Burlington residents asked for feedback about urban forestry management

Burlington | Halton | Community | Latest News |

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Published June 3, 2022 at 11:05 am

The City wants to hear from residents as they begin a process to look at how Burlington’s urban forest is managed.

The Urban Forest Master Plan (UFMP) will provide the strategic direction important to managing the urban forest in response to new pressures and challenges related to urban development, climate change, extreme weather and invasive pests, according to a City spokesperson.

An online survey to collect feedback will be available from June 8-29 and a virtual information session is planned for June 8 at 7 p.m.

The purpose of the plan is to increase urban forest management effectiveness and efficiency, improve tree health and diversity, minimize risks to the public and maximize the benefits provided by a healthy and sustainable urban forest.

“It’s been 12 years since the original Urban Forestry Master Plan was created. A lot has changed in our natural environment since then, including development pressures, tree care best practices, climate change and a heightened awareness of the importance of trees in every aspect of our lives,” said Enrico Scalera, director of Roads, Parks and Forestry.

“I encourage all homeowners, nature lovers and anyone in the construction, landscape or arborist business to provide feedback and get involved in the updated master plan.”

The plan identifies opportunities on both public and private lands and focuses on five key areas:

  • Management and implementation
  • Community engagement and stewardship
  • Protection and preservation
  • Replenishment and enhancement
  • Tree health and risk management

Once feedback is collected from residents and industry professionals, the draft report will be posted online and residents and industry professionals will have a change to comment once again. The final master plan and report will be presented to city council in 2023.

The online session will feature information from staff and urban forestry experts. Participants will have an opportunity to provide input and ask questions. It’s being held June 8 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Visit the city website to sign up.

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