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HomeMy WebLinkAbout6/17/2015 - STAFF REPORTS - 2.O. r> iy O 4 N Cq�lFORN`p CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT DATE: June 17, 2015 CONSENT CALENDAR SUBJECT: CITY OF PALM SPRINGS TREE INVENTORY AND URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT REPORT FROM: David H. Ready, City Manager BY: Office of the City Manager SUMMARY The City of Palm Springs received a grant from the Southern California Association of Government's (SCAG) Green Region Initiative to conduct a tree inventory, obtain urban forestry management software and complete an urban forestry management plan. The grant has provided the City with a full and complete "tree inventory" from which staff can appropriately manage on-going tree maintenance and replacement. RECOMMENDATION: Receive and file. STAFF ANALYSIS: In the last five years, the City of Palm Springs has initiated steps towards achieving recognition as a "Tree City USA" designation through the National Arbor Foundation. Some of the steps taken include hosting an annual Arbor Day event, education and outreach to schools regarding the importance of trees and community tree plantings. The Tree City USA program is a national program that provides the framework for community forestry management for cities and towns across America. Communities achieve Tree City USA status by meeting four core standards of sound urban forestry management, including: (1) maintaining a tree board or department, (2) having a community tree ordinance, (3) spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry, and (4) officially celebrating Arbor Day. By conducting a tree inventory and creating a plan the City of Palm Springs is not only taking a another step towards this goal, but also will yield many positive financial savings, reduced maintenance cost and time and increased community and environmental health. In recent years, the City has established strong partnerships with many local and national organizations including the Arbor Day Foundation, CAL Fire, Western Chapter ITEM NO. 2'0 City Council Staff Report June 17, 2015-- Page 2 Tree Inventory and Urban Forestry Management Report of the International Society of Arboriculture, Riverside County Master Gardener Program, Desert Healthcare Foundation and all local schools. Each year the City works with a local school to host an Arbor Day Celebration. Every child at the school receives a tree to take home and plant. In 2013, the City was awarded a grant through CAL Fire and the Britton Fund to host a nationally acclaimed program called Tree Circus. This program educates community members of all ages about the value and importance of trees. These valuable partnerships will continue and will help further the work and educational opportunities that result from a comprehensive Urban Forestry Management Plan. Recently, the City's Office of Sustainability applied for and received grant award valued at $80,000 in services from SCAG. After receipt of the grant, SCAG awarded a contract to ArborPro, Inc., as a vendor to SCAG assigned to the City of Palm Springs to collect and analyze its public tree inventory. ArborPro employed an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist to collect tree attributes and to GPS locate the coordinates of every publicly owned and maintained tree in the City. ArborPro collected attributes such as species, diameter, condition, maintenance need, general observations, clearance requirements, hardscape damage, proximity to overhead power lines and grow space. ArborPro utilized handheld surveying equipment to determine the location of each tree (to sub-meter accuracy) and uploaded the data to a GIS (Geographic Information System) database. ArborPro provided the City with a license to ArborPro Tree Management software which allows the tree inventory data to be managed and updated. Up until 2013, the City had never conducted a comprehensive inventory of publicly owned and maintained trees, and no management tool had ever been implemented to monitor and maintain these trees. This lack of data only allowed for reactive urban forest management, rather than management through a comprehensive, systematic approach. By preparing a tree inventory, the City has taken the critical first step to being able to proactively and efficiently manage its urban forest. The final report, titled City of Palm Springs Inventory of Public Trees (2014) 1 Urban Forest Management Report is included as Attachment 1. The inventory has identified various characteristics of the City's urban forest (those publicly owned and maintained trees), consisting of 15,224 various trees, which include tree diameter (diameter at breast height [DBH]), tree height, and tree condition, as represented in the Tables on the following page. 02 City Council Staff Report June 17, 2015-- Page 3 Tree Inventory and Urban Forestry Management Report DBH (in inches) Tree Count 00-06 2,617 07-12 3,880 13-18 3,703 19-24 1,611 25-30 1,811 30+ 428 Vacant Sites 1,174 Total 15,224 Tree Diameter(DBH) Height Tree Count 00-15 3574 15-30 5191 30-45 3172 45-60 1812 60+ 301 Vacant Sites 1174 Total 15,224 Tree Height Tree Condition Tree Count Excellent 271 Very Good 986 Good 6,118 Fair 4,516 Poor 2,030 Dead 103 Critical 11 Stump 15 Vacancy 1,174 Total 15,224 Tree Condition 03 City Council Staff Report June 17, 2015 -- Page 4 Tree Inventory and Urban Forestry Management Report The objective of the tree inventory and urban forestry management report is to summarize the findings from the tree inventory and to provide recommendations on how to appropriately manage the City's urban forest. The goal of the plan is to lay the foundation for long-term urban forestry programming. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Section 15061 (b)(3) of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") Guidelines exempts activities that are covered under the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects that have the potential to cause significant effects on the environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility the activity in question may have a significant effect upon the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA. The requested action requests the City Council to receive and file the tree inventory and urban forest management report, which itself will not result in any new direct physical impacts to the environment. Therefore, the requested action is considered exempt from CEQA. FISCAL IMPACT: There is no direct local fiscal impact associated with the requested action. SUBMITTED: Subm'tted by: > �Pr/e�p,�ared by: aa & = - i L r'/ ► V VIM.Wta Michele Mician, Marcus L. Fuller, Manager of Sustainability Assistant City Manager/City Engineer Approved by: David H. Ready, City er Attachment: City of Palm Springs Inventory of Public Trees (2014) 1 Urban Forest Management Report 04 ATTACHMENT 1 05 l'FQR�'� City of Palm Springs Inventory of Public Trees 2014 Urban Forest Management Report Prepared for The City of Palm Springs, California Prepared By ArborPro, Inc. Funded By Southern California Association of Governments 2 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Table of Contents Topic 1, Background 4 2. Inventory Summary 5 3. Economic Benefits Analysis 12 4. Tree Maintenance Recommendations 14 5. Tree Planting Recommendations 21 6. Construction Management 26 Appendices A. Summary of Recommendations 28 B. i-Tree Reports 30 3 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Part l Background After receipt of a grant from Southern California Association of Governments, the City of Palm Springs awarded a contract to ArborPro, Inc. to collect and analyze tree inventory data. ArborPro, Inc. employed an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist to collect tree attributes and to GPS locate the coordinates of every publicly owned and maintained tree in the City. ArborPro Inc. collected attributes such as species, diameter, condition,maintenance need, general observations, clearance requirements, hardscape damage,proximity to overhead power lines and grow space. ArborPro, Inc. utilized handheld surveying equipment to determine the location of each tree(to sub- meter accuracy) and uploaded the data to a GIS (Geographic Information System) database. ArborPro, Inc. provided the City of Palm Springs with a license to ArborPro Tree Management software which allows the tree inventory data to be managed and updated. Up until 2013, the City of Palm Springs had never conducted a comprehensive inventory of city trees and no management tool had ever been implemented to monitor and maintain these trees. This lack of data only allowed for reactive urban forest management,rather than management through a comprehensive, systematic approach. By preparing a tree inventory, the City of Palm Springs took the critical first step to being able to proactively and efficiently manage the urban forest. The objective of this report is to summarize the findings from the tree inventory and to provide recommendations on how to appropriately manage the City's urban forest. 4 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Part 2 Inventory Summary ArborPro, Inc. collected a variety of attributes for each tree in the City, including its size, species and maintenance requirements. The purpose of this section is to summarize the data which was collected. Number of Trees During the data collection process, ArborPro, Inc. created 15,224 records, which includes 13,830 trees, 220 stumps and 1,174 vacant planting sites. Size Characteristics The general size of a tree provides insight into the age and value of the tree. There are two industry wide recognized size characteristics: height and diameter at breast height. While height is self explanatory, diameter at breast height (DBH) is determined by the diameter of the tree at 4.5' above grade. Both the Height and DBH are collected in ranges due to the dynamic growth rate of trees. The chart below summarizes the DBH distribution among the trees collected: DBH(ln Inches) Tree Count DSH Distribution 00-06 2,617 07-12 3,880 14,500 _.. _.. ........ ....... .......... 13-18 3,703 4000 19-24 1,611 3,500 ........... _. __. _. 25-30 1,811 3.000 _...... _. ___. _.. _... 30t 428 2500 .__. ............. ....._. ............. __._ '.. Vacant5ites 1,174 2,000 -- -.____. _.......... ............ ...._........ Total 16,224 3500 - -LODE) 00-06 02-12 13-16 19-24 25-M 30+ Vacant The chart below summarizes the height distribution among the trees collected: Height Tree Count ' 00-is 3574 Height Distribution 15-30 5191 6000 30-45 3172 45-60 1812 5000 ........... ........ .._.. ......-.. ".-_ ',. 60« 301 ,.. Vacant Sites 1174 Total 15,224 3000 00-15 15-30 30-45 45-60 60t Vwants@e' 5 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. The charts above indicate that the City of Palm Springs has a relatively young urban forest. With regards to the Diameter at Breast Height (trunk diameter) 45% of the trees surveyed are 12 inches or smaller. As the urban forest becomes more mature, the young trees will become larger and the distribution of DBH and height will shift to the right. In general, large mature trees provide significantly greater aesthetic and environmental benefits than young small trees. Proper maintenance and management of the urban forest will allow the young trees to grow larger and deliver the increased benefits to the City. Tree Condition A condition assessment was conducted for every tree that was cataloged as part of the tree inventory. The condition assessment was based on criteria established by the ISA. Each tree was assigned a rating (excellent, very good, good, fair, poor, dead and critical). A description of the rating categories are below: Excellent—The tree is near perfect condition, this determination is generally used for trees with no defects and young trees that have been properly maintained. Very Good—The tree is in very good condition with very minor defects that could be corrected by pruning. These trees generally "stand out" with respect to the aesthetic value they add to the Urban Forest. Good—The tree has no major structural problems; no significant damage from diseases or pests; no significant mechanical damage; a full, balanced crown, and normal twig condition and vigor for its species. Fair—The tree may exhibit the following characteristics: minor structural problems and/or mechanical damage; significant damage from non-fatal or disfiguring diseases; minor crown imbalance or thin crown; minor structural imbalance; or stunted growth compared to adjacent trees. Poor—The tree appears healthy,but may have structural defects. This classification also includes healthy trees that have unbalanced structures or have been topped. Trees in this category may also have severe mechanical damage, decay, severe crown dieback or poor vigor/failure to thrive. Dead—Trees in advanced states of decline are not included. This category refers only to dead trees. Critical—The tree is in a physical state that requires immediate attention. Generally these trees are recommended for a Priority One Removal. The charts below summarize the distribution of tree conditions. 6 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Tree Condition Tree Count Excellent 271 Very Good 986 Good 6,118 Fair 4,516 Poor 2,030 Dead 103 Critical 11 Stump 15 Vacancy 1,174 Total 15,224 Tree Condition Chart j 7,000 e,oaa -- i s,000 ! I a'0 3,000 i-- .______ ....__...__. —.... _ _ ! i 2,Ooo i l� Excellent Very Good Fair Poar Dead Critical Stump Vacancy Good About 86%of trees surveyed, were given a rating of"fair" or better, which is indicative of a fairly healthy urban forest. The vast majority of trees surveyed fell within the "good" or"fair"condition categories. Moving forward, it is important to perform proper maintenance of the urban forest to maintain or improve this overall condition level. Species Distribution The City of Palm Springs does not have the most diverse Urban Forest. Of the 13,803 trees that were surveyed, 40% of the trees are Washingtonia Palm species, Mexican and California Fan Palms. The palm trees are iconic to the City of Palm Springs and provide many aesthetic benefits, however,they do not provide as many environmental benefits as other trees would provide for the City. As part of our long term management strategy we are recommending the introduction of additional evergreen and deciduous species to be planted city wide. In general, a diverse palette of trees helps guard against catastrophic loss to insects and diseases or environmental stresses. 7 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Below is a species frequency report that provides a total tree count by species. Botanical Name Common Name Tree Count Mexican Fan Palm Washingtonia robusta 3,162 California Fan Palm Washingtonia filifera 2,405 Thornless Chilean Mesquite Prosopis alba 'Colorado' 718 African Sumac Rhus lancea 657 Olive Olea europaea 624 Mediterranean Fan Palm Chamaerops humilis 471 Filibusta Palm Washingtonia filifera X robusta 428 Desert Willow Chilopsis linearis 385 Athel Tree Tamarix aphylla 348 Blue Palo Verde Parkinsonia florida 322 Carob Ceratonia siliqua 251 Small's Acacia Acacia smallii 228 Bottle Tree Brachychiton populneus 224 Tipu Tipuana tipu 196 Aleppo Pine Pinus halepensis 187 Desert Museum Palo Verde Parkinsonia x'Desert Museum' 177 Red Gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis 160 Jacaranda Jacaranda mimosifolia 156 Jerusalem Thorn Parkinsonia aculeata 148 Date Palm Phoenix dactylifera 141 Yellow Oleander Thevetia peruviana 140 Chinese Elm Ulmus parvifolia 130 Red Ironbark Eucalyptus sideroxylon 109 Desert Gum Eucalyptus rudis 83 Argentine Mesquite Prosopis alba 81 Cajeput Tree Melaleuca quinquenervia 81 Indian Laurel Fig Ficus microcarpa 'Nitida' 77 Cascalote Caesalpinia cacalaco 75 Brazilian Pepper Schinusterebinthifolius 70 London Plane Tree Platanus x acerifolia 65 Heritage Southern Live Oak Quercus virginiana 'Heritage' 64 Mulga Acacia aneura 60 Evergreen Pear Pyrus kawakamii 59 Velvet Mesquite Prosopis velutina 49 Willow Acacia Acacia salicina 48 Afghan Pine Pinus brutia var.eldarica 46 Fern-of-the-Desert Lysiloma microphylla var.thornberi 46 Queen Palm Syagrus romanzoffianum 45 Sonora Emerald Palo Verde Parkinsonia x'Sonora Emerald' 44 California Pepper Schinus molle 43 8 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Palo Brea Parkinsonia praecox 43 Weeping Bottlebrush Callistemon viminalis 43 Shamel Ash Fraxinus uhdei 42 Silk Oak Grevillea robusta 41 Littleleaf Cordia Cordia parvifolia 37 Ocotillo Fouquieria splendens 35 Crape Myrtle (including hybrids) Lagerstroemia indica (and hybrids) 33 Pigmy Date Palm Phoenix roebelenii 33 Mexican Blue Palm Brahea armata 32 Foothill Palo Verde Parkinsonia microphyllum 31 Chitalpa Chitalpa tashkentensis 30 Shoestring Acacia Acacia stenophylla 30 Green Gem Indian Laurel Fig Ficus microcarpa 'Green Gem' 27 Ponytail Palm Beaucarnea recurvata 27 Italian Stone Pine Pinus pinea 26 Canary Island Pine Pinus canariensis 25 Pindo Palm Butia capitata 24 California Sycamore Platanus racemosa 23 Grapefruit Citrus X paradisi 23 Desert Ironwood Olneya tesota 22 Coolibah Eucalyptus microtheca 21 Palo Blanco Acacia willardiana 19 Chilean Mesquite Prosopis chilensis 18 Desert Smoke Tree Dalea spinosa 18 Escarpment Live Oak Quercus fusiformis 18 Leadball Tree Leucaena leucocephala 17 Thornless Honey Locust Gleditsia triacanthos f. inermis 16 Lemon Bottlebrush Callistemon citrinus 15 Silver Dollar Gum Eucalyptus polyanthemos 15 Stump with no planting plan Stump with no planting plan 15 Weeping Fig Ficus benjamina 15 Jumping Cholla Cylindropuntia fulgida 14 Mexican Caesalpinia Caesalpinia mexicana 13 Yellow Elder Tecoma stans 13 Saguaro Carnegiea gigantea 12 Tree Spurge Euphorbia ingens 12 White Ironbark Eucalyptus leucoxylon 12 White Mulberry Morus alba 12 Carrotwood Cupaniopsis anacardioides 11 Pencil Tree Euphorbia tirucalli 11 Spotted Gum Corymbia maculata 10 Carolina Laurel Cherry Prunus caroliniana 9 Lemon Citrus limon 9 9 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Madagascar Palm Pachypodium lamerei 9 Arizona Ash Fraxinusvelutina 8 Cuban Laurel Ficus microcarpa 8 Italian Cypress Cupressus sempervirens 8 Camphor Cinnamomum camphora 7 Calabrian Pine Pinus brutia 6 Honey Mesquite Prosopis glandulosa 6 Lemon-Scented Gum Corymbia citriodora 6 Ornamental Pear Pyrus calleryana 6 Rustyleaf Fig Ficus rubiginosa 6 Tangerine Citrus reticulata 6 Apple Cactus Cereus peruvianus 5 Redspire Pear Pyrus calleryana 'Redspire' S Southern Live Oak Quercus virginiana 5 Spanish Bayonet Yucca aloifolia 5 Texas Ebony Ebenopsis ebano 5 Bird of Paradise Bush Caesalpinia gilliesii 4 Eucalyptus Species Eucalyptus species 4 Ficus Species Ficus species 4 Floss Silk Tree Ceiba speciosa 4 Fremont Cottonwood Populusfremontii 4 Mexican Grass Tree Dasylirion longissimum 4 Orange Citrus sinensis 4 Purple Orchid Tree Bauhinia variegata 4 Canary Island Date Palm Phoenix canariensis 3 Drake Chinese Elm Ulmus parvifolia 'Drake' 3 Dwarf Olive Olea europaea 'Skylark' 3 Edible Fig Ficus carica 3 Koelreuteria elegans subsp. Formosa Flamegold formosana 3 Ghost Gum Corymbia papuana 3 Hong Kong Orchid Tree Bauhinia x blakeana 3 Lime Citrus aurantifolia 3 Nichol's Willow-Leafed Peppermint Eucalyptus nicholii 3 Oriental Arborvitae Platycladus orientalis 3 Other Tree Other Tree 3 Peruvian Pepper Schinus polygamus 3 Shiny Xylosma Xylosma congestum 3 White-thorn Acacia Acacia constricta 3 Yucca Species Yucca species 3 Black Ironwood Krugiodendron ferreum 2 Chaste Tree Vitex agnus-castus 2 Fern Pine Afrocarpusgracilior 2 10 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Giant Bird of Paradise Strelitzia nicolai 2 Indian Rosewood Dalbergia sissoo 2 Mango Mangifera indica 2 Manna Gum Eucalyptus viminalis 2 Plumeria Plumeria rubra 2 Prickly Pear Cactus Opuntia ficus-indica 2 Private Tree Private Tree 2 Purple Hopseed Dodonaea viscosa 'Purpurea' 2 Purple-Leafed Plum Prunus cerasifera 2 River She-Oak Casuarina cunninghamiana 2 Sago Palm Cycasrevoluta 2 Senegal Date Palm Phoenix reclinata 2 Siberian Elm Ulmus pumila 2 Snailseed Cocculus laurifolius 2 Stone Fruit Species Prunus species 2 Tangelo Citrus X 'Tangelo' 2 Texas Mountain Laurel Sophora secundiflora 2 Tree of Heaven Ailanthus altissima 2 Yate Eucalyptus cornuta 2 Arizona Cypress Cupressus arizonica 1 Arizona Sycamore Platanus wrightii 1 Avocado Persea americana 1 Chinaberry Melia azedarach 1 Chinese Sweet Gum Liquidambar formosana 1 Clustered Fishtail Palm Caryota mitis 1 Edible Loquat Eriobotrya japonica 1 Fan-Tex Ash Fraxinus velutina 'Rio Grande' 1 Flooded Gum Eucalyptus grandis 1 Japanese Black Pine Pinusthunbergiana 1 Mimosa;Silk Tree Albizia julibrissin 1 Peach Prunus persica 1 Peach-Leafed Willow Salix amygdaloides 1 Pumelo Citrus maxima 1 Purple Robe Locust Robinia x ambigua'Purple Robe' 1 Red Bauhinia Bauhinia punctata 1 Sky Flower Duranta repens 1 Southern Magnolia Magnolia grandiflora 1 Yew Pine Podocarpus macrophyllus 1 11 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Part 3 Economic Benefits Analysis Often, municipalities only consider the cost of maintaining the urban forest, and ignore the benefits that trees provide. Trees provide significant community benefits. It is important to quantify those benefits to highlight the fact that trees are a good investment for the community. ArborPro, Inc. performed an economic benefits analysis of the tree inventory data utilizing the i-Tree software suite distributed by the USDA Forest Service. The i-Tree suite is comprised of urban and community forestry analysis and benefits assessment tools. The i-Tree tools are intended to help communities to strengthen their urban forest management and advocacy efforts by quantifying the environmental services that trees provide and the structure of the urban forest. All of the attributes collected during the tree inventory were entered into the i-Tree software to quantify their value. Stormwater Runoff and Improved Water Quality Trees reduce peak stormwater runoff and associated pollutants entering local water bodies. Trees reduce stormwater volumes by intercepting a portion of rainfall, which evaporates and never reaches the ground. Tree roots also increase rainfall infiltration and storage in the soil. And tree canopies reduce soil erosion by diminishing the impact of raindrops on barren surfaces. Public trees in Palm Springs intercept 6,882,183 gallons of water annually for a savings of$33,304. Reduction of Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide Trees reduce atmospheric carbon by capturing and storing CO2 as they grow. By reducing demand for heating and cooling, trees indirectly reduce CO2 by avoiding emissions associated with energy production. Public trees in Palm Springs capture 620,065 pounds of atmospheric CO2 per year. Annual savings including indirect costs are $4,650. Street trees also store approximately 14,414,657 pounds of atmospheric CO2 for a total savings of$108,110. Air Quality Improvements Trees improve air quality by trapping particulates, absorbing gaseous pollutants, and releasing oxygen. By cooling urban heat islands and shading parked cars, trees indirectly reduce ozone levels. The Environmental Protection Agency recognizes tree planting as an ozone reduction measure in state implementation plans. 12 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Public trees in Palm Springs remove particulate matter, ozone, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. The annual savings from air quality improvements including indirect cost is $ 37,208. Energy Savings Trees reduce the demand for energy to heat and cool buildings by providing shade, lowering summertime temperatures, and reducing windspeeds. Secondary benefits are reduced water consumption and pollutants emissions. Public trees in Palm Springs save approximately 406.3 MWH of electricity and 7,226.6 Therms of natural gas annually for a savings of$63,186. Improved Property Values Trees are the single strongest positive influence on scenic quality in most communities. They increase the attractiveness of retail business areas. Studies have found that shoppers are willing to pay more for goods and services in a well-landscaped business district and people will pay more for properties with many trees. Trees foster safer and more sociable neighborhoods. Views of trees ease mental fatigue and stress, help concentration, reduce sickness, and provide settings for recreation and relaxation. Trees also help reduce noise, provide a refuge for wildlife, and help connect residents with their natural environment. Public trees in Palm Springs increase property values annually by$307,572. The full i-Tree reports are provided in Exhibit C. The i-Tree reports indicate that larger trees provide significantly greater environmental and economic benefits to the community than smaller trees. For example, the average annual benefits for individual African Sumac Trees were calculated to be $47.53, whereas the average annual benefits for individual Mexican Fan Pals was calculated to be $12.80. As the City's urban forest continues to grow, it is expected that the difference in average annual benefits will grow by a large margin. 13 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Part 4 Tree Maintenance Recommendations The Certified Arborist that conducted the tree inventory provided a maintenance recommendation for each tree or tree site. All recommendations and tree assessments were provided utilizing a ground level observation of the tree. There can be unforeseen damage internally or in the branch structure, not identified by the data collector, that could cause limb or tree failure. The maintenance categories are defined below: Priority One Prune—Trees which require pruning to remove deadwood and/or broken branches that pose an immediate safety risk that could result in personal injury or property damage. Trees have limbs that are more than 3 inches in diameter and pose an immediate safety risk. The trees that have been recommended for a priority I prune should be inspected by staff, These trees are in need of corrective maintenance. Priority Two Prune—Trees having problems and conditions which may affect future safety, health or structure of the tree. This includes primarily large trees (over 20 feet in height) with minor amounts of deadwood and correctable structural problems. Routine Prune(Small or Large)—This includes pruning of trees with minor amounts of deadwood that pose little or no threat of personal injury or property damage and trees with correctable structural problems. Trees with growth patterns that will eventually obstruct or interfere with pedestrian or vehicular traffic, traffic control devices, lines of sight, or overhead utility lines are also included in this category. These trees are in satisfactory condition and can be pruned on a regular cycle. Priority One Removal—Trees that are dead or have one or more defects that cannot be cost-effectively or practically remedied. Such defects include extensive trunk decay and severely decayed or weakened v-type crotches. These trees should be surveyed by staff and scheduled for removal and replacement if appropriate. This category includes trees that reflect dangerous conditions combined with significant targets such as proximity to high volume sidewalks or play areas. Priority Two Removal - Trees that are structurally compromised but may be expected to be removed in 2 to 5 years. These trees should be scheduled for removal over a reasonable time period based on available funds. The removal process should be followed by a replanting program. Plant Tree—This recommendation has been provided for vacant planting sites throughout the city. Based on criteria approved by the City of Palm Springs our data collector has identified sites throughout the city to plant trees. In association 14 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. with the Planting Plan we have also identified the appropriate specie to plant in each site. Training Prune—The most important time to prune a tree is within the first five years following planting. By properly pruning a young tree the city will save future maintenance costs that result from poor branch structure, dual leaders, etc. The small investment on a young tree will save thousands in the long run. The charts below summarize the distribution of recommended maintenance needs: Recommended Maintenance I 12,000 lo.aoa i 8,000 'r - -- ---._---------------- I j 6,000 _.- I j 4,000 —. I 2,000 0 _ __ ------- ....... ®_ Priorityl Priorityl Pnority2 Priority2 Priority3 Routine Training Stump Infill Plant Prune Removal Prune Removal Removal Prune Prune Removal Recommended Maintenance Tree Count Priority 1 Prune 199 Priority 1 Removal 247 Priority 2 Prune 1,133 Priority 2 Removal 844 Priority 3 Removal 4 Routine Prune (Large and Small) 10,549 Training Prune 854 Stump Removal 220 Infill Plant 1,174 Total 15,224 15 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Hazard Eradication The trees that pose the most immediate threat to the City of Palm Springs are categorized as Category 1 Removals. The first phase of properly managing the City's tree inventory is to remove the trees in the Priority 1 Removal category. Utilizing the ArborPro, software provided, city staff can produce a work order and map to generate an RFP and to create a work order to remove all Category I Removal trees. It is recommended that the City remove these trees as soon as possible to reduce liability. If the city is not able to fund the removal of all of the hazardous trees in one year, the city may consider a multi-year removal/replacement program, not to exceed three years. In a multi-year plan, the City should remove the most hazardous trees in year one and work their way through the list. ArborPro, Inc. strongly suggests that the program does not exceed a three year term. Removing all trees at one time, under one contract would provide the City with some cost savings. The list of Category 1 removals is below: City Zone Property Name or Street Tree Count Airport Kirk Douglas Way 1 Airport Palm Springs Airport 8 Airport Vista Chino E 1 Facilities Boys&Girls Club 1 Facilities City Hall 4 Facilities City Yard 4 Facilities Convention Center Parking Lot 1 Facilities Jackie Lee Houston Plaza 3 Facilities Mizell Senior Center 1 Facilities Palm Springs Air Museum 1 Facilities Palm Springs Public Library 11 Facilities Plaza Raquet Club 1 Facilities Police Department 5 Facilities Sunrise Plaza 1 Parks Baristo Park 3 Parks Civic Drive LMD 1 Parks Civic Drive N LIVID 1 Parks Demuth Park 18 Parks Desert Healthcare (Wellness) Park 2 Parks Desert Highland Park 4 Parks Dog Park 2 Parks Ruth Hardy Park 21 Parks Sunrise Park 8 Parks Tahquitz Creek Channel 7 Parks Victoria Park 3 Streets Arenas Road W 1 16 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Streets Baristo Road E 1 Streets Baristo Road W 3 Streets Belardo Road N 2 Streets Chino Drive W 2 Streets Dinah Shore Drive 1 Streets El Cielo Road 4 Streets Indian Canyon Drive N 1 Streets Indian Canyon Drive S 2 Streets Palm Canyon Drive N 11 Streets Palm Canyon Drive S 4 Streets Pso Azulejo 4 Streets Riverside Drive N 1 Streets San Rafael Drive E 1 Streets Sunrise Way N 6 Streets Sunrise Way S 2 Streets Tachevah Drive E 2 Streets Tahquitz Canyon Way E 1 Streets Via Las Palmas N 1 Taquitz Creek Golf Resort Resort Course 21 Taquitz Creek Golf Resort Taquitz Creek Golf Resort 7 Taquitz Creek Golf Resort The Legends Course 56 Map of Priority 1 Removals Map r s 4 • p n o O p V 4 Palm Springs-Priority 1 Removals 17 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Priority 1 Removals Species Frequency It is important when analyzing the tree inventory data to determine which species are causing issues within the Urban Forest. Below is a frequency report by species of the Priority 1 Tree Removals. Tree Botanical Name Common Name Count Olea europaea Otive 34 Pinus halepensis Aleppo Pine 29 Washingtonia robusta Mexican Fan Palm 27 Ceratonia siliqua Carob 26 Prosopis alba 'Colorado' Thornless Chilean Mesquite 23 Schinus molle California Pepper 16 Chilopsis linearis Desert Willow 10 Eucalyptus rudis Desert Gum 9 Rhus lancea African Sumac 9 Acacia smallii Small's Acacia 7 Fraxinus uhdei Shamel Ash 6 Jacaranda mimosifolia Jacaranda 6 Eucalyptus camaldulensis Red Gum 5 Parkinsonia Florida Blue Palo Verde 5 Ulmus parvifolia Chinese Elm 5 Phoenix dactylifera Date Palm 3 Prosopis alba Argentine Mesquite 3 Washingtonia filifera California Fan Palm 3 Brachychiton populneus Bottle Tree 2 Ficus species Ficus Species 2 Parkinsonia aculeata Jerusalem Thorn 2 Pinus brutia var.eldarica Afghan Pine 2 Schinus terebinthifolius Brazilian Pepper 2 Tipuana tipu Tipu 2 Eucalyptus sideroxylon Red Ironbark 1 Ficus microcarpa 'Green Gem' Green Gem Indian Laurel Fig 1 Fraxinus velutina Arizona Ash 1 Grevillea robusta Silk Oak 1 Pinus pinea Italian Stone Pine 1 Platanus racemosa California Sycamore 1 Populus fremontii Fremont Cottonwood 1 Prosopis velutina Velvet Mesquite 1 Thevetia peruviana Yellow Oleander 1 18 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Tree Pruning Program Pruning is the most common tree maintenance procedure. Although forest trees grow quite well with only nature's pruning, landscape trees require a higher level of care to maintain their safety and aesthetics. Pruning should be done with an understanding of how the tree responds to each cut. Improper pruning can cause damage that will last for the life of the tree, or worse, shorten the tree's life. Because each cut has the potential to change the growth of the tree, no branch should be removed without a reason. Common reasons for pruning are to remove dead branches, to remove crowded or rubbing limbs, and to eliminate hazards. Trees may also be pruned to increase light and air penetration to the inside of the tree's crown or to the landscape below. In most cases, mature trees are pruned as a corrective or preventive measure. Routine thinning does not necessarily improve the health of a tree. Trees produce a dense crown of leaves to manufacture the sugar used as energy for growth and development. Removal of foliage through pruning can reduce growth and stored energy reserves. Heavy pruning can be a significant health stress for the tree. Yet if people and trees are to coexist in an urban or suburban environment, then we sometimes have to modify the trees. City environments do not mimic natural forest conditions. Safety is a major concern. Also, we want trees to complement other landscape plantings and lawns. Proper pruning, with an understanding of tree biology, can maintain good tree health and structure while enhancing the aesthetic and economic values of our landscapes. ArborPro, Inc. recommends that the City of Palm Springs deploy a routine tree trimming program based on a pre-determined grid system. Based on volume and efficiencies of maintaining the trees on a block by block basis the City will receive a fair price for the maintenance and be able to properly and efficiently manage the Urban Forest. Prior to the implementation of the routine tree trimming program we suggest that the City address the trees that have been recommended as Priority 1 Prunes. We have identified only 199 trees that fall into this category but they should be addressed in the near future. Based on recent local bid results we predict the cost for this maintenance will not exceed $30,000. 19 Prepared by ArborPro,Inc. � a 1, , o •• r o r� a ♦ R .o ,o Palm Springs - Priority 1 Pruning A�sott,- ArborPro Software To maintain the integrity of the tree inventory, it is important that data be properly maintained and updated. When a tree is pruned, removed or planted, the information should be updated in the ArborPro tree management program. When preparing a contract for a tree management services, the City should include a provision requiring the company to update the ArborPro database. 20 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Part 5 Tree Planting Recommendations To have a healthy and functional urban forest, it is important to have the right trees planted in the right place. For example, it would not be appropriate to plant a tall growing redwood tree directly underneath utility lines. ArborPro, Inc. has developed a recommended planting palette to provide city staff with a guide to aid in the proper selection of a species that is appropriate to a particular planting site and its physical characteristics. Recommended Species Characteristics Not all existing species within the city meet the criteria for where they are located. Parkway size is commonly far too narrow and utility lines are a common conflict with tree canopy. One of the goals of this document is to offer a framework to city staff for selecting the correct tree for the site condition. In selecting a replacement species these conditions were evaluated as well as spread and canopy coverage, leaf and fruit litter. Tree Planting Palette In association with city staff and utilizing guidelines from the suggested from the Recommended Street Tree Book, ArborPro, Inc. has created a tree planting palette for the City of Palm Springs. ArborPro, Inc. suggests that this list remain dynamic. The benefits of alternate species and cultivars are discovered every year. Parkway Plant Under Botanical Name Common Name Size in feet Utilities Acacia aneura Mulga 4 No Acacia constricta White-thorn Acacia 4 No Acacia salicina Willow Acacia 4 No Acacia smallii Small's Acacia 4 No Acacia stenophylla Shoestring Acacia 4 No Acacia willardiana Palo Blanco 4 No Afrocarpus gracilior Fern Pine 5 No Brachychiton populneus Bottle Tree 4 No Brahea armata Mexican Blue Palm 3 No Butia capitata Pindo Palm 3 Yes Caesalpinia cacalaco Cascalote 4 Yes Caesalpinia mexicana Mexican Caesalpinia 4 Yes Callistemon citrinus Lemon Bottlebrush 4 No Callistemon viminalis Weeping Bottlebrush 4 No 21 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Casuarina cunnin hamiana River She-Oak 7 No Chilopsis linearis Desert Willow 4 Yes Chitalpa tashkentensis Chitalpa 4 No Corymbia citriodora Lemon-Scented Gum 7 No Corymbia maculata Spotted Gum 7 No Corymbia papuana Ghost Gum 7 No Cupaniopsis anacardioides Carrotwood 5 Yes Dalea spinosa Desert Smoke Tree 4 Yes Ebenopsis ebano Texas Ebony Eucalyptus cornuta Yate 5 No Eucalyptus grandis Flooded Gum 7 No Eucalyptus leucoxylon White lronbark 5 No Eucalyptus microtheca Coolibah 5 No Eucalyptus nichohi Nichol's Willow-Leafed Peppermint 5 No Eucalyptus polyanthemos Silver Dollar Gum 5 No Eucalyptus rudis Desert Gum 5 No Eucalyptus viminalis Manna Gum 5 No Ficus microcarpa'Green Gem' Green Gem Indian Laurel Fig 6 No Fraxinus velutina Arizona Ash 5 No Fraxinus velutina'Rio Grande' Fan-Tex Ash 5 No Koelreuteria elegans subsp.formosana Formosa Flamegold 5 No Koelreuteria bipinnata Chinese Flame Tree 3 Yes Lagerstroemia indica(and hybrids) Crape Myrtle(including hybrids) 3 Yes Lysiloma microphylla var.thornberi Fern-of-the-Desert 3 Yes Melaleuca quinquenervia Cajeput Tree 5 Yes Olea europaea'Swan Hill' Fruitless Olive 7 Yes Olea europaea'Skylark' Dwarf Olive 7 Yes Olneya tesota Desert Ironwood 4 No Parkinsonia aculeata Jerusalem Thorn 5 No Parkinsonia florida Blue Palo Verde 5 No Parkinsonia microphyllum Foothill Palo Verde 5 No Parkinsonia praecox Palo Brea 5 No Parkinsonia x'Desert Museum' Desert Museum Palo Verde 5 No Parkinsonia x'Sonora Emerald' Sonora Emerald Palo Verde 5 No Phoenix canariensis Canary Island Date Palm 6 No Phoenix dactylifera Date Palm 4 No Pinus eldarica Afgan Pine 5 No Pinus halepensis Aleppo Pine 5 No 22 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Pistacia chinensis Chinese Pistache 5 Yes Prosopis alba Argentine Mesquite 4 No Prosopis alba'Colorado' Thornless Chilean Mesquite 4 No Prosopis chilensis Chilean Mesquite 4 No Prosopis glandulosa Honey Mesquite 4 No Prosopis velutina Velvet Mesquite 4 No Prunus caroliniana Carolina Laurel Cherry 4 Yes Pyrus calleryana'Redspire' Redspire Pear 5 No Quercus fusiformis Escarpment Live Oak 6 No Quercus virginiana Southern Live Oak 6 No Quercus virginiana'Heritage' Heritage Southern Live Oak 6 No Rhus lancea African Sumac 4 Yes Tipuana tipu Tipu 5 Yes Ulmus parvifolia Chinese Elm 5 No Ulmus parvifolia'Drake' Drake Chinese Elm 5 No Ulmus pumila Siberian Elm 5 No Washingtonia filifera California Fan Palm 4 No Washingtonia filifera X robusta Filibusta Palm 3 No Washingtonia robusta Mexican Fan Palm 3 No The list above is organized by the size of parkway planting area. All of the above trees have been deemed to be appropriate in an urban planting situation, but offer unique characteristics. Some trees have showy flowers and others attract insects or wildlife. Some are evergreen, some are deciduous. Some trees provide edible fruit. All of a tree's characteristics should be taken into account during a tree planting situation, not just the amount of growing space. Replacement Program Utilizing the recommended planting palette, the city should continually replace trees that have been removed or have failed with new plantings in order to minimize the impact on the urban forest. ArborPro, Inc. recommends utilizing 24" box trees or larger for replacement plantings. In fill Planting The tree inventory identified 1,174 vacant sites which are potentially suitable for tree planting. We recommend that the city take a proactive approach to plant trees at these locations. The City should always keep in mind that a major wind storm event, pest or disease can wipe out a large portion of the City's canopy at any time. Therefore, the city should 23 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. constantly fill vacant sites in anticipation of potential future canopy loss. It can take decades to replace the canopy of a mature tree. If trees are continually planted, the impact from a catastrophic loss of trees is diminished. ArborPro, Inc. recommends utilizing 24" box trees or larger for new plantings, but in special situations or with budget limitations, a 15 gallon planting or planting by seed may also be acceptable. Community Outreach Customer service is important to all companies and cities. ArborPro, Inc. recommends that a mailer or door hanger be distributed to properties located near a site where a tree is planned to be removed, pruned or planted. This step will take minimal effort and expense and almost always results in more satisfied customers (residents). Young Tree Maintenance Program Young trees require special maintenance. New tree plantings must be done in conjunction with a funded young tree maintenance program. The most important maintenance performed on any tree takes place in the first 2-5 years. Trimming a young tree provides exponential benefits. Proper pruning of a young tree, utilizing International Society of Arboriculture standards, will promote a healthy growth and form. Many pruning activities performed by crews, on mature trees, is the result of neglect of young trees or poor past pruning techniques. With a little effort in the first 2-5 years a properly pruned tree will not require very much attention in the future. Young tree maintenance is a very inexpensive activity and will save the city thousands of dollars in future maintenance and potential liability. New plantings typically require several years of regular watering for the tree to properly establish. Irrigation systems or a program for hand watering should be established for the first several years after a tree is planted. ArborPro Inc. recommends recruiting nearby residents to assist with the watering needs of a new tree. Residents are often very willing to help water because new trees ultimately improve the appearance of their property and their streetscape. Tree Planting Funding Sources Grant opportunities arise periodically that will fund tree planting activities. Over the past several years, CAL FIRE grants have funded numerous planting efforts. Palm Springs should submit a grant application to plant trees on the vacant planting sites identified in the tree inventory. Having specific locations identified is a desirable characteristic in a tree planting grant application. The City may also be able to fund new tree plantings by simply working with local community groups. Many organizations will donate time and money to support local tree planting efforts. The City should approach local non-profit organizations and neighborhood groups with a plan for small community based tree planting events. 24 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. ArborPro Software To maintain the integrity of the tree inventory, it is important that data be properly maintained and updated. When a tree is pruned, removed or planted, the information should be updated in the ArborPro tree management program. When preparing a contract for a tree management services, the City should include a provision requiring the company to update the ArborPro database. 25 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Part 6 Construction Management Capital projects or private developments often conflict with existing mature trees. Proper management and protection of existing trees is important when conducted in conjunction with a development project. ArborPro, Inc. recommends that a Certified Arborist be consulted when any grading, paving or other construction work is to be conducted within the canopy of an existing mature tree. Some species will be incompatible with a construction project. A Certified Arborist can determine whether it is appropriate to preserve the tree and if so, can provide recommendations for adequately protecting it during construction. Consultation should be done during the design phase, if possible. 26 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Appendices A. Summary of Recommendations B. I-Tree Reports 27 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Appendix A Summary of Recommendations Tree Maintenance Recommendations 1) Address Priority 1 Tree Removals during the first year, if financially feasible. if not financially feasible, prepare a multi-year removal strategy that does not exceed three years. 2) Address Priority 1 Prunes during the first year. 3) Deploy a routine tree trimming program based on a pre-determined grid system. 4) Perform routine tree pruning on a four year cycle. 5) When preparing a contract for tree management services, include a provision requiring the tree company to update the ArborPro software database. Tree Planting Recommendations 1) When selecting a tree to plant, refer to the recommended planting palette. Review all features of the tree to select the right species for the right place. 2) Utilize the recommended planting palette to continually replace trees that have been removed or have failed. 3) Plant trees utilizing 24" box trees or larger, when feasible. 4) Distribute a mailer or door hanger to properties nearby the site of a planned tree removal,pruning or planting. 5) Integrate a young tree maintenance program into all new planting projects. 6) Perform young pruning during the first 2-5 years after planting. 7) Install irrigation systems or implement a hand watering program for the first three years after a tree is planted. 8) Contact nearby residents to ask for assistance with watering new trees. 9) Apply for grants that will pay for tree planting on the vacant sites identified in the tree inventory. 10)Contact local non-profit organizations and neighborhood groups to collaborate on small community based tree planting events. 28 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. 11)When preparing a contract for tree management services, include a provision requiring the tree company to update the ArborPro software database. 12)Update the planting palette periodically with the best performing species and cultivars. Construction Management 1) Consult with a Certified Arborist whenever a construction project will require paving or grading within the canopy of an existing mature tree. Consultation is recommended to take place during the design phase, when feasible. 29 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Appendix B I-Tree Reports Stored CO2 Benefits of Public Trees by Zone %of Total Total stored Standard Tree %of Avg. Zone CO2(Ibs) Total ($) Error Numbers Total $ $/tree Streets 3,877,849.02 29,093.87 (N/A) 38.03 26.90 5.54 Parks 3,879,272.61 29,094.54 (N/A) 18.13 26.91 11.62 Facilities 2,640,618.44 19,804.64 (N/A) 17.06 15.38 7.06 Airport 946,822.42 7,101.17 (N/A) 8.90 6.57 5.78 Taquitz Creek Golf R 3,070,094.46 23,025.71 (N/A) 14.75 21.30 11.30 Citywide total 14,414,656.95 108,109.93 (N/A) 100.00 100.00 7.83 Annual Stormwater Benefits of Public Trees by Zone %of Total rainfall Total interception( Standard Tree %of Avg. Zone Gal) Total ($) Error Numbers Total $ $/tree Streets 1,518,487.80 7,288.74 (N/A) 38.03 22.06 1.39 Parks 2,053,895.21 9,858.70 (N/A) 18.13 29.84 3.94 Facilities 1,367,982.16 6,566.30 (N/A) 17.06 16.70 2.34 Airport 460,556.23 2,210.67 (N/A) 8.90 6.69 1.80 Taquitz Creek Golf R 1,481,261.81 7,110.06 (N/A) 14.75 21.52 3.49 Citywide total 6,88Z 183.21 33,034.48 (N/A) 100.00 100.00 2.39 Annual CO2 Benefits of Public Trees by Zone %of Deoompositi Ntintenanc Total Total Sequestere Sequeste on eRelease Release Avoided Tree %of Avg. Zone d(lb) redl$) Release(lb) (lb) ($) Avoided(lb) ($) NetTotal(lb) Total($) Numbers Total$ Vtree Streets 162,508.67 1,218.82 -31,02179 -4,428.72 -33.22 315,303.02 4364.77 442,350.17 3,317.70 38.03 26.97 0.63 Parks 176,612.02 1,324.59 -31,034.18 -2,577.20 -19.33 302,961.08 2,272.21 445,961.71 3,344.71 18.13 27.19 1.34 Fadllties 122,702.56 920.28 -17,,736.58 -2,071.78 -15.54 180,341.57 1,352.56 266,563.77 1,999.23 17.06 16.25 0.85 Airport 48,049.04 360.37 -7,574.58 -960.16 -7.20 95,517..25 7138 135,031,55 1,01274 8.90 8.23 0.82 Taquitz Creek Golf R 110,192.41 826.44 -24,560.76 -2,018.16 -15.14 220,558.48 1,654.19 304,171.98 2,28L29 14.75 18.54 1.12 Citywide Total 620,065.40 4,650.49 -115,317.26 -12,473.59 -93.55 1,147,973.69 8,609.80 1,640,248.24 12,30186 100.00 100.00 0.89 30 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc. Annual Aesthetic/Other Benefit of Public Trees by Zone %of Total Standard Tree %of Avg Zone Total ($) Error Numbers Total ($) $/tree Streets 80,186.13 (N/A) 38.03 26.07 15.26 Parks 89,476.13 (N/A) 18.13 29.09 35.73 Facilities 61,308.79 (N/A) 17.06 17.13 22.36 Airport 24,197.70 (N/A) 8.90 7.87 19.69 Taquitz Creek GolfR 52,403.60 (N/A) 14.75 17.04 25.73 Citywide Total 307,572.35 (N/A) 100.00 100.00 22.27 31 Prepared by ArborPro, Inc.