City Of Fairfax Refines Urban Forest Master Plan Ahead Of Council Vote

Fairfax City is taking significant strides to enhance its urban forest management, as highlighted in the recent Planning Commission meeting. The focus was on refining strategies to protect and expand the city’s tree canopy, which is crucial given that 76% of it is privately owned.

The meeting centered on four key strategies aimed at improving tree preservation and management. Strategy 2.1 proposes adopting state codes to bolster public tree protections and establish clear standards for tree preservation during development. Strategy 2.2 emphasizes promoting tree preservation and planting through existing policies, while Strategy 2.3 aims to enhance the processes for implementing tree regulations, stressing the importance of cross-departmental collaboration and data tracking.

Community engagement is also a priority, as outlined in Strategy 2.4, which seeks to raise public awareness about tree regulations and encourage community input in policy development. During a recent public meeting, approximately 100 attendees voted, with Strategies 2.2 and 2.3 emerging as top priorities for implementation.

The project team is currently refining these strategies based on community feedback and plans to present a final draft to the City Council by the end of the year. The next public meeting is expected in November or December, where further input will be gathered before the proposal is finalized.

Commissioners expressed appreciation for the ongoing efforts, particularly highlighting the positive impact of staff member Miss Stafford in shaping the city’s approach to urban forestry. As Fairfax City moves forward, the emphasis on community involvement and clear management strategies promises to strengthen its urban forest for future generations.