Alabama tree ordinances, protection and preservation on construction sites

There was little relationship between socio-demographic variables (geographic location, total population, age, education, gender, and income of residents) and tree ordinance age for 93 Alabama Tree City USA communities. Sixty-seven Alabama tree ordinances were given a rigor rating of low, medium or high on the number of items each addressed when compared to a list of 55 ordinance provisions. Forty-eight percent of the ordinances received a low rating, having less than six items. No significant relationship was identified between the socio-demographic variables and ordinance rigor with the exception of geographic location; Gulf Coast and Southeast regions had older tree ordinances. Opinions of mayors and tree board members (MTBs) of Alabama Tree Cities, were compared to developers and home builders (DHBs) from throughout the state through a survey used to gain insight about their awareness and knowledge regarding tree ordinances, the value of trees, factors that affect decisions to save trees, and the effect of certain construction site activities on trees. MTBs were older, more educated, and a more gender and racially diverse group. DHBs were less knowledgeable than MTBs about the content of tree ordinances, and over 50% reported working most in towns or cities where no tree ordinances existed. One third of MTBs were unaware of tree ordinances in their town, although they served on the tree board. This may be indicative of an inactive or very weak tree program in their community. Both groups agreed that trees provide aesthetic, environmental and social benefits; however, each group was less aware of the impact of trees on water quality than in air or noise pollution. Neither group expressed knowledge of the impact of trees in the urban environment on the local economy. In deciding what trees should be saved, DHBs considered tree location, tree condition (health), and client requests the most important factors. MTBs chose tree health, historical value, and location on site as top considerations. Designated vehicular passageways and root zone protection by fencing were considered the most helpful activities on construction sites for protecting trees, while root disturbance, fires, changing the soil line, lowering the water table, and poor drainage were considered harmful.