Now mind you that this is a rather large specimen, but I fully expected that with a combination of brute strength (I am afterall a competitive powerlifter) and the right tools, I'd be able to dig the plant out before the work crews arrive on Monday.
10 gallons of dirt removed and one broken shovel later, I decided that perhaps the palm should stay where it is, and I'd try my luck at trying to convince the water-pipe replacement crew to dig their hole elsewhere.
I am truly amazed by the size of the plant below the surface of the ground. (I must note that the S. Minor is currently sending up news fronds and a number flower stalks) and this plant is anchored in my front yard like it has been cemented in. Even after digging down 12 inches on all sides, it wouldn't budge. Even broke my shovel.
I know I could have eventually gotten it out of the ground, but I'm convinced I would have killed the plant in the process. My fall back position is to hope that (1) the city can dig around it, or (2) if they have to remove it, they'll have better extrication tools than I do.
If it survives this process, It"ll put up some impressive growth this summer.
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