Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations Removing tree on embankment

I inherited a 1/4-acre, 10' deep pond in Northern California with a 25' tall willow tree on the shore of the embankment. To remove the tree without producing leaks, I plan to trench down the middle of the embankment with a Ditch Witch to sever the roots growing toward the exterior slope this year, refill the trench and wait a few years for those roots to decay harmlessly, then remove the tree itself.

Has anyone tried this? I wonder whether I need to put a root barrier in the trench.

From your description, I'm not sure if this is on a man-made dam, or if it is on the edge of an excavated shoreline.

For most deciduous trees, the roots mirror the canopy, at least in size. There are also hundreds of willow tree species in North America. Most are water loving. Their roots will seek out wetness. But, not all are created equal.

Twenty-five foot tall doesn't sound too bad either. If it was on an excavated bank, I'd just take it down. If it was on a man-made dam or levy, then I think I'd take a similar approach to what you suggested. I'd cut the roots as deep as possible. I'd get rid of the tree now, and pull the stump. If I did that, I'd keep after the "suckers" that will inevitably sprout.

Good luck,
Ken