Source of Complications
Problems between trees and utility lines generally occur because the wrong species has been planted directly underneath or adjacent to power lines. Under certain circumstances when this occurs there may be no other alternative short of removal and replanting.
Increasingly, utilities install underground distribution lines that require trenches. These trenches frequently damage tree roots, which slows tree growth, and leads to decline of the crown and root system. Branches may die, increasing the chances of wind damage and invasion of wood decaying fungi or insects. Auguring, tunneling, or boring through the root zone of the tree will cause less damage to the root system.