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Commission hears update on tree removal policy after Library Park removal
Summary
Park superintendent outlined the city’s tree inventory, removal criteria, replacement standards and appeals process; commissioners pressed for faster replacement and larger-caliper replanting in Library Park.
Park Superintendent Christopher Henson briefed the Recreation and Parks Commission on Feb. 19 on the city’s tree removal policy, inventory and replacement practices in the wake of a recent removal at Library Park.
“We have approximately 6,000 trees, located in parkways, medians, parks, open space, golf course, and public facilities,” Henson said, describing the city’s tree inventory and the West Coast Arborist ArborAccess application used to record species, diameter, condition and maintenance history. He summarized the city’s responsibilities (trimming, planting, staking, removals) and residents’ responsibilities (watering and litter pickup).
Henson outlined the criteria that prompt removal: dead, diseased, severe physical decline such as large splits, or infrastructure damage to curbs, sidewalks, streets and sewer lines. He said photographic or video evidence is requested for infrastructure claims, a replacement tree is usually a 24-inch-box tree (36-inch box available for an additional fee), and there is an appeal period to the Recreation and Parks Commission.
Commissioners asked about arborist reviews. Henson said the city now has three certified arborists on staff and that West Coast Arborist serves as an external backup for additional review. Commissioners raised the recent Library Park removals and asked whether larger-caliper replantings (36-inch boxes) could be standard there since the park has lost many trees; Henson said the city typically orders trees in batches (about 10) for cost efficiency, which can slow turnaround times.
Commissioner Julie asked about an especially large, dead “Christmas tree” in Library Park; Henson said West Coast Arborist had taken samples, performed soil analysis and requested to observe removal to assess the disease and whether wood could be reused. No formal policy change was proposed at the meeting.
The commission received the report for information; commissioners urged staff to shorten replacement lead times where possible and to consider larger-caliper plantings in heavily used parks such as Library Park.
