A private firm has been hired to develop a comprehensive vision and framework for Altona's urban forest.
Davey Resource Group has been contracted to do the work which will include both a strategic and operational plan for managing the sustained planning, planting, protection, maintenance, and care of trees, forests, greenspace and related resources in the community.
"It will set goals and develop a phased-in implementation plan over twenty years," explained Mayor Harv Schroeder. "They'll assess the current canopy that covers the town and the benefits that we have. They will set target canopy (goals) and strategies for how to achieve these goals."
Operationally, a road map will be developed for effectively managing the urban forest.
"Definitely pest and disease management," said Schroeder. "Considering the Town's available resources, they will employ best-practices and technical standards that reflect the latest advancements in the field [...]. Also, recommendations for policies, bylaws and enforcement of tree management. They'll establish a monitoring plan to track the progress, effectiveness and how to update the plan accordingly."
Currently, a Town employee is undergoing training in some of these areas as well.
Additionally, Schoreder says the firm will engage the public to determine urban forestry needs and recommended public participation and education programs.
When asked why this was something Council wanted to undertake, Schroeder said it fits with the group's strategic priority, Practicing Good Environmental Stewardship.
"It's to take care of the environment and the future of our trees," he explained. "The Town of Altona is committed to adopting a sustainable lens when making decisions for the future of our community, seeking opportunities to reduce the community environmental impact and improve the climate-resilience of our community."
The intent to complete the plan development in 2025 and unroll it in the same year.