Designing and implementing utility line arboreta

Abstract

In the United States, a significant conflict exists between overhead utility lines and inappropriately tall trees planted in or near line easements. A major goal of Virginia, U.S.'s Municipal Tree Restoration Project is the establishment of utility line arboreta in multiple state locations as a way to evaluate, showcase, and promote trees compatible with overhead utility lines. Three different utility line arboreta models have been developed that can be replicated anywhere internationally to deal with this important infrastructure conflict. A stepwise list of considerations and potential funding sources for developing utility line arboreta is provided, as well as a comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of the three described utility line arboreta models. © 2006 International Society of Arboriculture.