New dedicated tree policy approved

Town Council

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Saugeen Shores Town Council approved a Dedicated Tree Program Corporate Policy recently at its council meeting.

The policy, in response to interest by residents, will provide a combined opportunity to purchase trees that can be planted in parks as a living recognition of individuals or groups.

Although a tree planting policy has been in place for several years, the new policy is intended to complement programs offered by the Saugeen Rail Trail Association and local cemeteries.  Financially, the Town anticipates that the trees will be paid for by community sponsorships from individuals, service groups and local businesses.  The expected cost proposed by Community Services Director Mike Myatt including a recognition plaque would be $750.00.

"While I think it's a great idea," said Councilor Diane Huber, "I have difficulty with the $750.  When looking at the potential size of approximately 2.5 inches in diameter, the cost seems excessive."

According to Myatt, the cost of the plaque alone would be $225 and the tree would be maintained in perpetuity but affirmed that the town would be "...making a little money on the sponsorship program."

"If the intent is to improve the tree canopy," Huber pointed out, "why wouldn't we want to offer more of an incentive?  After a couple of years, a tree is well-established.  As a resident, I would hesitate to pay $750 and would simply plant on my own property.  This should not be a money-making proposition."

Vice Deputy-Mayor Doug Gowanlock, who has a greenhouse business, explained that a tree costs between $300 and $400 and that there is a cost for on-going maintenance.  "While I agree with the new policy, we should also have tree plantings that are not dedicated," added Gowanlock.  "Maybe the public would simply want to plant trees without plaques and we should make that option available."

Councilor Victoria Serda also expressed concern over the cost and enquired how the Rail Trail would feel about the new program when the association had its own program in place.  "We also had a tree plan in the budget where 100 trees would be purchased and residents would be subsidized, so I don't know why we need this new program."

Myatt assured Serda that the Rail Trail Association was not concerned about the proposed new policy.  "Trees are a major capital asset in this and other communities," said Myatt.  "Aside from aesthetic benefits, trees within our urban forest protect our water, save energy and improve economic sustainability."

Under the new program, the town will determine the appropriate species and location and will do the actual planting on the public space chosen.

For more information on the program, contact Community Services at 519-832-2008.

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Wednesday, August 11, 2010