Chattanooga Times Free Press Rain, cold bring down trees:
Wind, snow, ice and rain have affected the tree canopy across Chattanooga in recent months, the city's forester said this week.
'If we have a wet spring, it's going to get worse,' forester Gene Hyde said.
A wet fall loosened up the ground, and several snow and ice storms over the last few months helped weigh down trees, Mr. Hyde said. The result is that more trees have uprooted or been blown down than in years past when the winters were dry, he said.
But Mr. Hyde said he did not think the situation would have too great of an impact on the overall canopy. Trees go through a natural cycle, and more trees will grow to replace those falling down, he said.
Chattanooga workers utilize heavy equipment to cut trees that were damaged in recent winter weather near the top of Elder Mountain. Milton Stewart, right, of Asplundh Tree Service, holds a stop sign for southbound traffic.'If there's any losses, it would be short term, I would think,' Mr. Hyde said.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Duluth proposed ordinance to protect disapearing tree canopy; Duluth. MN
WDIO.com - Proposed Tree Ordinance:
'People come to Duluth for the trees and the water and the fishing and the hiking. They don't come to Duluth for asphalt and turf grass,' said Christine Penney, chair of the Duluth Tree Commission.
But Penney says due to recent development projects, Duluth is losing it's tree canopy. That's why the commission wants to include tree replacement requirements in the new city zoning code. Penney says it will help keep Duluth green and protect certain tree species.
'Our white pine, spruce, hemlock, tamarack, if you take out trees that add value, they need to be replaced at a set rate,' Penney said.
This requirement would apply to developers who cut down more than 10 significant trees, meaning those with trunks more than eight inches in diameter. And they'd only have to replant half the volume of trees they removed, or they could pay the city to do it.
'People come to Duluth for the trees and the water and the fishing and the hiking. They don't come to Duluth for asphalt and turf grass,' said Christine Penney, chair of the Duluth Tree Commission.
But Penney says due to recent development projects, Duluth is losing it's tree canopy. That's why the commission wants to include tree replacement requirements in the new city zoning code. Penney says it will help keep Duluth green and protect certain tree species.
'Our white pine, spruce, hemlock, tamarack, if you take out trees that add value, they need to be replaced at a set rate,' Penney said.
This requirement would apply to developers who cut down more than 10 significant trees, meaning those with trunks more than eight inches in diameter. And they'd only have to replant half the volume of trees they removed, or they could pay the city to do it.
Development of Urban Tree Canopy prioritization tools among USFS NRS research highlights for 2009
Research Highlights - Urban Natural Resource Stewardship - Northern Research Station - USDA Forest Service:
Urban tree canopy: The development of prioritization tools
Scientists from the Northern Research Station, the University of Vermont (UVM) Spatial Analysis Laboratory, and other partners have developed tools for the high resolution assessment of urban landcover. These tools have been applied to a range of cities, including Burlington, VT; Boston, MA; New York City; and Baltimore and Cumberland, MD. Based upon these assessments, these cities have established urban tree canopy (UTC) goals and allocated resources to meet these goals.
Urban tree canopy: The development of prioritization tools
Scientists from the Northern Research Station, the University of Vermont (UVM) Spatial Analysis Laboratory, and other partners have developed tools for the high resolution assessment of urban landcover. These tools have been applied to a range of cities, including Burlington, VT; Boston, MA; New York City; and Baltimore and Cumberland, MD. Based upon these assessments, these cities have established urban tree canopy (UTC) goals and allocated resources to meet these goals.
Friday, February 26, 2010
University of Arkansas - Fort Smith recognized by Arbor Day Foundation as Tree Campus USA; Fort Smith, AR
UA Fort Smith News, UA Fort Smith:
The dedication of the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith to campus forestry management and environmental stewardship has resulted in its designation as a 2009 Tree Campus USA University by the Arbor Day Foundation.
UA Fort Smith is the first higher education institution in Arkansas to be named a Tree Campus USA University.
UA Fort Smith’s application was submitted by Alison Litchy of Fort Smith, the university’s urban forester. The application provided the Arbor Day Foundation with information on the purpose of UA Fort Smith’s tree care plan and outlined practices and processes used in selection and care of the various species found on campus.
Litchy said attaining the status as the first Tree Campus USA in Arkansas shows the university’s commitment to protecting, caring for and adding trees to the campus.
The dedication of the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith to campus forestry management and environmental stewardship has resulted in its designation as a 2009 Tree Campus USA University by the Arbor Day Foundation.
UA Fort Smith is the first higher education institution in Arkansas to be named a Tree Campus USA University.
UA Fort Smith’s application was submitted by Alison Litchy of Fort Smith, the university’s urban forester. The application provided the Arbor Day Foundation with information on the purpose of UA Fort Smith’s tree care plan and outlined practices and processes used in selection and care of the various species found on campus.
Litchy said attaining the status as the first Tree Campus USA in Arkansas shows the university’s commitment to protecting, caring for and adding trees to the campus.
Shire of Mundaring offers trees to residents to combat environmental problems; Mundaring, Australia
Tree Canopy Application Form:
Shire of Mundaring offers trees to residential property owners via Tree Canopy Application Form.
Shire of Mundaring offers trees to residential property owners via Tree Canopy Application Form.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Tallying all of Montclair's trees to achieve no net loss or enhancement to pre-storm canopy; Montclair, NJ
NorthJersey.com: Tallying all of Montclair's trees:
Crew members from Lewis Contracting cut tree branches that penetrate utility lines on the corner of Bradford and Highland avenues, in Montclair.
Montclair has many trees. The question is, how many? What varieties? And how long will those trees survive?
Municipal Forester Stephen Schuckman is creating the municipality's first-ever tree inventory. He aims to answer these questions.
Schuckman has divided the municipality into 12 sections and he's walking Montclair's streets, marking trees that need be removed and taking note of streets that could use more shade and ornamental trees.
Meanwhile, Montclair High School student John Albanese is interning with Township Councilwoman-At-Large Kathryn Weller-Demming to organize public campaigns that encourage tree planting.
Crew members from Lewis Contracting cut tree branches that penetrate utility lines on the corner of Bradford and Highland avenues, in Montclair.
Montclair has many trees. The question is, how many? What varieties? And how long will those trees survive?
Municipal Forester Stephen Schuckman is creating the municipality's first-ever tree inventory. He aims to answer these questions.
Schuckman has divided the municipality into 12 sections and he's walking Montclair's streets, marking trees that need be removed and taking note of streets that could use more shade and ornamental trees.
Meanwhile, Montclair High School student John Albanese is interning with Township Councilwoman-At-Large Kathryn Weller-Demming to organize public campaigns that encourage tree planting.
NorthJersey.com Staff Photo by Adam Anik
Portland seeks public comment on proposed Citywide Tree Project; Portand, OR
Citywide Tree Project: Time to comment is now Growth Rings:
The Citywide Tree Project (CTP) continues its public vetting process, with several open-houses scheduled for next month.
Last week, the urban forestry commission received individual copies of the 755-page document that is described as a “regulatory improvement project” by Project Manager Roberta Jortner of the Bureau of Planning & Sustainability (BPS).
The Citywide Tree Project (CTP) continues its public vetting process, with several open-houses scheduled for next month.
Last week, the urban forestry commission received individual copies of the 755-page document that is described as a “regulatory improvement project” by Project Manager Roberta Jortner of the Bureau of Planning & Sustainability (BPS).
Friends of the Parks’ Tree Planting Initiative contributes to tree canopy goal of 20%; Chicago, IL
Friends of the Parks’ Tree Planting Initiative Friends of the Parks:
What is Friends of the Parks’ Tree Planting Initiative?
It’s a partnership with the City of Chicago’s Chicago Tree Initiative (CTI). CTI was established in 2009 by the city to plant thousands of trees over the next several years with the goal to increase the total tree canopy in Chicago from 13% to 20%.
The aim of the Chicago Tree Initiative is to plant thousands of trees throughout the city: on streets, in parks, and in private yards. Accomplishing this goal will require the collaboration of many partners.
What is Friends of the Parks’ Tree Planting Initiative?
It’s a partnership with the City of Chicago’s Chicago Tree Initiative (CTI). CTI was established in 2009 by the city to plant thousands of trees over the next several years with the goal to increase the total tree canopy in Chicago from 13% to 20%.
The aim of the Chicago Tree Initiative is to plant thousands of trees throughout the city: on streets, in parks, and in private yards. Accomplishing this goal will require the collaboration of many partners.
Council to consider changes in development guide, including adoption of tree canopy ordinance; Louisville, KY
Council to consider changes in development guide courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal:
The Louisville Metro Council Thursday will consider three ordinances that would change a document that guides development in the metro area.
The ordinances would:* Protect public safety from excessive or dangerous signs* Encourage saving more trees* Incorporate the Floyds Fork parks project master plan into the documentNone of the ordinances is considered controversial, although the one pertaining to signs could be amended during the meeting.
The so-called tree canopy ordinance provides incentives for developers to save more trees in new developments and gives the city more authority to penalize them if they destroy trees that are supposed to be saved. It also outlaws planting non-indigenous trees and plants.
The Louisville Metro Council Thursday will consider three ordinances that would change a document that guides development in the metro area.
The ordinances would:* Protect public safety from excessive or dangerous signs* Encourage saving more trees* Incorporate the Floyds Fork parks project master plan into the documentNone of the ordinances is considered controversial, although the one pertaining to signs could be amended during the meeting.
The so-called tree canopy ordinance provides incentives for developers to save more trees in new developments and gives the city more authority to penalize them if they destroy trees that are supposed to be saved. It also outlaws planting non-indigenous trees and plants.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Tree ordinance move grows into resistance; Chapel Hill, NC
The Herald-Sun - Tree ordinance move grows into resistance: "A move to strengthen the town's tree ordinance hit a snag Monday, drawing criticism from both residents and council members for being too stringent.
As a result, the council sent the draft ordinance back to the drawing board and directed staff to return May 24 with a kinder, gentler version that addresses concerns voiced by council members and citizens during a public hearing on the matter Monday.
'I really wonder after reading this if we've kind of over-baked it,' said Councilman Gene Pease, who acknowledged his role in pushing the town toward the ordinance while serving on the Planning Board a few years ago.
As proposed, the ordinance would establish minimum tree canopy coverage for lots and individual tracts and standards for tree removal activities on residential property, excluding routine maintenance activities.
Removing trees in some instances would require a permit. Property owners would have to demonstrate that a lot will continue to meet minimum tree canopy coverage after trees are removed and replacement trees are planted."
As a result, the council sent the draft ordinance back to the drawing board and directed staff to return May 24 with a kinder, gentler version that addresses concerns voiced by council members and citizens during a public hearing on the matter Monday.
'I really wonder after reading this if we've kind of over-baked it,' said Councilman Gene Pease, who acknowledged his role in pushing the town toward the ordinance while serving on the Planning Board a few years ago.
As proposed, the ordinance would establish minimum tree canopy coverage for lots and individual tracts and standards for tree removal activities on residential property, excluding routine maintenance activities.
Removing trees in some instances would require a permit. Property owners would have to demonstrate that a lot will continue to meet minimum tree canopy coverage after trees are removed and replacement trees are planted."
Progress being made, but 47,000 empty street tre locations remain; Buffalo, NY
Thinking of Green City Buffalo Rising - SlideFrame_0:
With the Powder Keg Festival this coming weekend and the weather definitely still exhibiting the signs of winter - I invite everyone to begin thinking about spring. I know it's some time off yet but as we are approaching the tail end we need to start preparing for Re-Tree WNY's Spring Tree Planting.
Thanks to continued support from everyone in the community donating their time, energy and resources together we have truly begun to reforest our city. The accompanying map shows all the street trees that have been planted since Re-Tree WNY's inception in 2007 (this does not include the parks). While progress has definitely been made in every corner of the city - the second map shows the continued need. The City of Buffalo still has approximately 47,000 available planting locations! So please consider lending a hand this spring.
With the Powder Keg Festival this coming weekend and the weather definitely still exhibiting the signs of winter - I invite everyone to begin thinking about spring. I know it's some time off yet but as we are approaching the tail end we need to start preparing for Re-Tree WNY's Spring Tree Planting.
Thanks to continued support from everyone in the community donating their time, energy and resources together we have truly begun to reforest our city. The accompanying map shows all the street trees that have been planted since Re-Tree WNY's inception in 2007 (this does not include the parks). While progress has definitely been made in every corner of the city - the second map shows the continued need. The City of Buffalo still has approximately 47,000 available planting locations! So please consider lending a hand this spring.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Tree Protection Rules Come Under Fire; Chapel Hill, NC
1360 WCHL - Chapel Hill-Carrboro's News, Talk, and Tar Heels Station:
At Monday’s public hearing, planning consultant and Chapel Hill resident Scott Radway told the Town Council that while he often supports the town’s initiatives, he can’t stomach the new tree protection guidelines.
The proposed changes aim to protect the town’s tree canopy as a whole, instead of focusing on individual trees. Property owners would be required to maintain a percentage of canopy coverage based on the size of their lot. If trees are cut down, those larger than 36 inches would need to be replaced with species that grow to a minimum height of 20 feet to replenish the canopy.
Applicants would have the option of paying a mitigation fee of up to $1,000 per tree instead of replanting. The plan would apply to both residential and commercial property, though most small one and two family lots would be exempt from the regulations.
At Monday’s public hearing, planning consultant and Chapel Hill resident Scott Radway told the Town Council that while he often supports the town’s initiatives, he can’t stomach the new tree protection guidelines.
The proposed changes aim to protect the town’s tree canopy as a whole, instead of focusing on individual trees. Property owners would be required to maintain a percentage of canopy coverage based on the size of their lot. If trees are cut down, those larger than 36 inches would need to be replaced with species that grow to a minimum height of 20 feet to replenish the canopy.
Applicants would have the option of paying a mitigation fee of up to $1,000 per tree instead of replanting. The plan would apply to both residential and commercial property, though most small one and two family lots would be exempt from the regulations.
Lady Lake's goal: Add to tree canopy; Lady Lake, FL
Lady Lake's goal: Add to tree canopy - Orlando Sentinel:
A tree canopy has long cast a scenic shadow in an old part of town, and now officials hope to replicate the look across other areas.
Town officials are moving forward with plans to apply for a state grant worth up to $24,000 to plant new trees and create a tree-canopy feel around the Rolling Acres Sports Complex. The complex is close to where commercial development has flourished in Lady Lake along U.S. Highway 441.
A tree canopy has long cast a scenic shadow in an old part of town, and now officials hope to replicate the look across other areas.
Town officials are moving forward with plans to apply for a state grant worth up to $24,000 to plant new trees and create a tree-canopy feel around the Rolling Acres Sports Complex. The complex is close to where commercial development has flourished in Lady Lake along U.S. Highway 441.
Monday, February 22, 2010
New program empowers residents to plant trees; Denver, CO
New program empowers residents to plant trees > Nonprofit > Stories > Denver > YourHub.com:
In a coordinated effort to enhance and preserve Denver's urban tree canopy, The Park People and Denver Parks and Recreation have teamed up to launch a new training program that empowers individuals to lead tree planting and tree care activities within the community.
The original community forester program was established in 2003 to educate residents on how to properly care for trees. This year, The Park People and the City have elevated the status of the program by expanding the training to a new level of depth and sophistication.
Once trained, community foresters can lead and participate in tree planting and care projects in their neighborhoods as well as activities for The Park People, Denver's Forestry Division, and the Mile High Million tree planting initiative. These new high-level volunteers will help ensure that Denver's prized urban environment does not decline despite the economic challenges faced by many cities.
In a coordinated effort to enhance and preserve Denver's urban tree canopy, The Park People and Denver Parks and Recreation have teamed up to launch a new training program that empowers individuals to lead tree planting and tree care activities within the community.
The original community forester program was established in 2003 to educate residents on how to properly care for trees. This year, The Park People and the City have elevated the status of the program by expanding the training to a new level of depth and sophistication.
Once trained, community foresters can lead and participate in tree planting and care projects in their neighborhoods as well as activities for The Park People, Denver's Forestry Division, and the Mile High Million tree planting initiative. These new high-level volunteers will help ensure that Denver's prized urban environment does not decline despite the economic challenges faced by many cities.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Taylor 28 Surpasses LEED Target, Brings Home a Silver with tree canopy restoration, rain gardens, heat island reduction; Seattle, WA
Taylor 28 Surpasses LEED Target, Brings Home a Silver! - News - Mithun:
The Taylor 28 project originally targeted basic LEED® certification—receipt of Silver certification is a significant achievement, given the project’s schedule and budget constraints. Reaching Silver level results from the exceptional effort the team made to find creative and pragmatic solutions that fit the unique circumstances of the site and building. The project also closely reflects the mission that drives the developer, BRE Properties; to provide highly desirable communities in which residents and commercial tenants can live and work, and to support a thriving green lifestyle within a dense urban framework.
Stemming from site constraints created by the Denny Way corridor and the absence of a Neighborhood Planning Area guideline, a critical goal for the project was to assess opportunities for reconnecting this unclaimed community and enhancing the public realm. The project turns what would be a typical sidewalk zone into a vibrant pedestrian open space system. This new open space system defines this neighborhood as a destination; reconnecting it to Belltown, Uptown, the Seattle Center and South Lake Union.
Green infrastructure components, considered integral to the streetscape design, achieve sustainability across the spectrum of social, ecological and economic success. Strategies to rebalance the neighborhood’s ecological footprint include rainwater infiltration, urban heat island reduction, improved air quality, carbon reduction, urban tree canopy restoration and fostering urban habitat.
The Taylor 28 project originally targeted basic LEED® certification—receipt of Silver certification is a significant achievement, given the project’s schedule and budget constraints. Reaching Silver level results from the exceptional effort the team made to find creative and pragmatic solutions that fit the unique circumstances of the site and building. The project also closely reflects the mission that drives the developer, BRE Properties; to provide highly desirable communities in which residents and commercial tenants can live and work, and to support a thriving green lifestyle within a dense urban framework.
Stemming from site constraints created by the Denny Way corridor and the absence of a Neighborhood Planning Area guideline, a critical goal for the project was to assess opportunities for reconnecting this unclaimed community and enhancing the public realm. The project turns what would be a typical sidewalk zone into a vibrant pedestrian open space system. This new open space system defines this neighborhood as a destination; reconnecting it to Belltown, Uptown, the Seattle Center and South Lake Union.
Green infrastructure components, considered integral to the streetscape design, achieve sustainability across the spectrum of social, ecological and economic success. Strategies to rebalance the neighborhood’s ecological footprint include rainwater infiltration, urban heat island reduction, improved air quality, carbon reduction, urban tree canopy restoration and fostering urban habitat.
City seeks new members for Tree Advisory Committee; Grants Pass, OR
City of Grants Pass : What's New:
Urban Tree Advisory Accepting Applications
Closure Date: February 26, 2010
Posted Date: 2/19/2010
Applications are STILL being accepted to serve on the Urban Tree Advisory Committee for the City of Grants Pass. There are two (2) positions open due to terms that expire February 18, 2010. Applications for this Committee must be received no later than February 26, 2010.
For further information, please call Janet at 474-6360 ext. 6412.
ALL INTERESTED PARTIES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY
For a detailed description about the type, purpose, terms and special qualifications of the committees/commissions you may obtain an application packet at City Administration Office, 101 NW 'A' Street or select Committee Application Packet.
Urban Tree Advisory Accepting Applications
Closure Date: February 26, 2010
Posted Date: 2/19/2010
Applications are STILL being accepted to serve on the Urban Tree Advisory Committee for the City of Grants Pass. There are two (2) positions open due to terms that expire February 18, 2010. Applications for this Committee must be received no later than February 26, 2010.
For further information, please call Janet at 474-6360 ext. 6412.
ALL INTERESTED PARTIES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY
For a detailed description about the type, purpose, terms and special qualifications of the committees/commissions you may obtain an application packet at City Administration Office, 101 NW 'A' Street or select Committee Application Packet.
Town may toughen tree rules; Chapel Hill, NC
chapelhillnews.com Town may toughen tree rules:
Proposed changes to the town's tree-protection rules would require more than four out of 10 homeowners to keep at least 40 percent of their land covered by a tree canopy.
The Town Council will hold a public hearing on the changes Monday night at Town Hall. The meeting begins at 7 p.m.
The proposal is drawing criticism from some citizens and questions from the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Chamber of Commerce.
'It would appear to me you are about to go overboard again,' local builder Gary Buck wrote in an e-mail to the council. 'To stimulate business and well-being, you must have lessregulation, not more.'
The tree-protection rules aim to maintain the benefits trees offer the town: erosion and flooding control, noise buffers, pollutant absorption, climate moderation and wildlife shelter and food.
Proposed changes to the town's tree-protection rules would require more than four out of 10 homeowners to keep at least 40 percent of their land covered by a tree canopy.
The Town Council will hold a public hearing on the changes Monday night at Town Hall. The meeting begins at 7 p.m.
The proposal is drawing criticism from some citizens and questions from the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Chamber of Commerce.
'It would appear to me you are about to go overboard again,' local builder Gary Buck wrote in an e-mail to the council. 'To stimulate business and well-being, you must have lessregulation, not more.'
The tree-protection rules aim to maintain the benefits trees offer the town: erosion and flooding control, noise buffers, pollutant absorption, climate moderation and wildlife shelter and food.
Plant a tree, build community in city ranked 30th in canopy cover among 30 largest US cities; San Francisco, CA
Plant a tree, build community in S.F.:
A motley collection of volunteers planted western red bud, silktassel, toyon, and blue blossom trees beside Rosa Parks Elementary School on Saturday. The trees were all native to California, but not to San Francisco, a city still struggling to overcome its heredity as an arid haven for scrub brush, grasses and sand dunes.
But, then again, in the school's Western Addition neighborhood, overcoming history is part of the fabric of every day.
In this neighborhood, waves of various ethnic groups have come - and sometimes been pushed out by force. The elementary school once served as a way station for Japanese Americans being shipped to internment camps during World War II. The school sits next to an apartment complex that neighbors said was built during the city's infamous redevelopment schemes a half-century ago, which pushed out African Americans.
So Karen Kai was moved by the sight of the eclectic collection of folks coming together to plant trees: children, parents, teachers, school secretaries, neighbors and people from around the city; black, white, Japanese American and others.
'It really is the vision we had for the school,' said Kai, 55, a Japanese American who now lives in the city's Eureka Valley neighborhood. 'It's bringing the community together.'
And it was for trees.
A motley collection of volunteers planted western red bud, silktassel, toyon, and blue blossom trees beside Rosa Parks Elementary School on Saturday. The trees were all native to California, but not to San Francisco, a city still struggling to overcome its heredity as an arid haven for scrub brush, grasses and sand dunes.
But, then again, in the school's Western Addition neighborhood, overcoming history is part of the fabric of every day.
In this neighborhood, waves of various ethnic groups have come - and sometimes been pushed out by force. The elementary school once served as a way station for Japanese Americans being shipped to internment camps during World War II. The school sits next to an apartment complex that neighbors said was built during the city's infamous redevelopment schemes a half-century ago, which pushed out African Americans.
So Karen Kai was moved by the sight of the eclectic collection of folks coming together to plant trees: children, parents, teachers, school secretaries, neighbors and people from around the city; black, white, Japanese American and others.
'It really is the vision we had for the school,' said Kai, 55, a Japanese American who now lives in the city's Eureka Valley neighborhood. 'It's bringing the community together.'
And it was for trees.
New Jersey fights onslaught of natural invaders; NJ
New Jersey fights onslaught of natural invaders - pressofAtlanticCity.com : Latest News:
MIDDLE TOWNSHIP — Three Bradford pear trees on the grounds around an old farmhouse here were probably planted by a former owner for their glorious white flowers. But those pear trees’ days are numbered: The farmhouse and the trees are now part of the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge, which plans to chop them down to stem the spread of invasive species.
From feral pigs rooting up golf courses to foreign diseases wiping out oysters and backyard flowers going rogue in woods across the state, New Jersey is under invasion. For years the state’s wildlife managers have worked to save wild plants and animals on the verge of extinction. But more and more, they are examining new ways to cope with exotic plants and animals that are faring all too well in the Garden State.
MIDDLE TOWNSHIP — Three Bradford pear trees on the grounds around an old farmhouse here were probably planted by a former owner for their glorious white flowers. But those pear trees’ days are numbered: The farmhouse and the trees are now part of the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge, which plans to chop them down to stem the spread of invasive species.
From feral pigs rooting up golf courses to foreign diseases wiping out oysters and backyard flowers going rogue in woods across the state, New Jersey is under invasion. For years the state’s wildlife managers have worked to save wild plants and animals on the verge of extinction. But more and more, they are examining new ways to cope with exotic plants and animals that are faring all too well in the Garden State.
Meeting In Collinsville Section Of Canton To Focus On Trees; Canton, CT
Meeting In Collinsville Section Of Canton To Focus On Trees - Courant.com:
Collinsville is losing trees.
As years pass, the giants that residents take for granted along roadsides and in yards are succumbing to disease and becoming brittle with age, said David Leff, a Collinsville resident and chairman of the village's historic district commission.
Many of the trees have already come down — large limbs have crashed through house roofs, crushed porches and taken down power lines — while others face the chain saw.
'It's time to plan for replacing them for the future,' Leff said Tuesday.
To get the process started, the commission will host a presentation Thursday featuring Chris Donnelly, an urban forester from the state Department of Environmental Protection. The public is encouraged to attend the 7 p.m. program in Room F of the town library and community center, where Donnelly will discuss how to sustain Collinsville's canopy of trees. The talk will touch on good planning, which types of trees are appropriate and what's needed to maintain them, such as pruning and planting. Donnelly also will discuss grant opportunities available for such efforts, Leff said.
Collinsville is losing trees.
As years pass, the giants that residents take for granted along roadsides and in yards are succumbing to disease and becoming brittle with age, said David Leff, a Collinsville resident and chairman of the village's historic district commission.
Many of the trees have already come down — large limbs have crashed through house roofs, crushed porches and taken down power lines — while others face the chain saw.
'It's time to plan for replacing them for the future,' Leff said Tuesday.
To get the process started, the commission will host a presentation Thursday featuring Chris Donnelly, an urban forester from the state Department of Environmental Protection. The public is encouraged to attend the 7 p.m. program in Room F of the town library and community center, where Donnelly will discuss how to sustain Collinsville's canopy of trees. The talk will touch on good planning, which types of trees are appropriate and what's needed to maintain them, such as pruning and planting. Donnelly also will discuss grant opportunities available for such efforts, Leff said.
Residents remain concerned about design for Southwest 91st Street; Gainesville, FL
Residents remain concerned about design for Southwest 91st Street Gainesville.com:
There was a time when tree-lined Southwest 91st Street was considered out in the country.
Over the decades, residential growth west of Gainesville, including that in Haile Plantation, and the extension of the once dead-end road have brought a steady rise in traffic.
Now linking Newberry Road and Archer Road, 91st Street accommodated more than 8,000 vehicles daily between the stretch from Newberry Road to Southwest Eighth Avenue in 2008, according to traffic count numbers filed with the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization.
Shaded by an oak tree canopy, the road, also known as Fort Clarke Church Road, has maintained much of its rural look on that stretch from Newberry Road to Eighth Avenue, even as the road has grown heavily traveled.
It is one of one of only five official county scenic roads -- a designation the County Commission approved in 1987.
But some residents are worried the road will lose its charm and see an increase in safety problems under the designs for a road repaving project. Those plans are scheduled to go to the County Commission Tuesday night for what is likely to be a final vote on the proposed design before the project is bid for construction.
There was a time when tree-lined Southwest 91st Street was considered out in the country.
Over the decades, residential growth west of Gainesville, including that in Haile Plantation, and the extension of the once dead-end road have brought a steady rise in traffic.
Now linking Newberry Road and Archer Road, 91st Street accommodated more than 8,000 vehicles daily between the stretch from Newberry Road to Southwest Eighth Avenue in 2008, according to traffic count numbers filed with the Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization.
Shaded by an oak tree canopy, the road, also known as Fort Clarke Church Road, has maintained much of its rural look on that stretch from Newberry Road to Eighth Avenue, even as the road has grown heavily traveled.
It is one of one of only five official county scenic roads -- a designation the County Commission approved in 1987.
But some residents are worried the road will lose its charm and see an increase in safety problems under the designs for a road repaving project. Those plans are scheduled to go to the County Commission Tuesday night for what is likely to be a final vote on the proposed design before the project is bid for construction.
Arboretum dedication Tree City announcement mark Arbor Day in Rome; Rome, GA
RN-T.com - Arboretum dedication Tree City announcement mark Arbor Day in Rome:
Several hundred Romans, many of them garden club members, gathered along the trail behind State Mutual Stadium on Friday to celebrate Arbor Day and dedicate the new Riverside Memorial Arboretum.
Carolyn Walker, president of the Rome Federated Garden Clubs, spoke during the dedication of the arboretum. “Today we celebrate the future of these blessings (from the earth) as the strong scarlet oaks grow and provide beauty, shade, home for God’s creatures and clean air here on the banks of the Oostanaula River,” said Walker.
Twelve scarlet oaks were planted, one for each of the 12 garden clubs in Rome.
Several hundred Romans, many of them garden club members, gathered along the trail behind State Mutual Stadium on Friday to celebrate Arbor Day and dedicate the new Riverside Memorial Arboretum.
Carolyn Walker, president of the Rome Federated Garden Clubs, spoke during the dedication of the arboretum. “Today we celebrate the future of these blessings (from the earth) as the strong scarlet oaks grow and provide beauty, shade, home for God’s creatures and clean air here on the banks of the Oostanaula River,” said Walker.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Effort to revisit tree ordinance places allies at odds; San Antonio, TX
Effort to revisit tree ordinance places allies at odds:
City officials are moving forward on an effort to overhaul San Antonio's tree ordinance, but the work-in-progress has sparked a curious disagreement between traditional allies.
The current version tries to address concerns raised in a report done for the city last year by American Forests, a Washington-based environmental consulting firm, which found that the city is gradually destroying its tree canopy in ways that threaten both air and water quality.
The new plan would lower the maximum allowable destruction of trees from 90 percent to roughly 80 percent; double the fees developers pay into a city mitigation fund from $100 to $200 per diameter inch of protected tree destroyed; and impose project-by-project shade requirements of 25 percent for commercial property and 38 percent for residential after developments are complete.
Exemptions for properties larger than half an acre with a home on them — a loophole some developers have abused — would be closed.
City officials are moving forward on an effort to overhaul San Antonio's tree ordinance, but the work-in-progress has sparked a curious disagreement between traditional allies.
The current version tries to address concerns raised in a report done for the city last year by American Forests, a Washington-based environmental consulting firm, which found that the city is gradually destroying its tree canopy in ways that threaten both air and water quality.
The new plan would lower the maximum allowable destruction of trees from 90 percent to roughly 80 percent; double the fees developers pay into a city mitigation fund from $100 to $200 per diameter inch of protected tree destroyed; and impose project-by-project shade requirements of 25 percent for commercial property and 38 percent for residential after developments are complete.
Exemptions for properties larger than half an acre with a home on them — a loophole some developers have abused — would be closed.
Missing deadline in Ike cleanup will cost taxpayers; Galveston, TX
Missing deadline in Ike cleanup will cost taxpayers Houston & Texas News Chron.com - Houston Chronicle:
More than a year after workers hauled away Mercedes Cortez's magnolia tree killed by Hurricane Ike's salty storm surge, crews were back on her street Thursday to dispose of a cottonwood rotting in a neighbor's backyard.
“It's bittersweet, but we know it had to go,” Cortez said as city contractors used a 120-ton crane to remove the dead timber. “It's kind of like cutting off one of your arms.”
Seventeen months have passed since Ike covered the island with seawater that killed thousands of giant trees that once provided a shady canopy above Galveston's oldest neighborhoods.
March 13 is incentive
And when the 18th month is up on March 13, the cost of hauling away all that wood shifts from the federal government to local taxpayers. That deadline is giving city leaders plenty of incentive to complete the cleanup task quickly. Today, meanwhile, is the deadline for residents to haul storm debris to the curb for free disposal.
More than a year after workers hauled away Mercedes Cortez's magnolia tree killed by Hurricane Ike's salty storm surge, crews were back on her street Thursday to dispose of a cottonwood rotting in a neighbor's backyard.
“It's bittersweet, but we know it had to go,” Cortez said as city contractors used a 120-ton crane to remove the dead timber. “It's kind of like cutting off one of your arms.”
Seventeen months have passed since Ike covered the island with seawater that killed thousands of giant trees that once provided a shady canopy above Galveston's oldest neighborhoods.
March 13 is incentive
And when the 18th month is up on March 13, the cost of hauling away all that wood shifts from the federal government to local taxpayers. That deadline is giving city leaders plenty of incentive to complete the cleanup task quickly. Today, meanwhile, is the deadline for residents to haul storm debris to the curb for free disposal.
Rebuilding Cazenovia’s Tree Canopy; Cazenovia, NY
Rebuilding Cazenovia’s Tree Canopy « Cazenovia Pilot:
With spring just around the corner, the Village of Cazenovia Tree Commission is gearing up for the season by inviting the public to the Cazenovia Canopy Workshop Presentation to be held in the community room of the Cazenovia Public Library on March 27 at 10:15 a.m.
The Tree Commission was formed two years ago with the mission to preserve, protect and enhance the tree population as an important community asset contributing to the scenic beauty, health and environment of Cazenovia. Since then, the Commission has taken specific actions to achieve this mission. These actions include developing a list of optimal tree species, creating a comprehensive tree inventory, engaging village home-owners regarding tree care and replacement adjacent to their properties, and planting a variety of new trees from Lakeland Park to the Burton Street ball park and on many streets in between.
With spring just around the corner, the Village of Cazenovia Tree Commission is gearing up for the season by inviting the public to the Cazenovia Canopy Workshop Presentation to be held in the community room of the Cazenovia Public Library on March 27 at 10:15 a.m.
The Tree Commission was formed two years ago with the mission to preserve, protect and enhance the tree population as an important community asset contributing to the scenic beauty, health and environment of Cazenovia. Since then, the Commission has taken specific actions to achieve this mission. These actions include developing a list of optimal tree species, creating a comprehensive tree inventory, engaging village home-owners regarding tree care and replacement adjacent to their properties, and planting a variety of new trees from Lakeland Park to the Burton Street ball park and on many streets in between.
Town to hold hearing on proposed new tree-protection rules Monday; Chapel Hill, NC
chapelhillnews.com Town to hold hearing on tree-protection rules Monday:
The Town Council will consider new rules for tree protection in a public hearing set for 7 p.m. Monday.
The proposed text amendment to the Land Use Management Ordinance reflects suggestions and concerns heard at public information meetings held over the last five months.
The proposal seeks to protect the town's tree coverage without unreasonable regulation of smaller lots and homeowners, town officials said in a news release. The council has been reviewing these changes since 2007, in response to a petition from the Planning Board.
The proposed amendment would establish minimum tree canopy coverage requirements for individual lots and tracts. In addition, the proposed amendment would establish standards related to significant tree-removal activities on residential properties, excluding many routine maintenance activities.
The Town Council will consider new rules for tree protection in a public hearing set for 7 p.m. Monday.
The proposed text amendment to the Land Use Management Ordinance reflects suggestions and concerns heard at public information meetings held over the last five months.
The proposal seeks to protect the town's tree coverage without unreasonable regulation of smaller lots and homeowners, town officials said in a news release. The council has been reviewing these changes since 2007, in response to a petition from the Planning Board.
The proposed amendment would establish minimum tree canopy coverage requirements for individual lots and tracts. In addition, the proposed amendment would establish standards related to significant tree-removal activities on residential properties, excluding many routine maintenance activities.
Federal stimulus funds to plant 23,000 trees and support 200 jobs for California
California ReLeaf » Trees Benefit from Federal Funding:
In an effort to create jobs, improve the environment and stimulate the economy, the federal government in December awarded California ReLeaf $6 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds.
The ARRA funding will allow California ReLeaf to distribute grants to 17 urban forestry projects throughout the state, planting more than 23,000 trees, creating or retaining close to 200 jobs, and providing job training for scores of young people over the next two years.
ARRA funding has been responsible for a variety of green jobs including jobs in solar panel installation, alternative transportation, fire suppression, and more. The California ReLeaf grant is exceptional in that it provides jobs by planting and maintaining urban trees.
In an effort to create jobs, improve the environment and stimulate the economy, the federal government in December awarded California ReLeaf $6 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds.
The ARRA funding will allow California ReLeaf to distribute grants to 17 urban forestry projects throughout the state, planting more than 23,000 trees, creating or retaining close to 200 jobs, and providing job training for scores of young people over the next two years.
ARRA funding has been responsible for a variety of green jobs including jobs in solar panel installation, alternative transportation, fire suppression, and more. The California ReLeaf grant is exceptional in that it provides jobs by planting and maintaining urban trees.
Monday, February 15, 2010
New measures would formalize development rules, give greater prioirity to urban tree canopy goals; Worcester County, MD
Worcester measures would formalize development rules delmarvanow.com The Daily Times:
OCEAN CITY -- Worcester County officials are looking at changing two local laws to mirror what the state already has on the books.
The Worcester County Commissioners are expected to consider two bills at their meeting Tuesday, one on forest conservation and the other on stormwater management. The public would have an opportunity to comment before a final vote.Language for the forest conservation rules comes from laws passed in the 2008 and 2009 Maryland Legislative sessions. The measures reduce the amount of forest clearing that can be done, give high priority to urban tree canopy goals, increase fees and establish technological standards for reporting. The rules took effect statewide in October, and the Worcester County Department of Development Review and Permitting has been enforcing them.
OCEAN CITY -- Worcester County officials are looking at changing two local laws to mirror what the state already has on the books.
The Worcester County Commissioners are expected to consider two bills at their meeting Tuesday, one on forest conservation and the other on stormwater management. The public would have an opportunity to comment before a final vote.Language for the forest conservation rules comes from laws passed in the 2008 and 2009 Maryland Legislative sessions. The measures reduce the amount of forest clearing that can be done, give high priority to urban tree canopy goals, increase fees and establish technological standards for reporting. The rules took effect statewide in October, and the Worcester County Department of Development Review and Permitting has been enforcing them.
Report issued on Vinton's existing and possible tree canopy-puts current coverage at 39%; Vinton, VA
The analysis of the City of Vinton’s urban tree canopy (UTC) was carried out by the Virginia Department of Forestry in collaboration with the City of Vinton and the Roanoke Valley—Alleghany Regional Commission. Assistance was provided by the Virginia Geospatial Extension Program (VGEP) at Virginia Tech’s Department of Forestry and by the Spatial Analysis Laboratory (SAL) of the University of Vermont.
The goal of the project was to apply the USDA Forest Service’s UTC assessment protocols to the City of Vinton. This analysis was conducted based on year 2008 data.
The goal of the project was to apply the USDA Forest Service’s UTC assessment protocols to the City of Vinton. This analysis was conducted based on year 2008 data.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Research paper: Mapping urban forest tree species using IKONOS imagery: preliminary results
SpringerLink - Journal Article:
The preliminary results imply that to improve the tree species identification accuracy and achieve a practical application level in urban area, multi-temporal (multi-seasonal) or hyperspectral data image data should be considered for use in the future.
The preliminary results imply that to improve the tree species identification accuracy and achieve a practical application level in urban area, multi-temporal (multi-seasonal) or hyperspectral data image data should be considered for use in the future.
Tree ordinance back on front burner - seeks to align with county ordinance; Richmond Hill, GA
- Tree ordinance back on front burner:
The Richmond Hill City Council discussed the proposed tree ordinance during a called meeting Tuesday at City Hall. The ordinance looks to require a minimum of 40 percent tree canopy tree coverage that developers and builders must incorporate into future projects.
Feedback from council members was positive, but no vote was taken. A yet-to-be-scheduled public hearing will take place before the ordinance reaches the point where it could be activated with a vote from council at a regularly scheduled council meeting.
The newly-revised ordinance has adopted many of the traits of the tree ordinance that Bryan County uses. Another campaign promise of Fowler’s was to get city and county ordinances on the same page, and this appears to be a step toward that"
The Richmond Hill City Council discussed the proposed tree ordinance during a called meeting Tuesday at City Hall. The ordinance looks to require a minimum of 40 percent tree canopy tree coverage that developers and builders must incorporate into future projects.
Feedback from council members was positive, but no vote was taken. A yet-to-be-scheduled public hearing will take place before the ordinance reaches the point where it could be activated with a vote from council at a regularly scheduled council meeting.
The newly-revised ordinance has adopted many of the traits of the tree ordinance that Bryan County uses. Another campaign promise of Fowler’s was to get city and county ordinances on the same page, and this appears to be a step toward that"
Southern Group of State Foresters list social, economic, and environmental benefits of urban trees
Benefits of Urban Trees — Southern Group of State Foresters:
"Cleaner, Cooler Air: In exchange for giving oxygen, trees absorb carbon dioxide produced from the combustion of various fuels. Trees remove or trap lung-damaging dust, ash, pollen and smoke from the air, in addition to providing shade for people and conserving energy.
"Cleaner, Cooler Air: In exchange for giving oxygen, trees absorb carbon dioxide produced from the combustion of various fuels. Trees remove or trap lung-damaging dust, ash, pollen and smoke from the air, in addition to providing shade for people and conserving energy.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Long term focus on tree canopy results in recognition as Tree City USA for 11th year; Oxford, GA
City of Oxford prepares for Arbor Day:
OXFORD — The city of Oxford’s Arbor Day celebration will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at George Street Park. Everyone is invited to attend.
The celebration, sponsored by the Oxford Trees, Parks and Recreation Board, will include the reading of an Arbor Day proclamation by Mayor Jerry Roseberry, a demonstration of tree care by Bartlett Tree Service, a children’s activity table sponsored by Oxford College, coffee and donuts, and free seedlings provided by the Covington Service Guild.
At noon, everyone is invited to head over to the pocket park on Bonnell Street for the planting of dogwood seedlings.
Oxford residents and officials have long been concerned with maintaining the historic city’s tree canopy.
“This is Oxford’s 11th year as a Tree City USA,” said City Councilman Hoyt Oliver. “We’ve been (removing) old oaks from Oak Street, but the tree board has been planting more than we’re losing.”
OXFORD — The city of Oxford’s Arbor Day celebration will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at George Street Park. Everyone is invited to attend.
The celebration, sponsored by the Oxford Trees, Parks and Recreation Board, will include the reading of an Arbor Day proclamation by Mayor Jerry Roseberry, a demonstration of tree care by Bartlett Tree Service, a children’s activity table sponsored by Oxford College, coffee and donuts, and free seedlings provided by the Covington Service Guild.
At noon, everyone is invited to head over to the pocket park on Bonnell Street for the planting of dogwood seedlings.
Oxford residents and officials have long been concerned with maintaining the historic city’s tree canopy.
“This is Oxford’s 11th year as a Tree City USA,” said City Councilman Hoyt Oliver. “We’ve been (removing) old oaks from Oak Street, but the tree board has been planting more than we’re losing.”
Conference presentation: Tree growth modeling to improve tree size and canopy coverage predictions; Virginia Tech, VA
Tree growth modeling to improve tree size and canopy coverage predictions — Emerging Issues Along Urban-Rural Interfaces:
Municipalities use ordinances and zoning to ensure that tree canopy cover is replenished during land development. Many localities have refined their regulations to enforce their long-term canopy cover goals, requiring developers to plant trees to provide minimum canopy cover for the project site within a specified period of 15 to 30 years. To fulfill site plan requirements, developers specify tree planting densities based on anticipated canopy growth during the attainment period. However, these calculations are typically based on observations of trees growing in non-limiting environments such as nurseries and arboreta, which are not representative of typical urban conditions. Urban conditions are oftentimes very heterogeneous due to the great degree of disturbance providing various soil conditions ranging from adequate to unacceptable. Hence, tree size predictions cannot be generalized for all planting sites and designs and have to be based on research resulting in models that include the factors that significantly influence tree growth.
Municipalities use ordinances and zoning to ensure that tree canopy cover is replenished during land development. Many localities have refined their regulations to enforce their long-term canopy cover goals, requiring developers to plant trees to provide minimum canopy cover for the project site within a specified period of 15 to 30 years. To fulfill site plan requirements, developers specify tree planting densities based on anticipated canopy growth during the attainment period. However, these calculations are typically based on observations of trees growing in non-limiting environments such as nurseries and arboreta, which are not representative of typical urban conditions. Urban conditions are oftentimes very heterogeneous due to the great degree of disturbance providing various soil conditions ranging from adequate to unacceptable. Hence, tree size predictions cannot be generalized for all planting sites and designs and have to be based on research resulting in models that include the factors that significantly influence tree growth.
Habitat for Humanity project violates tree protection zone, results in damage to protected tree; Charlottesville, VA
Charlottesville Tomorrow News Center: Damaged tree on Paton Street sparks discussion of tree protection: The fate of a damaged oak tree in the city’s Fifeville neighborhood depends on a decision to be made by Jim Tolbert, the City’s Director of Neighborhood Development Services (NDS). Tolbert will have the final say on a site plan amendment that would permit a developer to not only remove the tree, but also expand the size of a building to be built on the property.
In October 2006, the Charlottesville Planning Commission approved a rezoning that allowed Habitat for Humanity to build up to 21 housing units in the city’s Fifeville Neighborhood. One of the conditions of the rezoning was that the oak tree be saved along with several others. Grading on the Paton Street site got underway at the beginning of the year.
Around the same time, Habitat came back to NDS to discuss a potential request to expand the footprint of the building by four feet. City Planner Ebony Walden told Habitat that the bigger building might cause the structure to come within the “drip line” of the protected oak, which could damage the tree.
In October 2006, the Charlottesville Planning Commission approved a rezoning that allowed Habitat for Humanity to build up to 21 housing units in the city’s Fifeville Neighborhood. One of the conditions of the rezoning was that the oak tree be saved along with several others. Grading on the Paton Street site got underway at the beginning of the year.
Around the same time, Habitat came back to NDS to discuss a potential request to expand the footprint of the building by four feet. City Planner Ebony Walden told Habitat that the bigger building might cause the structure to come within the “drip line” of the protected oak, which could damage the tree.
Ancient trees felled at Dole Wood; Thurlby, UK
Ancient trees felled at Dole Wood - Rutland & Stamford Mercury:
Published Date: 11 February 2010
A TRUST has defended its decision to fell ancient trees by stating that it will allow a wood to flourish.
Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust owns Dole Wood, Thurlby, and this week felled 18 trees on the request of Natural England.
The move has been meet with disappointment by Joyce Stephenson, of Obthorpe Lane, Thurlby, who had campaigned for the retention of the 200-year-old trees.
Last year Miss Stephenson collected 327 signatures for a petition to save the trees at the wood – which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Workers began felling the trees on Monday and were finished the following day.
Published Date: 11 February 2010
A TRUST has defended its decision to fell ancient trees by stating that it will allow a wood to flourish.
Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust owns Dole Wood, Thurlby, and this week felled 18 trees on the request of Natural England.
The move has been meet with disappointment by Joyce Stephenson, of Obthorpe Lane, Thurlby, who had campaigned for the retention of the 200-year-old trees.
Last year Miss Stephenson collected 327 signatures for a petition to save the trees at the wood – which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Workers began felling the trees on Monday and were finished the following day.
Solar Ivy Could Put New Creeping Spin On Solar Panels - can even mimic the way tree canopy filters light
Solar Ivy Could Put New Creeping Spin On Solar Panels EarthTechling:
Excuse me, are those solar panels growing on your house? A new product called Solar Ivy, under development by Sustainably Minded Interactive Technology (SMIT) and up for a grant from Pepsi, may have conversations like this occurring between neighbors sometime in the near future .
According to Dvice, Solar Ivy is a disguised solar power system ideal for older buildings and apartment complexes. SMIT developed Solar Ivy to be a structurally adaptive and customizable system that not only mimics the form of ivy, but its relationship to the environment. Towards that end, flexible photovoltaic “leaves” shift in the breeze while converting solar energy into electricity, and shade the building from heat during the day. According to SMIT, Solar Ivy even has the potential to mimic the way the tree canopy can filter light, encouraging ground level plant growth.
Excuse me, are those solar panels growing on your house? A new product called Solar Ivy, under development by Sustainably Minded Interactive Technology (SMIT) and up for a grant from Pepsi, may have conversations like this occurring between neighbors sometime in the near future .
According to Dvice, Solar Ivy is a disguised solar power system ideal for older buildings and apartment complexes. SMIT developed Solar Ivy to be a structurally adaptive and customizable system that not only mimics the form of ivy, but its relationship to the environment. Towards that end, flexible photovoltaic “leaves” shift in the breeze while converting solar energy into electricity, and shade the building from heat during the day. According to SMIT, Solar Ivy even has the potential to mimic the way the tree canopy can filter light, encouraging ground level plant growth.
Iowa Supreme Court rukes that easement grantee has right to driveway use but must maintain tree canopy over it;Des Moines, IA
Laws, Life, and Legal Matters - Court Cases and Legal Information at Leagle.com - All Federal and State Appeals Court Cases in One Search:
KERSEY v. BABICH
THOMAS E. KERSEY and COLLINA F. KERSEY, Plaintiffs-Appellants/Cross-Appellees,
v.
LESLIE BABICH, Defendant-Appellee/Cross-Appellant.
No. 9-790/08-1556.
Court of Appeals of Iowa.
Filed February 10, 2010.
Fred L. Dorr of Wasker, Dorr, Wimmer & Marcouiller, P.C., Des Moines, for appellants.
Alexander R. Rhoads of Babich, Goldman, Cashatt & Renzo, P.C., Des Moines, for appellee.
Considered by Vaitheswaran, P.J., Danilson, J., and Huitink, S.J.[ 1 ]
KERSEY v. BABICH
THOMAS E. KERSEY and COLLINA F. KERSEY, Plaintiffs-Appellants/Cross-Appellees,
v.
LESLIE BABICH, Defendant-Appellee/Cross-Appellant.
No. 9-790/08-1556.
Court of Appeals of Iowa.
Filed February 10, 2010.
Fred L. Dorr of Wasker, Dorr, Wimmer & Marcouiller, P.C., Des Moines, for appellants.
Alexander R. Rhoads of Babich, Goldman, Cashatt & Renzo, P.C., Des Moines, for appellee.
Considered by Vaitheswaran, P.J., Danilson, J., and Huitink, S.J.[ 1 ]
Technical report: Geospatial Assessment in Support of Urban & Community Forestry Programs; USA
Geospatial Assessment in Support of Urban & Community Forestry Programs — Urban Forestry South:
A study initiated to examine the strengths and limitations of existing methods for identifying forest opportunities in urban areas.
Geospatial information is an important component of urban and community forestry assessment in the Northern Area. The syn-thesis of geographic data can help inform the decision making process at a range of scales, from prioritizing communities within a state to targeting individual properties for tree plantings. For accurate and meaningful information to be gained from these assessments it is crucial that any geospatial assessment employ datasets and tools that are appropriate to the scale of analysis.
A study initiated to examine the strengths and limitations of existing methods for identifying forest opportunities in urban areas.
Geospatial information is an important component of urban and community forestry assessment in the Northern Area. The syn-thesis of geographic data can help inform the decision making process at a range of scales, from prioritizing communities within a state to targeting individual properties for tree plantings. For accurate and meaningful information to be gained from these assessments it is crucial that any geospatial assessment employ datasets and tools that are appropriate to the scale of analysis.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Zealously planting natives don't help fight bushfire, commission told; Melbourne, Australia
Zealously planting natives don't help fight bushfire, commission told The Australian:
THE Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission has heard fears that bushfire could roar through the heavily populated Dandenong Ranges, east of Melbourne, where the tree canopy in one township is three times as dense as the devastated town of Marysville before Black Saturday. Olinda resident and nurseryman Jeremy Francis said mountain residents had believed they could be protected by the Country Fire Authority, but 'at some point on the night of Black Saturday, the penny dropped right around the mountain that we had been living in something of a fool's paradise'.
Saying there had been 'no recognition whatsoever' about the effect of changed land practices and native-revegetation polices, Mr Francis said planning authorities needed to plant fire-retarding deciduous trees as bushfire buffer zones rather than zealously planting Australian natives.
THE Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission has heard fears that bushfire could roar through the heavily populated Dandenong Ranges, east of Melbourne, where the tree canopy in one township is three times as dense as the devastated town of Marysville before Black Saturday. Olinda resident and nurseryman Jeremy Francis said mountain residents had believed they could be protected by the Country Fire Authority, but 'at some point on the night of Black Saturday, the penny dropped right around the mountain that we had been living in something of a fool's paradise'.
Saying there had been 'no recognition whatsoever' about the effect of changed land practices and native-revegetation polices, Mr Francis said planning authorities needed to plant fire-retarding deciduous trees as bushfire buffer zones rather than zealously planting Australian natives.
Leader of New York Restoration Project Named Next PHS President; Philadelphia, PA
Leader of New York Restoration Project Named Next PHS President « The Philadelphia Flower Show Blog:
Drew Becher, Executive Director of New York Restoration Project (NYRP), who has spearheaded New York City’s renowned MillionTreesNYC greening initiative, will become the 36th president of the venerable Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS).
Becher will succeed Jane G. Pepper, PHS leader since 1981, who raised the stature of the Flower Show internationally and guided Philadelphia Green into a national model for urban revitalization.
NYRP was founded by entertainer and environmentalist Bette Midler in 1995. Becher has led the non-profit NYRP since 2006, and during his tenure has been a respected leader in the city’s greening and beautification initiatives.
In 2007, Becher and NYRP partnered with Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation to launch MillionTreesNYC, which has led to the planting of more than 310,000 trees in New York City’s five boroughs to date. Becher is also responsible for raising millions in revenue for capital projects; revamping NYRP’s environmental educational programs for more than 10,000 children in underserved communities; and expanding the organization’s programs for community gardeners and volunteers.
Drew Becher, Executive Director of New York Restoration Project (NYRP), who has spearheaded New York City’s renowned MillionTreesNYC greening initiative, will become the 36th president of the venerable Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS).
Becher will succeed Jane G. Pepper, PHS leader since 1981, who raised the stature of the Flower Show internationally and guided Philadelphia Green into a national model for urban revitalization.
NYRP was founded by entertainer and environmentalist Bette Midler in 1995. Becher has led the non-profit NYRP since 2006, and during his tenure has been a respected leader in the city’s greening and beautification initiatives.
In 2007, Becher and NYRP partnered with Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation to launch MillionTreesNYC, which has led to the planting of more than 310,000 trees in New York City’s five boroughs to date. Becher is also responsible for raising millions in revenue for capital projects; revamping NYRP’s environmental educational programs for more than 10,000 children in underserved communities; and expanding the organization’s programs for community gardeners and volunteers.
Village of Ada to seek aid in removing ash trees; Ada, OH
Village of Ada to seek aid in removing ash trees:
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has announced that federal grant funds are now available to assist northwest Ohio communities in removing hazardous ash trees along public right-of-ways and replacing them with other trees. The Emerald Ash Borer was identified in Ada last year.
Ada Assistant Village Administrator Eric Martin, who was instrumental in inventorying the ash trees in Ada, and then developing a management plan for those trees, said he was not surprised to see these funds become available.
'I thought that something might show up,' said Martin, noting that a similar action had been taken by the DNR in Michigan. 'Yes, we will apply,' he said.
Martin indicated that there are over 95 ash trees in Ada right-of-ways and in Railroad Park. Naturally, there are other ash trees in the back yards of residents, at Ada War Memorial Park, and on the campus of Ohio Northern University."
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has announced that federal grant funds are now available to assist northwest Ohio communities in removing hazardous ash trees along public right-of-ways and replacing them with other trees. The Emerald Ash Borer was identified in Ada last year.
Ada Assistant Village Administrator Eric Martin, who was instrumental in inventorying the ash trees in Ada, and then developing a management plan for those trees, said he was not surprised to see these funds become available.
'I thought that something might show up,' said Martin, noting that a similar action had been taken by the DNR in Michigan. 'Yes, we will apply,' he said.
Martin indicated that there are over 95 ash trees in Ada right-of-ways and in Railroad Park. Naturally, there are other ash trees in the back yards of residents, at Ada War Memorial Park, and on the campus of Ohio Northern University."
Research paper: Modeling Spatial Establishment Patterns of Exotic Forest Insects in Urban Areas in Relation to Tree Cover and Propagule Pressure
BioOne Online Journals - Modeling Spatial Establishment Patterns of Exotic Forest Insects in Urban Areas in Relation to Tree Cover and Propagule Pressure:
As international trade increases so does the prominence of urban areas as gateways for exotic forest insects (EFI). Delimiting hot spots for invasions (i.e., areas where establishment is likely) within urban areas would facilitate monitoring efforts. We used a propagule-pressure framework to delimit establishment hot spots of a hypothetical generalist EFI in six U.S. urban areas: Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana, New York-Newark, and Seattle. We assessed how urban tree cover and propagule pressure interact to delimit establishment hot spots and compared the location of these hot spots with actual recent U.S. detections of two EFI: the Asian strain of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.) (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae), and Asian longhorned beetle, Anoplophora glabripennis (Motschulsky) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae). Using a lattice of 5-km-diameter cells for each urban area, we used the input data (urban tree cover and propagule pressure) to model establishment and Moran's I to delimit hot spots. We used urban population size and the area of commercial-industrial land use as indicators of propagule pressure in the model. Relative establishment of EFI was influenced more by the two propagule pressure indicators than by tree cover. The delimited land use-based hot spots for Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana and New York-Newark encompassed more of the actual detections of L. dispar and A. glabripennis, respectively, than the population-based hot spots. No significant difference occurred between hot spot types for A. glabripennis detections in the Chicago urban area. Implications of these findings for management and design of monitoring programs in urban areas are discussed.
As international trade increases so does the prominence of urban areas as gateways for exotic forest insects (EFI). Delimiting hot spots for invasions (i.e., areas where establishment is likely) within urban areas would facilitate monitoring efforts. We used a propagule-pressure framework to delimit establishment hot spots of a hypothetical generalist EFI in six U.S. urban areas: Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana, New York-Newark, and Seattle. We assessed how urban tree cover and propagule pressure interact to delimit establishment hot spots and compared the location of these hot spots with actual recent U.S. detections of two EFI: the Asian strain of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.) (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae), and Asian longhorned beetle, Anoplophora glabripennis (Motschulsky) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae). Using a lattice of 5-km-diameter cells for each urban area, we used the input data (urban tree cover and propagule pressure) to model establishment and Moran's I to delimit hot spots. We used urban population size and the area of commercial-industrial land use as indicators of propagule pressure in the model. Relative establishment of EFI was influenced more by the two propagule pressure indicators than by tree cover. The delimited land use-based hot spots for Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana and New York-Newark encompassed more of the actual detections of L. dispar and A. glabripennis, respectively, than the population-based hot spots. No significant difference occurred between hot spot types for A. glabripennis detections in the Chicago urban area. Implications of these findings for management and design of monitoring programs in urban areas are discussed.
Lady Lake's goal: Add to tree canopy; Lady Lake, FL
Lady Lake's goal: Add to tree canopy - OrlandoSentinel.com:
A tree canopy has long cast a scenic shadow in an old part of town, and now officials hope to replicate the look across other areas.
Town officials are moving forward with plans to apply for a state grant worth up to $24,000 to plant new trees and create a tree-canopy feel around the Rolling Acres Sports Complex. The complex is close to where commercial development has flourished in Lady Lake along U.S. Highway 441.
'What we're looking to do is try to add to the tree canopy,' said Mike Burske, director of the town's parks and recreation department. 'We want to make sure we have a proper urban forest.'
A tree canopy has long cast a scenic shadow in an old part of town, and now officials hope to replicate the look across other areas.
Town officials are moving forward with plans to apply for a state grant worth up to $24,000 to plant new trees and create a tree-canopy feel around the Rolling Acres Sports Complex. The complex is close to where commercial development has flourished in Lady Lake along U.S. Highway 441.
'What we're looking to do is try to add to the tree canopy,' said Mike Burske, director of the town's parks and recreation department. 'We want to make sure we have a proper urban forest.'
Bristol school praised for tree plans, contributing to goal of tree canopy increase from 14% to 30%; Bristol, UK
Bristol school praised for tree plans Bristol News:
The Bristol Tree Forum has praised plans for Colston's Girls' School to include more trees in its new building proposals.
As part of a £12 million scheme, the school has submitted plans to remove and replace a London Plane tree at the front of the school, in Cheltenham Road, after advice from tree experts who said it would not survive the building works.
Hugh Holden, chair of the organisation which manages the maintenance of council trees in Bristol, said: 'As well as the goodwill gesture of planting four new mature trees, at a cost of £10,000, the new plans incorporate 15 new trees within the school grounds. We feel this should be a precedent and we hope it influences the developers for future works.'
Mr Holden said the news comes as the city council launches a plan to increase Bristol's tree canopy cover from 14 per cent to 30 per cent in order to mitigate climate change and improve the city's green credentials.
The Bristol Tree Forum has praised plans for Colston's Girls' School to include more trees in its new building proposals.
As part of a £12 million scheme, the school has submitted plans to remove and replace a London Plane tree at the front of the school, in Cheltenham Road, after advice from tree experts who said it would not survive the building works.
Hugh Holden, chair of the organisation which manages the maintenance of council trees in Bristol, said: 'As well as the goodwill gesture of planting four new mature trees, at a cost of £10,000, the new plans incorporate 15 new trees within the school grounds. We feel this should be a precedent and we hope it influences the developers for future works.'
Mr Holden said the news comes as the city council launches a plan to increase Bristol's tree canopy cover from 14 per cent to 30 per cent in order to mitigate climate change and improve the city's green credentials.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
The Arbor Day Foundation honored the University of South Carolina Upstate as a 2009 Tree Campus USA University; Spartansburg, SC
USC Upstate:
Spartanburg, S.C. - The Arbor Day Foundation honored the University of South Carolina Upstate as a 2009 Tree Campus USA University for its dedication to campus forestry management and environmental stewardship.
Tree Campus USA, a national program launched in 2008 by the Arbor Day Foundation, honors college and universities and the leaders of the campus and surrounding communities for promoting healthy urban forest management and engaging the campus community in environmental stewardship. Tree Campus USA is supported by a grant from Toyota.
USC Upstate met the required five core standards of tree care and community engagement in order to receive Tree Campus USA status. Those standards are establishing a campus tree advisory committee; evidence of a campus tree-care plan; verification of dedicated annual expenditures on the campus tree-care plan; involvement in an Arbor Day observance; and the institution of a service-learning project aimed at engaging the student body. USC Upstate’s Landscape Services department was also required to submit a detailed inventory of trees, which included 131 species of trees in 59 genera.
Spartanburg, S.C. - The Arbor Day Foundation honored the University of South Carolina Upstate as a 2009 Tree Campus USA University for its dedication to campus forestry management and environmental stewardship.
Tree Campus USA, a national program launched in 2008 by the Arbor Day Foundation, honors college and universities and the leaders of the campus and surrounding communities for promoting healthy urban forest management and engaging the campus community in environmental stewardship. Tree Campus USA is supported by a grant from Toyota.
USC Upstate met the required five core standards of tree care and community engagement in order to receive Tree Campus USA status. Those standards are establishing a campus tree advisory committee; evidence of a campus tree-care plan; verification of dedicated annual expenditures on the campus tree-care plan; involvement in an Arbor Day observance; and the institution of a service-learning project aimed at engaging the student body. USC Upstate’s Landscape Services department was also required to submit a detailed inventory of trees, which included 131 species of trees in 59 genera.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Editorial: What's value of these trees?; Salisbury, NC
Editorial: What's value of these trees? Salisbury, NC - Salisbury Post:
There are patches of woods you could clear-cut in Rowan County, and residents probably wouldn't raise an eyebrow as long as the saws didn't crank up at the crack of dawn.
But if those woods are within or adjacent to a municipal area such as Salisbury or Spencer or Landis or Granite Quarry, nearby residents aren't just likely to raise an eyebrow. They'll probably raise a ruckus, which is what has occurred with a developer's plans to clear-cut a 40-acre tract in Spencer along South Rowan Avenue.
The landowner, Craft Development, initially planned to develop the parcel. Company officials now say that a changed financial picture and regulatory hurdles mean that plan is out, and the company will harvest the timber to get a return on its investment. So is this a case where development codes have, in effect, backfired and may result in a denuded eyesore, at least until the loblolly seedings bulk up? It doesn't sound that simple, and the site's future seems about as clear as mud right now. But one thing's certain: The impact of this clear-cutting won't stop at the property line. The parcel contains mature hardwoods, as well as streams and a pond, and has stood unmolested for many years. It is, in short, the type of woodsy sanctuary that might once have been taken for granted in Rowan County. But such urban oases are increasingly giving way to asphalt and brick, here and across the Piedmont.
There are patches of woods you could clear-cut in Rowan County, and residents probably wouldn't raise an eyebrow as long as the saws didn't crank up at the crack of dawn.
But if those woods are within or adjacent to a municipal area such as Salisbury or Spencer or Landis or Granite Quarry, nearby residents aren't just likely to raise an eyebrow. They'll probably raise a ruckus, which is what has occurred with a developer's plans to clear-cut a 40-acre tract in Spencer along South Rowan Avenue.
The landowner, Craft Development, initially planned to develop the parcel. Company officials now say that a changed financial picture and regulatory hurdles mean that plan is out, and the company will harvest the timber to get a return on its investment. So is this a case where development codes have, in effect, backfired and may result in a denuded eyesore, at least until the loblolly seedings bulk up? It doesn't sound that simple, and the site's future seems about as clear as mud right now. But one thing's certain: The impact of this clear-cutting won't stop at the property line. The parcel contains mature hardwoods, as well as streams and a pond, and has stood unmolested for many years. It is, in short, the type of woodsy sanctuary that might once have been taken for granted in Rowan County. But such urban oases are increasingly giving way to asphalt and brick, here and across the Piedmont.
Albany named 'Tree City' for 22nd year; Albany, GA
Albany named 'Tree City' for 22nd year - WALB.com News, Weather and Sports for Albany, Valdosta and Thomasville. Leading the way for South Georgia. :
Keep Albany-Dougherty Beautiful has received notification that Albany has been named Tree City USA by The National Arbor Day Foundation for the twenty-second consecutive year. Albany has also received the Tree City USA Growth Award for demonstrating progress in its community forestry program.
The Tree City USA program is sponsored by The National Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.
To become a Tree City USA, a community must meet four standards, which are: have a tree board or department, have a tree care ordinance, have a comprehensive community forestry program, and have an Arbor Day observance.
'This national recognition is an honor for our community and our citizens are to be commended for their commitment to protect and enhance our tree canopy,' stated Judy Bowles, Executive Director of Keep Albany-Dougherty Beautiful.
Keep Albany-Dougherty Beautiful has received notification that Albany has been named Tree City USA by The National Arbor Day Foundation for the twenty-second consecutive year. Albany has also received the Tree City USA Growth Award for demonstrating progress in its community forestry program.
The Tree City USA program is sponsored by The National Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.
To become a Tree City USA, a community must meet four standards, which are: have a tree board or department, have a tree care ordinance, have a comprehensive community forestry program, and have an Arbor Day observance.
'This national recognition is an honor for our community and our citizens are to be commended for their commitment to protect and enhance our tree canopy,' stated Judy Bowles, Executive Director of Keep Albany-Dougherty Beautiful.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia named a 2009 Tree Campus USA University; Philadelphia, PA
LTSPMedia: LTSP named a 2009 Tree Campus USA University:
LTSP named a 2009 Tree Campus USA University
The Arbor Day Foundation has honored The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) as a 2009 Tree Campus USA university for its dedication to campus forestry management and environmental stewardship.
LTSP is the second higher education institution in Pennsylvania to be named a Tree Campus USA University.
“The Tree Campus USA program will have a long-lasting impact at The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia as it engages seminarians and local citizens to plant trees and create healthier communities for people to enjoy for decades to come,” said John Rosenow, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “The seminary will benefit from exceptional tree-care practices on campus as it works with tree-care professionals in the community to improve the tree canopy in Philadelphia.”
LTSP named a 2009 Tree Campus USA University
The Arbor Day Foundation has honored The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) as a 2009 Tree Campus USA university for its dedication to campus forestry management and environmental stewardship.
LTSP is the second higher education institution in Pennsylvania to be named a Tree Campus USA University.
“The Tree Campus USA program will have a long-lasting impact at The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia as it engages seminarians and local citizens to plant trees and create healthier communities for people to enjoy for decades to come,” said John Rosenow, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “The seminary will benefit from exceptional tree-care practices on campus as it works with tree-care professionals in the community to improve the tree canopy in Philadelphia.”
Cumberland urban tree canopy plan published online; Cumberland, MD
Cumberland Times-News - In Brief - February 8, 2010:
Urban tree canopy plan online
CUMBERLAND — The city is releasing the draft of the Urban Tree Canopy Program Strategic Implementation Plan for final review. The plan is a long-term look at what can be done to maintain and increase the overall tree canopy percentage in the more urbanized areas of Cumberland.
Areas that could potentially see more trees planted are outlined along with four approaches that could be taken to increase tree canopy — public education, citizen volunteer activities, city actions and amending city codes. For a copy of the plan, log on to http://www.ci.cumberland.md.us/new_site/index.php/contents/view/178.
Questions can be directed to Paul Eriksson, natural resources specialist, at (301) 759-6607.
Urban tree canopy plan online
CUMBERLAND — The city is releasing the draft of the Urban Tree Canopy Program Strategic Implementation Plan for final review. The plan is a long-term look at what can be done to maintain and increase the overall tree canopy percentage in the more urbanized areas of Cumberland.
Areas that could potentially see more trees planted are outlined along with four approaches that could be taken to increase tree canopy — public education, citizen volunteer activities, city actions and amending city codes. For a copy of the plan, log on to http://www.ci.cumberland.md.us/new_site/index.php/contents/view/178.
Questions can be directed to Paul Eriksson, natural resources specialist, at (301) 759-6607.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
ODNR has U.S. funds to remove, replace trees
http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100206/NEWS24/100209753/-1/NEWS
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has federal grant money available for northwest Ohio communities to help remove hazardous ash trees from public rights of way and replace lost tree canopy.
The loss of ash trees to the nonnative emerald ash borer beetle has caused environmental and economic damage. Officials of interested communities should call Drew Todd, ODNR Division of Forestry, at 614-265-6707 for more information.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has federal grant money available for northwest Ohio communities to help remove hazardous ash trees from public rights of way and replace lost tree canopy.
The loss of ash trees to the nonnative emerald ash borer beetle has caused environmental and economic damage. Officials of interested communities should call Drew Todd, ODNR Division of Forestry, at 614-265-6707 for more information.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Cumberland continuing efforts to conserve, boost tree canopy; Cumberland, MD
Cumberland Times-News - Cumberland continuing efforts to conserve, boost tree canopy:
Efforts to make Cumberland a greener place to live are continuing to progress, according to a presentation by Natural Resources Technician Paul Eriksson at the public meeting of the mayor and City Council.
The current goals of the initiative are to conserve Cumberland’s existing forest blocks and tree canopy and to increase the tree canopy in the core of the city from 27 to 45 percent by 2020.
“What people are concerned about is down here where people live and work,” said Eriksson, who added that the area’s forested hillsides are generally in better shape. “We’re losing shade down here.”
Eriksson said that potential approaches to meet these goals include public education, encouraging citizens to volunteer, having the city itself take action and encouraging regulatory changes to promote green development."
Efforts to make Cumberland a greener place to live are continuing to progress, according to a presentation by Natural Resources Technician Paul Eriksson at the public meeting of the mayor and City Council.
The current goals of the initiative are to conserve Cumberland’s existing forest blocks and tree canopy and to increase the tree canopy in the core of the city from 27 to 45 percent by 2020.
“What people are concerned about is down here where people live and work,” said Eriksson, who added that the area’s forested hillsides are generally in better shape. “We’re losing shade down here.”
Eriksson said that potential approaches to meet these goals include public education, encouraging citizens to volunteer, having the city itself take action and encouraging regulatory changes to promote green development."
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
In the 'Urban Forest' of San Jose there are many street trees, many problems; San Jose, CA
In the 'Urban Forest' of San Jose there are many street trees, many problems - San Jose Mercury News: The two sycamore trees stand like faithful old sentries in the middle of a quiet block on East Mission Street, near San Jose's Bernal Park, and at first glance they appear to be identical. Probably planted at the same time, they are about the same size and have a similar wintry grandeur even unadorned by leaves.
But one of these trees is in trouble — as are many trees in San Jose's urban forest. This one could someday become a danger to the neighborhood, and to Christian Bonner, an arborist at San Jose nonprofit Our City Forest, the difference could not be more obvious.
One of the trees has been 'topped,' a now discredited method of pruning that has opened the tree to decay, and possible ruin. Bonner suspects the tree's owner isn't even aware that it's in peril.
But one of these trees is in trouble — as are many trees in San Jose's urban forest. This one could someday become a danger to the neighborhood, and to Christian Bonner, an arborist at San Jose nonprofit Our City Forest, the difference could not be more obvious.
One of the trees has been 'topped,' a now discredited method of pruning that has opened the tree to decay, and possible ruin. Bonner suspects the tree's owner isn't even aware that it's in peril.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
University of Alaska Anchorage Named 2009 Tree Campus USA University by the Arbor Day Foundation; Anchorage, AK
UAA Named 2009 Tree Campus USA University by the Arbor Day Foundation The Northern Light:
UAA has been honored once again.
In early January, the Arbor Day Foundation named UAA as one of 2009’s Tree Campus USA Universities for its dedication to campus forestry management and environmental stewardship.
“The Tree Campus USA program will have a long-lasting impact at the University of Alaska Anchorage as it engages college students and local citizens to plant trees and create healthier communities for people to enjoy for decades to come,” said John Rosenow, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation, in a press release. “Alaska Anchorage will benefit from exceptional tree-care practices on campus as it works with tree-care professionals in the community to improve the tree canopy in Anchorage.”
Tree Campus USA is a national program that recognizes collegiate institutes that promote healthy urban forest management and engage the campus community in environmental stewardship. In order to receive a Tree Campus USA award, the university must meet five required core standards: the establishment of a campus tree advisory committee, have evidence of a campus tree-care plan, the verification of dedicated annual expenditures on the campus tree-care plan, be involved in an Arbor Day observance and institute a service-learning project aimed at engaging the student body.
UAA has been honored once again.
In early January, the Arbor Day Foundation named UAA as one of 2009’s Tree Campus USA Universities for its dedication to campus forestry management and environmental stewardship.
“The Tree Campus USA program will have a long-lasting impact at the University of Alaska Anchorage as it engages college students and local citizens to plant trees and create healthier communities for people to enjoy for decades to come,” said John Rosenow, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation, in a press release. “Alaska Anchorage will benefit from exceptional tree-care practices on campus as it works with tree-care professionals in the community to improve the tree canopy in Anchorage.”
Tree Campus USA is a national program that recognizes collegiate institutes that promote healthy urban forest management and engage the campus community in environmental stewardship. In order to receive a Tree Campus USA award, the university must meet five required core standards: the establishment of a campus tree advisory committee, have evidence of a campus tree-care plan, the verification of dedicated annual expenditures on the campus tree-care plan, be involved in an Arbor Day observance and institute a service-learning project aimed at engaging the student body.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Object-based image analysis and LiDAR provide tools for tree canopy assessment for greener cities
Assessing Urban Tree Canopy for Greener Cities
An increasing number of urban planners and local authorities want to improve air quality, reduce energy consumption and ease storm water flows in their cities. A sufficient number of healthy trees is essential to
achieving these ambitious goals.
Researchers at the University of Vermont, working in conjunction with the U.S. Forestry Service, utilized eCognition to develop an application that assesses and quantifies urban tree canopies (UTC). By integrating data from aerial photos, LiDAR and taxation maps, the application determines the tree canopy coverage in urban areas, quantifying how much tree cover is on public land and how much is on private land. Major U.S. cities already use this information to accurately quantify the amount of potential additional tree canopy.
An increasing number of urban planners and local authorities want to improve air quality, reduce energy consumption and ease storm water flows in their cities. A sufficient number of healthy trees is essential to
achieving these ambitious goals.
Researchers at the University of Vermont, working in conjunction with the U.S. Forestry Service, utilized eCognition to develop an application that assesses and quantifies urban tree canopies (UTC). By integrating data from aerial photos, LiDAR and taxation maps, the application determines the tree canopy coverage in urban areas, quantifying how much tree cover is on public land and how much is on private land. Major U.S. cities already use this information to accurately quantify the amount of potential additional tree canopy.
Would-be sledders complain to city officials that mason's private property tree planting on slope is ruining their fun; Alexandria, VA
Sledders find obstacles on popular Alexandria hill - washingtonpost.com:
For as long as anyone can remember, in relatively flat Alexandria, as soon as snowflakes begin to fall, there is only one place to go for the perfect sled ride: the steep hills that fan out around the George Washington Masonic Memorial.
The often terrifying roller-coaster slide has been a rite of passage for generations of children, so much that it has been immortalized in drawings by local artists and on postcards.
So this winter, it came as nothing less than an insult to would-be sledders that instead of wide-open lawns, they found hundreds of freshly planted saplings and what they said appeared to be granite gravestones sticking up all over the hills.
For as long as anyone can remember, in relatively flat Alexandria, as soon as snowflakes begin to fall, there is only one place to go for the perfect sled ride: the steep hills that fan out around the George Washington Masonic Memorial.
The often terrifying roller-coaster slide has been a rite of passage for generations of children, so much that it has been immortalized in drawings by local artists and on postcards.
So this winter, it came as nothing less than an insult to would-be sledders that instead of wide-open lawns, they found hundreds of freshly planted saplings and what they said appeared to be granite gravestones sticking up all over the hills.
Up on the roof...next frontier for urban tree planting?
Landscape+Urbanism: Reforesting Cities:
A great post on Urban Omnibus investigates the potential of implementation of urban reforestation blended into existing buildings in our urban areas. From author Vanessa Keith, author of the article: 'Retrofitting our urban building stock to address climate change need not be limited exclusively to increasing their energy efficiency. If “one of the primary causes of global environmental change is tropical deforestation” (Geist & Lambin, 143), then we should approach the adaptation of our buildings as an exercise in reforestation.'
A great post on Urban Omnibus investigates the potential of implementation of urban reforestation blended into existing buildings in our urban areas. From author Vanessa Keith, author of the article: 'Retrofitting our urban building stock to address climate change need not be limited exclusively to increasing their energy efficiency. If “one of the primary causes of global environmental change is tropical deforestation” (Geist & Lambin, 143), then we should approach the adaptation of our buildings as an exercise in reforestation.'
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