Question
QUESTION: We want to install an aluminum fence in a wooded area, but have several 50-75 year old oak trees and are worried about damaging the roots.  The fence guy says the posts would be 6 feet apart, dug 2 feet down with concrete at the bottom.  The fence would run in between a couple of large oaks, about 10 feet from the trunks.  
Advice?

ANSWER: Not a problem. You might cut a few roots when the post is dug but the %of the root area is so small that it will cause no damage to the root systems or the trees. IF the hole was right next to the tree the amount of roots would be greater but 10 feet away would be no problem.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks so much for the prompt reply.  Got me thinking about another area of the yard, wondering how close is too close to the trunk?  There is a corner we would like to fence but the posts would be a lot closer to the tree, about 2-3 feet.  Is this asking for trouble or could a 30 year old oak withstand this?  thanks in advance-

Answer
This will be ok but the problem will be digging the hole with the woody area near the trunk. I would try and see if the post could be moved more away from the tree ( a little wider spacing at this point). This would allow a easier dug hole and less root cutting.