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Five Acre Woods volunteers, city staff discuss invasive removal, cedar replanting and permitting
Summary
Volunteers, the Stewardship Foundation and city staff discussed plans for the 'Five Acre Woods' parcel: a proposed fall planting of cedars funded by the Lake Forest Park Stewardship Foundation, removal of black locust trees, permitting questions and whether volunteer crews or contractors should do invasive‑species removal.
Tree Board members and staff reviewed early plans for work at the Five Acre Woods preserve, where the Lake Forest Park Stewardship Foundation is funding several dozen cedars for fall planting and a contractor or stewardship crews are proposing removal of invasive black locusts.
What was reported Staff said the Stewardship Foundation had purchased roughly 30 eight‑ to ten‑foot cedar seedlings to be planted in the fall and that planting plans are advancing. Careful site review will determine whether tree removal will require a minor tree permit or additional permitting if critical‑area buffers or steep slopes are present.
Permits and safety concerns Planning staff said removing invasive trees may be allowed under a minor tree permit in many cases, but that work in critical areas (steep slopes, buffers, wetlands) could trigger larger permit requirements. Staff noted that the presence of slopes, wetlands or shared public‑access easements will require a site visit and may involve public works and parks staff to confirm scope and safety.
Volunteer versus contractor work Board members discussed whether volunteers — including Interact Club high‑school students and stewardship volunteers — could do ivy and other invasive‑species work safely. Staff and board members said volunteers can be effective for ground‑level invasive removal and replanting, but removal of trees (especially large trunks or trees with sawdust/allergen concerns, as noted for black locust) may require contractors for safety and specialist equipment. One board member noted that black locust sawdust and leaves can cause allergic reactions and recommended caution.
Wood reuse and community arts Board members discussed potential community reuses for removed wood (e.g., local woodworkers or artists) but noted black locust can have toxic leaves and sawdust for some people and many specimens are small diameter (8–16 inches) so availability for large projects may be limited.
Next steps Staff will do site visits, determine whether minor permits are sufficient, confirm slope/buffer constraints, and consult parks staff (Corey) about partnering on the project and possible city funding or contractor needs. The board agreed to revisit Five Acre Woods at the next meeting and to coordinate with the Stewardship Foundation and local volunteer groups on safe roles for volunteers.
Ending No formal approvals were requested at the meeting; the discussion was to assess scope and next steps before any tree removals or plantings occur.
