Tree & Lawn Bobcat Help

[Luvsoutdoors]

Need to take out a concrete patio. It will require driving bobcat close to a mature tree. How close is too close? Will the roots be damaged? Worried about the weight as its 12 trips going in and out. Ground wet, frozen ?? Is there ever a better time for this. Advice please.

[LOTWSvirgin]

I dont believe you will hurt the tree by driveing past it. I do constuction and we dig right past them tearing there roots if need be and have not heard of any problems. But I really dont know just my experience.

[Quetico]

The problem with construction damage on tree roots is that it usually takes 3-7 years to show in the tree.

One important thing to remember about tree roots- most of the trees root system is in the top 12-16" of soil. The top of the tree DOES NOT look any thing like the root system. My elementary school teachers always told me the tree above ground looks identical to what it looks like below. Not all true.

It all depends on the amount of root zone that will be compacted and damaged. If loader with be driving completely around the base of the tree making ruts, it will damage nearly 100% of the root zone. If the loader will be staying away from the trunk and only driving part way around the tree, it will be fine.

If too much of the root zone will be damage, say no to the skid. It will take a bit more time, but wheel barrows and jack hammers work just find for removing patio's.

[Luvsoutdoors]

It would be on one side of the tree but within 3 feet of base with one tire and the other tire would be just inside the drip line. If its dry there won't be any ruts, so maybe in July-Aug would be better???

[Jameson]

Lay down a couple thick sheets of plywood to help distribute the weight.