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Protecting Our Urban Forest |
(appeared in Bayview Post, July 2004)
Not too long ago, Ward 25 experienced its own “chainsaw massacre.” Prior to a land division application, a property owner chopped down all the trees on the private portion of his lot. The community was outraged at the loss of so many mature, healthy trees. An adjoining neighbour even felt it was necessary to re-landscape the property line at his own expense. The cost exceeded $10,000.
The urban forest is an important Toronto resource and a valuable part of the character of our community. Council is currently considering a by-law that would protect trees throughout the city and promote awareness of their value. We do not want any more “chainsaw massacres.”
Trees provide various social, environmental and economic benefits. They contribute to a sense of community and help to define our neighbourhoods. Trees protect us from harmful ultra-violet rays, moderate temperatures, clean the air, and reduce soil erosion, rain runoff & wind speeds. Trees also benefit homeowners by reducing energy costs for climate control and by enhancing property values.
Experience in the former municipalities of Toronto and Scarborough demonstrates that tree protection by-laws can play an important role in making residents and developers aware of the environmental, aesthetic and economic benefits that healthy trees provide. They point the way to a harmonized approach to tree protection in Toronto.
The proposed bylaw seeks to harmonize the protection of trees in all neighbourhoods of the City of Toronto. All species of trees that have reached a specified size would be protected. This would apply to trees on land of all usage types (including single family residential). Council would require a permit prior to any injury or destruction of such trees. A $100 per a tree permit fee would apply to applications. Rejected applications could be appealed first to the appropriate Community
Council and then to the Municipal Board.
The new by-law would conform to the new Official Plan for the City of Toronto, which notes that “the urban forest is essential to the City’s character.” Council is currently soliciting input from the public on this important issue. Public deputations will be hosted during the North York Community Council on July 6th at the North York Community Centre. Additionally, if you have any comments or concerns regarding this initiative, please feel free to contact my office at 416-395-6408 or email me at councillor_jenkins@toronto.ca
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