Why is that tree growing so close to the road?

I was driving through Vantaa today and saw the first sign of winter. The Department of Roads and Construction plant these trees at the edge of the roads in mid-October so the snowplow drivers know where to plow. We haven't had that kind of snow in a few years, though. Every time I see these for the first time, I'm hopeful that we'll have a lot of snow. Here's hoping!