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When
planning what type of tree to plant, remember to look up and
look down to determine where the tree will be located in
relation to overhead and underground utility lines.
Often, we take our utility services for granted because they
have become a part of our daily lives. For us to enjoy the
convenience of reliable, uninterrupted service, distribution
system such as TUB are required to bring utilities into our
homes. These services arrive at our homes through overhead or
underground lines. In addition to power lines, these can include
water, sewer, natural gas, telephone and cable television. The
location of these lines should have a direct impact on your tree
and planting site selection. The ultimate, mature height of a
tree to be planted must be within the available overhead growing
space.
Overhead
Lines
Overhead utility lines are the easiest to see and probably the
ones we take most for granted. Although these lines look
harmless enough, they can be extremely dangerous. Planting tall
growing trees under and near these lines will ultimately TUB to
prune them to maintain safe clearance from the wires. This
pruning may result in the tree having an unnatural appearance.
Periodic pruning can also lead to a shortened life span for the
tree. Trees which must be pruned away from power lines are under
greater stress and more susceptible to insects and disease.
Small, immature trees planted today can become problem trees in
the future. Tall growing trees near overhead lines can cause
service interruptions when trees contact wires. Children or
adults climbing in these trees can be severely injured or even
killed if they come in contact with the wires. Proper selection
and placement of trees in and around overhead utilities can
eliminate potential public safety hazards, reduce expenses for
TUB and our customers, and improve the appearance of landscapes.
Underground
Lines
Trees are much more than just what you see overhead. Many times
the root area is larger than the branch spread above ground.
Much of the utility service provided today is buried below
ground. Tree roots and underground lines often co-exist without
problems. However, trees planted near underground lines could
have their roots damaged if the lines need to be dug up for
repairs.
The
biggest danger to underground lines occurs during planting.
Before you plant, make sure that you are aware of the location
of any underground utilities. To be certain that you do not
accidentally dig into any lines and risk serious injury or a
costly service interruption, call Tennessee One-Call at
1-800-351-1111 or visit their website at www.tnonecall.com.
Never assume that these utility lines are buried deeper than you
plan to dig. In some cases, utility lines are very close to the
surface.
For
a free brochure on proper tree planting, from the International
Society of Arboriculture, stop by our office at 901 S. Jackson
St., or send an e-mail request to programs@tub.net
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