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Council hears urban-forestry plan to add street trees on Maple Street; volunteers and sponsors sought
Summary
Council members and the economic development committee outlined an urban forestry initiative focused on Maple Street and downtown; the plan includes partnerships with Oregon Department of Forestry, volunteer committees, potential grant funding, and estimated watering needs for new trees.
The Yamhill City Council and the economic development committee discussed a proposed urban‑forestry program to increase tree canopy downtown and on Maple Street. Council members presented project goals, preliminary site assessment plans, and possible funding strategies.
Council leadership said the program aims to "increase the tree canopy on Maple Street," encourage economic growth, provide shade, and slow traffic. The committee described partnerships with the Oregon Department of Forestry and local nurseries; No Name Nursery (near Yamhill) has reportedly volunteered time to assist with planning.
Speakers emphasized using diverse species to reduce pest risk and planting practices that meet ODOT standards where sidewalks abut state highway right-of-way. City staff noted the need for proper soil preparation and root‑directing baskets to prevent sidewalk heaving, and suggested masonry brick surrounds that can be reset if roots lift sidewalks.
Funding discussion included applying for grants and soliciting sponsors; a committee member suggested bricks around tree bases could be personalized and sold to raise money, though any fundraising plan would require ODOT approval for street‑adjacent work. One councilor noted tree establishment needs—"10 to 20 gallons of water per day" for the first two years—and said there is a contingency plan for watering if city curtailment occurs.
The council said it will form committees for site selection and volunteer involvement and investigate funding, ODOT coordination, and maintenance protocols. No final funding commitment was made at the meeting; councilors said the project will return for more detailed planning and public involvement.
