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'Tree City' Takes Steps To Protect 'Grand Trees' |
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Monday, 01 October 2007 |
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Safety Harbor City Commissioners
anticipate voting in November on an ordinance that will define
"Grand Trees," designating a process for identifying such trees and
restricting who will be able to do any work that could endanger
their health.
A draft ordinance defines a tree of 26"
diameter or larger as a potential "Grand Tree." An evaluation will
determine if it meets a lengthy series of requirements for not only
size, but health and appearance. Once designated, "No one can
legally work on it unless they are highly qualified," Alan
Mayberrry, the city's consulting arborist said. The restrictions
affect not only residents and potential developers, but city
employees and utility contractors, he noted.
Mayberry said that in a highly urbanized
county such as Pinellas, it is very difficult to save trees in the
way of development. The ordinance does not forbid removal of trees,
but makes it more difficult. An application, fee payment and review
process will be required.
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