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Tree committee urges more staff, consistent specs to protect Draper canopy
Summary
The Tree Committee presented survey results showing strong resident support for tree-lined streets and recommended shifting resources to maintenance and correct planting to increase long-term return; committee members said lack of arborist staff is limiting progress.
David Flower, chair of Draper's Tree Committee, told the council that residents highly value tree-lined streets and that the committee wants to focus on planting the right species, proper planting specs, and ongoing maintenance.
"We wanna achieve the highest ROI on tree investment," Flower said. He described survey results presented at Draper Days and said about 84% of respondents wanted more money allocated to trees; the committee also recommended using matched grants and resident contributions to expand planting.
Flower warned that the city has budgeted planting funds but lacks staff to maintain new trees and to catch disease early. He and vice chair Michelle Coker recommended pursuing a dedicated maintenance service or staffing solution and continuing coordination with City engineering and TreeUtah for matching funds.
