Tenafly DPW reports significant tree loss and planting disparities in 2024

During the Tenafly Council Meeting on April 8, 2025, discussions centered around the borough's tree management, highlighting significant concerns regarding tree removal and replanting efforts. The meeting featured insights from the Department of Public Works (DPW) Director, Mike Cassidy, who provided a detailed report on tree statistics for 2024.

In the past year, Tenafly saw the removal of 69 trees by the DPW, which were promptly replaced with 70 new plantings. However, the situation becomes more complex when considering trees removed by residents and developers. In 2024 alone, residents with permits removed 588 trees, a figure that does not account for trees lost to storms or those removed illegally. This raises concerns about the overall health of the borough's tree canopy.

The removal of these trees necessitated a mitigation effort that required the planting of 714 major trees and 108 minor trees. Due to a 2-to-1 replacement ratio, the actual planting resulted in only 104 major trees and 802 minor trees being added back to the landscape. This trend indicates a troubling shift towards planting smaller trees, which may not adequately compensate for the loss of larger, more significant trees.

The Environmental Commission has suggested revising the tree code to impose stricter regulations on the replacement of major trees with minor ones. This recommendation stems from the recognition that the community is losing a substantial number of major trees, which are vital for environmental health and urban aesthetics.

Additionally, the council discussed the challenges of finding suitable locations for new trees, as many residents lack space on their properties. To address this, the borough encourages residents to participate in a program that allows for the planting of trees in the first ten feet of their lawns. The DPW is also exploring other public spaces, such as parks and community areas, for tree planting initiatives.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for a strategic approach to tree management in Tenafly, as the borough faces a significant deficit in its tree population. The council's commitment to addressing these issues will be crucial in preserving the community's green spaces and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. As the borough moves forward, the implementation of the Environmental Commission's recommendations and the effective use of the tree fund will be vital in reversing the current trend of tree loss.