Norwalk commissioners plan legacy‑tree registry and homeowner outreach, aim for July kickoff

Commissioners at the June 2 meeting discussed creating a public legacy‑tree registration and a short homeowner outreach brochure to accompany planting efforts and to mark historic or champion trees in Norwalk.

Members proposed a simple online registration form and a mapped registry accessible from the Urban Forestry Commission web page. They discussed criteria for designation—options included a DBH/caliper threshold, age thresholds (100 or 250 years) or categories such as landmark, specimen and surviving elms—and agreed that DBH offers a quantifiable metric. Commissioners emphasized that registration should be voluntary, should not impose new restrictions on private owners, and should avoid discouraging people from signing up for fear of added regulation.

For public engagement, members recommended lightweight, replaceable markers or QR codes that link to a mapped registry rather than permanent bronze plaques, and suggested pairing the registry with a short 'tree care' trifold for homeowners and vendors. The brochure draft discussed watering‑bag use, basic pruning guidance (avoid topping/shaping), mulching practices and signs of decline; commissioners recommended a Spanish translation and distribution at events and nurseries.

The commission set a near‑term task: staff to draft the registration form, place it on the city site, and prepare a press release and materials for an early July public kickoff if logistics allow. Members agreed the first registered legacy tree could be used to publicize and encourage other submissions.