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Sonoma council adopts updated Master Tree List to guide plantings and replacements
Summary
Council adopted a new Master Tree List to guide public and private tree planting in Sonoma; staff and the Parks and Open Space Commission compiled the list using a UC Master Gardener 'Climate Forward' framework and city arborist input. Council approved the resolution unanimously.
The City of Sonoma council adopted an updated Master Tree List on March 19 designed to guide future street and park plantings and to help applicants choose appropriate replacement trees for removals.
The Master Tree List was prepared by the Parks and Open Space (PROS) Commission's volunteers together with the city arborist and drew on the University of California Master Gardener 'Climate Forward Trees' project. Commissioner Jessica Miseraca, representing the PROS Commission, told the council the list focuses on species likely to perform well under projected local climate conditions (to 2050 and beyond) and that the list includes guidance on recommended planting locations (street, patio, specimen), canopy sizes, maintenance considerations and limitations (for example, under power lines).
Why it matters: The list is intended as a practical tool for applicants seeking tree replacements after permitted removals, and as public guidance for planting in the public right-of-way and private property. The city will post the list on its website and provide it to applicants as part of tree-permit processes.
Key points from council discussion: Councilmembers asked whether fire-hardening concerns and sidewalk-root impacts were considered. Staff said the fire-vulnerability focus for vegetation-management staff centers on ladder fuels and understory, not individual species selection, but that the arborist had reviewed the list and would remove problem species. Staff also said the list was organized by planting area; trees intended for 2x2 sidewalk wells or narrow spaces are different from larger specimen trees, and recommended root mitigation and proper planting techniques would be used to minimize sidewalk displacement.
Action taken: The council voted unanimously to adopt the Master Tree List and approved posting it for public use. City staff said the list will not remove the ability to require site-specific planting guidance for larger developments; it is intended as a default resource to increase planting success and guide maintenance decisions.
Next steps: The city will post the list on its website, provide the list to applicants and continue work on related items such as the planned full tree inventory and urban canopy assessment.
