CATS - Certified Arborist Tree Service of Albuquerque Tree Planting and Establishment Questions and Answers Flashcards

What is the primary reason to check overhead utility lines before planting a tree in Albuquerque?

Answer: To ensure mature tree height and spread won't conflict with utilities

Selecting a species whose mature size clears overhead utilities prevents costly future conflicts and hazardous conditions.

Which soil condition most commonly limits tree establishment in Albuquerque?

Answer: Alkaline pH and caliche hardpan restricting root penetration

Albuquerque soils often have a high pH and a subsurface caliche layer that physically blocks roots and impedes water infiltration.

What does the 'right tree, right place' principle mean in urban arboriculture?

Answer: Selecting a species whose mature size and requirements match the site

Matching a tree's mature characteristics—size, water needs, root habit—to site conditions reduces long-term maintenance and failure risk.

Before planting near Albuquerque sidewalks, which factor should be evaluated to prevent infrastructure damage?

Answer: The species' root architecture and surface root growth potential

Species with aggressive, shallow root systems can lift and crack sidewalks, curbs, and utility lines over time.

What does the 811 'Call Before You Dig' requirement obligate arborists to do before excavating a planting hole?

Answer: Contact the utility notification system to have underground utilities marked

Calling 811 triggers notification to all utilities to mark buried lines, preventing accidental strikes that can be fatal or cause outages.

What is the recommended minimum planting distance from a building foundation in New Mexico's arid climate?

Answer: At least the tree's mature canopy spread radius

Planting at a distance equal to the mature spread radius prevents roots and branches from damaging the structure as the tree grows.