling materials from eroding overinto the protected root zone (Figure 24, page 72).Retaining walls are structures built to stabilize thegrade and prevent soil erosion and runoff. They canbe built with a variety of materials including wood,rock, and concrete.

After grades have been cut or filled, treatments suchas root and branch pruning, irrigation, and soilamendments may be necessary before installing theprotected root zone fence and starting construction.These treatments can reduce impacts of construc-tion, primarily those related to site disturbance (e.g.,change in soil hydrology due to grading and microcli-mate). These treatments must be performed byskilled professionals. After construction is complete,site reclamation may be necessary.

■ Monitor and evaluate

Homeowners, businesses, landowners, developers,builders, and contractors should develop a monitoringand evaluation plan, indicate types of penalties, and signa written tree protection plan before construction begins.


Figure 24. After cutting a grade near trees (a or b), build a retaining wallto prevent soil erosion.

(a)

(b)


The plan should specify tools and techniques that will beused to achieve protection goals. It may include frequentvisits to the building site and penalties.

◆Visit the building site

The homeowner or landowner should be allowed tovisit the building site frequently during construction tocheck for any disturbance or violation of the treeprotection plan.

◆Call for tree replacement plan

The homeowner or landowner and the developer,builder, or contractor should agree on a tree survivaland tree replacement program that should be extendedbetween two to five years following construction.

◆Impose financial penalties

Financial penalty should be agreed upon between thehomeowner or landowner and the builder or contrac-tor. Amount of financial penalty can be based onrecommendations made in the Minneso ta Supplementto the Guide fo r Plant Appraisal with Regio nal TreeAppraisal Facto rs (Minnesota Society of Arboriculture,1996).

◆Make referrals

The homeowner or landowner may agree to refer thebuilder or contractor to other homeowners for takingand protecting trees during construction.



� Inventory and assess trees (lot scale)

� Obtain or draw a boundary map of the lot

� Record the location of all trees and wooded areas

� Do a tree survey and health assessment

� Record tree survey and health assessment information

� Select trees or groups of trees to protect

� Mark trees or groups of trees to protect

� Record information on the resource map

� Select building site and construction zone

� Select building and additions site and assess open space

� Select construction zone

� Identify other areas

� Create a tree protection plan

� Determine and delineate the protected root zone

� Trunk diameter method

� Site occupancy method

� Minimum area method

� Dripline method

� Select and implement tree protection method

� Protected root zone does not conflict with building siteand construction zone


� Protected root zone overlaps with building site

� Protected root zone overlaps with construction zone

� Build a travel route to minimize impact on soil and rootsystems

� Reduce the size of the construction zone and limit thetraffic

� Protected root zone overlaps with utility easements

� Protected root zone overlaps with grading area, cut, or fill

� Reduce damage from cutting grades

� Reduce damage from filling grades. Hang signs on thefence

� Monitor and evaluate

� Visit the building site

� Call for tree replacement plan

� Impose financial penalties

� Make referrals

77Transportation Systemsand Utility Infrastructure

Transportation Systemsand Utility Infrastructure

Audience• Local and regional units of government,• Landowners and developers,• Community and citizen organizations, and• Transportation/utility planners and engineers.

OverviewTransportation systems and utilities are major componentsof urban development. For instance, the old cliché “Build a_____ and the people will come!” certainly typifies theresults of building transportation facilities through unde-veloped land. Transportation systems and utilities also playa major role in the loss of trees and woodlands. The impactof transportation systems and utility infrastructure shouldbe considered at all three levels.

Transportation systems■ Types of transportation systems

Transportation facilities may include interstate highways,state trunk highways, county state-aid highways, munici-pal state-aid routes, county roads, municipal roads,township roads, railways, transit ways, airports, and bikeand pedestrian ways. Construction of each type oftransportation system results in varying degrees of

78 Transportation Systemsand Utility Infrastructure

impact on wooded areas and other natural resourcesdepending upon land use, zoning, and projected trafficvolume and speed.

■ Planners of transportation systems

The Minnesota statewide transportation plan is requiredby state and federal regulations, as are transportationplans for each of the seven Minnesota MetropolitanPlanning Organizations (MPOs). Minnesota Departmentof Transportation (Mn/DOT) districts are developingdistrict long-range plans intended to complement thestatewide planning process. Copies of district plans maybe obtained by contacting the local Mn/DOT districtoffice (Appendix 1, page 91).

Planning for transportation systems involves manydifferent players, including:

•Mn/DOT—seven districts and the metro division,•MPOs—seven in Minnesota,•Regional Development Commissions (RDCs),•local county and city road authorities, and•Federal Highway Administration.

■ Funding for transportation systems

Funding for transportation improvement projects for allstate trunk highway projects and all federally fundedlocal highway and transit projects are listed in theMinnesota State Transportation Improvement Program


(STIP). The STIP is required by federal regulations, as areTransportation Improvement Programs (TIPs) from eachof the seven MPOs.

The STIP is developed through a local decision-makingprocess using Area Transportation Partnerships (ATPs) togenerate lists of local projects based on local transporta-tion needs, planning decisions, and regional fundingtargets. These lists are called Area Transportation Im-provement Programs (ATIPs). The membership of ATPsincludes traditional and nontraditional stakeholders andcan include MPOs, RDCs, cities, counties, townships,transit providers, tribal governments, other interests, andMn/DOT. The ATIPs and the MPO TIPs are developedand ultimately incorporated into the STIP through aprocess outlined in Guidance fo r the Develo pment o f theState Transpo rtatio n Impro vement Pro gram. A copy canbe obtained by contacting Mn/DOT Office of InvestmentManagement (see Appendix 1, page 91).

■ State road and highway design standards

Safety is a primary concern in state road design. Treesover 4 inches in diameter within the clear zone pose asafety hazard to motorists that leave the highway. Factorsinfluencing the clear-zone distance (Figure 25, page 80)include design speed, average daily traffic, and degree ofcurve (sharp curves require a wide clear zone), and cut orfill section.


Shoulder


Mn/DOT’s Ro ad Design Manual addresses clear-zonedesign requirements. Valuable trees or forest communitiesmay be preserved by shifting the road alignment, steepen-ing cut or fill slopes, constructing retaining walls, andinstalling guardrails. To purchase a copy of the Ro ad DesignManual, contact Mn/DOT’s Map and Manual sales office(see address in Appendix 1, page 93). To read the manual ormake copies of selected portion(s), contact the Mn/DOTLibrary (see phone number and e-mail address in Appen-dix 1, page 93).

■ Natural preservation routes

Transportation agencies are exploring “context-sensitive”design principles to preserve important natural plantcommunities during planning and construction oftransportation facilities. Natural preservation routesprovide one example.

◆Definition

Natural preservation routes are designated roadwaysthat possess sensitive or unique scenic, environmental,or historical characteristics. Examples may includeroads along lakes, rivers, wetlands, or flood plains, orthrough forests or hilly, rocky, or bluff terrain.

◆Classification process

Any county state-aid highway may be classified as anatural preservation route if it satisfies the definitioncriteria. Any person may make a written request to the


county board to have a route declared a natural preser-vation route. The county board asks the local advisorycommittee* to carefully consider all the informationavailable and make a recommendation to the commis-sioner of transportation to either designate the route orreject the petition.

Roadways designated as natural preservation routesare constructed using standards designed to reduceenvironmental impacts through reduced designspeeds; narrower lanes, shoulders, and recovery areas;steeper slopes; fewer cuts and fills; and less contractorworking space (Figure 26, page 84). There are threelevels of natural preservation routes:

*Each district of the Mn/DOT has a local advisory committee consistingof three members of the general public, one representative from arecognized environmental organization, one representative from theDNR, the county highway engineer, and the county commissioner.

Type I—Very low traffic volumes and few accidents—30mph design speed. Type I is best characterized as one inwhich the natural surroundings convey a feeling of intimacywith nature.


Type II—Generally low traffic volumes less than 300 vehiclesper day—30–40 mph design speed. Type II routes are similarto type I, except that the surroundings and vistas may bemore distant.

Type III—Traffic volumes generally less than 750 vehiclesper day—30–40 mph design speed. Type III routes are morelike type I and type II, except that the scenery is even moredistant.


Figure 26. Construction standards for natural preservation routes areused to preserve wooded areas and trees during road construction.

STANDARDS FORNATURAL PRESERVATION ROUTES

Note: For more details on Natural Preservation Route standards, see theMinnesota Department of Transportation, Division of State Aid,Operations Rules chapter 8820.


■ Reduce tree damage through subdivision trans-portation planning

Planning for transportation systems within a develop-ment should include temporary protection fencing, cleanroot cutting, watering, topsoil fill (type and placement),utility construction, tree pruning, assessing damage totrees, oak wilt prevention, and other vegetation protec-tion measures (Mn/DOT Standard Specifications 2572,Pro tection and Resto ratio n o f Vegetatio n). A copy of thisdocument can be obtained by contacting any Mn/DOTdistrict office, the Mn/DOT Library (see Appendix 1, page93, for telephone number and e-mail address), or theCounty Auditor’s Office. Tree Protection Details (Mn/DOT Sheet C) illustrates temporary fence placement,root protection and trenching, sandy loam fill placement,and slope rounding.

Utility infrastructure■ Types of utility infrastructure

Utilities include water, storm water systems, irrigationlines, gas, sanitary sewer, power, cable television, andfiber optics for communication. Major concerns utilitieshave in development are to maximize customer connec-tions to utilities, minimize the installed infrastructureand impact on the environment, and minimize the visualimpact where practical by burying the facilities under-ground in dedicated utility easements, usually locatedadjacent to the street or backyard lot lines.


■ Reduce tree damage through utility planning

Regional and local planners, developers, and buildersmust plan the utility infrastructure before constructionbegins so that connection and installation can be accom-plished efficiently. Before trenching for utilities or septicsystems, make sure that wooded areas and trees toconserve have been identified, protection measures havebeen installed, and the final grade is complete. On largernew developments try to install utilities two to threeyears before construction begins and to evaluate the treeprotection plan.

◆Utilize joint utility trench

Utilities can often share the same trench (Figure 27). Acommon utility trench within the same easement maybe cost effective, reduce the size of area disturbed, andsave trees. The size of underground structures rangesfrom 2 to 8 feet wide and 2 to 5 feet deep, and so thetrench may require extensive excavation (Matheny andClark, 1998). One of the few exceptions to joint utilitytrenches is that water and sewer utilities may berequired to be in separate trenches. Other utilities,including electric, gas, fiber optic, and cable television,can be installed in the same trench. The North Oaksdevelopment in Minnesota has been using a jointutility trench. When considering a joint utility trench,the landowner, developer, and utility companies mustcoordinate the schedule and activities. Also, utilitiesmust abide by certain specifications and rules withinthe trench (e.g., National Electric Safety Code).


◆Use tunneling rather than open trenching

Vegetation is discouraged in dedicated utility ease-ments because of the potential for conflict with utili-ties. To protect wooded areas and trees on utilityeasements, consider tunneling for utility installation asan alternative to open trenching and tree removal.

Figure 27. A joint underground utility trench for electrical, gas, fiberoptic, and cable television infrastructure is encouraged in wooded areasto minimize utility easements and enhance the conservation effort.

48"

24"

12"12"

Warningtape

Optionalgas

Maingas

Optionalgas

CATVcableElectric

cable

Communicationcable


Tunnel at least 2 feet below the soil surface to minimizeimpacts on roots (Figure 28). Tunneling is very effectiveto protect trees when done appropriately.

Mn/DOT Standard Specifications 2572 (Pro tectio n andResto ratio n o f Vegetatio n) provides information abouttunneling considerations related to timing and dis-tance of tunneling in relation to trees.

Figure 28. Tunneling below the root system is preferred over opentrenching (on right) when installing the utility infrastructure near theprotected root zone because tunneling impacts fewer roots and therebyincreases tree survival.

TunnelOpentrench


◆Consider other soil excavation methods

Manual or hydraulic excavation with water pressuremay be a cost-effective alternative to tunneling (Figure29). They cause less damage to roots than mechanizedtrenching. When trenching manually, avoid physicaldamage to roots greater than 2 inches in diameter.Hydraulic excavation requires knowledge of soils, roots,hydraulics, and use of proper specialty equipment.Water pressurized at 60 to 80 pounds per square inch atthe nozzle will be effective and efficient (Gross, 1995).

Figure 29. Water under pressure can be used as an alternative method toremove soil near the protected root zone and prevent cutting roots.


■ Site readiness summary for utilities� Site is within 4 inches of final grade (installation area and

cable route)

� Block numbers and lot corners are identified and staked

� Curbs are installed and the first layer of blacktop com-pleted (if required by ordinance)

� Curbs are back-filled for utility trucks to access

� Utility conduits crossing under roadways are installed andends are marked

� Protected wooded areas and trees are identified

� Tree protection measures are installed (e.g., fence, signs,wood chips, crossing bridge)

� Sites for storing soil and other excavation materials areidentified

� A travel route for utility equipment is available (8 foot-wide clearance is adequate)

� When using a joint trench for utilities, the landowner,homeowner, or developer coordinates the work schedulewith all utility companies

91Resources and References

APPENDIX 1:Resources and References

Aerial photography• Metropolitan Council, Regional Data Center, St. Paul,

Minnesota; phone (651) 602-1140; e-mail [email protected]

• Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Division ofForestry, Resource Assessment Unit, 413 Southeast 13thStreet, Grand Rapids, Minnesota 55744; phone (218) 327-4449;fax (218) 327-4517; e-mail [email protected]; website http://www.ra.dnr.state.mn.us

• U.S. Geological Survey, EROS Data Center, Sioux Falls, SouthDakota; phone (605) 594-6151

• U.S. Geological Survey, Denver, Colorado; phone (303) 202-4200; fax (303) 202-4695

• USDA Aerial Photo Field Office, Salt Lake City, Utah; phone(801) 524-5856

Conservation easements• Land Stewardship Project, 2200 4th Street, White Bear Lake,

Minnesota 55110; phone (651) 653-0618; fax (651) 653-0589

• Local and regional units of government (county, munici-pality, township, etc.)

• Minnesota Land Trust, 70 North 22nd Avenue, Minneapolis,Minnesota 55411-2237; phone (612) 522-3743; fax (612) 521-2376

92 Resources and References

• The Nature Conservancy, 1313 5th Street Southeast, Suite320, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55414; phone (612) 331-0750; fax(612) 331-0770

• The Trust for Public Land, 420 North 5th Street, Suite 865,Minneapolis, Minnesota 55401; phone (612) 338-8494; fax (612)338-8467

Historic land uses• Minnesota County Biological Survey, St. Paul, Minnesota;

phone (651) 296-8319

• State Historical Preservation Office, St. Paul, Minnesota;phone (651) 296-5462

Land and tree management information• Energy Saving Landscapes: The Minnesota Homeowner’s

Guide, 1994. For information contact: Energy InformationCenter; phone (800) 657-3710 or Minnesota Department ofNatural Resources; phone (888) 646-6367

• Protecting life and property from wildfire: An introduction todesigning zoning and building standards for local officials.Great Lakes Forest Fire Compact, 1990

• Land Management Information Center, 330 CentennialBuilding, St. Paul, Minnesota; phone (651) 296-1211; web sitehttp://www.lmic.state.mn.us

• Local County Extension Office

• Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 500 LafayetteRoad, Box 25, St. Paul, Minnesota 55155; phone (651) 296-2835or (888) 646-6367 or (800) 657-3929 for hearing impaired; andregional offices:

-Bemidji (218) 755-2891-Brainerd (218) 828-2616


-Grand Rapids (218) 327-4418-New Ulm (507) 359-6053-Rochester (507) 285-7428-St. Paul (651) 772-7925

-Metro Greenways, 1200 Warner Road, St. Paul, Minnesota55106; phone (651) 772-7952

-Scientific and Natural Areas Program, St. Paul, Minnesota;phone (651) 297-2357

• Minnesota Department of Transportation

-Mn/DOT Office of Investment Management, 395 John IrelandBoulevard, St. Paul, Minnesota 55155; or web site http://www.oim.dot.state.mn.us

-Mn/DOT Map and Manual Sales Office, Mail Stop 260, 395John Ireland Boulevard, St. Paul, Minnesota 55155; phone(651) 296-2215

-Mn/DOT Library, Mail Stop 155, 395 John Ireland Boulevard,St. Paul, Minnesota 55155; phone (651) 296-2385; [email protected]

-Mn/DOT, local and regional offices; St. Paul, Minnesota; phone(651) 215-1973

• Minnesota Forestry Association; phone (800) 281-8733

• University of Minnesota, College of Natural Resources, St.Paul, Minnesota

• Tree Trust, 6300 Walker Street, St. Louis Park, Minnesota 55416;phone (612) 920-9326; fax (612) 920-4558

• USDA Forest Service, Northeastern Area, State and PrivateForestry, St. Paul, Minnesota; phone (651) 649-5262

• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, St. Paul, Minnesota; phone(651) 725-3500


Nonpoint source pollution• Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Division of Water

Quality, St. Paul, Minnesota; phone (800) 657-3864 or (800)627-3864 for hearing impaired; and regional offices:

-Brainerd (218) 828-2492-Detroit Lakes (218) 847-1519-Duluth (218) 723-4660-Marshall (507) 537-7146-Rochester (507) 285-7343

• Soil Water and Conservation District (for each county)

Soil information and septic suitability• Minnesota Board of Soil and Water Resources, St. Paul,

Minnesota; phone (651) 296-3767

• Natural Resources Conservation Service (local office)

• Soil and Water Conservation District (for each county)

Topography• Local and regional units of government (county, municipal-

ity, township, etc.)

• Minnesota Geological Survey, St. Paul, Minnesota; phone(651) 627-4782

• U.S. Geological Survey, EROS Data Center, Sioux Falls, SouthDakota; phone (605) 594-6151

Watershed and wetland protection• Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources, St. Paul,

Minnesota; phone (651) 297-5615


• Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (local andregional offices)

• Soil and Water Conservation District (for each county)

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul, Minnesota; phone(651) 290-5375

ReferencesAllmann, Laurie, 1997. Natural Areas: Protecting a Vital Community

Asset; A Source Book for Minnesota Local Governments andCitizens. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 148 pp.

Allmann, Laurie, 1996. Land Protection Options: A Handbook forMinnesota Landowners. The Nature Conservancy, MinnesotaDepartment of Natural Resources, The Trust for Public Land,and The Minnesota Land Trust, 78 pp.

Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik & Associates, 1998. Final Report:Natural Resources Inventory. City of Cottage Grove, Minnesota.

Coder, K. D., 1995. “Tree quality BMPs for developing woodedareas and protecting residual trees.” In: Trees and Building Sites,ed. Watson, G. W., and Neely, D., 1995. International Society ofArboriculture.

Gross, R., 1995. “Construction applications of hydraulic soilexcavation.” In: Trees and Building Sites, ed. Watson, G. W., andNeely, D., 1995. International Society of Arboriculture.

Matheny, N., and J. R. Clark., 1998. Trees and Development: ATechnical Guide to Preservation of Trees During Land Develop-ment. International Society of Arboriculture.

Miller, N. L., D. M. Rathke and G. R. Johnson, 1993. Protecting Treesfrom Construction Damage: A Homeowner’s Guide. MinnesotaExtension Service, 13 pp.


Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 1993. Minnesota’sNative Vegetation: A Key to Natural Communities. Version 1.5.Natural Heritage and Nongame Research Program. St. Paul,MN, 111 pp.

Minnesota Society of Arboriculture, 1996. Minnesota Supplementto the Guide for Plant Appraisal with Regional Tree AppraisalFactors, (ed.) Ken Simons, 25 pp.

Tester, J., 1995. Minnesota’s Natural Heritage: An EcologicalPerspective. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 332pp.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, 1975.Hydrology Guide for Minnesota, Chapter 3 (Hydrologic Soil-Cover Complexes).

Washington County Planning and Administration Services, 1997.Open Space Design Development: A Guide for Local Govern-ments, 64 pp.

Watson, G. W., and D. Neely, 1995. Trees and Building Sites. Interna-tional Society of Arboriculture, 191 pp.

Westwood Professional Services, Inc., 1994. Evaluation andRanking of Forest Stands, Final Report. City of Maple Grove,Minnesota.

Wovcha, D. S., B. C. Delaney, and G. E. Nordquist, 1995. Minnesota’sSt. Croix River Valley and Anoka Sandplain: A Guide to NativeHabitats. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 234 pp.

97Financial Assistance Programs

• Community Environmental Partnerships Grant Program(CEPGP): Provides up to 50 percent of eligible costs with amaximum grant of $10,000 and a minimum grant of$1,000. For eligibility information and an applicationform, contact a local county or DNR Forestry office.

• Conservation Partners Grant Program (CPGP): Providesup to 50 percent of total eligible costs to enhance fish,wildlife, and native plant habitats, research, and surveys.For eligibility information and an application form,contact a local DNR Forestry office.

APPENDIX 2:Financial Assistance Programs

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources offers anumber of financial assistance programs to:

• local and regional units of government, and• private organizations and landowners.

For more information on financial assistance, contact:

or the local office of the Minnesota Department of NaturalResources.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has adirectory of its financial assistance programs. Most finan-cial assistance is project or activity specific. Below is apartial list of available financial assistance programs.

(888) 646-6367 (MN Toll Free)(651) 296-6157 (Metro Area)(800) 657-3929 (MN Toll Free TTY)(651) 296-5484 (Metro Area TTY)

Minnesota Department ofNatural Resources

500 Lafayette RoadSt. Paul, MN 55155-4040http://www.dnr.state.mn.us

98 Financial Assistance Programs

• Deer Habitat Improvement Program (DHIP): Provides upto 100 percent of total eligible costs for development,restoration, and maintenance of deer habitat. For eligibil-ity information and an application form, contact a localDNR Wildlife office.

• Forest Stewardship Program: Provides landowners with20 or more acres the information they need (a steward-ship plan) to make forest management decisions on theirproperty. Maybe applicable to several smaller landownerswho want to work together. For eligibility information,contact a local DNR Forestry office.

• Forestry Incentives Program (FIP): Provides cost-shareassistance for tree planting and/or timber stand improve-ment. Limited to landowners with 20 or more acres. Foreligibility information and an application form, contact alocal Natural Resources Conservation Service or DNRForestry office.

• Grants for Conservation Biology Research in Minnesota:Provides up to 100 percent of eligible costs for projectscontributing to the conservation and management ofMinnesota’s endangered, threatened, and special concernspecies and rare natural communities. For eligibilityinformation and an application form, contact the DNRFish and Wildlife central office; phone (651) 297-4961.

• Minnesota Forestry Association Program: Provides cost-share assistance for implementing practices recom-mended in a Forest Stewardship Plan (see Forest Steward-ship Program). Acceptable practices include tree planting,tree thinning, wildlife habitat improvement, and water

99Financial Assistance Programs

quality improvement. Limited to landowners with 20 ormore acres. For eligibility information, contact a localDNR Forestry office.

• Minnesota ReLeaf: Provides cost-share assistance toMinnesota communities for projects involving theplanting and caring of trees to obtain environmentalbenefits including increasing energy conservation andreducing atmospheric carbon dioxide. For eligibilityinformation and an application form, contact the Minne-sota ReLeaf Coordinator, 1200 Warner Road, St. Paul,Minnesota 55106; phone (651) 772-7925; fax (651) 772-7599.

• Natural and Scenic Area Grant Program: Provides up to50 percent of total eligible costs with a maximum grant of$200,000 and a minimum grant of $5,000 for acquisitionof land containing species (plant and animals) that areendangered, threatened, or of special concern; landhaving a high quality scenic viewscape; and other land.For eligibility information and an application form,contact the local county or DNR Forestry office.

• Metro Greenways Planning Grants Program: Provides upto 50 percent of eligible costs with a maximum grantamount of $50,000. For eligibility information and anapplication form, contact DNR Metro Regional Planner,1200 Warner Road, St. Paul, Minnesota 55106; phone(651) 772-7982; fax (651) 772-7977.

• Stewardship Incentives Program (SIP): Provides cost-share assistance to nonindustrial private forest landown-ers for management activities that enhance fish andwildlife habitat, provide recreation opportunities, im-

100 Financial Assistance Programs

prove the aesthetic quality of forests, or increase thesupply of timber and other forest products. For eligibilityinformation and an application form, contact a local DNRForestry office.

• Tree Farm Program: Provides recognition and certifica-tion for quality forest management of nonindustrialprivate forest lands. For information and an applicationform, contact a local DNR Forestry office.

• Tree Growth Tax Law (TGTL) Program: Provides tax reliefto forest landowners for growing of continuous forestcrops. For eligibility information and an application form,contact the Minnesota DNR Private Forest ManagementProgram Coordinator; phone (651) 296-5970.

101Tree Species and Tolerance

102 Tree Species and Tolerance

103Tree Species and Tolerance

104 Tree Species and Tolerance

105Examples of Development Plans

APPENDIX 4:Examples of development plans

Appendix 4 a: An example of a landscape-levelinventory of natural resources, city of Burnsville.

106 Examples of Development Plans

Appendix 4 b: An example of a city inventory offorest resources, city of Maple Grove.


Appendix 4 c: An example of a landscape inventoryand ranking of natural resources, city of Woodbury.


Appendix 4 d: A series of comprehensive resourcemaps for a subdivision development plan.

Existing Vegetation / Woodlands



Site Analysis Exhibit - Planned Unit Development



Planned Unit Development/Housing Area Designation Exhibit



Development Plan



Revised - Development Plan

conserving wooded areas in developing communtiesfiles.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/urban/bmps.pdfareas...

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