HomeMy WebLinkAbout6618RESOLUTION NO. 6618
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A REVISED CITY OF
ARCADIA URBAN FOREST MASTER PLAN
WHEREAS, on February 19, 2002, the City Council of the City of Arcadia
adopted Ordinance No. 2153 pertaining to the City's Comprehensive Tree
Management Program; and
WHEREAS, the Ordinance provides that the City Council shall adopt by
resolution a Street Tree Master Plan, and may amend it by resolution from time -to-
time.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The City Council hereby adopts the revised City of
Arcadia Urban Forest Master Plan as attached hereto as Exhibit "A ".
SECTION 2. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this
Resolution.
[SIGNATURES ON NEXT PAGE]
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Passed approved and adopted this 20th day of May
2008.
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Mayor of the City of Arcadia
ATTEST:
ity Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
fit , P. D&Ize
City Attorney
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES) SS:
CITY OF ARCADIA )
I, JAMES H. BARROWS, City Clerk of the City of Arcadia, hereby certifies
that the foregoing Resolution No. 6618 was passed and adopted by the City Council of
the City of Arcadia, signed by the Mayor and attested to by the City Clerk at a regular
meeting of said Council held on the 20th day of May, 2008 and that said Resolution
was adopted by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: Council Member Amundson, Chandler, Kovacic, Wuo and Harbicht
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ity Clerk of the City of Arcadia
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Section 1. Executive Summ
1.1 Introductio
The City of Arcadia, located in the foothills of the San Gabriel Valley is a mature,
predominately residential community of approximately 50,000 people, occupying 12
square miles extending into the southern slopes of the San Gabriel Mountains.
Each year since 1993, the City of Arcadia has been designated as a Tree City USA. To
maintain this honorable status, the City continues to meet the following established
criteria:
1. Maintain a Tree Board or Commission (Arcadia Beautiful Commission).
2. Adopt a Community Tree Ordinance (Section 9, Chapter7).
3. Spend at least $2 per capita on forestry programs (current expenditures are
approximately $7.70 /resident).
4. Conduct an Arbor Day Observance or proclamation (typically Arcadia celebrates
this special event in March or April).
The Arcadia Beautiful Commission, designated by the City Council and in the Arcadia
Municipal Code as the City's "Tree Commission ", represents an excellent opportunity for
the City to have spokespersons and advocates for the City's Urban Forest. These
individuals assist City staff in implementing Urban Forestry guidelines and also
promoting the City's Urban Forestry programs.
The Public Works Services Department (PWSD) is proposing the Urban Forest Master
Plan as a guideline to assist the City Council, Arcadia Beautiful Commission, and staff,
in planning and implementing long -term management and care of the Urban Forest.
The Urban Forest Master Plan is a comprehensive strategy to be employed by the City,
specifically PWSD, to fully integrate and standardize all aspects of infrastructure
maintenance. Currently the City has successfully implemented a Water Master Plan,
Sewer Master Plan and is formalizing a Pavement Management Plan. PWSD has also
implemented a Maintenance Management Information System for all service requests
processed through the Department and to accurately track daily activities and programs
of the Department. The Master Plan approach to infrastructure maintenance allows for
continuity, consistency, and equity with regard to planning, and budgeting.
Maintenance of the Urban Forest has historically been considered a relatively simple,
and routine aspect of local infrastructure maintenance not requiring long -range planning
or management. However, due to a number of emerging concerns, tree maintenance
issues have become far more complex. Some of the key emerging concerns that have
contributed to the increasing complexity of tree maintenance include; modifications in
local land -use, changing aesthetic concerns, safety and liability issues, proliferation of
local plant types and species, aging and deterioration of large majestic tree,
environmental concerns, sewer system root intrusion, root damage to sidewalks and
driveways, utility interference, and local budgetary constraints. The Urban Forest
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Master Plan attempts to address and mitigate these concerns in a comprehensive,
coordinated and cost - effective manner.
1.2 Background and Current Program
The Urban Forest is a tree or group of trees growing on public property or private
property, within the right -of -way, and within the city limits of Arcadia. The right -of -way
shall mean any land, or interest therein, which, by deed, conveyance, agreement,
dedication, usage, or other process of law, has been reserved for or dedicated to the
City for the use of the general public for public road purposes, including, but not limited
to, any public street, highway, alley, curb, gutter, sidewalk, driveway approach, or
parkway.
The City of Arcadia's Urban Forest consists of over 17,800 trees. The tree population is
extremely diverse consisting of over 50 different species and is also home to the
Engeleman Oak, a relatively rare majestic species of tree for this area. The City's lush
Urban Forest softens the hard lines of the urban infrastructure and is an integral part of
our community's aesthetic appeal. The trees are frequently cited as a point of civic
pride. The care and maintenance of the Urban Forest is a shared responsibility
between the City of Arcadia Public Works Services Department (PWSD) and its
residents. The PWSD has a designated Tree and Right -of -Way Unit, within the Street
Maintenance Section, which consists of two (2) full -time employees and utilizes the
services of a private tree trimming contractor to assist the City in maintaining a 4 year _
tree trimming schedule. The Tree and Right -of Way Unit will be utilized for the day -to-
day care and maintenance of trees located throughout the City, including 11 City Parks
and 9 City facilities. The City crew also performs other types of right -of -way
maintenance such as weed abatement, brush removal, vegetation clearance, and rapid
response to limbs that have fallen or require immediate trimming for safety reason. The
Tree and Right -of -Way Unit trims approximately 1,500 trees and remove /replaces
another 30 trees each year.
1.3 Discussion
The City's existing tree maintenance program provides for the general upkeep of the
current tree stock, mitigates immediate public safety hazards, and allows for minimal
tree replacement on a case -by -case basis. The existing program provides for some, but
not all, pro- active and predictive maintenance efforts necessary to improve aesthetics,
minimize long -term liability and facilitate the long -term sustainability of a vibrant Urban
Forest in the City of Arcadia. Elements of a comprehensive, pro- active Urban Forest
Master Plan for the City would provide for:
• Planting of new tree stock in certain areas or in areas void of appropriate
landscaping.
• Mitigation of utility line interference.
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• Planned removal /relocation of trees that have been identified by the PWSD as
aesthetically or structurally incompatible with their immediate environment.
• Development of a multi -year maintenance Urban Forest management profile that
emphasizes the cultivation and replacement of tree species that are aesthetically
pleasing, low- maintenance, infrastructure friendly, and cost effective (to be
determined by the PWSD).
This Urban Forest Master Plan proposal provides a number of long -term program
alternatives that can be selected for implementation. Each alternative covers a ten -year
duration and addresses some, or all, of the elements noted above.
It is recommended that the City take the following actions over the next 10 years:
• Actively promote the planting of new trees in areas in need of trees to increase the
total tree population.
• Actively replace a predetermined number of undesirable trees each year, as defined
in Section 3.1 (Undesirable Trees).
• Actively promote awareness of the City's Urban Forest and care for trees, as defined
in Section 5 (Public Education).
• Introduce flexibility into the City's tree removal guideline, as defined in Section 4.3.2
(Systematic, Incremental Undesirable Tree Removal Program).
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Section 2 Introduction and Mission of the Master Plan
2.1 Introduction
In developing the proposed Urban Forest Master Plan several questions have been
considered to assist in planning for the future:
• What does the City want the local Urban Forest to look like in 20 or 30 years and
what alternative funding strategy must be established to try and achieve the desired
outcome?
• What criteria will the City establish in regard to removing and replanting trees.
Master Plan Mission Statement
Arcadia's Urban Forest will be a multi -aged, fully stocked, healthy and safe forest.
It will contain a wide variety of appropriate species maintained at a low cost on a
regularly scheduled basis. It will contribute to the general welfare of our
residents by reducing energy costs, increasing property values, providing homes
for wildlife, beautifying all neighborhoods, and projecting an image of quality to
visitors and prospective b usinesses.
2.2 Cultivation and maintenance of a thriving Urban Forest`
The City recognizes that the Urban Forest provides numerous direct and indirect
benefits for the residents of Arcadia. Some of these benefits are:
• Improving Air Quality — trapping and holding dust particles that can damage
human lungs. Tree foliage absorbs carbon dioxide and other poisonous gases and,
in turn, replenishes the atmosphere with oxygen for us to breathe. One acre of trees
provides oxygen for 18 people and will absorb the amount of carbon dioxide each
year equivalent to that produced by a car driven 26, 000 miles.
• Saving Energy — through providing shade in the summer months and serving as a
windbreak during the winter. Trees properly placed around buildings can reduce air -
conditioning demands by 30 percent. Trees strategically placed for windbreak
protection can save 20 to 50 percent in energy used for heating. As a result, fewer
fossil fuels are expended for heating and cooling.
• Reducing Noise Pollution — trees serve as natural noise buffers that absorb and
deflect loud and unpleasant sounds from the urban environment.
• Improving Personal Health — helping relieve psychological stresses associated
with living in metropolitan areas. Trees create feelings of relaxation and well- being.
Medical research shows that patients assigned to rooms with a natural view of trees
and green open spaces have shorter postoperative hospital stays.
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• Improving Water Quality — reducing the impact of billions of raindrops — resulting in
less runoff and erosion. This allows more recharging of the ground water supply,
which hardscape and paving significantly reduce. Wooded areas help prevent the
transport of sediment and chemicals into streams
• Providing Natural Habitat — for numerous species of birds, mammals, insects,
plants, and a variety of other wildlife that would not be present if not for an abundant
local tree population.
• Adding Natural Beauty — softening the visual lines of the urban world, trees often
give visitors the first impressions of a community. Picture Arcadia without trees. Is it
still a place you would like to live? Trees improve the quality of life for all of us —
now, as well as for future generations.
• Increasing Economic Stability — attracting and keeping businesses in a
community. The National Arbor Day Foundation reports that people linger and shop
longer along tree lined streets. Apartments and offices rent quicker and tenants stay
longer in wooded areas. Studies by the US Department of Agriculture — Forest
Service have shown that healthy mature trees add an average of 10 percent (10 %)
to a property's value.
(This section is taken in part from Urban and Community Forestrv7 Improving Our Quality of Life USDA Forest Service)"
2.3 Recommendation
It is recommended that the City recognize the civic importance of a well maintained
Urban Forest and incorporate the Urban Forest Master Plan Mission Statement as a
guideline for maintaining trees on public property and on private property within the
right -of -way.
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on '3. Current issues Conce rning Species management of Arcadia's urban Fores
Over the past thirty years, more than 50 different species of trees have been planted
and are growing within the public right -of -way. In the past, primary considerations when
planting trees in the right -of -way were aesthetics and visual compatibility with the
immediate surrounding environment. While most local trees have grown and flourished,
some types and species of trees have become undesirable for the following reasons:
• Destructive root systems.
• Fruit and pod discharge.
• Age, decay and deterioration.
• Utility line interference.
Another issue is that some areas of the City are relatively barren and are lacking an
adequate presence of trees in the right -of -way.
One of the most significant issues related to the management of the Urban Forest is the
aging and deterioration of the local tree stock. All of these issues; undesirable trees,
lack of trees in certain areas, aging and decay in the Urban Forest are discussed in
detail in this Section.
3.1 Undesirable Trees in the Right -of -Way
Staff has determined that various species of trees in the right -of -way are creating a
range of operational situations related to safety, infrastructure maintenance, and
property damage. This conclusion is based on prevailing arboricultural literature,
observation and experience from the PWSD, contractor field crews, and comments from
local residents and businesses. Field experience and conventional wisdom suggest
that certain species of trees are not well suited for certain areas of the public right -of-
way.
Destructive Root Systems
Tree root systems that fracture local sidewalk, driveways and other concrete and
pavement surfaces are perhaps one of the most visually obvious problems caused by
trees. Shallow roots from large trees that break the ground surface in search of water,
have adequate force to crack concrete, asphalt and nearly any other hard surface in the
roots' path. This problem is most common among large, majestic trees and is not
necessarily limited to a particular species. These destructive root systems not only
damage public and private property, but also create safety hazards and liability issues
related primarily to "trip and fall" incidents. Each year staff receives approximately 300
service requests related to root - related hazards or property damage.
Some destructive root systems, rather than growing upward in search of surface water,
grow downward and intrude public and private sewer lines. The hair -like roots enter
through cracks in the pipe, or through pipe connector seams that are not properly
sealed. Once the roots have intruded a sewer line they rapidly proliferate in the moist,
mineral -laden environment. The roots will grow sufficiently large to form a filter for
various sediments and grease. These roots impede, and eventually obstruct the flow of
water or sewage through the line. Lines that become completely obstructed by root
intrusion will ultimately result in breakage of the line, or a sewer back up. Each year the
City video -tapes (tapes are used to identify areas of root intrusion) and removes roots
from public sewer pipelines. This type of problem is not usually species specific, and
can be caused by a variety of different trees. The City's current guidelines addressing
sewer lateral damage from root intrusion are outlined in Tree Removal Guideline.
Fruit and Pod Discharge
Some species of trees routinely discharge fruit, pods and flowers onto the public right -
of -way. While this is merely a biological function of plant growth, and reproduction, in
terms of community aesthetics, maintenance and safety, this function is undesirable.
Some tree species have discharges that soil and stain local streets and sidewalks, and
in general create a messy and aesthetically unpleasing environment. While many of
these fruit and pod bearing species are beautiful trees, they are better suited to open
areas away from hardscape.
Age, Decay and Deterioration
Some trees are approaching, or have exceeded, their average life expectancy
(approximately 50 years). The age and decay factor transcends all species and
eventually impacts all City trees in the Urban Forest. Once aging trees have surpassed
peak maturity and begin the process of deterioration, their structural integrity becomes
increasingly compromised. It may have dead or decaying limbs, branches or trunk
cavities that can present a significant hazard during high wind conditions. Eventually
the tree begins to decay and is no longer able to support the weight of its structure
(trunk) and /or substructures (branches or limbs). At this point, the tree becomes a
potential hazard and will likely require removal.
Utility Line Interference
There are several areas in the City that have trees that have grown very tall and their
branches interfere with overhead electric utility lines. When these branches grow into
the live electrical utility wires, it can damage the lines as well as create a significant fire
hazard. Often in these areas, trimming must occur on an annual or more frequent
basis. Currently, the local electric utility provider, Southern California Edison (SCE), is
responsible for trimming in areas where trees interfere with utility lines. However,
SCE's trimming techniques are not consistent with the City's trimming standards. SCE
employs a trimming technique commonly referred to as "topping" which, as the term
implies, refers to simply chopping the tallest branches off of the top of the tree without
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any attention to thinning and shaping the interior branches of the tree. The practice of
"topping" results in distorted growth patterns and eventually leads to permanent
damage, or death of a tree.
3.2 Preferred Trees in the Right -of -Way
Staff has identified and categorized various local tree species that are preferred for
planting and cultivation the in right -of -way.
Climate and Soil Compatibility
This is perhaps the most important consideration when selecting a new or replacement
tree. No matter how desirable a tree species may be from a maintenance and aesthetic
standpoint, if it is not compatible with the local climate and soil conditions it will become
an operational liability and eventually perish. The preferred species are those which
thrive on extended exposure to sunlight and heat and have minimal rainfall
requirements (i.e., limited drought tolerance). Species that thrive in dry soil conditions
would also be preferred.
Aesthetics and Visual Compatibility
The City's Urban Forest is recognized as a point of civic pride. Arcadia's Urban Forest
is a rich blend of mature and predominately healthy trees from varied species. The
species range from the majestic Engleman Oak to Magnolia, Crape Myrtle and Liquid
Ambar trees. Aesthetically preferred species would be those that are visually
compatible with the existing trees in the area and those that provide shade, greenery,
and in certain cases are deciduous and loose their leaves in the fall.
Growth Rate, Maintenance Requirements and Life Expectancy
Preferred species are durable, mature rapidly, live for long periods of time, and require
minimal trimming, water and maintenance. Tree species with symmetrical growth
patterns (e.g., Camphor, Magnolia and Deodar Cedar) are also preferable to species
that have erratic or disproportionate growth patterns.
Resistance to Disease and Adverse Air Quality
Preferred species should be very resilient and capable of tolerating high levels of
exposure to smog and various airborne toxins. Preferred species should also have a
high level of resistance to a variety of different diseases that can infect the local flora
and fauna.
Recommendation
Several tree species that closely meet the criteria mentioned above have been identified
and listed in the Specie Palette. The list also includes species that may not be
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preferred for all right -of -way environments, but may be preferred for conditional uses
such as open spaces and landscaped medians. The Urban Forest Master Plan
recommends that the above criteria and tree species listed in the Specie Palette provide
the basis for future selection of tree species that will be planted and cultivated in the
right-of-way.
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Tree Removal Guideline
This Tree Removal Guideline is part of the Urban Forest Master Plan.
Tree Removal Guideline
No tree in the right -of -way, as defined in the Arcadia Municipal Code, shall be removed
or replaced, unless the Public Works Services Director approves such removal or
replacement in writing. The City may remove and/or replace a tree if:
• The tree is dead, dying or diseased as defined in section 1; or
• The tree poses a hazard to the public; or
• Removal of the tree is required in order to permit the installation of public
improvements.
Section I — Criteria to Remove a Tree in the Right -of -Way
A tree shall be deemed to meet the above criteria based on one or more of the
following: the tree exhibits extensive dying branches or extensive decay in the trunk
and /or branches; or the tree is leaning extensively; or the tree is missing significant tree
branches to a degree that the tree appears unbalanced; or the tree suffers from
significant root damage.
Separate and apart from the above - mentioned circumstances, the City may allow a
property owner to remove and replace a tree, at the owner's expense, if one of the
following limited conditions is satisfied:
(a) The tree removal is- approved by the Public Works Services Director as part of a
construction project on public property, but only if the Public Works Services
Director determines that the health of the tree will be affected by such construction
or is necessary for the installation of sidewalks, handicap ramps, and /or curb &
gutter; or
(b) The right -of -way tree's roots are causing verifiable damage to the adjacent property
owner's sewer and /or water lateral. (The detailed process for damage verification is
outlined later in this policy and entitled "Damage Verification Process. ")
(c) The right -of -way tree is causing verifiable damage to private property, (e.g. private
walkways, driveways, building foundations, etc.). The process for damage
verification and ultimate removal will be consistent with that required for sewer and
water lateral lines. The City shall not be held liable for any damage to private
property by the performance of the removal.
Note: The City will require that the property owner /applicant hold the City harmless for
any claims and liability for any damage to sewer laterals and water service lines,
as well as to other property, caused by the removal of a tree.
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Note: The installation of a circular driveway or the widening of a driveway, position of
tree in the right -of -way, and/or re- landscaping of a property owner's yard does
Mt constitute sufficient basis for the removal of a tree, unless the tree is
considered undesirable or meets the criteria for removal as described above.
Before a tree is removed at the request of a property owner, the property owner shall
submit to the City a deposit equal to the amount determined by the Public Works
Services Director to be the actual cost to remove and replace the tree.
Whether a tree is removed at the City's expense, or at the property owner's expense, in
all cases the tree that is removed shall be replaced with a new tree. The size and
species of the new tree shall be approved by the Public Works Services Director.
Section II — Damage Verification and Approval to Remove a Tree in the Right -of-
Way
1) For staff to consider the removal of a tree that is allegedly obstructing or damaging a
private sewer lateral or water service line, the property owner must provide tangible
and credible evidence to this effect. Evidence must include work invoices from a
licensed plumbing contractor; and should include photographs of damaged lines and
closed circuit television tapes of lateral lines.
2) Once the City has reviewed the evidence and determined it to be credible and
compelling, a staff member will visit the site to conduct a field survey. The staff
member will further inspect the street tree to determine species, age, size, and
condition.
3) If the right -of -way tree is healthy and viable, the City will make every effort to
encourage the property owner to mitigate the utility line problem through means
other than removal of the tree. The cost to remove and replace a tree is the
responsibility of the property owner.
4) If the City has determined that removal of a tree is necessary, staff will calculate a
cost for removal and replacement based on size, condition, etc. The property owner
can also use a licensed private contractor to remove and replace the tree as long as
the removal and replacement are done properly and the contractor has first been
approved in writing by City staff and licensed by the City.
5) Any tree that is removed must be replaced with another tree from the approved
Urban Forest Species Palette. The City will typically require the replanting of a 24"
box tree in the vicinity of the previous tree.
Revised 4/21/08
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The Master Plan Mission Statement includes the goals and guiding principles for
managing the City's Urban Forest. These goals are relatively simple and include:
• Comprehensive and systematic planning for the current and future requirements of
Arcadia's Urban Forest.
• Routine care and cultivation of the Urban Forest to promote the health, vitality, and
safety of the City's Urban Forest.
The Urban Forest Master Plan proposes to achieve the goals of the Mission Statement
through an Urban Forest Tree and Right -of -Way Maintenance Program. This program
emphasizes the following operational objectives:
1) Increase the existing tree inventory by planting additional new trees each year,
rather than simply replacing existing trees that have been removed through attrition.
2) Trees growing under utility lines that have been subjected to repeated topping and
excessive pruning will eventually be removed and replaced with more compatible
species.
3) Undesirable tree species will gradually be phased -out and replaced with preferred
species.
4) An established four -year trimming cycle will be maintained to promote the health and
safety of trees in the right -of -way.
5) Trees in improved right -of -way areas that have tree wells, will receive upgrades to
accommodate new growth and safety considerations.
Challenges
It is proposed that the City assume a more dynamic role in cultivating a sustainable and
desirable Urban Forest for Arcadia residents. Staff has determined that a variety of tree
species pose challenges from an operational perspective. The challenges involve tree
issues such as; safety hazards, damage to public and private property, additional
maintenance for fruit and pod clean -up, and in some cases detracting from the accepted
community aesthetics.
Another challenge is related to the fact that while some species are preferred in some
areas of the community, they may be completely incompatible in another area. For
example, tall Pine trees are well suited for a spacious boulevard median such as those
found on Santa Anita Avenue between Las Tunas and Duarte Road. However, that
same tree may not be as well suited on a sidewalk downtown along Huntington Drive
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with its canopy blocking a storefront and its roots uplifting the sidewalk (e.g., Ficus
trees).
4.1 Proposed Guideline Approaches to Replacement
Staff has determined that there are approximately 5,055 undesirable trees that are
concentrated in different areas throughout the City. There are essentially two
alternative approaches the City can employ regarding the replacement of these
undesirable trees with preferred species.
Replacement Through Attrition
The Public Works Services Department is currently attempting to follow this practice
within the City (i.e., removing 100 trees and replacing 70). Attrition, as the term implies,
is simply waiting to remove a tree until it has naturally terminated its life cycle. The
advantage of the attrition approach is that the healthy and mature tree stock will not
require removal.
The primary disadvantage of the attrition approach is that any safety hazard, property
damage or public eyesore that the tree may pose can only be temporarily mitigated until
it dies, or meets the criteria stated in the Tree Removal Guideline. Often the mitigation
measure(s) must also occur repeatedly over time. For example, the trees interfering
with utility lines must be trimmed a minimum of once a year, whereas most trees in the
City are only trimmed once every four (4) years.
Systematic, Incremental Replacement
This approach provides for the incremental removal and replacement of a
predetermined number of undesirable trees each year. An annual removal /replacement
schedule could be based on;
1) geographic location,
2) species,
3) prioritized by potential for causing damage or
4) safety hazard.
The advantage of this approach is trees that have been identified as undesirable can be
systematically removed without waiting, perhaps several years, for the tree to terminate
its life cycle. Subsequently, any property damage, public nuisance, aesthetic
incompatibility or other issue with a tree can be permanently mitigated in a timely, well -
coordinated manner. This approach will save the City money in the long run by
reducing extraordinary maintenance costs and potential claims for property damage.
Staff has been allowing residents to pay for the removal and replacement of trees if they
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request it. This is allowed when a tree is not an approved tree, is reaching the end of its
life cycle but not ready for removal, or meets the removal criteria identified in the Tree
Removal Guideline.
The disadvantage of this approach is that it would inevitably require the removal of
some trees that are mature and healthy. Many residents have developed strong
attachments to trees that are growing in or around their neighborhood. When
confronted with issues of potential safety hazards and property damage, some residents
are very resistant to healthy trees being removed. Historically, the City's tree removal
guideline has paralleled the community notion that healthy trees should only be
removed as a last resort, (i.e. poses a significant safety hazard or damage to public
property).
4.2 Comprehensive Tree Planting Guidelines
A primary consideration in managing the Urban Forest is long -term sustainability. As
segments of the tree stock age and die, it is important that these trees be removed and
replaced with young, vigorous tree stock. It is equally important to augment the City's
tree inventory annually to improve neighborhoods and other areas lacking an
appropriate number of trees. Trees in the right -of -way are only being planted as
replacements for trees that have been removed though attrition. Currently,
approximately 100 trees are removed each year but the annual budget allows for only
70 tree replacements each year. New tree stock is not currently being planted in the
City, with the exception of isolated landscaping projects.
In response to the need to replenish and build the current tree inventory in the right -of-
way, the Urban Forest Master Plan provides several tree planting guidelines for
consideration:
• Develop an active multi -year planting program that provides for annually increasing
the Urban Forest inventory of trees each year.
• Continue to require appropriate planting of trees as part of any new property
development.
• Educate property owners on their responsibilities regarding care of trees in the right -
of -way.
• Revisit the City's Municipal Code to consider amendments to Section 9811
regarding the appropriate tree species suitable for planting in the right -of -way, as
defined in the Species Palette.
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4.3 Comprehensive Tree Removal Guidelines
The city receives approximately 750 -1000 service requests regarding trees in the right -
of -way from residents each year. Staff has determined that the top four local issues
concerning trees are:
1. The tree discharges messy fruit droppings (primarily Olive, Carob, and Magnolia
trees).
2. Damage to privately owned sewer laterals.
3. Damage to sidewalk, driveways, curbs and lawns.
4. Aesthetically unpleasant due to unusual growth, poor pruning or topping of the
tree.
The City's current guideline is to remove trees in the right -of -way only under the
following conditions:
• The tree is determined to be clinically dead, or dying by an arborist.
• The tree is determined to be terminally diseased (i.e. Dutch Elm Disease) —
supported by a detailed arborist report.
• Poses a potential safety hazard, as determined by the PWSD.
• Approval by the Development Services Department as part of a major renovation or
development project.
• The tree is causing significant documented damage to a private sewer lateral. (in
this case the existing policy provides for removal and replacement at the property
owners expense.)
• Any tree that is removed must be replaced with another tree, not necessarily of the
same size or species.
Rather than providing shade and relaxation for residents, unsightly, unkempt trees can
become a neighborhood nuisance. Many aesthetic issues related to trees in the right -
of -way can be resolved by incorporating a degree of flexibility into the City's existing
Tree Removal Guideline. Staff has developed a series of proposed modifications to the
existing tree removal guideline that focuses on two types of removals, routine and
corrective tree removal. The proposed modifications will allow for greater flexibility in
the removal and replacement of undesirable trees, but may be hindered due to
budgetary constraints.
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4.3.1 Routine Tree Removal (Existing Guideline)
1. The City will remove any tree in the right -of -way that is clinically dead, diseased or
posing a potential hazard to public safety. Following removal, the tree will be
replaced with a preferred species. In most cases, the replacement tree will be a
standard 24" box tree and will be removed /replaced at the City's expense.
Currently, due to budgetary constraints, the tree replacement program is limited to
40 trees a year.
2. The City will consider replacing a tree at the owner's expense if it is properly
documented that the tree is causing extensive damage to a resident's sewer lateral,
utility conveyances and /or other private property such as driveways and private
sidewalks.
3. The City may consider removing a tree at the owner's expense if it is determined to
be an undesirable tree, or is aesthetically incompatible with other trees in the
neighborhood or the community's surrounding environment.
Because the Arcadia Municipal code (AMC) is not explicit on the removal of trees in the
right -of -way as related to their impact on sewer laterals and other utility conveyances
located on private property, the City has developed and maintained a standard
operating procedure on this issue that has remained operative for nearly 20 years.
Recently, this procedure has been incorporated into the official PWSD Guidelines
Manual (Tree Removal Guidelines). The detailed process for carrying out the guideline
as it relates to utility conveyances (sewer, water, gas, electric, telephone, cable etc...)
on private property is outlined below.
A. For staff to consider the issue of removing a tree that is alleged to be obstructing,
or damaging a utility line located on private property, the property owner must
provide tangible and credible evidence to this effect. Necessary evidence must
include; work invoices from a licensed contractor; and can include photographs of
damaged lines, or closed circuit television tapes of the sewer laterals. The
rationale for the verification process is to prevent residents from using utility line
damage as justification to facilitate removal of unwanted trees. This has occurred
on a number of occasions.
B. Once the City has reviewed the evidence and determined it to be credible and
compelling, a staff member will visit the site to conduct a field survey. The staff
member reviews appropriate utility line maps and visually inspects the tree in
question to determine its proximity to the utility line. The staff member will also
inspect the tree to determine species, age, size and condition.
C. If the tree in question is determined to be dead, dying, diseased, or poses a hazard
to public safety, the City will remove the tree without expense to the property
owner. If the tree is determined to be healthy and viable, any and all expense for
removal will be borne by the property owner.
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If the tree is healthy and viable, the City makes every effort to encourage the property
owner to mitigate the sewer lateral problem through means other than removal. Certain
species of tree, such as Oak, cannot be removed without securing a City permit. Some
Homeowner's Associations (HOA) also prohibit the removal of certain species of trees.
D. Once the City and property owner have determined that removal is necessary, staff
calculates the cost for removal based on size, condition etc... The property owner
can also use a private contractor as long as the removal is done properly and the
contractor has been duly approved by staff and licensed by the City.
E. Any tree that is removed must be replaced with another tree, not necessarily of the
same size or species. The City typically replants a 24" box tree in the vicinity of the
previous tree, taking care to not plant it in a location that may again impact the
nearby utility line. If the property owner chooses to use an authorized private
contractor, the contractor is also required to replant a tree (size and species to be
determined by the City) in place of the tree that was removed at the property
owner's expense. In either case, the cost of removal is the responsibility of the
property owner.
The only exception to this guideline would be the removal of Oak Trees. This species is
explicitly protected by Sections 9700 -9708 of the AMC regarding Oak Tree
Preservation.
4.3.2 Systematic, Incremental Undesirable Tree Removal Program (Proposed
Years of field observation by staff coupled with new information available from the
arboriculture industry indicates that many local tree species that were originally thought
to be preferable are now determined to be undesirable. These species are
operationally and aesthetically incompatible for planting along the public right -of -way
and should be systematically and incrementally phased out of the City's Urban
Forest.
Staff is proposing a systematic, incremental removal program for undesirable trees in
Section 4.1 that describes the guideline elements in detail.
4.3.3 Removal of Protected Oak
All Oak species are locally protected either through provisions in the Arcadia Municipal
Code (AMC) or through Conditions, Covenants and Restrictions (CCR's) imposed by
various Homeowner's Associations (HOA's). These trees are prohibited from being
removed without a special permit. The protected species classification applies to all
trees within the City boundaries, despite public or private ownership.
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Section 9, Chapter 7 of the Arcadia Municipal code and under Arcadia City Council
Resolutions 5288 -5290 inclusive, Oak trees and several other species are specifically
separated as being special and unique.
The Arcadia City Council has resolved and codified that oak trees are valuable assets to
the Urban Forest in terms of environmental and aesthetic benefits. There are1,957 Oak
trees in Arcadia, many of which are at least 100 years old.
The AMC effectively prohibits anyone from removing, damaging or encroaching on the
protected zone of an Oak tree without obtaining a permit from the City. Oak trees may
only be removed without a permit under the following conditions:
1. Combine Permit (Section 9701 a) — an Oak tree permit is not required where tree
removal has been specifically approved as part of a development permit (i.e.,
tentative parcel map, conditional use permit, modification, etc.)
2. Emergency (Section 9701 b) — if an Oak tree poses an imminent threat to the
public safety or general welfare.
3. Visual Barriers (Section 9701 c) — the public right -of -way is obstructed or
prevents an adequate line of sight.
4. Public Utility Damage (Section 9701 d) — action may be taken to protect public
utility lines or property.
5. City Property (Section 9701 e) — an Oak tree will cause damage to existing public
improvements or is in an area, which prevents the development of a site for
public improvement.
6. Arcadia Redevelopment Agency (Section 9701 f) — an Oak tree may be removed
if in the opinion of the Executive Director, the tree prevents the development of
the site.
Under normal circumstances, residents may file for a permit with the Development
Services Department to have a living healthy Oak tree removed. If the applicant lives
within one of the four HOA's with tree regulations (Highland Oaks, Santa Anita Village,
Santa Anita Oaks, and Upper Rancho), the resident must submit their tree removal or
encroachment plans to the Architectural Review Board (ARB) of their association, prior
to filing an application with the City. The ARB may choose not to review such a request
by filing a letter with the Development Services Department.
If the ARB declines to review the application or the applicant lives outside one of the
above mentioned HOA's, it is then the decision of the Planning Commission —
Modification Committee to approve or deny the permit. The applicant may then appeal
to the Planning Commission and /or City Council.
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4.4 Maintenance of the Urban Forest
This subsection addresses the day -to -day requirements for the care and maintenance
of the Urban Forest. Several pertinent maintenance issues will be discussed and
guidelines and recommendations for routine and emergency maintenance procedures
will also be addressed.
4.4.1 Routine Maintenance
4.4.1.1 Past Maintenance Practices
During the last five (5) years, the PWSD has moved the tree trimming program from
reactive and unmethodical, to a systematic and proactive program. Various trees, often
in random locations throughout the City, were trimmed, or otherwise maintained in
response to individual requests for service. City crews were tasked to trim and maintain
trees in various neighborhoods of the City without the guidance of a systematic trimming
program. While this method was responsive to the immediate needs of individual
residents, it was not efficient or effective in serving the long -term maintenance
requirements of the Urban Forest. The number of trees trimmed, maintained, removed
and planted each year was historically dictated by citizen requests for service rather
than planned operational considerations.
4.4.1.2 Current Practices
Currently, the PWSD follows a systematic multi -year routine maintenance program.
The key elements of this program include:
• Four -year trim cycle based on predetermined geographic maintenance grids
(please refer to Appendix Two for the City's current tree trimming schedule).
• Annual trim cycle for select, fast - growing species in high visibility areas (primarily
Ficus trees in the business districts).
• Use of contract tree trimming services primarily for grid maintenance.
• Use of City crews for service request (750 -1000 requests annually), immediate
response to potential hazards, and non -grid trimming.
• Removal of trees that have been previously identified as clinically dead or that
pose an imminent safety hazard (approximately 100 trees annually).
• Planting of 70 replacement trees.
• Property owner notification of neighborhood trim schedules (usually done by door
hangers through contractor.
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• The current practice by the City does not release the property owner from the
responsibilities to water and maintain trees in the right -of -way.
4.4.2 Emergency Maintenance
The routine program of a four -year tree trimming cycle greatly reduces the need for
emergency trimming or removal. However, when emergencies occur as a result of high
winds, unanticipated structural damage and decay of trees in the right -of -way, the City
is prepared to respond to these types of issues. In nearly all cases of emergency tree
maintenance the City crew is responsible for responding. The contractor's emergency
crews are dispatched from areas outside the City resulting in much slower response
times than City crews. The tree trimming contractor is usually only used in emergency
cases were extremely large trees require removal or during /following significant storms.
Typical emergency maintenance issues include:
• Hanging limbs.
• Structural decay resulting in an imminent safety hazard.
• Severely raised walkways or other public right -of -way creating a safety hazard.
• Storm damage clean up.
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4.4.3 Vehicle and Sign /Signal Clearance
Vehicles such as fire engines, ambulances, and street sweepers must be able to quickly
and easily access all areas of the City, especially in the event of an emergency.
Currently, the Arcadia Fire Department's tallest fire suppression vehicle is an aerial
ladder truck with a height of 11 feet. The Fire and Public Works Services Departments
work together to identify specific trees within the City that present a potential hazard and
work to shape the trees to allow for improved access.
4.4.4 Utility Line Interference Mitigation
In certain cases the City does not have full control over the maintenance practices in the
Urban Forest. Electric and telephone companies are entitled to trim any tree
encroaching on utility lines. Typically, this type of utility line trimming occurs hastily and
with complete disregard for local trimming standards. The standard practice for utility
line mitigation trimming is to simply cut off the top limbs and branches of a tree that is
interfering with a utility line without shaping or pruning the rest of the tree. This practice,
referred to as "topping ", is extremely detrimental to the growth pattern of the tree and is
aesthetically incompatible with local trimming standards. Over the years, this has
resulted in many severely damaged trees located under these lines.
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The utility company's line clearing /tree trimming program is very expensive and labor
intensive. The key elements of the tree trimming program that the City should seek to
develop are:
• Build a sustainable partnership with the various utilities to share the cost of
removing and replacing trees encroaching on utility lines.
• Focus on the removal and replacement of trees in certain areas that have been
severely damaged by "topping ".
• Prohibit the future planting of inappropriate species under utility lines.
4.4.5 Tree Trimming Methods and Techniques
Destructive trimming practices such as "topping" are a major concern for the City. This
method is harmful for trees and results in stunted and uneven growth. It also makes the
tree more susceptible to damage during storms because it becomes structurally
unstable, resulting in a potential safety hazard, as well as degrading established
neighborhood aesthetics.
The current tree trimming guideline prohibits the practice of "topping" by City crews or
City contractors. However, in addition to the utility companies trimming practices, the
City has experienced a significant problem with property owners or local property
management firms and private businesses also engaging in illicit and improper trimming
of trees in the right -of -way. Staff believes this is occurring because the City is creating
a "canopy" effect for the business districts with the Ficus trees, instead of hedge
trimming them into the shape of a "lollipop ". The City does understand that all of the
signs in these areas may not be completely visible during this period, but has made
every effort to thin the Ficus trees, improving the storefront visibility, without disfiguring
the tree.
The City sought and received civil damages for trees in the right -of -way that were
improperly trimmed by the property owner or private tree trimming contractors that were
hired without consulting the City. The City has notified all local businesses that have
trees in proximity to their property that it is illegal for them to trim the trees without
securing authorization from the Public Works Services Department.
The American National Standards Institute outlines the general standards and
guidelines for tree trimming methods and techniques used by the City and its
contractor(s) for tree care operations (Appendix Nine).
4.4.6 Pruning of Trees in t he Right -of -Way in the Business Districts
Trees (FICUS, SYCAMORE, etc.) located in front of businesses shall be trimmed in a
manner to allow the structure of the tree to develop a canopy above existing buildings
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and signs. The owners of the adjacent properties shall not cut any part of the tree
without written permission from the Public Works Services Director or his designee.
4.5 Tree Waste Disposal and Recycling
The City's tree trimming contractor is required to assume responsibility for diverting any
green and wood waste that is generated from trimming or removing trees in Arcadia to a
recycling facility. This requirement is pursuant to the California Integrated Waste
Management Act of 1989 (AB 939), mandating the City to divert 50% of its generated
waste by the year 2000.
The City's tree trimming contractor is required to provide detailed reports to the City
outlining the amount of green waste they are composting, mulching or otherwise
diverting away from landfills. City records indicate that in 1999, over 590 tons of
materials were recycled. This equates to about 80% of all tree trimming material that
was generated.
4.6 Information Management
An integral component of a multi -year Urban Forest Master Plan is to develop a
comprehensive inventory of the tree stock in the City of Arcadia. The inventory is stored
in a conventional database that includes the following basic data; number of trees in the
right -of -way, species, geographic location, size, approximate age, date of the most
recent trimming or maintenance, tree vacancies and general condition of the tree (i.e.,
excellent, good, fair, poor). The City's current tree trimming contractor, has conducted
this inventory and provided it to the PWSD.
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An important secondary component of the Urban Forest Master Plan is a concerted
public education effort. The Urban Forest public information will incorporate a variety of
media including special event, print media, publications, public notifications /service
announcements, and internet website information. This Section is intended to provide
an outline of the key elements of an Urban Forest Public Education Program as a tool to
reach out to Arcadia residents and businesses to encourage their assistance in the care
and maintenance of the Urban Forest.
5.1 Current Activities
The City is currently involved in the following public education programs to actively
promote and enhance the City's Urban Forest:
1. Arbor Day Activities — The Arbor Day Foundation has named Arcadia Tree City
USA. One requirement of this award is that the City sponsor an Arbor Day. This
event is jointly sponsored by the City and the Arcadia Unified School District. Over
the last six (6) years, this event has been held at various local schools and other
public facilities. The culmination of each event is the planting of a new tree at the
host school.
2. Annual Holiday Tree Recycling Program — Each year the City, in cooperation with
its residential waste hauler and the Sanitation District of Los Angeles County,
provides free collection and recycling of holiday trees from residential
neighborhoods.
3. Master Composter Program — The Los Angeles County Department of Public
Works in Cooperation with the Los Angeles County Arboretum, provides periodic
composting workshops with basic information on lawn and tree care for area
residents.
4. Compost Sin Purchase Program — The City of Arcadia Public Works Services
Department offers reduced price compost bins to local residents. Residents may
call the PWSD to make arrangements for pick -up.
5. Tree Trimming Door Hangers — The City's tree trimming contractor places door
hangers in residential properties informing them of when trees will be trimmed in
their neighborhood. The hangers provide a phone number than can be called to
receive additional information regarding tree care and maintenance (Appendix
Three).
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5.2 Proposed Public Information Activities
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1. Notification to Local Business Districts — The Public Works Services Department
has a message for local business districts regarding City policies related to
maintenance and trimming of trees in the right -of -way.
2. Print Publications — A series of print publications such as brochures, periodic
newsletter articles and press releases will be developed and distributed by City staff
and its tree trimming contractor.
3. Internet Website — Tree trimming schedules and general information on tree care
and maintenance will be made available on the PWSD website.
4. Grant Funding — Staff will be exploring state and federal grant funding opportunities
for public education efforts related to the Urban Forest.
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Section 6. — Overview of Current Budget and Issues .for Consideration
The City has spent an annual average of $416,000 (for FY 95/96- 99/00) of General
Fund dollars to maintain and improve its Urban Forest and. Annual expenditures for the
existing Urban Forest and Maintenance Program are split into two primary cost centers:
1. Contracted tree trimming services representing approximately $200,000 (48% of the
Trees and Right -of -Way budget)
2. In -house general maintenance and tree trimming services represents approximately
$216,000 (52% of the Trees and Right -of -Way budget).
The Contract Tree Trimming Service portion of the budget is used primarily for:
• Four -year grid trim cycle —this equates to approximately 4,400 trees annually.
• Major tree removal and replacement — approximately 70 trees are removed and 40
trees are replaced annually.
• Service requests — the contractor responds to roughly 75 service requests annually.
The in -house Trees and Right -of -Way Unit portion of the budget is used primarily for:
• Minor tree removal and replacement (30 trees annually).
• Tree well maintenance.
• Unscheduled tree trimming.
• Service requests —average of 750 -1000 annually.
• Trees in the right -of -way watering.
• Tree root removal.
• Weed spraying and abatement at public facilities, and right -of -way.
• Right -of -Way and alley clean -up /brush removal.
• Vegetation clearance for right -of -way and sign obstruction.
• Periodic assistance of other street maintenance crews.
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6.1 Budget Issues for Consideration
The City's current priorities regarding the Urban Forest are centered around a rigorous
and systematic maintenance schedule. The majority of the trees are scheduled to be
trimmed at least once every four years. However in some instances, depending on the
desired appearance, trees that are fast growing (such as Ficus trees) may require
trimming as frequently as twice a year. The systematic, cyclical trimming schedule
carried out primarily by the City's trimming contractor is combined with the work of City
crews that will respond to service requests and perform daily upkeep of public property.
The daily upkeep of private property within the right -of -way is the responsibility of the
property owner pursuant to the Arcadia Municipal Code. This maintenance based
program is extremely effective in ensuring that the existing Urban Forest stock remains
relatively healthy, prosperous and aesthetically appealing. However, to achieve an
optimal Urban Forest Program in the City of Arcadia, staff recommends continuing the
additional aspects that are discussed below.
Expanding Tree Stock
The current program does not place emphasis on increasing the local tree stock by
populating areas of the City that are barren of tree stock. In arborist's terms, these
barren areas are referred to as "vacancies ". A "vacancy' is an area of the right -of -way
where a tree belongs, but does not exist. City staff and the tree trimming contractor,
have developed detailed criteria of what constitutes a vacancy based on the
composition of numerous Urban Forest's located throughout Southern California. The
criteria is based primarily on established spacing from other trees and local monuments
such as fire hydrants, street light standards, utility lines, curbs, sidewalks, driveway
approaches and the right -of -way. As mentioned in Section 3.1, a significant amount of
the Urban Forest stock is reaching its average life expectancy and will soon be finalizing
its life cycle. In light of this fact, the current tree replacement program, roughly 70 trees
a year, is not sufficient to sustain the existing tree stock, much less expand the stock to
fill identified vacancies.
Removal /Replacement of Undesired Trees in the Right -of -Way
Another issue that is not emphasized in the current program is the systematic
removal /replacement of undesirable tree species. These types of trees effectively serve
as a nuisance rather than an asset to the community. Undesirable trees frequently
require additional maintenance and are incompatible with the aesthetic character of the
community.
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This Urban Forest Master Plan (UFMP) has been prepared to serve as a guideline to
assist the City Council and the staff in planning and implementing a long -term
management and care program for all trees in the right -of -way. The UFMP is a
comprehensive strategy to assist the City in the integration and standardization of all
aspects of tree infrastructure maintenance. This approach to tree maintenance and
infrastructure needs will allow for continuity, consistency, and equity with regard to
planning, budgeting, and day -to -day tree related issues,
The City of Arcadia's Urban Forest consists of over 17,800 trees in the right -of -way.
The tree population is extremely diverse consisting of over 50 different species. Trees
soften the hard lines of the urban infrastructure and are an integral part of our
community's aesthetic appeal.
The existing tree program is proactive and provides excellent care and maintenance of
the Urban Forest. However, there are a number of concerns about the aging and
deterioration of large majestic trees, undesirable trees and root damage to hardscape,
and tree vacancies. To address these issues, staff recommends the implementation of
a 20 -year program that would remove and replace aging and undesirable trees and add
new trees in the - right -of -way. Staff recently completed a tree inventory of all trees in
the right -of -way; this inventory identified 5,055 trees that should be scheduled for
replacement and 4,400 locations that are missing trees in the right -of -way. The addition
of new trees and replacement of undesirable trees is estimated at approximately $4.4
million. To accomplish this large task, staff recommends replacing 250 trees identified
for removal in addition to planting 220 trees each year as part of the normal annual
maintenance program. The annual cost for a 20 -year program is approximately
$220,000.
Staff also recognizes that not all 4,400 locations that were identified as missing a tree
will require the planting of a new tree. Staff will continue to recommend the planting of
an additional 220 trees each year until no longer needed. The previously appropriated
funds for new trees at that time would be diverted to the removal and replacement of
undesirable trees.
This program will mitigate public safety hazards, through a proactive and predictive
approach to the replacement of older trees, improve aesthetics, minimize long -term
liability and facilitate the long -term sustainability of a vibrant Urban Forest in the City of
Arcadia.
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