URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN MEET & GREET Q&A SUMMARY

On August 5, 2021, the City and planning consultants hosted a live Meet & Greet virtual event to provide the public an opportunity to ask questions, meet the project team, and learn about the strategic plan for our City’s trees. During the hour-long session held at noon, a total of 140 questions were received from the 62 attendees at the event. Due to the number of questions, only some of the questions were addressed live. The following provides a summary of the types of questions received followed by the complete list of all questions and responses. View a recording of the event here.

Categories of Questions Asked at the UFMP Meet & Greet (08/05/2021)

  • Landmark Trees 1% 1%
  • Invasive & Nuisance Trees 1% 1%
  • Master Tree List 2% 2%
  • Tree Sourcing 2% 2%
  • Race, Equity, & Environmental Justice 2% 2%
  • Edible Trees & Food Forests 2% 2%
  • Fire 2% 2%
  • Tree Inventory/Mapping 3% 3%
  • Direct Follow-Up Needed 5% 5%
  • $$ Concerns 5% 5%
  • City-wide Canopy 6% 6%
  • Sidewalk Damage / Accessibility 6% 6%
  • Need More Trees + Diversity 7% 7%
  • Community Engagement 8% 8%
  • Native Trees 9% 9%
  • Not a Question 12% 12%
  • Tree Maintenance & Watering 14% 14%
  • Street Trees 14% 14%

A Sample of the Categories of Questions and Types of Questions Asked

Street Trees (19)

  • New and replacement street trees are wanted. (3)
  • Who’s responsible for maintenance? (3)
  • Are there resources (financial or other) available to homeowners? (3)
  • How is the City addressing sidewalk disrepair from street trees? (8)

Tree Maintenance and Watering (19)

  • How can we ensure proper pruning and maintenance for tree health for longevity?
  • Concerns over drought and watering needs (5)
  • Concerns over invasives and fire hazards (3)

Native Trees (12)

  • Is there a requirement that native species that might be more adapted to drought conditions be used?
  • Requested tree list for homeowners, include details like native status, size, care required, etc.

Community Engagement (11)

  • How can a resident learn more and get involved/volunteer?
  • Suggestions to coordinate with tufatrees.org, Scout troops, Adopt a Tree program for senior citizens, California Native Plant Society, and California Nursery Historical Park.

Tree Canopy (7)

  • How does Fremont’s tree canopy compare to other that of other bay area communities/Cities (include per capita numbers in addition to %)? 
  • Can we see the change in canopy cover over time?
  • What is the city’s near and far term canopy cover goals?

Need to Preserve and Plant More and Diverse Trees (7)

  • Desire for every home has a tree in their front yard 
  • Will the Tree Plan take into consideration the importance of the understory plant selection?
  • Can the city use its permitting authority to preserve existing trees and to increase native plants and trees?

Race, Equity, and Environmental Justice (3)

  • How are we measuring tree equity so that residents of all income levels, including unhoused, have equal access to trees and shade?
  • How will we work to resolve the disparity in tree canopy in the East Bay (Fremont) and the West Bay (Palo Alto)?

Edible Trees and Food Forests (3)

  • How can we incorporate recommendations for fruiting trees, edible landscapes, and food forests?

Tree Sourcing (3)

  • Is the City working with California Nursery Historical Park and/or the school district to educate, grow trees, or maintain trees?

Tree Inventorying & Mapping (2)

  • How often is the Urban Forest Map updated?
  • Concerns over correcting inventory issues: some participants saw trees counted where there aren’t trees, and others could not see their trees.

Comprehensive List of Questions and Responses

Below is the list of questions and feedback received during the meet and greet, along with the City’s response. Click or tap on the question to reveal the response.

I live in the Ardenwood area. When we moved in 1984 ago every home had a city tree planted in the front. Today not every home has a tree in the front. What happened and what are you going to do about it? Thank you.

The UFMP may provide guidance on preserving existing trees and strategies to increase tree canopy, guided by a canopy goal. Efforts should be aligned with community partners and organizations. We encourage you to seek out this organizations and to join the City’s email list (https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fwW6ty5/trees) to stay engaged.

I love trees

Thank you for your participation and support, stay engaged at FremontUrbanForest.com

Stiver's lagoon at central park

Thank you for sharing your response to the poll question, “what is your favorite tree or park in the City?”.

Ardenwood area

Thank you for sharing your response to the poll question, “what is your favorite tree or park in the City?”.

 

Quarry Lakes is a great example of a park that is starting to mature after opening 20+ years ago

Thank you for sharing your response to the poll question, “what is your favorite tree or park in the City?”.

 

Hello. I live in Glenmoor and desire to have more CA native trees.

As part of the UFMP project, a recommended tree planting list is being developed that may include native trees and trees suitable for a changing climate. It may even include food/fruit trees where suitable. The list may be utilized by the City, for development projects, and its use is encouraged for private property plantings.

Michele, in Mission San Jose area and my favorite tree is a massive Coast live oak that is stabilizing the steep slope of a ravine in the hills.

Thank you for sharing your response to the poll question, “what is your favorite tree or park in the City?”.

 

My name is Kathy. I live in the Irvington area and have for over 50 years. My biggest concern is the care of street trees.

Thank you for sharing your response to the poll question, “what brought you here today?”.

 

I live in the Canyon Heights area of Fremont. I am interested in how many edible trees the city is planning on planting? Providing both food and trees to our residents?

As part of the UFMP project, a recommended tree planting list is being developed that may include native trees and trees suitable for a changing climate. It may even include food/fruit trees where suitable. The list may be utilized by the City, for development projects, and its use is encouraged for private property plantings. There may also be local community groups focused on this effort.

 

Favorite tree--anything that does not drop needles on my roof. ruins it.

Thank you for sharing your response to the poll question, “what is your favorite tree or park in the City?”

 

What are we doing to ensure as many as possible of our mature trees are properly maintained for their long term health?

The UFMP may provide guidance on preserving existing trees, the strategies to increase resources for City-maintained trees, and the education/outreach for privately-maintained street trees. The City’s 50-50 Street Tree cost-share program is just one currently available effort to support long-term health of mature trees.

 

I hate palm trees

Thank you for sharing your response to the poll question, “what is your favorite tree or park in the City?”.

 

How are we measuring tree equity so that residents of all income levels, including unhoused, have equal access to trees and shade?

The 2020 Urban Tree Canopy Assessment provided the data necessary to evaluate tree equity to be addressed in the UFMP.

 

I live in Niles Glen, along the Union City border. Trident Maples have worked well in our HOA that contains 217 street/front yard trees.

Thank you for sharing your response to the poll question, “what is your favorite tree or park in the City?”.

 

Many trees have died because of not enough watering! what do we do about that?

For existing large trees, it’s important to slowly soak the root zone for several hours to reach the roots 12-18 inches below the surface. Soaker hoses and drip emitters are encouraged. For street trees, the City-maintained trees may receive water as resources allow and for those privately-maintained street trees, property owners are encouraged to deep soak the trees as described above 1-2 times per month during the dry, hot weather months. Trees play an important role in reducing surface temperatures and air conditioning costs. For new tree plantings, it’s important to choose the right tree for the location, consider drought tolerant species, and have a plan for post-planting care. Learn more at https://www.fremont.gov/2702/Watering.

 

We live near a Eucalyptus grove and as much as I love the trees, they’re a huge fire hazard and last year we had a scare where someone lit fireworks off of a remote road. Wanted to learn more and get involved/volunteer

Routine maintenance of City-maintained and privately-maintained street trees may reduce fire hazards. For trees on private property, it is recommended you or your neighbors consult an ISA Certified Arborist or represented company to evaluate the tree(s) for maintenance needs and fire prevention. For opportunities to learn more and stay engaged, join the City’s email list at www.lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fwW6ty5/trees.

 

Actually ruined my son-in -law's property value. Long needled canary pines runed his pool and roof.

It is recommended private property owners consult an ISA Certified Arborist or represented company to prune trees to potentially reduce property damage. Planting the right tree for the location is also encouraged and a professional such as a Certified Arborist can provide guidance.

 

Will you be using Cal Nurco in Niles as staging area to grow trees and for seminars? Where will additional trees come from to renew the forest? This is a great idea - UFMA.

The City may consider local tree nurseries that provide quality stock according to the ANSI Z60.1 standards and have the species necessary to plant a diverse urban forest.

 

I live in Niles, next to the Historic Nursery. It’s such a unique and important resource in terms of urban forestry.

The current project’s design tries to maintain CA Nursery’s trees for a sustainable enjoyment at present and for the long term future.

 

I noticed the Urban Forest Map is not current. Will this be updated? I noticed homeowners are topping off trees leaving tree trunks. What is Urban Forest Mgt doing about homeowners not following tree removal and pruning?

The Urban Forest Map (www.pg-cloud.com/FremontCA) was completed in 2020 by mapping and evaluating every public street and park tree in the City. The everchanging tree population and associated data is maintained by the City. Regarding tree topping, it is recommended only ISA Certified Arborists prune trees, the City has information on its website about proper tree pruning, and a Tree Maintenance Manual is in development as part of the UFMP project.

 

I miss seeing tree-lined streets in residential Fremont. Why are these trees not looked after - they are dying and not being replaced. so disappointing and scary from an environmental aspect.

The UFMP may include guidance for enhanced public tree maintenance and planting aligned with improved policies, canopy goals, and the long-term vision for the urban forest.

 

Fremont doesn't maintain the city trees in our neighborhood correct? It is up to the property owners to maintain? Will this change in the future? Thank you.

This was a City Council policy change and it is impossible for Staff to determine what the future maintenance responsibility will hold at this time. In some areas, public street trees are maintained by the City though most areas are the responsibility of the adjacent property owner.

 

How does Fremont’s tree canopy compare to other bay area community Cities. Say by; Trees per 1000 people?

According to a 2020 study of 11 Bay Area Cities, Fremont has the lowest tree canopy cover (14% in urban areas, 13% Citywide) compared to the average of 20% and the highest of the group with 37%.

 

13% canopy cover is incredibly low. 🙁 Please provide stats on the change in canopy cover over time and what the city's near and far term canopy cover goals are.

Canopy goals and priorities may be developed as part of the UFMP project.

 

California Nursery Historical Park and Shinn Parks are favorites. I would like to see if there is an interface to extract a subset of trees from the inventory to create neighborhood and park walking tours.

Tree tours are great ways to engage the local community. The City’s TreePlotter inventory program is capable of creating these types of tours but should be discussed with the Urban Forester and local community groups.

 

How do we get trees corrected on the inventory maps?

The tree inventory is actively maintained by the City and the UFMP may recommend re-inventory cycles.

 

I love trees - the beauty and shade they provide.

Thank you for your participation and support, stay engaged at FremontUrbanForest.com.

 

When will the actual trees be counted instead of the overstated survey?

The tree inventory is actively maintained by the City and the UFMP may recommend re-inventory cycles.

 

How can you help homeowners with the cost of taking care of trees???

At this time, the City’s 50-50 Street Tree cost-share program helps property owners pay for some of the costs of street tree pruning, removal, and replacement. The UFMP may explore other opportunities for support. Read more about the 50-50 program at www.fremont.gov/trees or contact treepermits@fremont.gov for more information.

 

What’s the proper way to report problem trees and how will tree work be prioritized. will we know the priority?

For street trees, problems may be reported to (510) 494-4730 or by email at treepermits@fremont.gov.

 

What, if any, means shall the project implement to assure sufficient water for new trees?

To grow a healthy urban forest, it’s important to plant the right tree for the site, ensure a post-planting plan is in place, and/or property owner commitment to care for the tree adjacent to their property.

 

How do we get residences to replace their curb trees that have been removed?

The tree permit process is in place to review requests to remove a public street tree. The City’s 50-50 Street Tree cost-share program may be an opportunity residences can consider for replanting.

 

I live in Mission San Jose area. I have questions regarding management of trees along sidewalk

The UFMP may include guidance for enhanced public tree maintenance and planting aligned with improved policies, canopy goals, and the long-term vision for the urban forest. Contact the City at (510) 494-4730 or treepermits@fremont.gov to share more details on your question.

 

How is race considered in the UFMP?

The 2020 Urban Tree Canopy Assessment provided the data necessary to evaluate tree equity to be addressed in the UFMP.

 

[NAME], Mission San Jose / Warm Springs border

Thank you for your participation and support, stay engaged at FremontUrbanForest.com.

 

I think the plan should focus on areas of the city are deficient of trees. There are many parts of the city (such as those pictured) that look great but also many parts of the city that have very few trees. In particular on my street a couple years ago the city (probably maintenance division) removed many trees along the street that were never replaced. I believe over the years this has happened in many areas and has not been systematically addressed.

The 2020 Urban Tree Canopy Assessment provided the data necessary to identify priorities for preserving and growing the urban forest which may be detailed in the UFMP.

 

Who pays for sidewalk damage caused by trees planted by the City??

The cost is shared by homeowners and the City through the 50-50 Sidewalk Program which aides the cost of sidewalk repairs where damages were caused by street trees. For more information, please contact treepermits@fremont.gov.

 

It seems there is a lot of overpruning. will we provide guidance on tree pruning?

Tree Maintenance Manuals will be developed as part of the UFMP project.

 

I’d like to know the status of the long-planned Centerville Community Park at Hastings & Eggers. I was on the citizen advisory planning cmte. Beautiful plans were drawn up, and yet it’s years later with no progress.

The school district has an agreement with the city for the building of a school on the site. It will have a shared park space. Please check back in in the fall for more information regarding Centerville Community Park via the City of Fremont Landscape Architecture webpage.

 

I live in Cameron hills The trees on the street are dying. HOA says the belong to the city. How is responsible for maintaining the trees and try to save them if possible.

Please reach out to treepermits@fremont.gov with more information to better address this question.

 

Is there any plan to remove invasive trees that are fire hazards? Example: replacing eucalyptus groves with oak or redwood groves

The UFMP may provide guidance on phasing out underperforming trees and trees of known fire hazard. A maintained tree inventory can inform management.

 

How does the city work with the school district to grow and/or maintain trees?

School properties are one consideration in the planting strategy to be developed along with canopy goals as part of the UFMP project.

 

'“windshield inspections” will give an idea of what trees are concerning BUT WHY NOT include a “check box” on the Building Inspection system so that the building inspector can include the desperate importance of a healthy tree on each property … connecting a building inspection “pass” with the promise of looking after the investment.

The City has a system in place for building inspectors to note a tree of concern but this only applies when involved with a development project.

 

why not expand building inspections process of noting trees of concern for ALL Building Inspections? Lots of home renovations could result in increased awareness of the homeowners responsibility and the homeowners BENEFITS of maintaining a healthy tree!

The City has a system in place for building inspectors to note a tree of concern but this only applies when involved with a development project. Please contact treepermits@fremont.gov to discuss more.

 

Flowering plum trees are still recommended but they require watering during the drought. Many have dies in recent years

As part of the UFMP project, a recommended tree planting list is being developed that may include native trees and trees suitable for a changing climate. It may even include food/fruit trees where suitable. The list may be utilized by the City, for development projects, and its use encouraged for private property plantings.

 

Is there any thought process of planting fruit / vegetable trees that can be grown in Fremont . I believe it adds more value than just shade.

As part of the UFMP project, a recommended tree planting list is being developed that may include native trees and trees suitable for a changing climate. It may even include food/fruit trees where suitable. The list may be utilized by the City, for development projects, and its use encouraged for private property plantings.

 

What is the Fremont history of Street Tree and sidewalk maintenance funding? How can we ensure that this is managed for the benefit of our mature street trees?

The UFMP may explore the costs and funding mechanisms relating to street tree maintenance and the necessary efforts to sustain funding.

 

Did you include the benefits of native trees in conserving biodiversity and prevention of insect, bird, and wildlife extinction and local extirpation?

Urban forests provide many environmental benefits including biodiversity conservation, wildlife habitats, and sustaining vital ecosystems. Our analysis does not go into detail on these benefits but are certainly recognized and sustaining and enhancing these benefits may be detailed in the UFMP.

 

I love the trees and all they provide - beauty, shade etc. I also enjoy walking along the public streets, one of the priorities of the City's Mobility plan. The trees cause damage and make it difficult to walk along when the sidewalk buckles. What is the City's plan to maintain the public sidewalks? In the past the City has not embarked on new programs like this without having enough money to maintain the product and repair damage. How does the City plan to maintain not only the trees, but the sidewalks as well?

The UFMP may include guidance for enhanced public tree maintenance and planting aligned with improved policies, canopy goals, and the long-term vision for the urban forest. Regarding sidewalks, the 50-50 Sidewalk Program aides the cost of sidewalk repairs where damages were caused by street trees. For more information, please contact treepermits@fremont.gov.

 

My husband needs a wheelchair and the sidewalks around our neighborhood have sidewalks unusable by a wheelchair!. Trees were planted by the City that caused the damage. What to do???

Please contact treepermits@fremont.gov or (510) 494-4730 for further guidance/information.

 

I’m also curious about planting more trees on the Fremont Hills. Why haven’t we done that? deep mulch areas to limit the watering needed, and then plant more.

As part of the UFMP project, a planting strategy along with priority areas may be developed. Data along with City and community input would be utilized to develop strategies.

 

What are the requirements for tree plantings in new developments? Is there a requirement that native species that might be more adapted to drought conditions be used? Even in newer development it seems that many of the trees used are ornamental species and not native species.

Tree preservation and mitigation apply to many of the City’s development projects and are overseen by professional staff who review planting plans. These reviews will be informed by an updated recommended tree planting list developed as part of the UFMP project.

 

In my neighborhood (28 Palms) the city initially planted non-native palms that are a nuisance now. Though I know the city has some kind of 50/50 replacement program that is not enough incentive for most homeowners. I think the city should be more proactive in replacement for the entire neighborhood to something that better suits our climate and neighborhood needs

In addition to the 50-50 Street Tree cost-share program, the UFMP may explore strategies relating to incentives and proactive tree replacements guided by canopy goals and planting strategies.

 

Who owns street trees in Fremont?

Maintenance of street trees are the responsibility of the adjacent property owner. The City offers a reimbursement program that assist with cost. Contact treepermits@fremont.gov for more information. Also, outreach and education regarding the benefits of trees is essential for encouraging property owners to care for these trees.

 

Does the 13% cover include area that is unable to sustain trees like lakes or the bay?

The 13% tree canopy cover is based on land area only and does not include waterbodies.

Will there be any sort of “suggested great trees” list provided for homeowners to make a great selection (a native tree, correct size for the area, requires the kind of care that a homeowner can provide)

As part of the UFMP project, a recommended tree planting list is being developed that may include native trees and trees suitable for a changing climate. It may even include food/fruit trees where suitable. The list may be utilized by the City, for development projects, and its use encouraged for private property plantings.

 

I looked at the treeplotter and didn’t see my trees on it. Why?

The 2020 tree inventory database only includes public street and park trees and is maintained by the City. Explore the database at www.pg-cloud.com/FremontCA.

 

Is staff familiar with the U.C. Davis Food Forest Project implementing "permacultuure" concepts?

The City utilizes UC Davis for resources supporting urban forest planning and the Food Forest Project is included for consideration.

 

Do we care for landmark trees to be planted in the future?

Where appropriate, planting large-canopied trees at maturity are encouraged due to the greater benefits these trees provide. In addition to size, cultural heritage and significance are considered. The City places great value in promoting and protecting its existing historical or landmark trees.

 

We are a private community that manages over 300 trees. What resources from city are available to us?

Please reach out to the City at treepermits@fremont.gov to provide further information with your address for reference so the City can respond.

 

Where most Street Trees planted by the City of Fremont or the Homeowners? Has this been changed since 1980?

Street tree plantings were a shared effort between the City and property owners. For further details on the history, please contact the City’s Urban Forester.

 

Are there any plans for public education on the $$ value of trees? Some homeowners don’t “value” the importance of a tree and see a tree as just a $$drain!

The 2020 Urban Tree Canopy Assessment and Tree Inventory projects provide critical data to report on the benefits of Fremont’s trees. The UFMP may provide guidance for community outreach, education, and engagement relating to the value of trees.

 

Given native plants are best able to sustain local insects and animals, which is very important to our ecosystem. Could CA natives be given preference when new trees are being considered? I live in Glenmoor. Have you communicated with our HOA and similar HOA’s of other neighborhoods to encourage native plants? Thanks.

As part of the UFMP project, a recommended tree planting list is being developed that may include native trees and trees suitable for a changing climate. It may even include food/fruit trees where suitable. The list may be utilized by the City, for development projects, and its use encouraged for private property plantings.

 

Following up on the canopy cover issue. I just checked another bay city -- canopy cover is recorded as 37%. This is far outside the 8-11% range stated here as "representative". 🙁

Yes, the 8-11% canopy reported was in relation to all CA urban areas. Local data was not readily available to report on during the live session. According to a study of 11 Bay Area Cities, Fremont has the lowest tree canopy (14% in urban areas, 13% Citywide) compared to the group’s average of 20% and the highest of 37%.

 

where will this video be available for review?

There will be a link on the City’s website and on FremontUrbanForest.com.

 

Our HOA has many trees planted in lawns. This seems to present an incompatible irrigation issue, i. e., trees getting surface watering rather than infrequent, deep watering to encourage roots to grow deeper. Shallow tree roots lead to raising of sidewalks and damage to irrigation systems and foundations. Will this project guide the City to impose requirements for appropriate placement of trees with this issue in mind?

As part of the UFMP project, a recommended tree planting list is being developed that may include native trees and trees suitable for a changing climate. It may even include food/fruit trees where suitable. The list may be utilized by the City, for development projects, and its use encouraged for private property plantings.

 

How can Scout troops help with this initiative?

Please contact the treepermits@fremont.gov or a local community group to find out how Scout troops can get involved.

 

Canopy continued:Within those parameters, quantifiable data can be used so a tree canopy goal achieves specific objectives, such as reaching the canopy percentage necessary to reduce urban heat island temperatures to a specific range, or to reduce stormwater runoff by a projected amount. According to a national analysis by U.S. Forest Service researchers David Nowak (also on our Science Advisory Board) and Eric Greenfield, a 40-60 percent urban tree canopy is attainable under ideal conditions in forested states. Twenty percent in grassland cities and 15 percent in desert cities are realistic baseline targets, with higher percentages possible through greater investment and prioritization."

The UFMP project is explorable realistic and attainable short- and long-term canopy goals at a local level (e.g., neighborhood) and Citywide. We often use these baseline targets you described as starting points from which goals specific to a city are developed and guided by strategic planting to address concerns such as urban heat islands.

 

I invite you to go to TUFATREES.ORG if you are interested in finding out what you can do to volunteer with TUFA to get trees back in front of homes. Please send an email to me.

Thank you for your participation and support, stay engaged at FremontUrbanForest.com.

 

Who owns street trees in Fremont?

Maintenance of streets trees is the adjacent property owner’s responsibilty. For more information, please visit fremont.gov/trees or contact us at treepermits@fremont.gov.

 

When looking at the Tree Plan, does this take into consideration the importance of the understory plant selection?

The UFMP focuses primarily on public trees understanding the entire urban forest is a key player in healthy ecosystems.

 

Planting trees is great, but we can't look after the ones that are already here. How can we solve this?

The UFMP may look at strategies for improved public tree maintenance. Recommendations for tree plantings in the UFMP may include the requirement to have a post-planting care and long-term maintenance plan in place.

 

A lot of times cheap remodeling includes removal of trees and instead planting lawn which does is not consistent with water conservation message. Can the city uses its permitting authority to preserve existing trees and to increase native plants and trees

The Tree Preservation Ordinance requires the preservation of existing trees and this ordinance is being reviewed as part of the UFMP project. In addition, a recommended tree list is being developed that may include natives, species for a changing climate, among other types of trees for consideration.

 

Can certain species of trees be used near the bay to act as a windbreak to prevent the circulation of foul smelling water?

Trees do serve as great windbreaks and the City may utilize the recommended tree list in development as part of the UFMP project to address these types of issues.

 

Had staff considered an "Adopt a Tree Program" for City Citizens both younger and older to connect our concerned populace with the program?

As part of the UFMP project, we’re exploring new programs for consideration to preserve and grow the urban forest.

 

Since working from home during the pandemic, I have been walking through the city a great deal, attempting to conform to the City Mobility Plan of using non-motorized transportation on the "last mile". The sidewalks with street trees are in bad condition where there are trees (especially along Fremont Blvd with fifty-year old sidewalk). What is the City's plan to improve the sidewalks, and to make sure this Urban Planting plan does not make them worse?

There are a few options to address damaged sidewalks. Please contact sidewalkpermit@fremont.gov for more information or visit fremont.gov/sidewalks.

 

When looking at Canopy, the Google Earth view of the south Bay reveals a huge disparity between the East Bay (Fremont) and the West Bay (Palo Alto). Will we ever catch up with the West Bay in our Canopy Cover?

The 2020 Urban Tree Canopy Assessment provides the data necessary to develop strategies that can address disparities such as these. As part of the UFMP project, canopy goals and planting priorities will be developed.

 

I live in Ardenwood. The street tree in front of my house continually drop leaves year-round that covers my frontage landscaping. I end up filling my green bin weekly with raked leaves. It has gotten worse over the years, probably due to climate change and drought. More thought should be given to MAINTENANCE , COST and RESPONSIBILITY. All maintenance now is on the homeowner. Will that change?

The UFMP may include guidance for enhanced public tree maintenance and planting aligned with improved policies, canopy goals, and the long-term vision for the urban forest.

 

Outgrown street trees impact accessibility of sidewalks and use of these sidewalks as walking trails

The UFMP may include guidance for enhanced public tree maintenance and planting aligned with improved policies, canopy goals, and the long-term vision for the urban forest. Regarding sidewalks, the 50-50 Sidewalk Program aides the cost of sidewalk repairs.

 

Many sidewalks like Camino Santa Barbara could serve as part of Mission Creek Trail but overgrown trees and uneven sidewalks need to be addressed first

The UFMP may include guidance for enhanced public tree maintenance and planting aligned with improved policies, canopy goals, and the long-term vision for the urban forest. Regarding sidewalks, the 50-50 Sidewalk Program aides the cost of sidewalk repairs.

 

Will this plan and planting list consider issues with phytophthora (soilborne pathogen)? This is a growing concern and it'll be important to not introduce phytophthora when planting new trees.

On City-led projects, trees are selected from nurseries according to the American Standard for Nursery Stock (ANSI Z60.1). The UFMP may recommend routine monitoring of the public tree population for concerns such as pests and diseases.

 

Please include this mantra in your planning (from the Canopy organization in Palo Alto): "first principle: can I plant a native oak tree?" It's true that many urban sites are highly degraded, but we would be negligent to not make much greater use of many native CA oaks that should be used.

As part of the UFMP project, a recommended tree planting list is being developed that may include native trees and trees suitable for a changing climate. It may even include food/fruit trees where suitable. The list may be utilized by the City, for development projects, and its use encouraged for private property plantings.

 

What about trees and sidewalks? Is this addressed in the plan?

The UFMP may include guidance for enhanced public tree maintenance and planting aligned with improved policies, canopy goals, and the long-term vision for the urban forest. Planting the right tree for the location may be guided by the recommended tree list and planting strategy. Regarding sidewalks, the 50-50 Sidewalk Program aides the cost of sidewalk repairs.

 

There are California native tree species that thrive in all urban environments, including lawns. For example willow and many other riparian species thrive in wet environments. As we cut back on water usage the other native tree species thrive. Question: How can we get better information than what we just heard. Will you work with the California Native Plant Society and their arborists? I am a retired International Society of Arboriculture Municipal Arborist.

As part of the UFMP project, a recommended tree planting list is being developed that may include native trees and trees suitable for a changing climate. It may even include food/fruit trees where suitable. The list may be utilized by the City, for development projects, and its use encouraged for private property plantings.

 

Excellent point: right tree for the site; based on realistic urban non-native site soil conditions or other biotic and abiotic conditions of the area.

As part of the UFMP project, a recommended tree planting list is being developed that may include native trees and trees suitable for a changing climate. It may even include food/fruit trees where suitable. The list may be utilized by the City, for development projects, and its use encouraged for private property plantings.

 

Don’t just pick tree species that do well. Pick native species that will attain the desired height/size for the specific location that it is planted. Can you put this recommendation into your instructions/protocols?

As part of the UFMP project, a recommended tree planting list is being developed that may include native trees and trees suitable for a changing climate. It may even include food/fruit trees where suitable. The list may be utilized by the City, for development projects, and its use encouraged for private property plantings.

 

I attempted to participate in Survey#2, but there is no place to offer comments. Are you planning to allow comments on Survey#3?

In survey #2, questions 4 & 10 offered an opportunity for comment but survey #3 will have a specific location to provide any additional comments or questions.

 

post the link here please

Join the email list by clicking https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fwW6ty5/trees and stay engaged with the project by visiting www.FremontUrbanForest.com.

There is a large stately oak on walnut east of Fremont Blvd across from the Aegis. A large apartment complex was built around it and the tree appears squished in between. Are you familiar with this tree and the space given around it? I’m concerned about it’s health.

For private tree related concerns, please consult a local ISA Certified Arborist and for public trees, report a tree issue at www.fremontca.citysourced.com or contact treepermits@fremont.gov.

 

Whom do we contact about planting a tree to commemorate a visit to our organization?

Please contact the City at treepermits@fremont.gov.

 

Thank you all

Thank you for your participation and support, stay engaged at FremontUrbanForest.com.

 

Does [the City] understand NATIVE PLANTS?

As part of the UFMP project, a recommended tree planting list is being developed that may include native trees and trees suitable for a changing climate. It may even include food/fruit trees where suitable. The list may be utilized by the City, for development projects, and its use encouraged for private property plantings.

Thanks Kit and everyone else! I'm looking forward to getting more trees planted in Fremont with TUFA!

Thank you for your participation and support, stay engaged at FremontUrbanForest.com.

 

Good presentation to every one!

Thank you for your participation and support, stay engaged at FremontUrbanForest.com.

 

Data Supporting Questions and Responses

Bay Area Tree Canopy Comparison*

  • Palo Alto 37% 37%
  • Oakland 25% 25%
  • Cupertino 23% 23%
  • Alameda 21% 21%
  • Campbell 19% 19%
  • Mountain View 18% 18%
  • Santa Clara 16% 16%
  • San Jose 15% 15%
  • San Francisco 14% 14%
  • Sunnyvale 14% 14%
  • Fremont 13% 13%
** Note: Fremont’s data gathered from the 2020 Tree Canopy Assessment. Citywide, Fremont has 13% tree canopy cover. Specifically, in Fremont’s urban areas, the canopy cover is 14.4%. View the 2020 report at: https://fremont.gov/DocumentCenter/View/47422/Fremont-Tree-Canopy-Assessment-2020.
All other city canopy data gathered from the Alameda Tree Canopy Assessment except for Cupertino’s which was provided by PlanIT Geo.