Title: Builder Perceptions of Trees and Construction: Revisited

Summary: New developments often occur in forested areas. Trees retained as part of a development can become expensive liabilities if tree literate preservation practices do not occur. Understanding builder and contractor perceptions is an important part of developing strategies for minimizing damage to trees during development. This study assessed builder and developer perceptions of trees and construction and builds upon an earlier study conducted in the 1980’s. Builder perceptions in key areas including tree selection, soil characteristics, knowledge of species, and tree preservation activities were assessed and results indicate that builder tree literacy has increased since 1984. Key deficiencies in builder knowledge were identified in an effort to help tailor future workshops and publications towards overcoming these limitations.

Richard J. Hauer, Ph.D., Asst. Prof. of Urban Forestry, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Forestry, Stevens Point, WI, United States

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