Construction projects are popping up all over Butler County, and new homes are a major part of this growth.

Construction damage at a building site is a common and often unavoidable project consequence. Some of the damage will be obvious when you first inspect the site, particularly the vegetation and ground cover.

Other damage, however, can be difficult to detect and expensive to repair. The grading, trenching, piling and excavating of the construction site often damages nearby vegetation. These things also change the soil structure and the natural drainage system that existed before the site was cleared. Sometimes these problems show up months or even years after the site has been occupied.

Before being cleared, the site was natural - likely a stable environment without soil movement or loss. The trees, shrubs and grasses were well adapted to that site. Precipitation soaked into the soil with little runoff, except during the most extreme storms. Insects and animals contributed to a natural waste disposal system that turned refuse into soil. It was a relatively balanced system.

Before construction began, however, the site was likely cleared and most of the area flattened for economical reasons. Topsoil gets removed. Trenches are dug for the foundation and drains for the building pads. Paths were scraped to form driveways and sidewalks. Sewer connections were dug or septic tanks placed in the ground. Finally, the soil along the foundation and basement walls was graded, seeded and mulched.

This activity yields a less-than-natural situation.

Microbes, insects and wildlife are displaced. Soil compaction often damages roots and kills trees.

The Butler County Conservation District can assist landowners with installing Best Management Practices for the land during earthmoving to avoid future problems. Also, disturbing an acre or more may require a permit.

It is important to implement the plan during construction to address potential tree, drainage and erosion problems that could impact a new home. Planning now could also reduce your stress and save time and money.