An urban forest describes an ecosystem where an urban environment also features an abundance of trees and plants. In an urban forest, there is healthy soil, healthy water, native animals, and vegetation in both public and private areas. In Sydney, Ku-ring-gai has been known as the city’s Green Heart. It has the largest bushland area in the town, and the local community is continuously working on better strategies to maintain the health of its urban forest. Learn more about the Ku-ring-gai urban forest strategy when you keep reading.
What Is the Ku-ring-gai Urban Forest Strategy?
The urban forest strategy aims to preserve the native bushland and its natural biodiversity while promoting the health and wellbeing of the community. The Ku-ring-gai Strategy is a long-term plan set to protect the region’s natural heritage.
The strategy was designed to help the local government manage the urban forest to be sustainable and healthy. The ultimate goal of this strategy is to ensure that the urban forest of Ku-ring-gai is enhanced.
The Ku-ring-gai bushland has been identified as the home of many threatened species. These species include the Gang Gang Cockatoo, Rosenberg’s Goanna, Square-tailed Kite and Eastern Pygmy Possum. All of these species need a healthy urban forest to thrive.
Ku-ring-gai Urban Forest Strategy or Policy
According to the Ku-ring-gai Council, these are the things you must know about tree management from the Council’s Urban Forest Policy.
1. Report Concerns on a Council Tree
If you think that a tree of the Council is sick or is dead, you can report this tree to the council. The council will conduct an assessment to see if the tree is indeed ill or dead.
If the council officials find that the tree is indeed sick or dead, they will remove the tree.
2. Pruning and Removing Trees on a Private Property
Specific regulations govern the removal of trees on private property. If you want to prune or remove a tree from private property, you need to apply for a permit administered through the Council’s Development Control Plan.
3. Guidelines for Tree Assessments
If you want to prune or remove a tree, you must submit an application form. The council conducts an assessment to determine if there are any rare or endangered tree species.
If the tree species are rare or endangered, the council will set aside the tree. The council will then work with the homeowner to find an alternative to removing the tree.
4. Rural Fire Service 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Code of Practice
According to the Ku-ring-gai Council, you need to make sure that your property features a 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Code of Practice.
This code requires property owners within 10 metres of a body of water and 50 metres of bushland to ensure that they have cleared their land of grass and weeds. This is to make sure that your property is safe from a fire.
5. Concerns about Trees on Properties under Development
If you have plans to develop a property, the council will need to assess how you plan to deal with the trees. The council will determine the property to determine if your tree-management plan is sufficient.
If it does not meet the council’s expectations, the council might require you to implement a more comprehensive plan before you get approval.
Final Thoughts
Having an urban forest is vital for the community. This is because the forest is a significant agent against air pollution. The tree canopy breaks down smoke particles and unrecycled carbon dioxide. It also helps maintain the temperature of the city.
The Ku-ring-gai Council has been working hard to maintain the health of its urban forest. If you want to learn more about the Council’s efforts, you can visit the Council’s website.
Work with us at Northside Tree and Garden Services for tree removal and cutting services in Sydney. Our team has years of experience, so you can expect a professional, dedicated service that operates within government regulations. Contact us today to get started.
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