Planting Compliance

Observe the tree planters while they are planting. Check to see that the contract requirements for the inspection procedures of aboveground and belowground compliance are completed as described in Planting Quality—Inspection Plots. Select plots randomly and check for shade, scalping, tree spacing, proper planting depth and stem orientation, and properly tamped and filled holes. Dig up an occasional tree to see whether its roots are J-rooted or whether it has been stripped by the planters. If you suspect planting problems, inspect (“swing”) more plots and dig more trees. Although you should not supervise the crew, you should make the crew's foreman aware of contract nonconformance issues. The foreman is responsible for the crew’s quality control. If performance problems continue, take contract action to get conformance early on. Do not wait until these problems show up in the inspection plots. Work with your CO to remedy the situation.