Question: I want to pour concrete near a tree. Will it hurt the tree?

Answer: It could, if it were to cover a major part of the root system and if no provision was made to get excessive water out of the soil. Water accumulates beneath concrete and asphalt paving. Try not to cover more than 30 to 40 percent of the root area if possible, and do little if any grade changing or root-cutting. Your very best option would be to use interlocking concrete or brick pavers over a bed of washed brick sand. That type of surface would be porous enough to allow water and air to flow into and out of the soil. It also allows you to lift individual pavers as needed for repair or replacement in later years.