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Lowell launches urban-forest committee effort after $40,000 DCR grant; outreach and focus groups planned
Summary
City staff said Lowell received a $40,000 Department of Conservation and Recreation grant to kick off an urban-forest/tree committee aligned with the city's urban forest master plan; staff described stakeholder focus groups, outreach and an expected end-of-fiscal-year grant timeline.
City sustainability staff briefed the Lowell Sustainability Council that the city received a $40,000 grant from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to develop an urban-tree committee consistent with the city's urban forest master plan.
Catherine said kickoff meetings have begun and staff plan public outreach and focus groups with city departments and local tree-advocacy organizations, including the Lowell Parks & Conservation Trust and consulting firm Weston & Sampson. The grant will support stakeholder engagement and the establishment of a formal tree committee; Catherine said the contract period runs through the end of the fiscal year in June and staff will compile materials, stakeholder input and a plan to present for municipal codification if appropriate.
Council members asked about long-term funding and maintenance for urban-canopy initiatives and whether certified arborists are independently consulted before tree removal. Staff said the Department of Public Works manages contract arborist assessments and that consultants are engaged to evaluate hazard and removal needs rather than unilateral removal.
Council members requested outreach to maximize diverse community participation and suggested coordinating grant-funded activities with longer-term funding strategies. Staff said they would publicize openings, coordinate with HR and public engagement channels and provide periodic updates to the council.
