17-013 Urban Forest Plan n,
S U1 o u E\ to()j) _��: 21=-x.
Urban Forest Management Plan
City of Shorewood, Minnesota
January 17, 2017
revised
Prepared for:
Brad Nielsen and Paul Hornby
City of Shorewood
5755 Country Club Road
Shorewood, MN 55331
952-960-7900
bnielsen@ci.shorewood.mn.us
Prepared by:
Gail Nozal &Jon Schmidt
S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists
Consulting Services Division
A Davey Company
405 Hardman Avenue
South St. Paul, MN 55075
www.sstree.com 1651.451.8907
IF "FREE AND
HORTICULTURAL
SPECIALISTS, INC.
t O W'EA. company
TREE AND
HORTICULTURAL
SPECIALISTS, INC.
A .
DAVEY4 company
Contents
Acknowledgements......................................................................................................................................4
ExecutiveSummary.......................................................................................................................................5
Resource Structure ...................................................................................................................................5
Introduction..................................................................................................................................................6
Goals .........................................................................................................................................................6
Chapter 1: Shorewood's Tree Population........................................................___.....................................7
Tree Population Characteristics................................................................................................................7
UnmaintainedRight of Way......................................................................................................................8
Tree Composition and Diversity................................................................................................................8
Inventoried Tree Population.....................................................................................................................8
RelativeAge Distribution ..........................................................................................................................9
Healthand Condition..............................................................................................................................1D
Tree Maintenance Recommendations....................................................................................................11
RoutineTree Pruning..............................................................................................................................12
TreeRemovals--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- .. ............... ....13
Re-inspection ....................................................................................................................................•.....14
YoungTree Training................................................................................................................................14
AshTreatments............................................................................................................ ......-...........15
Chapter 2: Emerald Ash Borer Management Strategy...............................................................................16
EmeraldAsh Borer..................................................................................................................................16
Identification.......................................................................................................................................16
Administration....................................................................................................................................17
Monitoring and Management.............................................................................................................18
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ContractingWork................................................................................................................................20
Ordinance Revisions and Policy Development ...................................................................................2❑
Ash Debris Handling and Disposal.......................................................................................................21
Chapter3: Reforestation.............................................................................................................................22
TreeReplacement...............................................................................................................................22
TreeSpecies Selection ........................................................................................................................23
TreePurchases....................................................................................................................................24
TreeMulching.....................................................................................................................................25
Chapter 4. Free Eco and Canopy Analysis..................................................................................................26
i-Tree Eco Benefit Categories..................................................................................................................26
Benefits of Shorewood's Municipal Trees..............................................................................................27
Electricity and Natural Gas Results......................................... ...........-...............--..........................27
Sequestered Carbon Dioxide ..............................................................................................................27
NetAir Quality Improvement .............................................................................................................28
AvoidedRunoff........................ ............................... ....................... ...... ............... ...........-...........28
CanopyAnalysis......................................................................................................................................28
Chapter 5. Private Tree Management ........................................................................................................30
TreeOrdinance Review.......................................................................................................................30
Tree Preservation Ordinance Review .................................................................................................31
Woody Invasive Plant Management...................................................................................................32
Shade Tree Disease Program ..................................................................................................................34
Homeowner and Private Land Assistance Program............................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
PublicEducation..................................................................................................................................35
Canclusion...............................................................................................................................................41
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Acknowledgements
This project was conducted for the City of Shorewood, Minnesota, and materials
were prepared using funds provided by the City. The City of Shorewood
acknowledges and agrees that the use of this report and other printed materials
produced as part of this project shall not be restricted under the copyright laws of
the United States of America.
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4
!Notice of Disclaimer: Inventory data provided by S&S Tree and Horticultural
Specialists, a division of the Davey Tree Expert Company, are based on visual
recording at the time of inspection. Visual records do not include individual
testing or analysis and do not include aerial or subterranean inspection. S&S Tree
and Horticultural Specialists are not responsible for discovery or identification of
hidden or otherwise non-observable hazards. Records may not remain accurate
after inspection due to variable deterioration of inventoried material. S&S Tree
and Horticultural Specialists provide no warranty with respect to the fitness of the
urban forest for any use or purpose whatsoever. Clients may choose to accept or
disregard S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists recommendations or to seek
additional advice. Important: know and understand that visual inspection is
confined to the designated subject tree(s) and that the inspections for this project
are performed in the interest of facts of the tree(s) without prejudice to or for any
other service or any interested party.
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Executive Summary
Trees provide significant economic, functional, and structural benefits to the
community, helping improve the quality of life within the city. When properly
maintained, trees return overall benefits and values to the community far in
excess of the time and money invested in them for planting, pruning, protection,
and removal.
The City of Shorewood previously began a tree inventory of its public streets. In
2016, 5&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists were contracted by Shorewood to
inventory approximately twenty percent of the remaining street right of way. The
City has commissioned this Urban Forest Management Plan to report on the
inventory findings, evaluate the condition of public trees, and to establish an
effective planning and management program for this resource. This document will
review current conditions and explore future management options.
Resource Structure
Based on Shorewood's tree inventory:
• A total of 3,412 publicly managed trees.
• Maple represents over a quarter of the inventoried population with 858
trees.
• Average recorded diameter at breast height (DBH) was fifteen inches,
classifying this as an established urban forest (9-17"DBH).
• Nearly half (45%) of trees were reported as being in "Good" condition.
• The City of Shorewood will need to manage approximately 567 ash trees for
Emerald Ash Borer (EAB).
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Introduction
The public trees growing on the rights-of-way in Shorewood constitute a valuable
community resource. They provide tangible and intangible benefits through
services, such as pollution control, energy reduction, runoff management,
property values, wildlife habitat, education, and aesthetics.
Previously, the services and benefits trees provided in the urban and suburban
setting were considered to be unquantifiable. However, by using extensive
scientific studies and practical research, these benefits can now be confidently
calculated using tree inventory information. Since Shorewood has conducted a
tree inventory, accurate insight can be drawn in regards to the overall health of
the City's public trees and the benefits they provide the community. The results of
applying an i-Tree Eco application, a proven, defensible model and method that
determines tree benefit values, to the City of Shoreview's current tree inventory
data are summarized in this report.
The science behind this model and type of analysis is sound and has been
published in peer-reviewed journals. The challenge now is to apply the science to
enhance the quality of life in the City of Shorewood by improving the condition of
the urban forest.
Goals
This management plan intends to achieve the following goals:
• Establish a public tree management program.
• Define municipal responsibilities as trees relate to the health and safety of
the community.
• Emerald ash borer management strategy that addresses management
options and costs.
• Creation of a reforestation plan that emphasizes forest species diversity
and benefits.
• Creation of a shade tree disease program that identifies and enforces
community tree insect and disease issues.
• Review of current tree ordinance with suggested additions.
• Discuss woody invasive plant management and public education.
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Chapter 1: Shorewood's Tree Population
Shorewood's urban forest is a complex system of trees that vary in species, size,
age, and condition. Understanding this system is important for proper decision
making regarding species selection and tree care practices. This chapter provides
insight into the current composition and condition of Shorewood's inventoried
tree population. By accumulating and using this information, urban forest
managers can forecast trends, anticipate maintenance needs, facilitate budgeting
for tree-related expenditures, and develop a basis for long-range planning.
S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists performed approximately 20%, thus
completing the tree inventory for Shorewood in the summer of 2016. Upon
completion of the citywide inventory, S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists
performed an analysis of the inventory data using i-Tree ECO to calculate benefits
produced by the City's inventoried tree population. Inventory data were also used
to estimate budgets and build a five year management strategy.
Tree Population Characteristics
Tree characteristics recorded during the inventory include location, tree name,
DBH, condition, and other related tree and site factors. By identifying the tree,
DBH, and condition of trees in the urban forest, much can be learned about the
forest's composition, size distribution, relative age, and health. Species
composition data are essential since the types of trees present in a community
greatly affect the amount of benefits produced, levels of diversity, tree
maintenance activities, and budgets.
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Unmaintained Right of Way
Much of Shorewood's street right of way is
occupied by natural occurring forest edge
trees and other natural areas. These areas
were inventoried using a geographic Y
positioning tool called "polyline" that allows
for categorizing multiple features of interest.
g g p q�,•
The polyline feature was used to map and
classify forest edge right of ways by assigning
the average tree species, DBH, and condition. _.
Shorewood's tree inventory defines 109
polylines of various lengths categorizing forest
edge trees in unmaintained natural areas.
Comparing all 109 polylines, data reveals the photograph 1. Unmaintained
average tree growing in these areas are 10 and forest edge right of way
inch DBH maples in Good condition. Regular lines a considerable portion of
inspections of these areas should be Shorewood's streets.
conducted with identified hazards being
mitigated as soon as possible.
Tree Composition and Diversity
Table 1. Significant Tree Composition in Shorewood
Tree Number %of Trees
Maple 859 25.18
Ash 560 16.42
Elm 269 7.88
Boxelder 217 6.36
Oafs 197 5.77
Other trees 1,310 38.39
Inventoried Tree Population
Shorewood's inventoried tree population is composed of 3,412 trees distributed
among 27 different types. Genus distribution amongst the City's tree population
appears to be healthy with the exception of maple. S&S Tree and Horticultural
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Specialists recommends that no one single Genus exceed 20% of the total tree
population. Due to increased threat of exotic invasive pests and diseases, it is
advisable that Shorewood consider adopting a policy to limit a single species to no
more that 10% and genus to no more than 20% of the population. A variety of
species types can decrease the impact of species-specific pests and diseases may
help to limit the impacts from a number of weather events as different trees
respond differently to stress.
Relative Age Distribution
By using DBH as an indicator of relative tree age, predictions about present and
future costs as well as flow of benefits the tree population provides for the city.
An uneven-aged population allows managers to allocate annual maintenance
costs uniformly over many years and helps to maintain overall tree canopy cover.
Shorewood's urban forest displays an uneven-aged population as reflected by size
class distribution. An ideal street tree population has an imbalanced age
distribution, with higher percentages of young trees than mature trees to
minimize fluctuations in functional benefits over time. Trees mature and begin to
decline, a tree population skewed towards young trees will ensure that the flow
of benefits continues to exist. S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists recommend
that Shorewood establish a tree planting program to increase percentages of
young trees to ensure a sustainable benefit producing urban forest.
50%
45%
40%
35%
30%
25%
20% GI Percent of Population
15%
10%
5%
0%
0-8 9-17 18-24 >24
Figure 1. Diameter size class distribution of Shorewood's inventoried tree population.
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Health and Condition
S&S and the City of Shorewood assessed the
condition of each individual tree during the
inventory period. Several factors were considered
for each tree; including root characteristics,
branch structure, trunk, canopy, foliage condition, a
and presence of pests. Tree condition was rated as
Good, Fair, Poor, or Dead/Dying. Most of the
inventoried trees in Shorewood were assessed as
being in Good or Fair condition, 46% and 35%,
respectively (Figure 2). Based on these data, the
general health of the inventoried tree population
is rated as Good.
In addition to providing an overall idea of current
forest health, these data can also be used to guide
future management decisions. Good and Fair
trees should be maintained and kept in condition Photograph 2. Almost 50% of
for producing maximum benefits. Structural and Shorewood's tree population
deadwood pruning an a rotational schedule will has a condition rating of
maintain the safety and aesthetic value of these "Good".
trees. Poor trees should be re-inspected annually
to monitor and manage any additional risk if the tree continues to decline.
Remove all trees in Dead/Dying condition within two years. Because of their failed
or failing health, these trees will most likely not recover even if care is increased.
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3%
.1596
■Goad
■Fair
■Poor
Dead/Dying
Figure 2. Condition of inventoried trees
Tree Maintenance Recommendations
One important objective of a tree inventory is determining current and
appropriate maintenance needs of the tree population. Maintenance needs were
assigned based on size, condition, and species. Table 2 summarizes the
maintenance requirements of Shorewood's inventoried tree population. See
Appendix A for a detailed five year strategy and budget table that further breaks
down the recommended maintenance activities presented in the following
paragraphs by estimated cost, timing, and activity. Tables and figures within this
section summarize parts of the five year maintenance plan.
Table 2. Shorewood's Tree Maintenance Recommendations
Maintenance Required Number of Sites %of Maintenance
Pruning 1,890 56
Ash Removal 469 14
Re-inspection 518 15
Young Tree Training 329 10
Removal 103 3
Ash Treatment 92 2
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Routine Tree Pruning
One of the most beneficial improvements that any city can accomplish to improve
their urban forest is to perform routine preventative pruning. This activity works
to structurally prune trees on an
established schedule to maintain
a safe and healthy urban forest.
Shorewood currently has 1,890
trees growing on street right of
ways that are good candidates Y
for the recommended five year
routine pruning program.
These trees would be on a five
year rotational pruning schedule
allowing an opportunity for
professionals to visit each tree
once every five years to perform
routine maintenance.
Approximately 379 trees would
i be pruned each year on a cyclical
basis. Table 3 summarizes
pruning activities and estimates Photograph 3. Shorewood has 1,890 trees
an industry average cost for recommended for routine pruning. A five
each year of the cycle. A year cycle would allow for pruning of
complete bid process should be approximately 379 trees annually.
assessed subsequent to each
year of annual pruning.
Table 3. Annual Routine Tree Pruning and Cost Estimates
Pruning Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year S
Trees 374 377 378 381 380
Cost $50,495 $51,070 $51,240 $52,360 $52,055
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Tree Removals
Removing dead, dying, or otherwise hazardous
trees from the population is an integral part of
urban forest management. From the inventory,
103 trees identified as Dead/Dying are :: .• _ ,: =rye.' �.
recommended for removal. Table 4 breaks r;f
down these trees by diameter class and �r '
k
provides a cost estimate for removal.
Shorewood's five year budget plan in Appendix
A breaks down these removals over the course
of two years where larger trees with increased r
risk are removed in year one and smaller less
hazardous trees are removed in year two.
An additional 469 undesirable Ash trees deemed
unfit for emerald ash borer treatment are also
recommended for removal. Chapter 3 provides
a strategy for removing these ash trees over Photograph 4. During the
the course of three years. inventory, 103 dead or dying
trees were recorded.
Table 4. Shorewood's Tree Removals and Cost Estimates
Diameter Class Cost/Tree Trees Total
1-3 $25 6 $150
4-6 $105 22 $2,310
7-12 $220 45 $9,900
13-18 $355 15 $5,325
19-24 $525 9 $4,725
25-30 $845 2 $1,690
31-36 $1,140 2 $2,280
37-42 $1,470 1 $1,470
43+ $1,850 1 $1,850
Total 103 $29,700
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Re-inspection
Inventoried trees with a condition rating of Poor are
recommended for re-inspection. The 518 trees in this
category could experience rapid health or structural N,
deterioration and become hazardous. Others could .�
survive and exist for many years. Therefore routine
annual inspections are necessary to monitor and
keep risk as low as possible. Keeping up to date with
inspections would cost an estimated $1,554 annually.
Young Tree Training ?"
Pruning young trees to improve branch structure is
the most effective method of reducing maintenance
costs as trees mature. Currently, Shorewood has 329
trees recommended for Young Tree Training. At the
time of planting the only pruning that should be Photograph S.
done is removal of broken and dead branches. In the Training for correct
second growing season, minor pruning can be done structure when trees
to remove branches with poor attachments. The first are young will
Young Tree Training prune should occur during the decrease the chance
third growing season and achieve proper branch of future branch
spacing and structure. failure and increase
the trees lifespan.
Table 5. Shorewood's Young Tree Training Program
Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5
Trees 110 110 109 0 0
Cost $3,210 $3,210 $3,180 $0 $0
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Ash Treatments
Shorewood has an inventoried population of 557 ash trees. In the advent of
emerald ash borer infestation, the city should plan on removing the majority of
ash before they are killed by the borer and become hazardous standing dead
trees. The inventory identified 92 ash trees as viable candidates for treatment.
These trees are in Good or Fair condition and are 19 inches DBH and greater.
These trees should be maintained and protected because they provide the
greatest amount of benefits among the city's ash population. Treatments remain
effective over two years and therefore should reoccur once every two years. Ash
treatments can be bid out or done in house with a licensed contractor.
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Chapter 2: Emerald Ash Borer Management Strategy
Emerald Ash Borer
Throughout the United States, urban and community forests are under increased
pressure from exotic and invasive insects and diseases. Usually these exotic pests
arrive from overseas, and our native trees and shrubs do not have appropriate
defense mechanisms to fight them off. one of Shorewood's largest challenges will
be preparing and managing for infestation of emerald ash borer.
A recently completed street tree inventory shows 567 ash trees growing on
Shorewood's street right of ways. Sixteen percent of the City's street tree
population will be affected over the next few years by emerald ash borer. This
chapter wilt outline a strategy that Shorewood can adopt to manage ash trees on
public and private land over the next five years. When emerald ash borer is
discovered in Shorewood, this management plan is intended to properly guide the
city with the following issues:
1. Protection of public safety
2. Available funding and staffing
3. Protection of woodland areas and natural resources
4. Forest and tree canopy cover and composition after a reduction or loss
of ash tree population
Identification
The adult beetle is elongate, metallic green, and 3/8- to S/8-inch long. Adults
emerge from late May until early August feeding on a small amount of foliage
(this causes jagged leaf edges). Females lay eggs deep into bark crevices on lower
main branches. After eggs hatch, the larvae tunnel through the bark and feed on
the phloem and outer sapwood for several months. The mature larvae are cream
colored and 1- to 1-1/4 inch long.
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Photograph 6. The adult EAB. (Photograph courtesy of Ohio State
University)
Fully grown larvae overwinter under the bark, or sometimes in pupil cells made of
outer sapwood. There is one generation per year, but same larvae can remain in
the tree for two years.
Initial symptoms include yellowing and/or thinning of the foliage and longitudinal
bark splitting. The entire canopy may die back, or symptoms may be restricted to
certain branches. Declining trees may sprout epicormic shoots at the tree base or
on branches. Removal of bark reveals tissue callusing and frass-filled serpentine
tunneling. The S-shaped larval feeding tunnels are about 1/4-inch in diameter.
Tunneling may occur from upper branches to the trunk and root flare. Adults exit
from the trunk and branches in a characteristic D-shaped exit hole that is about
1/8-inch in diameter. The intense tunneling disrupts water and nutrient flow,
causing trees to lose between 30% and 50% of their canopies during the first year
of infestation. Trees often die within two years following infestation.
Administration
The City should appoint a natural resource professional responsible for
implementing this program and ensuring the plan provisions are carried out
appropriately. In order to implement the provisions of this plan, maintain a
comprehensive forestry program, and provide excellent service, additional staff
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and or contracted help will be needed. Conversely, if additional support is not
obtained, certain programs will need to be displaced, keeping in mind that many
natural resource programs involve enforcing city, state, and federal regulations
which cannot be displaced by EAB inspections, treatments, and removal costs.
The total number of ash trees on public and private land is unknown. The
formation of a Shade Tree Disease Control Program with trained inspectors will
allow proactive identification of diseased trees that are or will become hazardous.
Monitoring and Management
If an ash tree is believed to be infested, it is recommended that the city contact
the Minnesota Department of Agriculture for proper identification. Removal of
infested trees is recommended, and their stumps should be ground out. For more
information, check the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources' (DNR)
website www.dnr.state.mn.us/.
As EAB infestations increase in Shorewood, the City should consider removing and
treating ash trees as part of the City's EAB management program. An elevated
level of risk associated with the rapid decline of the ash trees typically occurs
within three years of infestation. In order to reduce this future risk, Shorewood
should begin a three-year staged ash-removal program. Shorewood should make
every effort to replace any ash tree that is removed. Since ash make up 15% of
the total inventoried tree population, a large amount of benefits provided by
these trees will be lost if ash are removed from the population and not replaced.
The public will also be more accepting of tree removals if they are being replaced
with new trees. Table 5 illustrates the amount of ash trees recommended for
removal as part of this three year strategy along with costs estimated from a
group of seven reputable tree care companies operating in North America.
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Table G. Three-Year Staged Ash-Reduction Program
Diameter size Class Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Estimated
(Inches) Removal Cost
1-3 1 1 0 $50
4-6 12 12 12 $3,780
7-12 78 78 78 $34,320
13-18 62 62 62 $66,030
19-24 1 1 1 $1,575
25-30 2 1 1 $3,380
31-36 1 0 0 $1,140
37-42 1 0 0 $1,474
43+ 1 0 0 $1,850
Total 159 156 154
($47,130) ($41,825) ($41,800) $113,595
Ash are large shade trees that produce significant amounts of benefit$ for the
City. Retaining the City's greatest benefit producing ash trees will decrease the
effect of tree population loss overall. Another component of EAB management is
treating the remaining desirable ash tree population not only to retain benefits
but to curb the amount of tree removals. Shorewood's desirable ash tree
population are nineteen inches DBH and greater and in Good or Fair Condition.
According to inventory data, 92 ash trees fit the criteria. Table 7 illustrates one
year of treatments with estimated costs. Treatments remain effective over a two
year span, therefore the city should plan on treating these 92 ash once every two
years.
Table 7. Biannual Ash Treatments
Diameter Size Class First Year Estimated Industry
(Inches) Treatment Cost
($10 per Inch DBH)
19-24 61 $12,810
25-30 25 $6,750
31-36 5 $1,700
37-42 1 $400
Total 92 $21,660
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Contracting Work
Many cities employ private contractors to assist with managing emerald ash
borer. Once an EAB plan is established, the time line for management activities
usually dictates the amount of personnel required to carry out the plan.
Contractors are often hired to preform removals, treatments, and tree planting.
Using a request for proposal (RFP) template allows the City to clearly state their
needs, and what their requirements are for prospective contractors. A typical RFP
gathers the following information from prospective contractors:
• Years in business
• Years of experience performing duties in contract
• References from past work contracts
• Names, licenses, and qualifications of employees who perform the work
• Ensure training and training content, quality, and consistency with work
performed
• Available and necessary equipment and staff to perform work
• Warranty period and/or guarantee
• Pricing and bid information
Information gathered from returned RFPs will help City managers narrow the field
of contractors and make a decision based on qualities the City sees as being most
important.
Ordinance Revisions and Policy Development
The City's ordinance will need updating to address the presence of EAB and
broadened to account for other invasive insects, diseases that man be introduced
over time. The intent of the EAB portion of the ordinance update is to initially
limit the spread of EAB throughout the city, and once established, to ensure
public safety since thousands of standing dead and brittle ash trees will pose a
risk to human safety and property.
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Ash Debris Handling and Disposal
The USDA and MDA have imposed a quarantine that prohibits the movement of
any ash logs or firewood of any tree species out of Ramsey and Hennepin
Counties. The quarantine is enacted on a large county-wide scale with the
assumption that the infestation has spread beyond what is observed.
To limit the spread of EAB within the counties, leave infested or non-infested ash
trees standing during the EAB active period between May 1" and September 31' .
This eliminates the movement of infested material during the active period.
Regardless of their infestation status, ash pruning and removals should take place
during the EAB dormant period between October 15t and April 30th. All wood and
brush produced must be processed by May 151
The volume of wood waste generated by thousands of public and private property
ash removals will increase significantly once EAB is established in the City. The city
will need to establish a Marshaling yard for processing infested material. A
Marshaling yard is a disposal site with the purpose to help prevent EAB infested
ash wood from being transported out of a newly identified EAB infested are. The
yard can be used as staging site for wood processing, such as chipping, grinding,
debarking and sawing. The yards also serve as temporary over flow or emergency
storage sites when trees are removed. The City should explore opportunities to
cooperate with Hennepin Country and other agencies when creating marshaling
yards.
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Chapter 3: Reforestation
The situation many Cities find themselves in today facing widespread tree
population loss from EAB, is reminiscent of the 1970s when many of these same
Cities were dealing with Dutch elm disease. A reason Dutch elm disease was so
devastating for urban forests can be contributed to over planting of elm trees.
Urban forests had high percentages of American elm, leaving the entire system
exposed to the possibility of massive population loss. Ironically, Cities replaced
many of their lost elms with ash trees, thus creating framework for a similar crisis
taking place in the future.
Today, urban foresters focus on growing sustainable, diverse, beautiful, safe,
benefit producing tree populations. S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists
recommend Shorewood replace the trees removed from both the EAB reduction
program and Dead/Dying tree removals. City managers should also expect to lose
1% of their total tree population each year from natural mortality.
Tree Replacement
Replacing Shorewood's lost trees from removals and natural mortality is
important for achieving the management goals of this plan. According to
inventory data, the city can expect to lose 711 trees over the next five years
(Figure 3). These removals include ash trees removed as part of the ash tree
reduction program, one percent annual population loss from natural mortality,
and the dead or dying trees within the right of way.
Appendix A provides framework and breaks down cost for a five year
reforestation program. The program aims at replacing all 711 trees in conjunction
with their removals during the five year management period. Ideally, 142 trees
should be planted annually to offset removals and regenerate tree benefits for
Shorewood. The budget estimates the cost for purchase and installation of balled
and burlapped trees.
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469
140
102
Ash Trees 1%Mortality Dead/Dying
Figure 3. Projected street tree population loss over five years
Tree Species Selection
Shorewood, Minnesota, is located in Zone 4b of the USDA Hardiness Zone Map,
which identifies a climatic region where the average annual minimum
temperature is between -259 and -209 F. Tree species selected for planting in the
city should be appropriate for this zone.
In addition to considering site characteristics, such as the availability of space, soil
pH, and irrigation, species-specific features must also be scrutinized. Considered
seasonal color when planning tree plantings: flowering varieties are particularly
welcome in the spring, and deciduous trees that display bright colors in autumn
can add a great deal of interest to surrounding landscapes.
Above all else, tree species should be selected for their durability and low-
maintenance characteristics. These attributes are highly dependent on site
characteristics as well as species characteristics. Consider the potential threat of
invasive insects and diseases when selecting species.
Matching a species to its favored climatic and soil conditions is the most
important task when planning for a low-maintenance landscape. Plants that are
well matched to their environmental and site conditions are much more likely to
resist pathogens and insect pests and will, therefore, require less maintenance
overall. Refer to Appendix B for additional tree species and cultivars potentially
suitable for planting in Shorewood.
S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists,Inc.Consulting Division Page 23
Tree Purchases
Tree prices vary based on the species selected, but many nurseries offer trees
from 1.5 to 2.5-caliper inches for $150-$300. As the City works toward planting
more trees annually, obtaining a good price for quality trees will become more
important and nursery guaranteed stock is crucial. Saving money on the cost per
tree will allow a greater number of trees to be purchased.
Bare-root planting is typically less expensive than B&B plantings because, in
general, the bare-root trees weigh much less than a B&B tree. The reduced
weight lowers transportation costs and labor costs. Parks and recreational areas
can be planted with even cheaper alternatives such
as seedlings with grow tubes. Grow tubes are an
accepted and proven method of transplanting and
growing trees. Inexpensive tree seedlings can be ,
transplanted and grown with relatively high
survival rates.
S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists believe that
a good working relationship with a local nursery is
very beneficial, but it is equally important that
good prices and wide species availability be
considered. It is recommended that Shorewood r-
explore local and regional sources for trees, discuss �`-
pricing with the current nursery source, and search
for nurseries that provide bare-root planting stock.
To achieve species diversity, it may be necessary to
use several nurseries as sources for trees.
Photograph 7. Mulching
newly planted trees
increases survival rates
S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists,Inc.Consulting Division Page 24
Tree Mulching
Mulch should be applied to the soil surface around newly planted trees. Mulch
should never be piled up around the root collar (so-called mulch "volcanoes"), but
should be pulled away from the root collar. Mulch that buries the root collar
provides shelter for insects, fungi, and small mammals that could damage the
tree. Mulch should be applied to an area three times the diameter of the root ball
to a depth of 2-4-inches. Mulch not only suppresses competition from grass and
weeds, but also provides a zone where turf maintenance is not needed, thereby
keeping lawn mowers and string trimmers safely away to prevent mechanical
damage. Mulch helps to hold moisture in the surface of the soil where most of the
feeder roots established.
S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists,Inc.Consulting Division Page 25
Chapter 4. iTree Eco and Canopy Analysis
The i-Tree Eco application was used to determine the overall and net values and benefits
of Shorewood's urban forest. i-Tree Eco is a component of i-Tree, a suite of free software
tools released by the U.S. Forest Service that can be used to assess and manage
community forests. With these tools, cities and urban forest managers can accurately
quantify the benefits of urban forests.
The i-Tree Eco tool quantifies the benefits of public trees and compares them directly
with the costs of urban forestry programs to produce accurate net benefit values. It is a
statistically valid, financially sound, and defensible cost-benefit analysis tool for urban
forestry that may be used with existing inventories or with a sampling of streets in a
community.
i-Tree Eco Benefit Categories
S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists entered tree inventory data into the i-Tree Eco
model to assess and quantify the beneficial functions of the public tree resource and to
place a dollar value on the annual environmental benefits trees provide. Analysis was
performed to quantify the following benefits:
is Carbon Sequestering—Carbon dioxide (CO2) is used during a tree's
photosynthesis process to produce the natural building blocks necessary for
tree growth. This process takes CO2 from the atmosphere and holds it as woody
and foliar biomass. This is referred to as carbon sequestration.
is Air Quality—The air quality of Shorewood's urban environment greatly benefits
from the presence of street and other public trees. Trees absorb gaseous
pollutants in the form of ozone (03) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). Reduction in
03 can also be attributed to the tree shading effect on hardscape surfaces and
the transpiration process. Trees intercept volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
sulfuric dioxide (S02), and small particulate matter (PMIO), such as dust, ash,
dirt, pollen, and smoke from the air. Trees also emit biogenic volatile organic
compounds (BVOCs), an air pollutant that contributes to the formation of 03, a
process that the i-Tree Eco model takes into account.
is Avoided Runoff—Shorewood's public tree population reduces the volume of
runoff in neighborhoods and citywide. This function and benefit is especially
important in developed settings with increased quantities of impervious
surfaces (roads, driveways, homes, and parking areas) and in areas in close
proximity to surface waters. A tree's surface area, especially the leaf surfaces,
intercepts and stores rainfall. The root systems of trees increase soil infiltration,
thereby decreasing runoff. Trees also reduce runoff by intercepting raindrops
before they hit the ground, reducing soil compaction rates and improving soils'
absorptive properties. In addition, trees intercept suburban contaminants, such
as oils, solvents, pesticides, and fertilizers, which are often part of runoff,
reducing pollutant discharges into the city's vital waterways.
Benefits of Shorewood's Municipal Trees
Public trees provide a host of benefits to the City of Shorewood. Public trees conserve
energy, reduce carbon dioxide levels, improve air quality, and mitigate runoff. In addition,
trees provide numerous economical, psychological, and social benefits.
This study uses tree inventory data collected in Shorewood and an i-Tree Eco model to
assess and quantify the beneficial functions of the City's public tree resource and to place
a dollar value on the annual benefits they provide. Table 8 illustrates the total annual
benefits for Shorewood.
Table 8. i-Tree Eco Analysis Results for Total Annual Benefits
Provided by Shorewood's Inventoried Trees
Sequestered Air
Benefit Avoided
Category
Carbon Quality Runoff Total
Dioxide Benefits
Annual
Annual $3,969.83 $3,407.14 $5,539 $12,915.97
Electricity and Natural Gas Results
Shorewood's inventoried public trees provide electricity and natural gas savings by
creating shade a barrier to slow or redirect wind. Energy savings are a significant benefit
that trees provide. Trees can decrease the energy consumption of a typical Shorewood
home by 25% through shading and other environment altering effects.
Sequestered Carbon Dioxide
Shorewood's public tree resource sequesters nearly 30 tons of carbon dioxide per year
valued at a total of $3,969.83 with the average savings per inventoried tree of$1.16.
Maple accounts for 24% of these savings while constituting 25% of the total tree
inventory. Mature trees of the maple, elm, and ash variety contribute the most to this
environmental benefit. Shorewood should continue to maintain these trees to continue
receiving these benefits. Planting new trees and maintaining existing ones is the best
approach to sustaining benefits.
Net Air Quality Improvement
Shorewood experiences a net air quality improvement worth $3,407per year, averaging
$1 per tree. Shorewood's population of maple helps improve the air the most by
eliminating 680 Ibs of pollution each year. The total inventoried tree population works to
remove approximately 1.26 tons of pollution annually.
Avoided Runoff
Shorewood's inventoried tree population helps avoid 82,863 cubic feet of runoff annually
producing a value of $5,539. Each tree avoids approximately $1.62 worth of runoff every
year. In Shorewood, Silver maple, green ash, and cottonwood effect runoff amounts the
greatest.
Canopy Analysis
Many urban forest managers
focus on increasing percentages of
canopy cover within their cities. A
component of many tree
inventories is identifying and
mapping vacant planting spots.
These data give managers insight
f•
on how much opportunity there is
for tree planting and further _
increasing tree canopy
percentages. Photograph 8. Canopy analysis results indicate
Healthy urban canopy cover Shorewood being 50.5% covered by tree canopy.
benefits the community by
lowering summer air temperatures, reducing air pollution, reducing heating and cooling
costs, increase property values, improving health, wellbeing, learning, and concentration.
A single large tree can provide approximately $76 in benefits annually and over $3,000
across a 40 year period. Increasing urban tree canopy increases these benefits.
An urban tree canopy analysis was conducted for the City of Shorewood using i-Tree
Canopy, a product developed by the U.S. forest service. Within Shorewood's boundaries,
200 random points were surveyed remotely to determine canopy cover. Results from the
analysis project an urban tree canopy covering 50.5% of Shorewood which is considered
good for an urban area. Table 9 displays i-Tree Canopy calculations of approximate
benefits provided by all trees in Shorewood.
Table 9. Benefits Provided by all Trees in Shorewood
Benefit Description Value Amount
CO Removed Annually $276.82 416.65 1
NO2 Removed Annually $2,561.60 4.11 T
03 Removed Annually $89,150.92 29.99 T
Particulate Matter Removed Annually $200,210.40 12.02 T
SO2 Removed Annually $101.30 899.78 1
CO2 Sequestered Annually $261,209.12 7,223.83 T
CO2 Stored in Trees $8,771,607.66 242,581.94 T
Total $9,325,117.82 249,851.89 T
Chapter S. Private Tree Management
Tree Ordinance Review
Part of a successful urban forest management program is creating an effective tree
ordinance that helps facilitate the community's management goals. Understanding the
current state of a city's urban forest is the first step toward developing relevant and
effective policies. Decisions can be made based on biological, management goals, and
community needs.
Upon review of Shorewood's City ordinance, S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists
recommend that changes be made to the City's tree related ordinances to create a
framework that better facilitates achievement of Shorewood's urban forestry goals. Cities
are moving in the direction of further defining their forestry departments and activities
and how they fit with other initiatives and regulations. For Shorewood to begin moving in
a similar direction, it must have a defined section within the code that deals with trees
directly. The code should include the following subdivisions that further define
Shorewood's intentions.
• City Forester Duties and Forestry Program
• Maintenance and Removal of Trees
• Tree Work License
• Minimum Height of Tree Limbs
• Shade Tree Disease Regulation
• Tree Preservation
• Nuisance Tree Declaration
• Inspections and Investigations
• Abuse or Mutilation of Public Trees
S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists created a sample tree ordinance that expands the
wording and procedures for each subdivision listed above. We recommend Shorewood
integrate this sample and amend their ordinance according to the suggested material.
Tree Preservation Ordinance Review
Shorewood's Tree Preservation Policy covers all aspects of tree preservation at multiple
levels. It has straightforward definitions consistent with many other municipal tree
preservation ordinances which provide simple and easy to understand requirements for
sub-dividers and builders alike. It emphasizes tree protection, preservation of root space,
escrow funds, and penalties for failing to address the ordinance.
Many communities are concerned about the tear down of smaller homes to make way
for much larger homes usually to the detriment of the trees. Trying to find balance
between personal rights and community benefits can be challenging. The current Tree
Preservation Policy recommends a site visit with the Zoning Administrator before a
project begins. Ideally, the Forester would also meet on site prior to provide input on the
forest resource with regards to preserving the property's unique characteristics. Choices
made by developers can have dramatic impacts on trees and the land they grow on.
Guidelines for replanting lost trees are critical for every tree preservation policy. With
Shorewood's high percentage of canopy cover, planting for diversity may be more
important than planting strictly for canopy coverage. Issues arise when not enough trees
can be planted in the area because of lack of space. Cash in lieu funds can be put towards
the cost of implementing the forestry program with regards to contractor fees and
enforcement. Many checks and balances are in place to make sure escrow funds are held
until the completion of the project.
The current Tree Preservation Policy is understandable, enforceable and perfectly
acceptable for the city's current situation. With a few exceptions some minor changes to
specific parts of the ordinance can be found but overall the plan can remain as is.
Providing schematics for tree fencing, tree planting, will allow for a more stream-lined
and consistent process. Also, a template to sub-dividers and builders can act as a
checklist to insure that all aspects of the ordinance are being followed.
A planting schedule including type, size, and location of trees to be replanted should also
be included within the Tree Preservation Plan. The list of acceptable trees for planting
should be removed from the ordinance as it could discriminate against certain tree
species which may be a valuable part of the urban forest. All planting schedules should be
approved by the Forester before planting.
Extending oak wilt dates from the middle of March to the end of June will prevent
more oak wilt infection centers from becoming established within the city limits
during the high oak wilt season. If oak tree work needs to occur during the high oak
wilt season a Forester consultation is recommended to prevent the spread of oak
wilt. Consulting with a Forester will help the City determine a safe time to prune
oaks.
Woody Invasive Plant Management
Invasive plants are an unwelcome menace for many ecosystems. Forested urban
ecosystems oftentimes have thriving populations of various woody invasive plant species.
Human activity, development, and disturbance each contribute to the introduction and
spread of invasive plants. Identifying invasive plants in Shorewood and finding ways of
educating residents is the aim of this section.
Displayed in Table 10 is a list of high priority invasive plants that grow in Shorewood.
These plants have the capacity to quickly take over native forest or disturbed areas and
severely limit diversity. Shorewood's available control areas are limited to right of ways,
parks, and other public property. The majority of invasive plants will be found colonizing
private properties throughout the City. Public awareness and educational initiatives
focused on identification, effects, and control of woody invasive plants can be an
effective management approach.
Table 10. High Priority Woody Invasive Plants
Common Name Genus species
Buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica
Honeysuckle Lonicera tatarica
Mulberry Morus albs
Barberry Berberis thunbergii
Russian Olive Elaeagnus angustifolia
Amur Maple Acer ginnala
Identifying areas of concern in regards to invasive species could start with surveying parks
and other public spaces. Once areas of significant infestation have been identified, a
method of control must be chosen. Usually the method of control is depicted by species,
area of influence, and species maturity. Buckthorn poses the largest challenge to
Shorewood when speaking of woody invasive plants.
Methods for buckthorn removal depend on acreage, stem
diameter, and location. The most effective method of
eradicating buckthorn is cutting and treating freshly cut
stumps with herbicide. Further action depends on how
established buckthorn was on the site. The activity that
accompanies buckthorn removal makes conditions perfect for
buckthorn regeneration. The site will need to be retreated
with herbicide as buckthorn should be expected to
regenerate. The number of retreatments depends on how
established the seed bank is within the treatment area. 64;
Heavily populated sites with larger diameter buckthorn have
well established seed banks, making retreatment necessary
for a number of following years.
Photograph 9. Dense
Because most of the Shorewood's woody invasive plants are buckthorn patch growing
on private property, encouraging residents to eradicate them on the right of way of a
from their properties will be essential. Offering workshops on street in Shorewood.
invasive species removal could help educate and influence
homeowners to take action.
A major initiative of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) is
community outreach and invasive species control. The MDNR website
(www.dnr.state.mn.us) has extensive content pertaining to invasive species management
and community education.
Shade Tree Disease Program
A full-service shade tree disease program can help preserve Shorewood's valuable tree
resource and save taxpayers from potentially costly burdens. Without controls in place,
shade tree diseases can quickly spread from one area to the next without regards for
property lines. Early identification, proper sanitation, and treatment are the backbone of
successful programs. Benefits of these programs to communities have been well
documented over the years.
The City has a shade tree disease ordinance in place that specifically addresses oak wilt
and Dutch elm disease. Emerald Ash Borer is not specifically addressed but can be
included with the "shade tree with an epidemic disease" group as specified within the
ordinance. In the future, anticipation of more shade tree diseases will find their way into
our region. Asian long-horned beetle and gypsy moth are a few examples of potential
threats. However, as worded, the ordinance sufficiently addresses for these
contingencies.
Shade tree diseases can have a significant impact on both public and private trees. The
majority of urban communities have active shade tree disease suppression programs in
place. An active program will involve the services, at minimum, of a Tree Inspector
certified by the Department of Natural Resources. Their role will be to canvas the city,
actively looking for dead/dying shade trees as well as responding to homeowner calls
specifically related to oak wilt, Emerald Ash Borer, or Dutch elm disease. Sound diagnostic
tools are a must to succeed at this role as a host of other non-lethal insects and diseases
can mimic shade tree diseases.
Proper notification of residents with diseased trees and the locations of said trees,
including any supporting documentation, will need to be provided to the correct
landowner. Re-inspection will be required to insure that all trees are being promptly
removed and that full compliance has been met. Delinquent residents will be provided a
certified letter stating that the tree(s) will need to be removed by a specific date. If the
landowner fails to comply, the city can authorize the removal of the tree and the
landowner will be assessed through their property tax.
Shade tree disease abatement is an important part of any successful urban forestry
management program and the enforcement of existing ordinances is highly
recommended to limit harmful impacts to the community and preserve natural
resources.
Public Education
Homeowner Site Visits
The contracted forester is able to provide homeowner site visits May through September.
This is a budgeted amount of 100 site visits per growing season to be scheduled through
city hall. Site visits will be scheduled based on shade tree insect and disease issues such
as oak wilt, Dutch elm disease, emerald ash borer, bur oak blight and many other tree
related insect or disease issues.
Public Education (City Events, Newsletters, Social Media)
The contracted forester is able to provide timely public education articles that can be
distributed in print or electronically. Following are a list of those items we can provide.
• Staff an "Ask the Arborist" booth at city events such as spring or summer events.
These could include spring clean up days, open house events, etc.
• Shade tree insect or disease information for the newsletter, similar content can be
provided for blog posts, social media posts
Public Education (Website)
Home>Departments>Public works> Forestry
Forestry Home
Municipal arboriculture is a specialized field of arboriculture and urban forestry that deals
with the management of planted and naturally occurring greenspaces on public land in
communities. It Involves planning, planting, establishing, protecting, and managing public
trees and associated vegetation.
We plant and manage trees because they provide significant benefits to our community.
Among the most basic reasons for planting trees is for their beauty and the shade they
provide. While these are excellent benefits, trees serve many other purposed. The
following documents provide in-depth information and research about why trees are
important:
Midwest Community Tree Guide
The Value of Trees
The Benefits of Trees
City Tree Maintenance
The City of Shorewood monitors and maintains the health and safety of trees on public
property. Public trees are on a 10 year rotational pruning cycle where certified
professionals provide maintenance and mitigate risks in a timely manner.
Rotational pruning takes place between December and March, when tree disease
transmission is not a concern. High priority tree work will be completed immediately.
High priority situations include, hazardous trees or tree parts, sightline impediment, and
failed trees on structures.
Requests for tree maintenance concerning sightline obstruction, hazard tree or tree part,
and diseased trees can be made by contacting the forestry information line at ###-###-
Hiring A Professional Arborist
Your trees are an investment. Among the many diverse benefits provided by trees are the
recordable financial benefits such as increased property values. When the time comes
where your trees require maintenance, be sure to hire someone who can do the job
responsibly and professionally. A professional arborist will protect your investment and
ensure its growth.
The City of Shorewood has a list of licensed tree care business that can be used as a
starting point when hiring an arborist. When scheduling work with a tree care company,
ask if a ISA Certified Arborist will be overseeing work. Although the title of ISA Certified
Arborist does not always guarantee high quality, it does indicate a level of
professionalism in the tree care industry. Receiving this credential from a professional
organization demonstrate a willingness on the part of the arborist to stay up-to-date on
the latest techniques and information. Ask for a list of references, and if possible talk to
former clients. Experience, education, and a good reputation are signs of a good arborist.
The following is a list of some professional organizations.
International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
Minnesota Society of Arboriculture (MSA)
Tree Care Industry Association
Things homeowners should consider when hiring a tree care company
Be sure to deal with insured professionals only. Ask for certificates of insurance, including
proof of liability for personal and property damage and workers' compensation. Contact
their insurance provider to make sure the policy is current. Protect yourself against being
held financially responsible if an uninsured worker is hurt on your property or damage is
done to your neighbor's property.
Door-to-door solicitors offering tree work, especially those not based in the metro should
not be dealt with. Improper tree care can take years to correct and may negatively affect
the health of the tree.
A good tree care professional will:
-Offer a wide range of services, including pruning, removal, fertilizing, cabling/bracing,
pest control and others
-Never ask you to pay in advance
-Never use climbing spikes on a healthy tree unless it is being removed from the
landscape
-Never recommend "topping" a tree.
-Never be eager to remove a healthy, living tree. Tree removal is the last resort.
-Provide a written contract
Shade Tree Disease Control Program
The City's shade tree disease control program manages tree diseases such as Dutch elm
disease and oak wilt on private and public property, in order to actively prepare for
emerging or new threats to the community forest such as emerald ash borer. The city
provides Certified Tree inspectors who scout throughout the summer, and fit in
inspection requests from homeowners.
Tree disease of concern: Tree insects of concern:
Bur Oak blight Emerald ash borer
Dutch elm disease Gypsy moth
Oak wilt Asian Ionghorned beetle
Caring for trees
-Tree selection
Selecting the right trees and their planting locations are the two most important
decisions a homeowner can make when adding or replacing trees on their property. Trees
have the potential to outlive those who plant them so the impact of this decision can last
a lifetime.
Before selecting a tree, consider the following questions:
• What function will the tree serve?
• Is the location best suited for a small, medium, or large tree?
• Is there enough sail available of sufficient quality to support a mature tree?
• How will maintenance be provided as needed? Will someone water, fertilize, and
prune the tree?
The mantra "right tree, right place" is often used to as a reminder of the importance of
planting a tree that satisfies all of the questions above. if the planning is done before
planting, trees can be an investment that continues to appreciate as they mature.
Find your next tree!
-Proper Planting
Planting correctly is important for both the short and long term health of your new tree.
Improper planting and young tree neglect are the main reason newly planted trees die.
After selecting the right tree for the right place, the next step is proper installation.
Techniques may vary some whether your tree is balled and burlapped, containerized, or
bare root but generally, the following rules about planting new trees will apply.
Planting guide
• Dig the planting hole three times the size of the root ball
• Planting hole should be no deeper than the root mass
• Back fill with dirt taken from the hole
• Do not cover stem with dirt
• Soak with water and apply mulch
-Mulching
Mulch is valuable for your trees health and care. Newly planted trees benefit greatly from
mulch. Mulch insulates the soil helping to provide a buffer from heat and cold
temperatures and retains water which helps keep roots moist. Mulch also plays a role in
preventing soil compaction and reducing lawn mower damage by providing a barrier
between turf and tree.
Properly mulching a tree is easy. First, add mulch to the base of your tree by removing
any grass within a 3 to 10 foot area depending on the size of your tree. Second, pour
natural mulch such as wood chips or bark pieces 2 to 4 inches deep within the circle.
-Pruning
Tree pruning often will occur throughout a trees life. Trees need to be pruned typically
for one of four reasons; structure, safety, aesthetics, or clearance. Structural pruning is
most important when the tree is young. Structure pruning should happen right after
planting and several years thereafter. "Young tree training" is beneficial in that it corrects
any structural defects the tree has early while the problems are small. If left unpruned,
these structural defects can grow into large problems down the road.
Removing storm damage or a hanging limb is an example of safety pruning. After severe
weather, trees are often left with broken branches hung up in their canopies that pose a
safety risk for people and property. Removing these branches from trees and correcting
any damage caused by storms is accomplished by pruning.
Maintaining form and clearing unsightly dead wood from trees is important for keeping
up appearance. Raising a tree for pedestrian or vehicle traffic is both important for the
trees health and the safety of people. Pruning for building clearance will lessen the
chance of damage to buildings and trees.
-Tree pest control
Pests are a part of the landscape and need to be dealt with whenever they threaten the
health or aesthetics of your trees and shrubs. Most pests will not kill whatever their
feeding on so the time when pest control is necessary depends on the homeowners
damage threshold. However, pests that will kill your trees such as emerald ash borer and
oak wilt, must be addressed earlier for prevention. An ISA Certified Arborist will be able
to offer insight on your landscape and what pest control measures are necessary.
Conclusion
Shorewood is on the right path to a sustainable urban forest. The recommendations of
this report can be used to guide the City's public tree management strategy, promoting a
valuable asset with numerous qualities. By strengthening its network with partners and
urban forest managers, Shorewood will help to develop the relationships and resources it
needs to achieve its urban forestry goals.
Shorewood has a tree population in relatively Good condition that adds to the beauty
and livability of the city. As trees get alder, they become increasingly inefficient in
withstanding the inherent stresses of an urban environment and are subject to decline
without professional and regular management. Keeping that in mind, Shorewood should
strive to achieve the goals of this Management Plan.
TREE AND
HORTICULTURAL
SPECIALISTS, INC.
a EIAYEY#—company
Jon Schmidt
Certified Arborist/ Municipal Specialist WI-0869AM
S&S Tree and Horticultural Specialists, Inc.
Consulting Services Division
A Davey Company
405 Hardman Avenue
South St. Paul, MN 55075
www.sstree.com 1651.451.8907
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TREE PRESERVATION AND REPLACEMENT POLICY
CITY OF SHOREWOOD
1. Purpose. It is the policy of the City of Shorewood to recognize and preserve
existing natural resources of the community. In its effort to maintain the wooded
character of the area,the City finds that trees provide numerous benefits including, but
not limited to: stabilization of the soil by the prevention of erosion and sedimentation,
reduction of storm water runoff, improvement of air quality, reduction of noise pollution,
control of urban heat island effect,protection and increase of property values,protection
of privacy, energy conservation through natural insulation,providing habitat for birds
and other wildlife and conservation and enhancement of the city's physical and aesthetic
environment.
The purpose of this policy is to preserve and protect significant trees or stands of trees
whose loss due to land disturbances associated with the process of development or
construction would adversely affect the character of neighborhoods, subdivisions,public
or semipublic projects and commercial developments. This policy also recognizes that,
despite the best efforts of the City and property owners, trees may occasionally be lost in
the development or construction process. In those cases tree replacement or reforestation
shall be required.
II. Applicability.This policy shall apply to any person or entity that would disturb
land areas and impact significant trees or stands of trees in neighborhoods, subdivisions,
commercial building developments, public and semipublic projects such as streets,
utilities and parks whether disturbed by a public agency or private developer; except
when the City Council may waive these requirements where there would be greater
public need for the project than to meet the requirements of this policy. The terms and
provisions of this Policy, to conjunction with the Shorewood Tree Preservation
Ordinance No. 324, shall apply to all activity which requires the issuance of a Land
Disturbance Permit.
III. Definitions. All words in this Policy have their customary dictionary
definition except as specifically defined herein. The word"shall" is mandatory and the
words "should" and"may" are permissive. Technical terms used in this Policy are
defined in Appendix A.
Buildable Area: The portion of a lot which is not located within any minimum required
yard, landscape strip/area, or buffer; that portion of a lot wherein a building may be
located, as prescribed by the Shorewood Zoning Code.
Caliper: The American Association of Nurserymen standard for trunk measurement of
nursery stock, whereby the diameter of the trunk is measured 6 inches above ground for
stock up to 4 inches in caliper size.
DBH(Diameter-at-Breast-Height): A standard measure of tree size, whereby a tree trunk
diameter is measured in inches at a height of four and one-half feet(4 112')above
1
ground. If a tree splits into multiple trunks below four and one-half feet(4 112'), then the
trunk is measured at its most narrow point beneath the split.
Driplinc: A vertical line extending from the outer surface of a tree's branch tips down to
the ground.
Land Disturbance Permit: An official authorization issued by the Zoning Administrator,
allowing defoliation or alteration of the site for the commencement of any construction.
Protection Zone: All lands that fall outside the buildable area of a parcel.
Significant Trees: Any healthy long-lived hardwood deciduous tree measuring eight
inches (8") DBH or greater; any healthy softwood deciduous tree measuring twelve
inches (12") DBH or greater; or any healthy coniferous tree measuring eight feet(8') or
more in height. Box-elder, cottonwood, and willow trees shall not be considered to be
significant trees.
Specimen Tree or Stand: Any tree or grouping of trees which has been determined to be
of a high value by the Zoning Administrator because of its species, size, age, or other
professional criteria.
Structure: Anything which is built, constructed or erected; an edifice or building of any
kind or any piece of work artificially built up or composed of parts jointed together in
some definite manner whether temporary or permanent in character.
Tree: Any self supporting woody plant,usually having a single woody trunk, and a
potential DBH of two inches (2") or more.
Tree Preservation Plan: A plan established in Section IV(B) of this Policy. See
Appendices B and C.
Zoning Administrator: The agent of the City of Shorewood having the primary
responsibilities of administration and enforcement of this Policy.
IV. Procedures
A. Development Standards. Developments shall be designed to preserve
large trees where such preservation would not affect the public health,
safety or welfare. The City may prohibit removal of all or part of a stand
of trees. In addition, nothing in this policy sball prevent building on an
existing tot of record, provided that such building shall be designed to
save as many trees as possible. This decision shall be based on, but not
limited to, the following criteria:
1. Size of trees.
2. Species, health and attractiveness of the trees including:
2
a. Sensitivity to disease
b. Life span
C. Nuisance characteristics
d. Sensitivity to grading
3. Potential for transplanting.
4. Need for thinning a stand of trees.
5. Effect on the functioning of a development.
B. Land Disturbance Permit.
1. A tree survey, prepared by a registered land surveyor or landscape
architect, shall be submitted showing size, species and location of
significant trees.
2. A Tree Preservation Plan shall be submitted with the following:
a. Preliminary plat for the subdivision of property.
b. Other permit drawings as a part of the building permit
process for the construction of new principal buildings.
C. Nonresidential site plans, either as a separate drawing or as
part of the landscape plan.
3. The Tree Preservation Plan shall be certified by a forester, arborist,
or registered landscape architect and shall include the following
information:
a. Identification of spatial limits:
(1) Limits of land disturbance, clearing, grading and
trenching
(2) Tree protection zones
(3) Specimen trees or stands of Fees
(4) Location of significant trees which will be saved
(5) Location of significant trees which will be removed
(6) Location of trees to be transplanted
(7) Location of replacement trees
b. Detail drawings of tree protection measures as provided for
in Section VI. of this Policy (where applicable):
(1) Protective tree fencing
(2) Tree protection signs
3
C. Drawings indicating location of applicable utilities:
(1) City water or well
(2) City sewer
(3) Electricity
(4) Gas
(5) Cable TV
(6) Telephone
4. These plans shall be reviewed by the Zoning Administrator for
conformance with this Policy, in conjunction with the Shorewood
Tree Preservation Ordinance No. 324, and will either be approved,
or returned for revisions. Reasons for denial shall be noted on the
Tree Preservation Plan, or otherwise stated in writing.
5. Issuance of the Land Disturbance Permit is contingent upon
approval of preliminary plats, or metes and bounds subdivision
approval for the subdivision of property, or approval of the Tree
Preservation Plan for other building permit processes or
nonresidential site plans.
6. A fee as provided in Chapter 1302 of the City Code shall be
charged for review of Tree Preservation Plans. Any costs incurred
by the City in reviewing plans for plats and nonresidential site
plans shall be charged to the developer. The Zoning Administrator
may submit the plan to a consulting forester for a recommendation,
the costs of which shall be paid by the developer or builder.
7. All tree protection measures shall be installed prior to beginning
building construction and inspected by the Zoning Administrator
or his agent.
8. The Zoning Administrator or his agent will conduct follow-up site
inspections for enforcement of this Policy, in conjunction with the
Shorewood Tree Preservation Ordinance No. 324.
9. If any significant tree in a development or on a building site is cut,
damaged, or the area within the tree's dripline has been
encroached upon by grading equipment,without City
authorization, the City shall require replacement pursuant to 10.
below. In addition, if the City determines that a damaged tree will
probably not survive, it shall be removed by the developer or
builder.
10. Except as provided in IV.13. of this Policy, all significant trees
removed or damaged during the process of land development or
construction activities shall be replaced on site. The removal of
trees on public right-of-way, conducted by or on behalf of a
4
governmental agency in pursuance of its lawful activities or
functions, shall be exempt from this replacement.
a. Any trees required to be planted shall be varied in species,
shall maximize the use of species native to the area, shall
not include any species under disease epidemic, and shall
be hardy under local conditions.
b. Tree Replacement Ratio.
(1) Significant deciduous trees eight inches (8") DBH
or greater shall be replaced by two(2), three (3)
inch caliper or greater deciduous trees or two, six-
foot(6')high coniferous trees.
(2) Significant deciduous trees twelve inches (12")
DBH or greater shall be replaced by three(3), three
(3)inch caliper or greater deciduous trees or three
(3), six-foot(6') high coniferous trees.
(3) Significant coniferous trees six feet(6')high or
greater shall be replaced by one(1) six-foot(6')
high or greater coniferous tree.
(4) Significant coniferous trees twelve feet(12')high
or greater shall be replaced by two(2) six-foot (6')
high or greater coniferous trees.
(5) In no case will the total number of replacement
trees exceed eight(8) trees per acre.
C. Before any construction takes place, tree protection
measures as set forth in VI.B. of this Policy shall be placed
around tree protection zones and around the driplines of
significant trees to be preserved. Signs shall be placed
along fence lines prohibiting grading beyond the fence line.
d. Any trees required to be planted shall be replaced if they
die or appear to be dying within two(2) full growing
seasons of planting by the person responsible for the
planting.
C. Replacement trees shall be of a similar species to the trees
which are Iost or removed and shall include those species
shown on the following list:
5
Deciduous Trees
Green Ash -Fraxinus pennsylvanica Black Locust-Robinia
Mountain Ash- Sorbus spp. psuedbacacia
River Birch -Betula nigra Amur Maple _acer ginnala
Kentucky Coffeetree - Gymnocladus dioicus Norway Maple -Acer platanoides
Amur Corktree -Phellodendron amurense Red Maple -Acer ruhrum
Flowering Crabapple -Malus spp. Silver Queen Maple (seedless)-Acer
Ginkgo (male only) - Ginkgo biloba .saccharinum `Silver Queen'
Hackberry - Celtis occidentalis Sugar Maple -acer saccharum
Hawthorn - Crataegus spp. Northern Catalpa- Catalpa speciosi
Shagbark Hickory - Carya ovata Bur Oak- Quercus macrocarpa
Honeylocust- Gleditsia Hatriacanthos Pin Oak- Quercus palustris
Ironwood- Ostrya virginiana Red Oak - Quercus rubra
Japanese Tree Lilac- Syringa amurensis Swamp White Oak- Quercus bicolor
japonica White Oak - Quercus alba
American Linden - Tilia americana Ohio Buckeye-Aesculus glabra
Littleleaf Lindcn - Tilia cordata Russian Olivc -Eleagnus
Redmond Linden - Tilia americana angustifolia
`Redmond' Black Walnut-Juglans nigra
Conifers
American Arborvitae - Thuja occidentalis Red Pine -Pinus resinosa
Balsam Fir-Ahies balsamea Scotch Pine_Pinus sylvestris
Douglas Fir-Pseudotsuga menziesii White Pine -Pinus strobus
White Fir-Ahies concolor Black Hills Spruce -Picea glauca densata
Canadian Hemlock- Tsuga canadensis Colorado Spruce-Picea pungens
European Larch -Larix decidua Norway Spruce -Picea abies
Austrian Pine -Pinus nigra White Spruce -Picea glauca
Norway Pine -Pinus resinosa Tamarack -Larix laricina
11. Financial Guarantee- Subdividers.
a. Subdividers shall provide a financial guarantee as part of
the development contract to ensure replacement of
significant trees lost in the development process. The
amount of the financial guarantee shall be determined by
the Zoning Administrator,based upon estimates made by
the subdivider's registered landscape architect or actual
bids prepared by a certified nurseryman. This shall be a
6
separate line item in the development contract and shall be
the basis for a development contract where the lack of
public improvements would otherwise not require a
contract.
This financial guarantee shall be held for at least two (2)
full growing seasons beyond the date of installation of the
last replacement tree or beyond the last date of site activity
that may impact tree survival.
b. In addition to a. above subdividers shall provide a financial
guarantee as part of the development contract to ensure
protection of all significant trees to be saved. For each
mass graded lot with at least one (1) significant tree to be
saved and each custom graded lot with at least one (1)
significant tree, the subdivider shall pay a fee as established
in Chapter 1302 of the Shorewood City Code.
This financial guarantee will be released upon 1)
certification in writing by the subdivider's forester,
arborist, or landscape architect indicating that tree
protection measures were installed on mass graded lots and
tree replacement is completed, if necessary and/or 2)the
builders have posted security for the custom graded lots.
12. Financial Guarantee - Builders.
a. Homebuilders shall provide a financial guarantee as part of
the building permit application to ensure protection of all
significant trees to be saved. For all lots with at least one
(1) significant tree to be saved the builder shall provide a
letter of credit or cash escrow as established by Chapter
1302 of the City Code.
b. Prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy or release
of the tree protection guarantee, the builder's forester,
arborist, or landscape architect shall certify to the City in
writing that all the tree protection measures identified on
the tree preservation plan were installed from the start of
construction to the end of construction and tree
replacement is completed, if necessary.
c. The Building Official will monitor the tree protection
measures at the time of routine inspections.
d. Builders are liable for subcontractors which destroy or
damage significant trees which were indicated to be saved
on the individual lot tree preservation plan.
7
13. Tree Replacement Fund.
a. In cases where it can be demonstrated that a construction
site can not accommodate additional trees, a builder or
developer may place replacement trees on public property
at the direction of the Zoning Administrator. The City
shall maintain a list of public properties where replacement
trees may be planted.
b. As an alternative to placing trees on public property, the
City may require a builder or developer to contribute to a
City tree replacement fund. This fund shall be used solely
for the purpose of planting trees on public property. The
Zoning Administrator shall annually establish a fee
schedule for replacement trees, based upon market
conditions.
V. Tree & Site Related Disturbances.
A. Tree protection zones, specimen trees or stands of trees designated to be
saved must be protected from the following damages which may occur
during all phases of land disturbance and construction processes. Methods
of tree protection and disturbance prevention are provided in Section VI.
1. Direct physical root damage
2. Indirect root damage
3. Trunk and crown disturbance
B. Direct physical root damage most frequently occurs during site clearing
and grading operations, where transport or feeder roots are cut, torn, or
removed.
I. Transport and feeder roots tend to tangle and fuse among the roots
of adjacent trees. The removal of trees with heavy machinery
along the outer periphery of a tree save area causes root damage.
2. The most substantial form of root damage for all root types occurs
in the form of cut roots. Roots are cut in grade reduction, or from
trenching for underground utilities, sanitary sewer, or storm sewer
lines.
3. A more subtle type of root damage is the loss of feeder roots.
Feeder roots normally occur within the organic layer, and the
surface four inches (4") of top soil, subsequently, these roots can
be easily damaged by the track action from a single bulldozer pass.
8
The stripping of top soil within a tree's critical root zone can
totally eliminate its feeder root system.
C. Indirect root damage through site modification can result from positive
grade changes, temporary storage of fill material, the sedimentation of
erosion materials, soil compaction, and soil chemical changes.
1. Positive grade changes from fill and sedimentation causes a
decrease in soil oxygen levels. An increase in soil carbon dioxide
and other toxic gases can also occur, leading to large areas of
anaerobic conditions. Anaerobic soil conditions cause a decrease
in the root respiration process which is essential for the uptake and
transport of minerals and nutrients.
2. Anaerobic soil conditions are also produced by soil compaction,
the increase in soil bulk density with a decrease in soil spore space.
Compacted soil is also impervious to root penetration, and thus
inhibits root development. Soil compaction is generally caused by
the weight and vibrations of heavy machinery,vehicle parking,
and the storage of fill and/or construction materials within the
critical root zones of trees.
3. Changes in soil chemistry will adversely affect tree survival. The
most frequent occurrence is the change (decrease)in soil acidity by
concrete washout. The leakage or spillage of toxic materials such
as fuels or paints can be fatal for trees.
D. Trunk and crown disturbances are generally mechanical in nature and are
either caused directly by clearing and grading machinery, or indirectly by
debris being cleared and falling into trees marked for protection.
1. Common forms of damage include stripped bark and cambium,
split trunks, and broken limbs.
2. Damage also occurs from the posting of signs such as building
permits, or survey markers on trees.
3. Indirect damage can be caused by the placement of burn holes or
debris fires too close to trees. The possible range of damages
include scorched trunks with some cambial dieback, the loss of
foliage due to evaporative heat stress (leaf desiccation), and
completely burned trunks and crowns.
VI. Methods of Tree Protection.
A. Planning and considerations. Tree space is the most critical factor in tree
protection throughout the development process. The root system of trees
can easily extend beyond the dripline of the tree canopy (Figure 1). The
9
root system within the dripline region is generally considered to be the
protected root zone. Disturbance within this zone can directly affect a
tree's chances of survival. With reference to root zones, the following
standards shall apply-
1. The use of tree save islands and stands is encouraged rather than
the protection of individual (nonspecimen)trees scattered
throughout a site. This will facilitate ease in overall site
organization as related to tree protection.
2. The protective zone of specimen trees or stands of trees or
otherwise designated tree save areas shall include no less than the
total area beneath the tree(s)canopy as defined by the farthest
canopy dripline of the tree's). In some instances, the Zoning
Administrator may require a protective zone in excess of the area
defined by the tree's dripline.
3. Layout of the project site utility and grading plans shall
accommodate the required tree protective zones. Utilities must be
placed along corridors between tree protective zones.
4. Construction site activities such as parking, material storage,
concrete washout, hole placement, etc., shall be arranged so as to
prevent disturbances within tree protective zones.
5. Alterations to the protective zone of the specimen trees or stands
of trees must be approved by the Zoning Administrator.
B. Protective Barriers.
1. Active protective tree fencing shall be installed along the outer
edge of and completely surrounding the critical root zones of all
specimen trees or stands of trees, or otherwise designated tree
protective zones, prior to any building construction.
2. These fences will be a minimum four feet (4')high. Four-feet(4')
high orange polyethylene laminar safety fencing is acceptable
(Figure 2).
3. All tree protection zones should be designated as such with"Tree
Save Area" signs posted visibly on all sides of the fenced area.
These signs are intended to inform subcontractors of the tree
protection process. Signs requesting subcontractor cooperation
and compliance with tree protection standards are recommended
for site entrances.
10
4. All tree fencing barriers must be installed prior to and maintained
throughout building construction and should not be removed until
completion of construction and until landscaping is installed.
C. Encroachment. Most trees can tolerate only a small percentage of critical
root zone loss. If encroachment is anticipated within the critical root
zones of specimen trees, stands of trees, or otherwise designated tree
protective zones, the following preventive measures shall be employed:
1. Clearing Activities: Roots often fuse and tangle amongst trees.
The removal of trees adjacent to tree save areas can cause
inadvertent damage to the protected trees. Wherever possible, it is
advisable to cut minimum two foot(2')trenches (e.g.,with a
"ditch-witch")along the limits of land disturbances, so as to cut,
rather than tear, roots. Directionally felling trees outward into
disturbance areas and grinding stumps is also acceptable.
2. It is very strongly suggested that all clearing in oak stands be done
before May 1st and after July 1st of each season. This will help to
prevent the inadvertent wounding of trees with the consequential
spread of oak wilt. If clearing has to be done at this time, all
stumps and wounded trees shall have the wound areas painted
thoroughly with a tree paint. To be effective, the painting shall be
performed within the same day of cutting. Should oak wilt get
started as a result of construction during the months of May and
June, then the dcveloperlbuilder shall pay for all additional on-site
oak wilt control measures needed to control the disease.
3. Where the Zoning Administrator has determined that irreparable
damage has occurred to trees within tree protective zones, they
must be removed and replaced by the developer/builder as
provided in Section IV(B)9.
D. Reclamation of the Growing Site. A tree's ability for adequate root
development, and ultimately its chances for survival, are improved with
reclamation of the growing site. Whenever possible, the soil should be
brought back to its natural grade. Unnecessary fill, erosion sedimentation,
concrete washout,and construction debris should be removed. When
machinery is required for site improvement,it is recommended that a
"rubber-tired skid steer loader" or similar light weight rubber tire vehicle
be used so as to minimize soil compaction.
11
TREE PRESERVATION POLICY
CITY OF SHOREWOO❑
APPENDIX A
Technical Terms:
Cambium: The tissue within the woody portion of trees and shrubs which gives rise to the
woody water and nutrient conducting system, and the energy substrate transport system in trees.
Cambial dieback: The irreparable radial of vertical interruption of a tree's cambium, usually
caused by mechanical damage, such as "skinning bark", or from excessive heat.
Coniferous: Belonging to the group of cone-bearing evergreen trees or shrubs.
Deciduous: Not persistent; the shedding of leaves annually.
Feeder roots: A complex system of small annual roots growing outward and predominantly
upward from the system of"transport roots". These roots branch four or more times to form
fans or mats of thousands of fine, short, non-woody tips. Many of these small roots and their
multiple tips arc 0.2 to Imm or Icss in diameter, and less than I to 2mm long. These roots
constitute the major fraction of a tree's root system surface area, and are the primary sites of
absorption of water and nutrients.
Major Woody Roots: First order tree roots originating at the "root collar" and growing
horizontally in the soil to a distance of between 3 and 15 feet from the tree's trunk. These roots
branch and decrease in diameter to give rise to"rope roots"_ The primary function of major
woody roots include anchorage, structural support, the storage of food reserves, and the transport
of minerals and nutrients.
Protected Root Zone: The rooting area of a tree established to limit root disturbances. This zone
is generally defined as a circle with a radius extending from a tree's trunk to a point no less than
the furthest crown dripline. Disturbances within this zone will directly affect a tree's chance for
survival.
Root Collar: The point of attachment of major woody roots to the tree trunk, usually at or near
the groundlinc and associated with a marked swelling of the tree trunk.
Root Respiration: An active process occurring throughout the feeder root system of trees, and
involving the consumption of oxygen and sugars with the release of energy and carbon-dioxide.
Root respiration facilitates the uptake and transport of minerals and nutrients essential for tree
survival.
Rope Roots: An extensive network of woody second order roots arising from major woody
roots, occurring within the surface 12 to 18 inches of local soils, and with an average size
ranging from .25 to 1 inch in diameter. The primary function of rope roots is the transport of
water and nutrients, and the storage of food reserves.
12
Soil Compaction: A change in soil physical properties which includes an increase in soil weight
per unit volume, and a decrease in soil pore space. Soil compaction is caused by repeated
vibrations, frequent traffic and weight. As related to tree roots, compacted soil can cause
physical root damage, a decrease in soil oxygen levels with an increase in toxic gases, and can be
impervious to new root development.
Transport Roots: The system or framework of tree roots comprised of major roots and rope
roots.
13
TREE PRESERVATION POLICY
CITY OF SHOREWOOD
APPENDIX B
Checklist for Tree Protection Plan:
1. Tree Protection Plans.
a. Provisions for tree protection on the site shall be, at minimum, in
conformance with the requirements of the City of Shorewood Tree
Preservation Policy in conjunction with the Shorewood Tree Preservation
Ordinance No. 324.
b. A Tree Preservation Plan shall be submitted either as part of a landscape
plan,preliminary plat, or as a separate drawing, to include the following:
(1) All tree protection zones
(2) Approximate location of all specimen trees or stands of trees
(3) Approximate location of all specimen trees when their preservation
is questionable, or might result in a change of the site design
(4) Identification of specimen trees to be removed. (Removal of
specimen trees is subject to Zoning Administrator approval.)
(5) Limits of clearing and land disturbance such as grading, trenching,
etc. where these disturbances may affect tree protection zones.
(6) Proposed location of underground utilities.
(7) Methods of tree protection shall be indicated for all tree protection
zones, aeration systems, staking, signage, etc.
(8) The plan should indicate staging areas for parking, material
storage, concrete washout, and burial holes where these areas
might affect tree protection.
c. The following notes shall be indicated on both tree preservation plans and
grading plans in large letters:
(1) Contact the City Planning Department at(952)474-3236 to
arrange a preconstruction conference with the City Zoning
Administrator prior to any land disturbance.
(2) All tree protection measures shall be installed prior to building
construction.
(3) Contact the City of Shorewood Planning Department at(952)474-
3236 for a Site Inspection upon completion of landscape
installation.
14
TREE PRESERVATION POLICY
CITY OF SHOREWOOD
APPENDIX C
Preservation Plan: :
Existing trees DRIVEWAY
to remain
Trees to be r 6 Black Hills ;
removed _- ~
i2- . Spruce(2)
. ' IS"Slack NN
. . Protective i �: walnut NN
fencing Apple ,� m: w
� . � . NN
NN
® Construction W
material and •
stockpile perimeter
rte• '
■■■■■■�
Utilities ' 16" � ■
location ; maple t GARAGE
-- 1, Colorado a
Spruce ■ ■
1
r
Replacement Plan: '� 1
i la" t ]
� .
Deciduous trees to ` Ash___ ' ■ 0 1�"a��,
be shown by species
and caliper size PROPOSED HOUSE
Coniferous trees ,
to be shown by 0110
species and height 000
3"Caliper
Sugar Maples _
„ �► — '� 3"Caliper
iced Oak
NOTICE:
Contact the City Plaruidng Dept.at(952)474-3236 to
arrange a preconstruclion conference with the City Zoning
Administrator prior to any land disturbance.
Tree fencing shall consist of All tree protection measures shall be installed prior to
4'high minimum orange building construction.
polyethylene laininar safety Contact the Planning Dept. for a site inspection upon
netting. completion of landscape installation.
15
Canopy Drip-line
Critical Root RadiLIS
Critical Root Zone Within the Drip-line
■
Actual Feeder Root System Extends Well Beyond the Drip-line hk
f
FIGURE 1
TYPICAL CRITICAL ROOT ZONE
16
TREE FENCING SHALL CONSIST OF
4.0` HIGH MINIMUM ORANGE POLYETHYLENE
LAMINAR SAFETY NETTING.
FENCE SHALL BE SECURELY ANCHORED BY
STEEL FENCE POSTS INSTALLED 6.0 FEET ON
CENTER.
ected
.L
pFfi
l- .. PRA I .
OF P
LIMIT'S
FIGURE 2
AC'T'IVE PROTECTIVE TREE FENCING
17
Appendix C.Suggested Tree Ordinance for Shorewood
City Forester Duties and Forestry Program
(A) Position created. (Declared person)shall be the Forester. The powers and duties as set
forth in this subchapter are hereby conferred upon the Forester or his or her duly authorized
agent.
(B) Duties. It is the duty of the City Forester to coordinate, under the direction and control of
the Council, all activities of the city relating to the control and prevention of insect-infested and
diseased trees, including but not limited to,emerald ash borer, Dutch elm, and oak wilt
diseases. The Forester shall recommend to the Council the details of a program for the control
of insect-infested and diseased trees, and perform the duties incidental to a program adopted
by the Council, and other duties as provided by this chapter.
The forestry program shall provide for inspection of trees on public and private property for the
purposes of enforcement of applicable sections of this code.
Maintenance and Removal of Trees
(A) Duties. The city shall have the right to maintain and/or remove trees while performing
maintenance duties within any public right-of-way or easement. Maintenance duties shall
include, but are not limited to,sidewalk, path, utility and street maintenance and/or repair. The
city shall notify property owners adjacent to trees that may be impacted by the performing of
maintenance duties. In cases of emergency maintenance within a public right-of-way or
easement,the city shall attempt to contact adjacent property owners when trees may have to
be maintained and/or removed, but shall also consider the general health, safety and welfare of
the community with respect to hazards that may exist.
(B) Charges far services. The city may charge the abutting property owner or legal possessor
the cost incurred by the city for maintenance and/or removal of trees located within any right-
of-way or easement. Any charges not paid within 30 days of the due date stated on the city's
invoice shall be deemed delinquent and subject to collection as a special assessment to be
collected in accordance with (Code).
(C) Removal of hazard tree. Any hazard tree on any private property, which if it fell may land
within any public right-of-way or property owned by another person or entity,shall be removed
immediately and in no case more than 15 days after being served notice by the city to remove
the tree. Any such tree shall be deemed a public safety hazard and public nuisance and subject
to the provisions for special charges assessment as set forth in division (B) herein.
Tree Work License
(A) License required. It shall be unlawful for any person to conduct as a business the cutting,trimming,
pruning, removal,spraying or otherwise treating of trees in the city without first having secured a
license from the city to conduct the business.
(6) Application;fee and expiration.
(1) Application for a license shall be made at the office of the City Clerk.
(2) The application for a license shall be made at the office of the City Clerk.
(3) The annual fee for the license shall be in the specified amount.
(4) All licenses issued under the provisions of this chapter shall expire on December 31 following the
date of issue.
(C) Liability insurance. No license or renewal shall be granted, nor be effective, until the applicant
files with the City Clerk proof of a public liability insurance policy covering all operations of the applicant
hereunder for the sum of at least$300,000 combined single limit coverage. The policy shall provide that
it may not be canceled by the insurer, except after ten days written notice to the city, and if the
insurance is so canceled and the licensee fails to replace the same with another policy conforming to the
provisions of this section,the license shall be automatically suspended until the insurance shall have
been replaced.
(D) Conformance required. All contractors licensed under the requirements of this section shall
conform with the abatement methods as prescribed by this subchapter, as they relate to emerald ash
borer infestation,and Dutch elm and oak wilt diseases.
(E) Revocation of license. Failure to comply with any part of the tree treating license shall be grounds
for revocation of the license by the City Council,following a public hearing. Written notice of the public
hearing shall be mailed at least ten days prior to the hearing to the current holder of the license. The
notice should outline the vioIation(s)considered by the city to be grounds for revocation and inform the
current holder of the license of the opportunity to be heard at the public hearing.
(F) Chemical treatment requirements. Applicants,who propose to use chemical substances in any
activity related to treatment or control of insect-infested and diseased trees,shall file with the City Clerk
proof that the applicant or employee of the applicant administering treatment has been certified by the
Agronomy Division of the state department of agriculture as a "commercial pesticide applicator."
Certification shall include knowledge of tree disease or insect infestation chemical treatment.
Minimum Height of Tree Limbs
All limbs of trees or portions of limbs which overhang public streets, sidewalks or paths and are
less than ten feet above the surface of any public sidewalk or path or are less than 13 feet above
the surface of any public street constitute a nuisance and are prohibited. When limbs of a tree
overhang both a public sidewalk and a public street,they shall be trimmed to a height of 13 feet
above the surface of the street. This section shall not apply to any tree to which pruning or
trimming would endanger the tree's health as determined by the city, unless a public nuisance
exists.
Right of Way Trees
(A) Right of Way Tree Planting. Trees and shrubs shall not be planted within the public right of
way and easements unless otherwise approved with new developments with homeowners
association responsibilities far tree maintenance as defined by development agreement.
Trees and shrubs shall not be planted within a distance of 15 feet from the edge of a public
roadway where easement or right of way is not dedicated,or recorded.Trees and shrubs
shall not be planted in locations where conflicts may arise with vehicle driver sight lines to
traffic, as determined by the Engineer.
{B} Managing the Right of Way. Homeowners are responsible for maintaining and mowing the
right of way.Trees and shrubs currently growing within the right of way will be maintained by
the City.
(1) No person can obstruct, excavate, remove or destroy vegetation in the right of way without
first obtaining a permit from the City.
{C} Vegetative Screening. Trees and shrubs used for screening shall be planted at least 10 feet
behind the right of way.Screens using trees and shrubs shall be designed so that they are
architecturally harmonious with the principle structures on the site and they shall be properly
maintained so as not to become unsightly or hazardous.
Shade Tree Disease Regulation
(A) Declaration of policy. The Council has determined that the health of ash, elm and oak trees
within the municipal limits are threatened by insect infestation known as emerald ash borer,
and fatal diseases known as Dutch elm and oak wilt. It has further been determined that the
loss of ash, elm and oak trees growing upon public and private property would substantially
depreciate the value of property within the city, and may impair the health,safety and general
welfare of the public. It is declared to be the intention of the Council to control the spread of
insect infestation and diseases affecting trees,and this section is enacted for that purpose.
(B) Insect and disease control programs;coordinator. It is the intention of the Council to
conduct a program of plant pest and disease control pursuant to the authority granted by
(Code),as amended. The program is directed specifically at the control and elimination of the
emerald ash borer, Dutch elm disease fungus, elm bark beetles and oak wilt fungus,and is
undertaken at the recommendation of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture,the Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources and the University of Minnesota Extension.
{C} Nuisance declared. The following shall constitute a public nuisance:
(1) Any living or standing elm tree or part thereof infected to any degree with the Dutch elm
disease fungus Ophiostoma UImi,or which harbors any of the elm bark beetles Scolytus
Multistriatus(Eichh.)or Hyluigopinus Rufipes(Marsh);
(2) Any living or standing red oak tree or part thereof infected to any degree with the oak
wilt fungus Ceratocystis Fagacearum;
(3) Any dead elm or red oak tree or part thereof, including logs, branches,stumps,firewood
or other elm or oak material from which the bark has not been removed or sprayed with an
effective elm bark beetle insecticide or oak wilt fungus deterrent; or
(4) Any living or standing ash tree, or any part thereof, harboring or infested with emerald
ash borer beetles or larvae or eggs thereof(Agri Ius planipennis); or any dead ash tree or part
thereof, including logs, branches, stumps,firewood,or other ash tree material from which the
bark has not been removed or sprayed with effective emerald ash borer insecticide.
(D) Inspection and investigation.
(1) Annual inspection. The City Forester or assignee shall inspect all premises within the
city, annually or as often as practicable,to determine whether any condition exists which is in
violation of this chapter.The Forester shall investigate all repeated incidents of tree disease.
(2) Entry on private premises. The Forester or assignee may enter upon private premises at
any reasonable time for the purpose of carrying out any of the duties assigned.
(3) Diagnosis. In determining tree disease or insect infestation,the Forester shall use
current technical procedures.
{E} Nuisance abatement methods. In abating any public nuisance as defined in this section,the
Forester shall cause the infected tree or wood to be sprayed, removed or otherwise effectively
treated so as to destroy and prevent the spread of emerald ash barer, Dutch elm disease fungus,
elm bark beetles, oak wilt fungus or other regulated tree disease. Any abatement shall be
carried out in the following manner:
(1) In trees infected with Dutch elm disease that have the potential to spread the disease,
any portion of the tree larger than two inches in diameter shall have the bark removed,chipped
or covered with at least four mil plastic, making a tight seal to the ground, until the bark falls off.
(2) Pre-sporulating red oak wood, infected with oak wilt fungus,that is larger than two
inches in diameter shall have the bark removed,chipped or covered with at least four mil
plastic, making a tight seal to the ground, until the bark falls off.
(3) All ash tree wood must be chipped into pieces no larger than one inch diameter.
(4) Other current technical procedures which are accepted by such agencies as the
Minnesota Department of Agriculture,the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources or the
University of Minnesota may be utilized with city approval.
(F) Procedure for removal of infected trees and wood. Whenever the Forester finds that
infestation or disease exists in any tree or wood in any public or private place in the city,the
Forester shall proceed as follows:
(1) if the Forester finds that danger of insect infestation or spread of tree disease is
imminent,the Forester may order any treatment or tree removal determined to be necessary to
abate the nuisance.
(2) In all other cases, prior to any treatment or removal,the Forester shall cause written
notice of proposed actions to be sent by regular mail or personally delivered to the occupant or
the owner of the premises. Failure to give notice shall not invalidate the city's actions. The
Forester may order any treatment or tree removal determined necessary to abate the nuisance.
(G) Payment for abatement. Any costs incurred by the city in connection with the city's
abatement of any diseased tree, as permitted in this section, shall be the responsibility of the
property owner. The city may charge the property owner or legal possessor the cost incurred by
the city in connection with the abatement of any diseased tree. Any charges not paid by the
property owner or legal possessor within 30 days of the due date stated on the city's invoice
shall be deemed delinquent and subject to collection as a special assessment,which shall be
collected in accordance with(Code).
(H) Transporting of infected ash, elm or oak wood. It is unlawful for any person to transport
within the city any infected, bark-bearing ash, elm or oak wood determined to be a nuisance by
the Forester. The Forester shall grant permission for the transportation of the wood only when
the purpose of this chapter is served.
(I) Unlawful acts. A violation of this section is declared to be a public nuisance and it is
unlawful for any person to permit the public nuisance to remain on any property owned or
controlled by the person within the city. All public nuisances may be abated by the city and the
costs thereof assessed against the property as prescribed in the code.
Tree Preservation
(A) Tree removal and replacement. Removal or loss of significant trees shall be in accordance
with the city-approved tree preservation component of the natural resources management
plan. All significant trees on the property, as identified in the tree preservation component of
the plan, shall be tagged with the coordinating number as stated in the plan before any project
work begins and shall remain tagged until completion of the project. Tree removal and
replacement shall be as follows:
(1) For individual lot development for commercial, industrial, and institutional uses, 10%of
the total number of diameter inches of significant trees removed must be replaced with caliper
inches within the subject lot. Trees replaced under this requirement may be used to satisfy part
of the landscape requirement for the lot;
(2) For individual lot development for residential use, when tree removal that occurs within
the building footprint, impervious surface areas(such as driveways and sidewalks),or within 20
feet of foundation walls and:
(a) Exceeds six significant trees, replacement shall consist of a maximum of 12 caliper
inches, located on the subject lot; or
(b) Consists of six significant trees or less, replacement shall consist of a minimum of two
caliper inches for every significant tree removed, located on the subject lot;
{3} When tree removal occurs more than 20 feet outside the foundation walls, replacement
shall be a minimum of two caliper inches for every significant tree removed, located on the
subject lot;and
(4) For all projects not covered by divisions(1), (2)and (3)above including, but not limited
to, subdivision grading, 10%of the total number of diameter inches of significant trees removed
must be replaced with caliper inches within the subdivision. Trees replaced under this
requirement may be used to satisfy part of any landscape plan requirements under this code.
{B} Sire, types, diversification of replacement trees. No more than one-third of the replacement
trees shall be of the same species of tree, without approval of the city. Box elder, poplar, willow
and silver maple are not permitted as replacement trees. Replacement trees must be no less
than the following sizes:
(1) Deciduous trees shall be no less than two caliper inches; and
(2) Coniferous trees shall be no less than six feet high.
(C) Time to perform. Replacement trees shall be planted prior to the expiration of the permit
or within 30 days of completion of all construction on the property,whichever first occurs,
unless otherwise approved by the city for reasons of time of planting season.The applicant shall
inform the city when all replacement trees have been planted in order that the city may inspect
the subject property for compliance with the tree preservation component.
{D} Quality of replacement trees. Replacement trees shall be healthy stock,free of insects and
disease and meet the guidelines set by the American Standards of Nursery Stock.
(E) Violation of natural resources management plan-Tree Preservation Component. The
applicant shall comply with the following requirements if any loss of any significant tree,as
defined herein,occurs in violation of the city-approved tree preservation component of the
natural resources management plan for the subject property:
(1) Replace the diameter inches of the significant tree lost with equal caliper inches in
accordance with division (B)of this section;and
(2) Any loss of a significant oak tree shall be replaced by an oak tree and the location of the
replacement oak tree shall be determined by the city.
(F) The applicant shall comply with the foregoing requirements upon a 30-day written notice by
the city of the loss of a significant tree in violation of the city-approved tree preservation
component of the natural resources management plan.
Nuisance Tree Declaration
(A) Any living or standing elm tree or part thereof infected to any degree with the Dutch
elmdisease fungus, Ceratorcystis ulmni (Buisman) Moreau, or which harbors any of the
elm bark beetles, Scolytus multistriatus(Eichh.) or Hylurgopinus rafipes (Marsh).
(B) Any bark intact, dead or dying elm tree or part thereof, or an elm wood including, but not
limited to, logs, branches greater that two inches in diameter, stumps, roots,firewood or
other elm material, which has not been stripped of its bark and burned, or sprayed with
an effective elm bark beetle insecticide that poses a threat, as determined by city forester,
of harboring or acting as a breeding site for the elm bark beetles,Scolytus multistriatus
(Eichh.)or Hylurgopinus rufipes(Marsh).
(C) Any living or standing oak tree or part thereof infected to any degree with the oak wilt
fungus, Ceratocystis fagacearum,that has been determined by the city forester to pose a
threat of overland transmission of the fungus to other oak trees.To reduce incidents of
overland or long range spread of oak wilt fungus and to prevent oak wilt fungus from
producing spores during the hazardous spring period.
(D) Any bark intact dead or dying oak tree or part thereof, or an oak tree wood including, but
not limited to, logs, branches greater than two inches in diameter, stumps, roots,
firewood, or other oak material,which has not been stripped of its bark and burned,or
sprayed with an effective fungicide that poses a threat, as determined by city forester,of
harboring or acting as a breeding site for the oak wilt fungus, Ceratocystis fagacearum.
Any tree that wilted from oak wilt in July or August of one year may be declared a
nuisance for the spring of the following year as determined by the city forester.The
hazardous spring period for overland or long range spread of oak wilt fungus is hereby
defined as April 15 to July 1. Dead standing wood or tree material of the red oak group
that has advanced beyond the potential for spore production is not considered a nuisance
unless it constitutes a hazard to life and/or property.The red oak group is defined as,
including but not limited to, Northern red oak, Northern pin oak, black oak, scarlet oak,
Eastern pin oak, red oak, pin oak.
{E} Any tree considered in the opinion of the city forester to pose eminent danger to life or
property to adjoining properties.Trees of such condition will be determined hazardous.
{F} It shall be unlawful for any person to permit any public nuisance to remain on any
premises owned or controlled by such person within the city. Such nuisances may be
abated in the manner prescribed by this article.
Inspections and Investigations
(A) Inspections.The city forester shall inspect as often as necessary all public and private places
within designated control areas of the city which might harbor plant pests,to determine
whether a public nuisance exists.The city forester shall investigate all reported incidents of
infection or infestation by the Dutch elm fungus,elm bark beetles, oak wilt fungus,or any
other epidemic diseases or insect infestation of shade trees.The term "private place" means
every place except the private home.
(B) Right of entry. The city forester or the city forester's duly authorized agents may enter upon
all public and private places at any reasonable time for the purposes of carrying out any of
the duties assigned in this section.
(C) Disease determination. Whenever possible, diagnosis will be based upon accepted field
symptoms.The city forester and/or city forester's duly authorized agents may, upon finding
indications of oak wilt or Dutch elm disease take such steps as may be appropriate to
confirm the diagnosis.These steps may include analysis of twig and stem samples from trees,
or parts thereof, suspected of being infected. Laboratory isolation and confirmation of the
presence of the fungi will be done by the state department of agriculture disease diagnosis
laboratory or other laboratories capable of performing such services approved by the state
commissioner of agriculture. Except as provided in this section, no action to remove infected
trees or wood shall be taken until there has been a positive diagnosis.
Abuse or Mutilation of Public Trees
(A) Unless specifically authorized by the city forester, no person shall intentionally damage, cut,
carve, transplant, remove any tree, attach any rope, wire, nails, advertising poster, or other
contrivance to any tree, allow any gaseous liquid, or solid substance which is harmful to come
in contact with any tree,or set fire or permit any fire to burn when the heat could injure any
portion of any tree, or top a tree by severely cutting back the tree canopy to a stub.