CATS - Certified Arborist Tree Service of Albuquerque Albuquerque Soil and Water Questions and Answers

Question 1

An arborist in Albuquerque is assessing a maple tree with yellowing leaves and dark green veins (interveinal chlorosis).
This is a classic symptom of iron deficiency.
What is the most likely underlying soil condition in this region causing this issue?

Accepted Answer

High soil pH (alkalinity), which makes iron unavailable to the tree.

Answer

Excessive nitrogen, which inhibits iron uptake.

Answer

Waterlogged soil from monsoon rains, causing root rot.

Answer

Highly acidic soil, which makes iron insoluble.

Question 2

A client in a Northeast Albuquerque neighborhood wants to install a new irrigation system for several established pine trees. According to the City of Albuquerque's watering restrictions, which of the following practices is prohibited during the growing season (April 1 - October 1)?

Accepted Answer

Running a spray irrigation system at 3:00 p.m.

Answer

Using a drip irrigation system during the afternoon.

Answer

Hand-watering newly planted shrubs at 1:00 p.m.

Answer

Operating a low-precipitation bubbler system at noon.

Question 3

When preparing a planting site for a new tree in an area with typical sandy, low-organic-matter soil found in Albuquerque, which of the following amendments is most beneficial for improving both water retention and nutrient availability?

Accepted Answer

Incorporating well-composted organic matter.

Answer

Adding a large amount of sand to improve drainage.

Answer

Mixing in agricultural lime to raise the soil pH.

Answer

Applying a high-phosphorus synthetic fertilizer.

Question 4

While excavating for a tree planting on the West Mesa, an arborist hits a hard, cement-like layer of calcium carbonate just below the topsoil that is impeding drainage. What is this layer commonly called in the Southwest?

Accepted Answer

Caliche

Answer

Hardpan

Answer

Bedrock

Answer

Claypan

Question 5

Which of the following is a key goal of the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority's (ABCWUA) "Treebate" program?

Accepted Answer

To help customers cover costs for planting new, appropriate trees and for tree maintenance.

Answer

To provide free tree removal services for hazardous trees.

Answer

To offer cash incentives for replacing trees with artificial turf.

Answer

To fund the exclusive planting of fruit-bearing trees in public parks.

Question 6

A certified arborist is consulting on a new commercial landscape plan. According to Albuquerque's Water Conservation Landscaping Ordinance, what is the maximum percentage of the total landscaped area that can be planted with high-water-use turf and plants?

Accepted Answer

20%

Answer

10%

Answer

50%

Answer

100%, if using smart irrigation

An arborist in Albuquerque is assessing a maple tree with yellowing leaves and dark green veins (interveinal chlorosis).This is a classic symptom of iron deficiency.What is the most likely underlying soil condition in this region causing this issue?

An arborist in Albuquerque is assessing a maple tree with yellowing leaves and dark green veins (interveinal chlorosis).
This is a classic symptom of iron deficiency.
What is the most likely underlying soil condition in this region causing this issue?