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Ease the tree squeeze

The dry summer has seen an increase in tree roots invading pipes, especially in the Ventnor region, according to Westernport Water.

By Susan Webster - 2nd April 2009 - Back to News

As cooler weather brings plant-lovers back into their gardens, the water corporation is asking people consider nearby water and wastewater pipes before they plant trees.

Managing director Murray Jackson said: "We love trees; we’ve helped fund local Landcare volunteers plant thousands of native trees over recent years. But we like trees in the right places. And we especially like tree roots away from water and sewer pipes."

Tree roots hunt out water and nutrients, and they especially seek out sewer pipes. All it takes is for a single root to find a tiny gap in a pipe join. Once inside, the hair-like root swells, widening the gap and encouraging a mass of roots to grow – eventually blocking the pipe.

Mr Jackson explained: ‘Our repair crews diagnose blockage problems and repair blockages in our pipes.

"However, all pipes and fittings within your property are your responsibility. Repairing, replacing or maintaining blocked pipes on your property is your responsibility and you will have to employ a licensed plumber.

"So we’re asking landowners to consider where tree roots might be heading. And stop them.

"When you are planting trees, consider the type of tree and where you’re planting it."

As a general rule, a tree’s roots will extend 1.5 times the width of the tree canopy.

Choose your tree carefully. It can be helpful to chose species that grown locally as they have adapted to soils and conditions. Have a chat with an expert at a local nursery or the Bushbank.

And if you want to know where there are pipes on your property, phone Dial-before-you-dig on FREECALL 1100.

Westernport Water permanent water saving rules apply now

• Handheld hoses must be fitted with a trigger nozzle and then may be used to wash cars and water garden and lawns at any time;
• Manual watering systems can only be used between 7pm and 10am;
• Automatic watering systems can only be used between 10pm and 10am;
• No hosing of paved areas except in specified circumstances;
• Before filling new pools/spas with a capacity of 2000 litres or more, a water conservation plan must be lodged with, and approved by, Westernport Water;
• Non-residential customers who use more than 10ML/year of drinking water must develop a water management action plan (called a waterMAP).

REMEMBER: TRIGGER = ANYTIME ... SPRINKLER = NIGHT TIME

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: susanw@ptarmigan.com.au

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