Roots Without Guesswork: Excavation, Root Pruning & Solving Root Conflicts

Presented by William Scott
ISA Board Certified Master Arborist | Urban Forest Professional

Tree roots routinely conflict with sidewalks, streets, utilities, construction, irrigation systems, and other infrastructure—requiring arborists to make informed decisions about roots they often cannot initially see.

This course examines how to investigate and manage tree root systems in developed landscapes. Participants will explore root architecture, root-collar examination, hand and air excavation, root pruning, and common problems such as girdling roots and excessively deep planting. The course will also address utility and infrastructure conflicts, root damage, preservation strategies, and practical approaches for protecting trees in challenging environments.

Learning Objectives

Participants completing this course will be able to:

• Explain tree root architecture, distribution, anchorage, and regeneration.
• Identify girdling roots, adventitious roots, buried root collars, damaged roots, and abnormal root development.
• Select appropriate methods for investigating root collars and root systems.
• Evaluate root-pruning decisions based on root size, location, tree condition, anchorage, and anticipated root loss.
• Develop appropriate responses when significant roots have been damaged or severed.
• Evaluate utility, trenching, excavation, and infrastructure conflicts within tree root zones.
• Develop management, mitigation, and monitoring recommendations for affected trees.

Earn the Following CEUs Upon Completion:

• 3.5 CEUs – ISA Certified Arborist
• 2.0 CEUs – BCMA Science
• 3.5 CEUs – BCMA Practice
• 1.0 CEU – BCMA Management
• 3.0 CEUs – ISA Certified Urban Forest Professional
• 1.5 CEUs – ISA Certified Arborist Utility Specialist