Ask-a-Dave's-Gardener: Surface roots on drake elm, 2 by Feebysowner

Feebysowner wrote:
Hi,

I have a drake elm that was planted in October 2016. There are surface roots that, if I can, I would like to remove before they become problematic. Our previous drake elm, grew at least one very large surface root over 20 years that look almost like a second trunk in the ground. I would like to prevent that from happening with this new one. The main trunk of this new tree is about 3 inches in diameter, maybe 12 feet tall. (Photos included).

Can I remove these roots now without harming the tree? Thanks!