Effects of Tree and Woody Vegetation Root Penetrations on the Safety of Earthen Dams

Chap 1 - Introduction: Purpose, Scope & Application of Manual

Chap 2 - Problems with Tree and Woody Vegetation Growth: National problem perspective, current attitudes & thinking; policy & procedures about trees & woody vegetation on dams; constraints to removing trees and plants; problems & failures examples; past/current research, removal costs

Chap 3 - Tree Growth and Tree Root Development Requirements: physiological development of tree and root growth; characteristics and requirements

Chap 4 - Earthen Dam Safety Inspection and Evaluation Methodology: hydraulic and geotechnical (seepage/stability) effects of trees on earthen dams,
critical inspection & repair zones

Chap 5 - Controlling Tree and Woody Vegetation Growth on Earthen Dams: vegetation & tree growth requirements; tree root management and control
methods, philosophy and control; Maintenance of vegetation

Chap 6 - Dam Remediation Design Considerations: elements of engineered tree removal methods

Chap 7 - Economics of Proper Vegetation Maintenance: analysis of continuing maintenance vs need for clearing & grubbing; cost data; example.

Because the type of proper vegetation on an earthen dam is geographically sensitive, the manual makes few recommendations on specific vegetation for dams; rather, it recommends that the owner/designer work with the local soil conservation people for specifying appropriate vegetative cover for a given site.