On Council 6/12 agenda there is a report recommending service providers for supplying new trees to replace damage done by emerald ash borer. Report also includes contract for ongoing tree maintenance. Our 2017 budget included $225,000 for tree replacement. I want to know more about this topic and will be asking questions. i) Species being purchased. ii) Our overall status in replacing trees. iii) Protocol for planting the new trees. I know from conversations with York Region Project Manager for the landscaping at the roundabout at Keele/Lloydtown Aurora Rd. that there has been significant improvements in planting trees effectively. Previously YR had a success rate well below 50%; it is now up to 80-90%.
Kings wood development(East Humber dr& Humber Valley) had trees planted on the boulevard from Keele St. All trees in front of the homes have thrived but all trees looked after by the township( from Humber Valley to Keele st.) have died and removed. Are they going to be replaced??
I have no information on what you have described. I will ask Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture who has responsibility for these assets to respond.
Re. new trees and their maintenance – there was a memorial ceremony at Hillfarm Park in Nobleton yesterday for John Lesey, dedicating a Red Oak in his honour. It was embarrassing that the tree, planted in 2015, looks half dead and requests to trim it before the ceremony were not met. It looks as though most of the memorial trees are dead or dying. Is the soil correct for oaks, is one question and another, does the Parks and Recreation Dept. accept the responsibility to see that a new tree gets frequent watering during its first 2 years of growth? Without that, the tree will die.
Thank you bringing this to my attention. I have passed on your observations to Parks who are responsible for all the trees in the public spaces. 2 responses I want to pass on. Long term:…They are going to do an assessment of that park and will assess whether the species list for that park is appropriate. Shorter term: …the trees do have 2 year guarantees and the contractor has requirements for watering during first two years.