Written by Peter McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM Thursday, 15 November 2012 22:44
Vernon residents will plant more trees in their yards, if a new city program is successful. City council has given the go ahead to a pilot project to encourage more tree planting in neighborhoods and near residential boulevards. City environmental planner Brooke Marshall says it would help the environment, and not deplete water sources. "One cubic metre or 1,000 litres is what our arbourist has applied to trees on city lands over the course of the summer," she told council. The city will give $20 dollar discounts to the first 100 households that buy trees next year. Councillor Catherine Lord had a problem with that. "I can't support paying someone to plant a tree in their own yard." Swan Lake Nurseryland and Art Knapp Plantland are partnering with the city to offer participants trees identified on the city's recommended tree species list, at cost. Marshall says in a report to council, additional trees would help to increase property values and provide shade and cooling to residents. "If successful, this program could also help the city reach tree canopy goals and provide cost savings related to a reduction in storm-water flows and increased infrastructure longevity." Marshall says East Hill has quite a few trees, but Middleton Mountain could use more. Council agreed to support the program for 2013, and then evaluate the results.
1 comment:
This is an interesting problem. I agree that vegetation could improve the environment and probably moderate extreme summer heat. However, water conservation efforts are the other issue promoted by Greater Vernon Water. Finally, trees on hillsides will eventually lead to problems Coldstream is facing now. Hillside residents are complaining about losing their views and demanding action from Council. Council's hands are tied as retroactive legislation cannot be applied (grand father clause) and would also be controversial.
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