Anchoring Trees on Elevated Structures

Summary

Many cities are setting tree cover canopy goals as part of their greening campaigns.  Ground-level tree planting is relatively straight forward, but more tree planting opportunities exist on rooftops and other elevated structures which comprise a significant percentage of urban impervious surface. These largely barren and underutilized spaces in the heart of our cities pose many problems; they degrade air and water quality, contribute to the urban heat island effect, and provide almost no environmental benefit.

These wasted elevated spaces are being transformed by installing green (vegetated) roof systems; an industry that has aggressively been expanding by more than 100% in the past three years. The functionality of these rooftop oases can be dramatically increased when complimented with large maturing trees. 

However, growing and anchoring trees on elevated structures presents many challenges for the arboricultural industry. In this presentation, we will define and explore these concepts.  We will show you how increasing your knowledge of various tree anchoring systems can add value to any green roof design and implementation team which can expand your client base in this rapidly growing industry.