Question
Jim,

In your answer to a past question (http://en.allexperts.com/q/Trees-739/Pine-Tree-Redwood-Tree.htm), you said "Cutting the trees would be a problem as far as the erosion goes. Any erosion problems are solved with ground cover and ivy is an excellent cover."

Are you saying that it is better to leave the pine because it is very good at preventing erosion?  Did you mean to say "cutting the trees would not be a problem as far as the erosion goes".

Why am I asking?  I have a dispute with a neighbor.  Homeowner association states that foliage cannot be higher than 10 feet (due to views).  I asked the neighbor to cut his 25 foot pine tree, but he feels it helps prevent erosion.  I told him that I'd pay for the removal (or cutting it to 10') and replace with shrubs that help stop erosion which I hope would be better than the pine tree.  (note: neighbor has done a sloppy job of maintaining the hillside.  He lives at the bottom and I live at the top - he owns the hillside.)

Thanks,
Jim
bay-o-vista, San Leandro (2610 Lakeview drive)

Can you help?

Answer
What I said was 'Cutting trees" could cause a problem with erosion on steep sites. The trees and their roots do stabilize the soil and reduce erosion. Ground cover would do the same thing. IF the trees are the main plant holding the soil cutting them could cause a problem with erosion unless a ground cover was planted and took over before the trees were cut. Care would have to be taken to insure the removal would be move or expose any soil. Topping a pine this large would kill it so that should not be an answer. IF the neighbor is not in the Homeowners Association I do not think he has to abide by the Associations "rules", if he is in the Association the HOA can look into having him follow the rules. BUT One tree should not be a problem Pruning the limbs should allow views around the tree with just the trunk "blocking" a small part of the view. This may be a option.  And one tree if cut will not make a lot of difference to the erosion IF it is replaced with shrubs.

But I also believe in homeowners rights and if his land is not in the HOA you may have to live with the view. But neighbors should get along. I hope I read your question correct.