[CANUFNET] precedence regarding: 'nuisance-tree' removal request / resolution - Linden

[Elaine Ethier]

Hello,
I would suggest a similar approach I have had in 2016 in Montreal to develop a goal on maintain the tree plus identifying what is the value of its biomass in an urban area in addition to how many trees in that area contribute as much or how little.

The scientific  Biomasse analysis in accordance with the tree economics program such as Vancouver UBC biomass evaluation program can be of use for you. I have used it to demonstrate to a developer that he could not take down 36% of biomass on the land he wanted to develop, I assured him that if he maintained it to 20 to 25% he would get a permit to build on this nuns community on the Mont Royal protected area and designated heritage site, so, I think there are still options by demonstrating the true value of this Linden, it’s life expectancy, the loss versus the economics of keeping the tree, it’s contribution to the environment and to social acceptability, the city will be able to have a better understanding of what entails taking a tree down other than just the cost of cutting it down. A clear message with facts and figures should help reduce derogatory issues related to trees, public or private.

Also, the reality is we are all trying to increase planting trees contributing to a better understanding of human health in urban areas being for diminishing wind ventury  effects, reduce heat islands, breath cleaner air and improve wildlife, birds and bees we so want to protect.

Elaine Ethier
Consultante
Milieu de vie - foresterie urbaine

Le 18 oct. 2023 à 12:04, Daniel Corbett via CANUFNET <canufnet at list.web.net> a écrit :


Good morning,
                On Monday October 16th (2023), our City Council heard a deputation from a Citizen requesting removal of this Linden tree due to the hardship it causes them (car and driveway washing – ‘ruined’ paint on the car).  There was, of course, significant correspondence with the Citizen (in advance of council) explaining other options and that we had followed process.  The Citizen was not interested in any option other than removal, which (removal) is contradictory to our bylaws and associated policies.
We have now completed a crown thinning (approximately 30%) to increase air flow and make the tree less habitable to aphids.  Council is deliberating to decide if they should make an exception to our tree bylaw, and allow the removal.  In my view, this could be like opening the flood-gates for any (every) other removal request having to due with ‘undue hardship’ to the home owner.
                Our ‘nuisance-tree issue’ policies are clear on our website and in our Urban-Tree bylaw.  Council may be looking to ‘make an exception’.  At council I was able to identify this decision could impact 150-250 ‘nuisance-tree’ removal requests per year.  If any of you could provide some guidance or support, provide documentation of a similar situation and how it was resolved…etc, I would greatly appreciate it.

The Citizen that made the deputation highlighted examples from Vancouver (which I have not fact-checked) in their deputation, so I can imagine our results could also affect your municipalities in the future.

Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Dan Corbett
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