When Verizon invaded Fairfax County, VA last year, the contractor digging the properties was supposed to put hangtags at each house with a contact telephone number to log complaints. Our street got them, but I don't think distribution was universal. See if some of your neighbors got one, and call Verizon and/or your municipality to get this information. Soon you will have Verizon salespeople at your door daily. They will all assure you that any plants lost will be replaced after you notify the contractor, so you may be able to get the number from them.

Some of my neighbors did get replacements or have disturbed soil seeded or mulched. My worry was that the 4-foot hole was right next to my star magnolia, which may die from root disturbance some time later. So far it's ok, though.

Good Luck!

Here is a link that might be useful: Washington Post article re Fairfax problems

They came through our area, too, last year. I have to tell you, though, they dug underneath my entire 200 feet of roadside garden and put the grass back so well at first I didn't notice.

They also put those hand tag things on our doors. I do have probably a 2x4' cement thing in my garden, too, but it's on the edge by the road, thank goodness. I garden around mine, but I've definately made it easy for them to get in and out. A few stepping stones make a path and I keep it swept clear of mulch. So far, the contractors who have come through have been really considerate. I hope it lasts!

Annette, I'm so very sorry this has happened. Your garden was looking so pretty earlier this year!!!

lakedweller is correct about Verizon. Not that they give a @#$! about us, but the bad PR has hurt them. If you happen to have receipts or can get a note from a garden center as to their value, push Verizon for reimbursement. They'll never replace the wonderful feeling we have putting in our new little plants and watching them take root, but at least it'll be an annoyance for a company who doesn't need to give a d@mn about anything but corporate clients.

As you said, though, with any luck next year you'll have things springing up in odd places. Just don't weed them!!!

hmmmm did I get on a rant?

I'm so sorry you had to come home to find this. I know you were just sick when you saw it.

Christine

Who needs fiber optic cable when there's WiFi? Is this technology already obsolete?

That's helpful....

Some of us actually live where
1) there is no WiFi within range
2) there is no cable company
3) there is no sewer or gas
4) phone lines are so old the dangle in your gardens and the fastest connection to be had runs about 14400 baud -- if you're lucky.

Remember not everyone lives within range or heavy population and its ammenities, nor do those who do necessarily understand them.

Christine