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Home My WebLink AboutAgenda Packet - BC - 2025.2.06Beautification Commission City of Burlingame Meeting Agenda BURLINGAME CITY HALL 501 PRIMROSE ROAD BURLINGAME, CA 94010 Burlingame Community Center 850 Burlingame Avenue 6:30 PMThursday, February 6, 2025 Consistent with Government Code Section 54953, this Burlingame Beautification Commission Meeting will be held via Zoom in addition to in person. To maximize public safety while still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can observe the meeting from home or attend the meeting in person. Below is information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting. To Attend the Meeting in Person: Location: Burlingame Community Center, 850 Burlingame Ave, Burlingame, California 94010 To Attend the Meeting via Zoom or Phone: Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86043935253? pwd=NxPbHp1uusyZk8noas7fawC8maLUq1.1 Webinar ID: 860 4393 5253 Passcode:581349 Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Webinar ID: 860 4393 5253 Passcode: 581349 International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbe1qq8Orx To Provide Public Comment in Person: Members of the public wishing to speak will be asked to fill out a "Public Address Request Form" card located on the table by the door and then hand it to staff. The provisions of a name, address, or other identifying information is optional. Speakers are limited to three minutes each, however, the Chair may adjust the time limit in light of the number of anticipated speakers. Page 1 City of Burlingame Printed on 1/31/2025 February 6, 2025Beautification Commission Meeting Agenda To Provide Public Comment via Email: Members of the public may provide written comments by email to parksadmin@burlingame.org. Emailed comments will not be read out loud, but they will be noted for the record. Your email should include the specific agenda item on which you are commenting. Please note if your comment concerns an item that is not on the agenda. Emailed public comments that are received by 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2025, will be included in a supplemental packet that will be sent to the Beautification Commission prior to the meeting and published on the website here: https://www.burlingame.org/189/Beautification-Commission 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. ROLL CALL 3. MINUTES December 5, 2024 Draft BBC Minutesa. Draft MinutesAttachments: 4. CORRESPONDENCE 5. PUBLIC COMMENTS, NON-AGENDA Speakers may address the Commission concerning any matter over which the Commission has jurisdiction or of which it may take cognizance that is not on the agenda. Additional public comments on agenda action items will be heard when the Commission takes up those items. The Ralph M. Brown Act (the State local agency open meeting law) prohibits the Commission from acting on any matter that is not on the agenda. Speakers are asked to fill out a "request to speak" card located on the table by the door and hand it to staff, although provision of name, address or other identifying information is optional. Speakers are limited to three minutes each, although the Commission may adjust the time limit in light of the number of anticipated speakers. 6. OLD BUSINESS 7. NEW BUSINESS Chair Rotationa. Staff Report Exhibit A Attachments: Page 2 City of Burlingame Printed on 1/31/2025 February 6, 2025Beautification Commission Meeting Agenda Business Landscape Award, Residential Sustainable Landscape Award, and Multi-Family Landscape Award Chair Rotation b. Staff Report Exhibit A Exhibit B Attachments: Public Hearing to Consider an Appeal of the City Arborist's Approval of the Removal of a Protected Private Tree at 1325 El Camino Real c. Staff Report Exhibit A Exhibit B Exhibit C Exhibit D Exhibit E Attachments: Themed Block Discussiond. Staff Report Exhibit A Exhibit B Exhibit C Exhibit D Attachments: 8. REPORTS 9. UPCOMING AGENDA ITEMS Next Regular Meeting: March 6, 2025 Notice: Any attendees wishing accommodations for disabilities should contact the Parks & Recreation Dept. at (650) 558-7330 at least 24 hours before the meeting. A copy of the agenda packet is available for review at the Recreation Center, 850 Burlingame Avenue, during normal office hours. The Agendas and minutes are also available on the City's website: www.burlingame.org. Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the Burlingame Beautification Commission regarding any items on this agenda will be made available for public inspection at 850 Burlingame Avenue during normal business hours. Page 3 City of Burlingame Printed on 1/31/2025 1 BURLINGAME BEAUTIFICATION COMMISSION Draft Minutes December 5, 2024 The regularly scheduled meeting of the Beautification Commission was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Chair Batte. ROLL CALL Present: Chair Batte, Commissioners Bauer, Chu, and Damico Absent: Commissioner Kirchner Staff: Parks Superintendent/City Arborist Holtz, Parks Supervisor Burow, and Recording Secretary Flores Others: None Arborist Holtz began the meeting by thanking Commissioner Khoury for her time of service. Commission Khoury brought an aesthetic perspective and viewed items differently than had been viewed previously. He commented on her great contribution to beautifying the downtown business areas and communicating her findings with staff. Secretary Flores administered the Oath of Allegiance for new Commissioner Damico. MINUTES Commissioner Bauer made a motion to approve the November 7, 2024, Regular Meeting minutes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Chu and was approved. 4-0-1 CORRESPONDENCE None PUBLIC COMMENT Jennifer Pfaff addressed the Commission to welcome Commissioner Damico and informed her that the Historical Society would be sending her a book on the Burlingame Centennial, 1908- 2008. PRESENTATION None OLD BUSINESS None NEW BUSINESS 1. Approval of the Installation of Two New Didactic Panels Secretary Flores presented the staff report and opened the floor to Burlingame Historical Society member Jennifer Pfaff to address the Commissioner further. Ms. Pfaff stated that a similar presentation was made to the Parks and Recreation Commission for installing two panels within Washinton Park. She explained that Director Glomstad approached her about another panel for the Easton Railway Company on Hillside Drive, providing historical information on the track and trolley used by the Easton family in the early 1900s to sell property further away from the train. The shelter remains on Alvarado and Hillside Drive, where the sign would be installed. She applied for the community grant program the City offers non-profit 2 organizations and received enough money and general fund money to supply two panels. The second panel design focused on sandlot baseball played at Washington Park baseball field and wooden stands. Ms. Pfaff asked the Commission for their feedback and shared her ideas on location, although she confirmed the final location installation is the discretion of Arborist Holtz. Chair Batte stated that at the rapid pace, our community is evolving, it was a great idea to have historical placements to educate the community on what the City was like in the past before becoming the metropolitan city we are today. Commissioner Bauer asked about the cost of panel installation. Secretary Flores confirmed installation costs of $2,000 in staff time and material per panel. Arborist Holtz confirmed that there are enough funds in the budget to complete the installation. Ms. Pfaff confirmed that although the designs are completed, production of the panels will take some time. Commissioner Chu inquired about the City’s budget for projects such as the didactic panels. Arborist Holtz confirmed the money comes out of the General Fund, which includes a general amount that the Parks Division has for staff time and benefits, estimated at 4 million dollars per year. The Division utilizes an asset management system that tracks time and money spent on specific tasks. He confirmed that staff would not be paying anything extra than what was budgeted; staff would be taking existing accounted staff time and directing it towards this work. Materials would also be drawn from our general budget. Chair Batte made a motion to approve the installation of two new didactic panels. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Bauer and was approved. 4-0-1. REPORTS Chair Batte reported that the Winter Market would be held in the Community Center on December 7 and 8, 2024. Arborist Holtz reported that the tree ordinance update passed the first iteration with the City Council. A second reading will occur on December 16th, 2024, and then it will have a 30-day wait period before going into effect. Staff will then work to update our public documents and forms and educate the public as best as possible. Supervisor Burow reported that a significant planting season is approaching in January 2025, and preparations are underway with removals and re-using wood chips in our parks. Arborist Holtz stated that the Division feels comfortable entering the winter season, given all the significant work that has occurred over the last couple of years. Secretary Flores reported that the Laguna Playground Project demolition was completed, and other minor work is underway while waiting for the playground equipment delivery in January 2025. She stated that the Town Square Project is scheduled to break ground on January 6, 2025. She confirmed that the Cuernavaca Field Renovation, Mills Canyon Landslide Repair, and the Mobility Hub project are nearing the final construction stages and that closeout documents would be prepared for City Council approval early in the new year. 3 UPCOMING AGENDA ITEMS Commissioner Chu proposed that the Commission revisit the Adopt-A-Tree program and discuss its mission and participation further. He would like to invite previous program members to the meeting date on which the discussion would take place. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7:06 p.m. The next Beautification Commission meeting is scheduled for February 6, 2025. Respectfully submitted, Veronica Flores Veronica Flores Recording Secretary STAFF REPORT To: Date: From: Subject: Burlingame Beautification Commission February 6, 2025 Veronica Flores, Administrative Assistant II Chair Rotation RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Commission review and approve the Rotation of the Commission Chair. BACKGROUND Commission Rotation: Pursuant to the Rules of Procedure for the Officers of the Beautification Commission of the City of Burlingame (adopted October 20, 2005), Section II, C. Rotations of Officers: “Officers will be rotated at the Commission’s first regular meeting in November of each year. The rotation order is as follows: 1.Vice Chair becomes Chair; 2.Commissioner who is not an officer, who has served the longest period of time on the Beautification Commission without or since serving as Chair becomes Vice Chair; 3.If two or more Commissioners have the same length of service on the Beautification Commission, then the Vice Chair shall be chosen from among them by a random draw & 4.If a Commissioner, eligible under this subpart, declines to serve either office, an additional Commission rotation will take place.” DISCUSSION As there are no extenuating circumstances, this year’s Commission rotation will be: Chair Commissioner Sean Chu and Vice Richard Kirchner (Exhibit A). FISCAL IMPACT None EXHIBITS A.Commission Chair Rotation Exhibit A Beautification Commission Rotation 2025 Position Commissioner Appointed Term Expires Terms Served Chair Sean Chu Oct 2021 Oct 2027 2 Vice Chair Richard Kirchner Feb 2012 Oct 2027 5 Antoinette Damico Oct 2024 Oct 2027 Marcia Bauer Nov 2019 Oct 2025 2 Carol Batte April 2021 Oct 2025 2 1 STAFF REPORT To: Beautification Commission Date: February 6, 2025 From: Veronica Flores, Administrative Assistant II Subject: Business Landscape Award, Residential Sustainable Landscape Award, and Multi-Family Landscape Award Chair Rotation RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends Commissioner Richard Kirchner become Chair and Commissioner Antoinette Damico Vice Chair for the Business Landscape Award (BLA), Residential Sustainable Landscape Award (RSLA), and Multi-Family Landscape Award (MFLA) for 2025. BACKGROUND The BLA promotes and awards a Burlingame business for exceptional landscaping and attractive visual contributions to the streetscape. The RSLA is awarded to a Burlingame resident for outstanding landscaping, focusing on the section on sustainable plant material, support systems, and landscape design. The MFLA award is the newest category added to award a Burlingame multi-family complex for remarkable landscaping. DISCUSSION The awards process requires publicity, committee reports, determining areas for Commissioners to inspect, a timeline, nomination submissions, award selection, and a City Council presentation. Exhibit A provides a draft schedule for review and approval. FISCAL IMPACT RSLA Award Plaque - $50.00 BLA Award Window Decal - $12.00 MFLA Award Window Decal - $12.00 EXHIBITS A) Draft Timeline B) Nomination Form Residential Sustainable Landscape Award, Business Landscape Award, & Multi-Family Landscape Award Timeline 2025 February Agenda • Committee Rotation March 13, 2025 • Arbor Day 2025 – Murray Field Berm Area - Tree planted in RSLA 2024 winner’s honor (1900 Hillside Drive) April Agenda • Committee appoints areas of City to inspect • Determine nomination deadline (Late June date to provide nominees and photographs to Administrative Assistant Flores) April/May • Publicity, distribution of nomination forms to local businesses/groups & Burlingame E-News May/June • Site visits June Agenda • Commissioner & Committee update on progress July • By July 10, 2025, Commissioners submit nominees name, address, and pictures to staff August Agenda • Commission selects award recipient August • Committee notifies award winners and invites them to the Council meeting to accept award. • Staff prepares award winner stickers for BLS and MFLA, and wood plaque for RSLA • Staff request date on Council Agenda October Council Agenda • City Council presentation LANDSCAPE AWARDSNOMINATION FORM 2025Commissioner______________________________Residential Sustanable Landscape AwardAddressHO NAMEPHONECOMMENTS12Business Landscape AwardAddressBusiness OwnerPHONECOMMENTS12Multifamily Unit AwardAddressHOA Rep | OwnerPHONECOMMENTS12 1 STAFF REPORT To: Beautification Commission Date: February 6, 2025 From: Richard Holtz, Parks Superintendent/City Arborist Subject: Public Hearing to Consider an Appeal of the City Arborist's Approval of the Removal of a Protected Private Tree at 1325 El Camino Real RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Commission review the City Arborist's decision to approve the removal of two privately protected trees at 1325 El Camino Real. The Commission can either: 1. Uphold the City Arborist’s decision. 2. Reject the City Arborist's decision. 3. Request more information to be able to make a determination. BACKGROUND The 1325 El Camino Real property owner submitted a permit application to remove three Coast Live Oaks (Exhibit A). The applicant also submitted an arborist report from Mayne Tree Service (Exhibit B). The report listed significant challenges and deficiencies with the trees. These include poor form, decay, boring insects, mechanical damage to tree trunks, and included bark. The feasibility of these trees is further compromised due to the growing location. All three trees grow on a shared property line with limited growing space. The roots and crown are mostly covered in pavement. These trees have restricted access through the driveway to the rear building of 1325 El Camino Real. Upon City Arborist site inspection, it was determined that only two trees were of protected size (trees #1 and #3 in the Mayne Tree Services Arborist report). The City Arborist confirmed the conditions listed in the supplied arborist report. However, the City Arborist disagreed with the recommendation not to plant trees. The City arborist has required two trees to be planted for the two protected trees proposed for removal (Exhibit C). The trees shall be located in other areas of the parcel. Two appeals were received from the neighboring property at 1321 El Camino Real (Exhibit D), one from the property owner and one from a tenant at the same address. DISCUSSION Appeal of protected Tree Removal at 1325 El Camino Real February 6, 2025 2 Coast Live Oak Trees Coast Live Oaks (Quercus agrifolia) are native trees well adapted to our climate. These trees are generally long-lived (100+ years) and can thrive in the urban environment. Because of these reasons, the City has frequently required an independent arborist report be submitted with the application to remove a Coast Live oak tree. Propagation of these trees in the urban environment frequently occurs due to wildlife burying oak nuts. It is possible these two protected trees grew unchecked between the properties for years. Reason for the Appeal to the Removal of the Tree The primary reason for the appeal of the City Arborist's decision to approve the removal is privacy. Removing these two protected trees will significantly expose the property at 1321 El Camino Real to the visibility of the 1325 El Camino Real property. Additionally, the property at 1321 El Camino Real will be exposed to noise, light, and other pollutants from vehicular traffic on State Highway 82. The appellant, who owns the property at 1321 El Camino Real, has stated they have expended significant resources in pruning these trees as the branches have extended into the property at 1321 El Camino Real. See photos (Exhibit E). Other reasons for the desire to retain the trees are listed in the appeal. City Arborist Reasoning The applicant has provided the necessary data to support removing and replacing the Coast Live Oak trees per Burlingame's Municipal Code (BMC) Chapter 11.06.060 criteria, specifically, BMC 11.06.060 (1) The condition of the tree(s) with respect to disease; danger of falling; proximity to existing or proposed structures, yards, driveways, and other trees; and interference with public utility services; and BMC 11.06.060 (7) The economic consequences and obligations of requiring a tree to remain. The City Arborist viewed the trees in question and confirmed the existence of site conditions conducive to replacement in a more appropriate location. The recommended removal and replacement of these trees is based upon the increased risk of failure, the consequences of a potential failure, and the observed site conditions that restrict critical access to the rear building of the property and indicate the need for significant future remediation. The City Arborist believes the above factors outweigh other factors, including BMC 11.06.060 (6), the effect tree removal would have on wind protection, noise, and privacy. EXHIBITS A. Tree Removal Application B. Independent Arborist Report C. City Arborist Removal Approval Letter D. Appeals Protesting the Removal of Coast Live Oaks E. Photos of Site Conditions Private Protected Tree Removal Permit Application - Residential Permit Policies Applicant's initials * Date * Property Owner's First Name * Property Owner's Last Name * Property Owner's Phone Number * Please click here to read the Private Protected Tree Permit Guidelines and initial below to indicate you understand the conditions of applying for this permit. Per the City ordinance 11.06.02, a protected tree is any tree with a circumference of forty-eight (48) inches or more when measured fifty-four (54) inches above natural grade. If approved, the Private Protected Tree Removal Permit requires planting a 24" box size single stem landscape tree(s) (no fruit, nut, or cypress) anywhere on the private property. I have read the Protected Tree Permit Guidelines and agree to the conditions. MS Initial here. Applicant Information 12/26/2024 Mehdi Shahmirza Please enter number as indicated (555) 555-5555 Exhibit A Property Owner's email * Street Number * Street Name * Property Owner's Address (if different than property address) How many trees need removing?* Species * Circumference:* Work to be performed * 1325 El Camino Real City State / Province / Region California Postal / Zip Code Country united states Street Address Address Line 2 Tree Information More than 1 tree Select Tree Species from the Dropdown list below Coast Live Oak - Quercus agrifolia Circumference of the tree must be more that 48" 13" Removal Trim More Than 1/3 of Crown Other Location on property * Reason Work is Necessary * Please prov ide additional details for why the tree needs remov ing.* Is this part of a building project?* Species - Tree 2 Circumference - Tree 2: Work to be performed - Tree 2: Location on property - Tree 2: Front Side Back Other Other Please see attached the arborist report Yes No Tree 2 Select Tree Species from the Dropdown list below Coast Live Oak - Quercus agrifolia Circumference of the tree must be more that 48" 15" Removal Trim More Than 1/3 of Crown Other Front Side Back Other Reason Work is Necessary - Tree 2: Please prov ide additional details for why the tree needs remov ing. Species - Tree 3: Circumference - Tree 3: Work to be performed - Tree 3: Location on property - Tree 3: Reason Work is Necessary - Tree 3: Please prov ide additional details for why the tree needs remov ing. Other Please see attached the arborist report Tree 3 Select Tree Species from the Dropdown list below Coast Live Oak - Quercus agrifolia Circumference of the tree must be more that 48" 19" Removal Trim More Than 1/3 of Crown Other Front Side Back Other Other Please see attached the arborist report A photograph of the tree(s) and a schematic drawing of the location of the tree(s) in relation to the street and structure are required. Additional documentation might be required to support removal. Attach any documentation you may have. (Example: Report from Independent Arborist, pictures of damaged structures, letters of concern from neighbors, etc.)* Application language Signature Photograph(s) and Schematics You may upload more than one file by clicking upload again. × Upload 1325 El Camino Real. Burlingame 09-09-2024 (2).pdf 6.39MB Signature & Payment The undersigned owner of the property hereby applies for a permit to remove or prune more that 1/3 of the canopy of the following protected trees(s) and has read and agrees to the conditions of a Private Protected Tree Removal Permt Application. Payment Approved, Denied or Cancelled Approval Status Tree Permit Conditions Date Permit Issued Additional Documents for Upload Was there an appeal? Number of 24" box size trees required Date Permit expires A $439 payment is required for all Protected Tree Permit Applications $439.00 Arborist Decision Approved - 10 day appeal Emergency Removal Other You may upload more than one file by clicking upload again. Photo of Planted Tree, City of Burlingame Arborist Letter Upload Replanting Extension 1 Date Extension 1 expires Extension 2 Date Extension 2 expires Extension 3 or more (see comments) Date Extension 3 or more expires Date Completed Plant, Paid, No Planting Required or Cancelled Species Planted Replacement Planting Tree Photo APN Number Comments Extensions Permit Completion Complete this section once the permit has been issued and is ready to be stored in the repository. Select Tree Species from the Dropdown list below Upload Send to Replanting Exhibit B 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 2 September 7, 2024 Tree Survey Tree # Species Common (Scientific) Diameter (inches) Condition (percent) Height (feet) Spread (feet) Comments 1 Coast Live Oak 15.4 45 30 27 Root crown covered, roots cracking and lifting the asphalt driveway, multiple wounds on lower 9 feet of trunk from being struck by vehicles, significant lean to the northeast, codominant top at 20 feet high, poor from, and fair vigor, 8.5 feet from trunk to wall of home, branches in contact with eh roof. 2 Coast Live Oak 13.9 35 30 21 Root crown covered, large wound on west side of trunk at 2 feet high, rotos cracking and lifting the asphalt driveway, three- stem attachment at 8 feet high, moderate amount of interior deadwood, fair vigor and poor form, wounds on trunk from being struck by vehicles, abundance of Sycamore Borer on the lower trunk, loose bark on base, trunk is 9 feet away from wall of home. 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 3 September 7, 2024 Tree # Species Common (Scientific) Diameter (inches) Condition (percent) Height (feet) Spread (feet) Comments 3 Coast Live Oak 19.3 45 30 36 Root crown covered, base and roots lifting and cracking the asphalt driveway, significant lean to the west, two-stem attachment with included bark at 10 feet high, three- stem attachment at 15 feet high, heavy lateral limbs growing over the home and driveway, good vigor and poor form, wounds on trunk from being struck by vehicles. Observations This property has multiple dwelling units with the front unit located along the front and right side of the property. A driveway is located along the left side of the property, and a front unit that leads to the rear two-story unit (residences above the three garages) is located along the rear of the property. The trees in question are on the left side of the driveway, growing on the property line. The driveway is about nine feet wide, with the wall of the front unit as one border and the edge of the property the other border. Tree #1 is a Coast Live Oak located 8.½ inches from the wall of the front unit (Picture #1). The roots of this tree are cracking and lifting the asphalt driveway, creating an uneven surface (Pictures #2, #3, and #4). It has a diameter of 15.4 inches, it has a significant lean to the northeast and a codominant top at 20 feet high. The lower 9 feet of the trunk has multiple wounds from being struck by passing vehicles due to the limited space available to pass by (Picture #5). Overall, this tree has poor form fair vigor and creates a substantial obstacle for residents to access their dwellings. Tree #2 is Coast Live Oak along the driveway's left side (Picture #6). The base of this tree’s trunk is roughly 9 feet from the wall of the front unit. The roots lift and crack the asphalt driveway, creating an uneven surface (Picture #7). There are several large wounds on the trunk, there is missing bark, and an infestation of Sycamore Borer bark beetles around 2 to 5 feet high (Picture #8, #9, and #10). It has a three-stem attachment at 8 feet high (Picture #11) and moderate interior deadwood. Overall, this tree has fair vigor and poor form. Tree #3 is a Coast Live Oak along the property's left side and driveway (Picture #12). Soil, asphalt, and other organic material cover the root crown. The base and buttress roots are cracking and lifting the asphalt driveway (Picture #13). It leans significantly to the west and has a two-stem attachment, including bark at 10 feet high and an additional three-stem attachment at 15 feet high (Pictures #14, #15, and #16). Excess end weight is over the driveway, parking area, and home (Picture #17). 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 5 September 7, 2024 Picture #1 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 6 September 7, 2024 Picture #2 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 7 September 7, 2024 Picture #3 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 8 September 7, 2024 Picture #4 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 9 September 7, 2024 Picture #5 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 10 September 7, 2024 Picture #6 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 11 September 7, 2024 Picture #7 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 12 September 7, 2024 Picture #8 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 13 September 7, 2024 Picture #9 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 14 September 7, 2024 Picture #10 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 15 September 7, 2024 Picture #11 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 16 September 7, 2024 Picture #12 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 17 September 7, 2024 Picture #13 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 18 September 7, 2024 Picture #14 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 19 September 7, 2024 Picture #15 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 20 September 7, 2024 Picture #16 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 21 September 7, 2024 Picture #17 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 22 September 7, 2024 Picture #18 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 23 September 7, 2024 Picture #19 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 24 September 7, 2024 Picture #20 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 25 September 7, 2024 Picture #21 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 26 September 7, 2024 Picture #22 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 27 September 7, 2024 Picture #23 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 28 September 7, 2024 Picture #24 1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame 29 September 7, 2024 Picture #25 1325 El Camino. Permit Approved January 2, 2025 An application to remove three Coast live oak trees has been received. One of these specimens is not considered protected as it is below the size required of the current municipal code. Therefore, it is not subject to the permit process. The two remaining specimens are protected and are being approved for removal. Both protected trees grow in a confined space surrounded by pavement on both sides of a property line. The pavement has heaved as these trees have grown larger over time. These trees have good vigor yet poor form due to growing space constraints, lack of maintenance and damage from vehicles. The location of these trees constrains the only vehicular access to the rear of the property. Evidence of vehicular strikes to the tree and building are apparent. An arborist report has been submitted to support the removal of these trees. Therefore, I am approving removal of these trees based on the criteria in Chapter 11.06 of the Municipal Code, Urban Reforestation and Tree Protection Ordinance, section 11.06.060 which allows removal for the following reasons: (d) (1) the condition of the tree with respect to the proximity to existing or proposed structures, yards, driveway and other trees… and, (d)(7) the economic consequences and obligations of requiring a tree to remain. Trees must be replaced with two (2) 24” box trees. Replacement trees must meet the following conditions: • Trees must be single stem (standard) trunk with a mature height of greater than 15’. • Fruit, nut, Japanese Maple, palm and Italian Cypress trees are not acceptable replacements. • Tree must be planted in accordance with current arboriculture standards and allowed to reach full true form. See Attached Detail. Notification within 300’ of the property Exhibit C PARKS/REC-Veronica Flores From:Martha Ann Milliken <millikenproperty@gmail.com> Sent:Monday, January 13, 2025 9:52 AM To:Parks Admin Subject:Tree Removal 1325 El Camino Real Follow Up Flag:Follow up Flag Status:Flagged Dear Mr. Holtz, We are writing in opposition to the removal of the trees at 1325 El Camino Real. Our family owns the property at 1321 El Camino Real and they play a vital role for us and our tenants. The trees provide added value to our property. They provide shade, a buffer from the noise of the El Camino Real and a natural visual barrier between us and the neighbor's poorly maintained property and cars. Since the building of our apartments in 2015, we have taken care to keep these trees living and thriving. We even modified our driveway to accommodate the trees and their root system. We have maintained them since then from our side. We are currently in contract to have maintenance done as soon as the tree company is able to schedule. You mention that their building and trees have been hit by their cars. Our fence has been hit multiple times by their cars as well, so the tree removal will not improve their driving skills. We understand that time is of the essence since the deadline is today, but this letter was only received in Saturday, January 11th's mail. Our arborist has offered to write a report, but we would require more time for that. Please take our concerns into consideration before permitting these trees to be removed. Sincerely, Scott and Martha Ann Milliken Milliken Enterprises, LP This email is from an external source. Please take caution when clicking links or opening attachments. When in doubt, contact your IT Department You don't often get email from millikenproperty@gmail.com. Learn why this is important Exhibit D PARKS/REC-Veronica Flores From:mia brozovich <miabroz@gmail.com> Sent:Monday, January 13, 2025 3:00 PM To:PARKS-Richard Holtz Cc:Parks Admin Subject:APPEAL: Private Tree Removal Application -1325 El Camino Real, Burlingame, CA Attachments:Appeal_Tree Removal_1325 El Camino Real.pdf Follow Up Flag:Follow up Flag Status:Flagged Dear Mr. Holtz, Attached please find an Appeal to the "Notice to Adjacent Property Owners" of a decision to remove oak trees at 1325 El Camino Real. We have resided at the next door property, 1321 El Camino Real, in Unit 1 (rental) since June 2015. I will also be submitting photographs by email before 4 pm, as part of the appeal record. Thank you. Warm regards, Mia & Gunther Nacke Mia Brozovich Nacke 1321 El Camino Real, Unit 1 Burlingame, CA 94010 miabroz@gmail.com (650) 720-8724 www.linkedin.com/in/miabrozovich www.miabrozovich.com This email is from an external source. Please take caution when clicking links or opening attachments. When in doubt, contact your IT Department Some people who received this message don't often get email from miabroz@gmail.com. Learn why this is important O: City of Burlingame, Parkes & Recreation Department FROM: Gunther & Mia Nacke, 1321 El Camino Real, Unit 1, Burlingame DATE: January 13, 2025 ATTN: Richard Holtz, Parks Superintendent/City Arborist _____________________________________________________________________________________ We would like to register an appeal to the City’s decision to remove 3 Coast Live Oak trees on the adjacent property 1325 El Camino Real. We received notice of this potential action (“Noticing Adjacent Property Owners”) on January 11 (postmark 1/7/25), noting that a permit to remove the trees will be issued within one busi- ness day on January 13 if no appeal is received by that date. We have many concerns regarding removal of any trees bordering the property line of our townhouse complex, including that the tress provide our unit with privacy, nature-oriented views and substantial noise reduction from El Camino Real. The leafy and tall trees were a key reason we chose to live in Unit 1 at 1321 El Camino Real, where we have resided since 2015. Furthermore: 1)While these 3 oak tress may be situated on the next door property, they straddle both properties (1325 and 1321) and are an inherent feature of the landscaping and environment;  2)With our townhouse extending to the 3rd ﬂoor of the building, the trees shield our home by providing a buffer from noise on the main arterial, as well as giving us privacy from the houses at 1325 and apartment building at 1329;  3)As we can see the trees from all north-facing windows of our 2-story home, they provide an atmosphere of living in the midst of nature, despite our urban location and the proximity of El Camino Real;  4)The trees also provide an arboreal habitat for many local bird species, including humming- birds, and also families of squirrels, both of which live from their fruit and can be seen daily actively moving from tree to tree;  5)Replacing these 3 tall oak trees (30+ feet) with “two 24-inch box trees” would be not only wholly inadequate, but would negate every beneﬁt the trees provide to residents at 1321 El Camino Real. (Please note: a two-foot tall tree would only reach 1/5th of ﬁrst ﬂoor non-liv- ing garage space.);   6)Removal of the trees would leave a long hollow space stretching from El Camino Real to the back area of the property where we reside, exposing 1321 residents to greater noise pollution at all hours;  7)The notice states that the trees have experienced “lack of maintenance”; proper care by an arborist could remedy this. In fact, the property owners of 1321 El Camino Real have taken great care, e.g., trimming the trees when branches grew too close to our complex;  8)Per paragraph 2 of the notice, “space constraints” in the driveway area on 1325 (i.e., pavement issues which are not signiﬁcant) should be repairable if necessitated without re- moving the trees;   9)We would counter that “vehicular access to the rear of the property” (para. 2) is not con- strained, as the residents of the rear home on 1325 have told us that they have no issue with accessing or leaving the property. In fact, there is minimal daily vehicular traffic that enters or leaves the 1325 drive (i.e., 2-3 residential autos at most a few times per day.)   10)Per a resident of 1325, the only noticeable “vehicular strike[s] to the tree and building” (para. 2) was one time by an elderly resident to the 4th oak tree on the property. As next door residents for 10 years, we are not aware of any vehicle hitting any building at 1325;   11)Importantly, the notice does not indicate that the trees pose any substantive risk (e.g., root damage) or potential danger to residents related to local weather events. In fact, the notice states that trees have “good vigor.”  12)Finally, removing the oak trees would substantially reduce the attractiveness of our adja- cent property to residents, thereby diminishing the property value. Please also note photographs (to be submitted in a separate email on 1/13/25) depicting the greenery views from our unit, as well as the protection/shelter the trees provide from El Camino Real. We urge the City to reconsider its decision to allow the removal of the 3 oak trees. Burlingame is known as the “City of Trees.” The beneﬁts the trees provide to our community living at 1321 El Camino Real outweigh any issues currently raised (I.e., “growing space constraints,” “lack of maintenance” and “damage from vehicles.”) These issues should be able to be remedied by other means and do not necessitate removing trees that are integral to the adjacent property, residential community and local habitat. Overhead view of the Coast Live Oak trees at 1325 El Camino Real in 2024 Exhibit E Side view of Coast Live Oak Trees at 1325 El Camino Real in 2011 Side view of Coast Live Oak Trees at 1325 El Camino Real in 2023 Building Impact and root at 1325 El Camino Real in 2025 STAFF REPORT To: Beautification Commission Date: February 6, 2025 From: Richard Holtz, Parks Superintendent/City Arborist (650) 558-7333 Carlie Burow, Parks Supervisor (650) 558-7335 Subject: Themed Block Discussion RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Beautification Commission review the staff report, ask questions, and direct staff to return to the March 6, 2025 Beautification Commission with information that could help the Commission decide if any changes should be made to areas with Themed Block designation. BACKGROUND A street tree themed block is defined as a block in which one defined species of street tree is established and maintained indefinitely. Once a themed block is established and a tree is removed for any reason, the tree would be replaced with a tree of the established theme species. The idea for establishing themed blocks was first introduced to the Council by two interested citizens who wanted to help maintain the historic and aesthetic look and feel of several blocks with a dominant tree species. The idea was referred to the Beautification Commission for consideration. In April 2008, the Beautification Commission heard the proposal, which included discussion on several topics, including the following: width of available planting areas, altering current planting lists, changing how street trees are selected by district/block/neighborhood, (re)introducing the concept of a dominant species, updating the tree inventory, and potential elimination of tree categories from planting plans (ornamentals and evergreens). In May 2008, then Parks and Recreation Director Schwartz facilitated a discussion between the Commission and community members. As a result of that discussion, the Commission made the following recommendations to the City Council: • Retain existing 'themed' streets in the City of Burlingame by replacing them with existing species if the dominant species on the street is of tall form. This is regardless of disruptions to sidewalks. • Do not create 'themed' streets where they currently do not exist and allow the property owners to choose from the appropriate tree list. • Staff should revise the official street tree lists to contain trees that only have the tallest, most significant canopies. • In addition, retain 'ornamentals' and 'evergreen' tree species with the tallest, most significant canopies on the official tree lists. • Include some larger species from the 6' planter strip list to the 4-6' planter strip list where possible, or change the dimensions of planting strip requirements. • Create larger planting spaces throughout the City where possible. • Only remove and replace trees when an existing tree must be removed. • Tree replacements should be planted as soon as possible. As a result of the Beautification Commission action and Council consensus, staff prepared a Draft Themed Block List and Policy of Establishing a Themed Block that was presented and approved at the August 7, 2008, Beautification Commission meeting. From that Beautification Commission meeting in 2008, 98 blocks were designated as themed blocks. Since then, the City of Burlingame and the residents have added 24 additional themed blocks making the current total of 122. (Exhibit A) Policy for Establishing Themed Blocks Upon adoption of the List of Themed Blocks, the Commission considered a policy to address the future establishment of themed blocks. Over time, the public may desire to request the Commission add themed blocks to the list. Staff presented the draft policy for review at the Beautification Commission meeting on August 7, 2008. A public hearing was conducted at the meeting on September 4, 2008, to consider this policy. After public input, the Commission adopted the following policy proposal: • The Beautification Commission will recommend "Themed Blocks" to the City Council. • To petition the Beautification Commission for a new themed block, a property owner on a block shall gather signatures of at least 2/3 of the property owners. • Forms for the "Petition" will be provided by the Parks and Recreation Department Office. • Petitions shall be forwarded to the Beautification Commission for recommendation to the Council to establish a new "themed" block. • If approved, staff will determine the species theme in collaboration with the property owners. • Selected "themed" species will replace existing trees only when the removal of an existing tree is deemed necessary according to City policy. The ability to remove a block from Themed Block designation was added at a later date. Presently, if a block would like to remove the Themed Block designation, 75% of property owners must agree and sign the petition form to remove the entire block for the matter to be considered. (Exhibit B) DISCUSSION Themed Blocks add a benefit to our community that includes honoring the intended look of a developed area. Themed blocks can create an aesthetic look and feel with a memorable uniformity (Exhibit C). Continuing the existing Themed Block designations generally, continues the intended look original designers had during the development of our community. Ensuring a consistent mature canopy can provide a multitude of benefits including greater property value. However, Themed Blocks can also have challenges. This includes the creation of a mono-culture with little biodiversity. Pests or diseases have been known to wipe-out entire neighborhoods of trees due to lack of species diversification. This has occurred in the past with Dutch Elm Disease and presently with the Emerald Ash Borer. Additionally, requiring a large canopy tree due to themed block designation in a location that has confined growing space can create a perennial conflict. These trees are unable to reach their intended size and require significant and frequent maintenance resources from the City and utility providers to reduce risk. During the public discussion surrounding the update of our tree ordinance, some concerns were expressed in relation to Themed Blocks. These concerns include utility conflict, frustration with lack of choice and lack of biodiversity. As we have updated our municipal code to reflect arboriculture, staff have been asked to evaluate if practices we have engaged in also subscribe to modern day arboriculture practices. The Arbor Day Foundation espouses a principle of “The Right Tree in The Right Place” (Exhibit D). This follows the basic principle that a tree is planted so that it is sustainable and will not require significant input after planting. This reduces conflict that could reduce the life or quality of the tree grown absent significant input. The Beautification Commission is the most appropriate conduit to consider if any changes to our current practices with Themed Blocks should be modified. FISCAL IMPACT None. EXHIBITS A. Current Themed Block List B. Themed Block Policy Form C. Photos of Themed Blocks D. Arborday Brochure Planter Min Street Theme Width Width Recommendation 1600 Adeline Sycamore 36/36 48 Themed Block 1700 Adeline Sycamore 36/P36 48 Themed Block 1800 Adeline Sycamore 36/P36 48 Themed Block 1900 Adeline Sycamore 36/P36 48 Themed Block 2000 Adeline Sycamore 36/36 48 Themed Block 500 Almer Liquidambar 62/62 Replace w/ Red Maple 800 Alpine Sycamore 36/36 48 Themed Block 1000 Balboa Liquidambar 36/36 Replace w/Trident Maple 1400 Balboa Catalpa 36/36 36 Themed Block 1600 Balboa Liquidambar 36/36 Replace w/Trident Maple 100 Bayswater Gingko 72/P72 36 Themed Block 200 Bayswater Gingko 72/P72 36 Themed Block 300 Bayswater Gingko 72/P72 36 Themed Block 400 Bayswater Gingko 72/P72 36 Themed Block 500 Bayswater Gingko 72/P72 36 Themed Block 600 Bayswater Gingko 72/P72 36 Themed Block 700 Bayswater Gingko 72/P72 36 Themed Block 800 Bayswater Gingko 84/P84 36 Themed Block 900 Bayswater Gingko 69/P69 36 Themed Block 1000 Bayswater Gingko 36 Themed Block 1100 Bayswater Gingko 80/P80 36 Themed Block 1200 Bayswater Gingko 80/P80 36 Themed Block 1300 Bayswater Gingko 84/P84 36 Themed Block 1200 Bellevue Liquidambar 60/60 Replace w/ Red Maple 1300 Bernal Sycamore 48/48 48 Themed Block 1400 Bernal Sycamore 48/48 48 Themed Block 300 Bloomfield Sycamore 72/P72 48 Themed Block 400 Bloomfield Sycamore 72/P72 48 Themed Block 300 Burlingame Ave Camphor 120/120 Replace w/ Red Maple 400 Burlingame Ave Camphor 120/144 Replace w/ Red Maple 500 Burlingame Ave Camphor 144/P120 Replace w/ Red Maple 800 Burlingame Ave Camphor 120/P144 Replace w/ Red Maple 850 - 1000 Burlingame Ave Euc. Viminalis = (3 blks.) 120/144 Themed Blocks 1500 Burlingame Ave. Sycamore 48/P48 48 Themed Block 1200 Cabrillo Liquidambar 36/36 Replace w/ Trident Maple 400 - 1100 California Dr. P.Calleryana `Chanticleer' = (9 blks.) 48/P72 36 Replace with ‘European Hornbeam’ 1100 Cambridge Elm 72/72 50 Themed Block 300 Channing Sycamore 72/P72 48 Themed Block 200 Chapin Sycamore 32/32 48 Themed Block 300 Chapin Sycamore 32/32 48 Themed Block City of Burlingame Parks & Recreation Department 850 Burlingame Ave., Burlingame, CA 94010 phone: (650) 558-7330 • parksadmin@burlingame.org City Street Trees – Themed Blocks (Revised 10.2022) EXHIBIT A 1600 Chapin Sycamore 32/32 48 Themed Block 400 Chatham Sycamore 72/72 48 Themed Block 300 Clarendon Red Oak 48/48 50 Themed Block 1500 Columbus Red Oak 48/48 50 Themed Block 300 Concord Liquidambar 72/72 Replace w/ Red Maple 600 Concord Sycamore 72/72 48 Themed Block 700 Concord Sycamore 72/72 48 Themed Block 500 Corbitt Sycamore 96/P96 48 Themed Block 1100 Cortez Sycamore 36/36 48 Themed Block 1200 Cortez Sycamore 36/36 48 Themed Block 800 Crossway Liquidambar 48/48 Replace w/ Red Maple 400 Cumberland Sycamore 72/72 48 Themed Block 1400 Desoto Sycamore 50/50 48 Themed Block 1100 Douglas Sycamore 53/P48 48 Themed Block 1100 Drake Sycamore 36/36 48 Themed Block 300 Dwight Red Oak 48/P48 50 Themed Block 1500-2000 Easton Euc. Globulus = (6 blks.) 19'/P48 Themed Blocks 800 Edgehill Liquidambar 68/68 Replace w/ Red Maple 1300 Edgehill Liquidambar 68/P72 Replace w/ Red Maple 1400 Floribunda Liquidambar 57/P72 Replace w/ Red Maple 1500 Floribunda Liquidambar 59/P60 Replace w/ Red Maple 500 Francisco Sycamore 96/P96 48 Themed Block 2100 Hillside Sycamore 144/144 48 Themed Block 2200 Hillside Sycamore 144/144 48 Themed Block 2300 Hillside Sycamore 144/144 48 Themed Block 2400 Hillside Sycamore 144/144 48 Themed Block 1200 Laguna Sycamore 84/P84 48 Themed Block 1300 Laguna Liquidambar 84/P84 Replace w/ Red Maple 1400 Laguna Liquidambar 84/P84 Replace w/ Red Maple 300 Lexington Sycamore 72/72 48 Themed Block 500 Lexington Sycamore 72/72 48 Themed Block 600 Lexington Sycamore 72/72 48 Themed Block 800 Maple Linden 36/36 Replace w/ Trident Maple 400 Marin Sycamore 72/72 48 Themed Block 500 Marin Sycamore 84/84 48 Themed Block 1600 McDonald Way Liriodendron 65/65 Replace w/ Red Maple 1100 Mills Sycamore 60/P60 48 Themed Block 1200 Mills Sycamore 60/P60 48 Themed Block 1300 Mills Sycamore 60/P60 48 Themed Block 1400 Mills Sycamore 60/P60 48 Themed Block 1400 Oak Grove Red Oak 36/P36 50 Themed Block 100 Occidental Sycamore 56/P48 48 Themed Block 200 Occidental Sycamore 56/56 48 Themed Block 300 Occidental Sycamore 56/P48 48 Themed Block 400 Occidental Sycamore 56/P48 48 Themed Block 1100 Oxford Elm 48/48 48 Themed Block 1100 Palm Sycamore 72/P72 48 Themed Block 1200 Palm Sycamore P72/P72 48 Themed Block 1300 Palm Sycamore 72/P72 48 Themed Block 1400 Palm Sycamore 84/P72 48 Themed Block 700 Plymouth Sycamore 72/72 48 Themed Block 1100 Sanchez Sycamore 48/P48 48 Themed Block 1200 Sanchez Sycamore 48/P48 48 Themed Block 1300 Sanchez Sycamore 48/P48 48 Themed Block 1400 Sanchez Sycamore 48/P48 48 Themed Block 1600 Sherman Sycamore 36/P36 48 Themed Block 1700 Sherman Sycamore P36/P36 48 Themed Block 10 Stanley Liriodendron 36/P36 Replace w/ Trident Maple 100 Stanley Liriodendron 36/P36 Replace w/ Trident Maple 200 Stanley Liriodendron 36/P36 Replace w/ Trident Maple 2100 Trousdale Modesto Ash 54 48 Replace w/ Raywood Ash 1100 Vancouver Catalpa 36/P36 Themed Block 500 Vernon Sycamore 48/48 48 Themed Block 600 Vernon Liquidambar 48/48 Replace w/ Red Maple 700 Vernon Sycamore 72/72 48 Themed Block 700 Winchester Dr. Sycamore 96/P96 48 Themed Block 800 Winchester Dr. Sycamore 96/P96 48 Themed Block City of Burlingame Petition to Apply for Establishment, Modify or Remove a Street Tree Themed Block (Only this form can be used to gather signatures) Definition of a Street Tree Themed Block: A street tree themed block is defined as a block in which one defined species of street tree is established and maintained indefinitely. Once a themed block is established and a tree is removed for any reason, the tree would be replaced with a tree of the established theme species. The Beautification Commission and City Council use the following criteria when considering establishment of a themed block: the percent of predominant tree species, health and disease tolerance of the species, amount of tree diversity, mix of species, age, aesthetic look on the block, current tree canopy, future canopy potential, width of the street, and the width of planter strips. Policy to Establish, Modify or Remove a Themed Block The Beautification Commission will recommend “Themed Blocks” to the City Council. To petition the Beautification Commission for a new themed block a property owner on a block shall gather signatures of at least 2/3 of the property owners on the block. To petition the Beautification Commission to modify a specific themed block tree species or Remove a specific block from the Themed Block List, a property owner on a block shall gather signatures of at least 75% of the property owners on the block. Forms for the “Petition” will be provided by the Parks and Recreation Department office. Petitions shall be forwarded to the Beautification Commission for recommendation to the Council to establish, modify or remove a themed block. A public hearing will be set by the Beautification Commission and notification will be sent by staff to all property owners o n the block. If approved by the Beautification Commission and/or the City Council, staff will determine the species theme in collaboration with the property owners. Selected “themed” species will replace existing trees only when removal of an existing tree is deemed necessa ry according to City policy. Street and Block Requested for Consideration: ________________________________________________________ Mark One: Establish _______________Modify _______________Remove a Themed Bock_____________________ Street Tree Species Desired: _______________________________________________________________________ Street Tree Themed Block Signature Form Property Owner Statement: I am the property owner at the address listed below and I support the Beautification Commission and City Council in ____establishing this block as a Street Tree Themed Block, ____modifying this themed block Street Tree or ____removing this themed block Street Tree within the City of Burlingame. Revised 1/2016 Date Property Address Property Owner Name(s) (Printed) Property Owner Signature EXHIBIT B Date Property Address Property Owner Name(s) (Printed) Property Owner Signature EXHIBIT C No. Editor: Dr. James R. Fazio • $3.00 4 The Right Tree for the Right Place WRONG (above) Planting large trees under utility lines often means disﬁgured trees. Large evergreens close to the house on the south block warming winter sunlight. RIGHT (right) Short ﬂowering trees don’t clash with overhead utility lines. Large deciduous trees on the southeast, southwest, and west provide cooling shade in summer and don’t obstruct the low winter sun. An evergreen windbreak on the north blocks cold winter winds. A ny Friend of Tree City USA can list the many beneﬁts of trees — shade, beauty, windbreak, privacy, cleaner air, less noise, less glare, and higher property values to name a few. But the key to these beneﬁts is to select the right tree and plant it in the right place. The right tree in the right place not only ensures a lifetime of satisfaction, it also keeps maintenance costs low. “What is right?” may sound like an exam question from a class in moral philosophy, but in the green world, it is not quite as complex. A tree’s requirements to thrive, its form or shape, its size at maturity, and its role or function in your landscape help determine the best tree to plant. Beyond that, the question enters the grey area of personal taste where what is “right” is largely a matter of opinion. EXHIBIT D Environmental Factors to Consider In selecting a tree, your ﬁrst consideration must be what the tree needs. In other words, what environmental factors limit the ability of a particular species to live a healthy life? One indication is to look at the native species in your area. These trees have developed on their own through thousands of years of self-selection to survive where you now live. However, native species alone are usually not the answer. Some non-native species and horticulturally developed cultivars may also do well on your site and offer attributes such as beauty, size, pest resistance, or diversity that natives may not provide. MINIMUM TEMPERATURE The familiar hardiness map has zoned the country based on average annual minimum temperature. The lowest temperature of the zone limits the range of many trees. Low temperatures, especially if they come suddenly, can freeze and kill the living cells in trees. Select a species suitable to the zone where you live. CAUTION: Elevation and exposure differences (the direction of the slope) within each zone also have an effect. North slopes, windy sites, and higher elevations can make a site equivalent to one or two hardiness zones lower. To ﬁnd your hardiness zone, visit arborday.org/zones. MOISTURE Each species tolerates wet or dry growing conditions to a different degree. Special attention must be given to your selection if the site periodically is ﬂooded, subjected to very dry conditions, or continually exposed to the drying effect of wind. Watering, of course, can modify a dry site, but even when you irrigate, it is important to know the optimal soil moisture requirement for your species. Tip: Since evergreens give off water (transpiration) from their needles all winter, it is important that they are well-watered in the fall before the ground freezes. Also, do not overwater trees. They will drown or develop root rot if the soil is kept too wet. With heavy, clay-type soils, check soil moisture often and water accordingly during dry summer weather. This may be every seven to 10 days or more often if necessary. Sandy soils need water more frequently than clay soils, but watering every other day is probably too much. LIGHT Shade tolerance is the term foresters use to rate the light requirements of each species. Some species, like white birch and most pines, require full sunlight. They are shade intolerant. Tolerant species, like most maples, hemlocks, and yews, grow well in shade. Others, like white oak, are somewhere in between and are referred to as having intermediate tolerance. Don’t make the mistake of planting your tree where it is mismatched with its need for light. arborday.org HARDINESS ZONE MAP 2 • TREE CITY USA BULLETIN No. 4 • Arbor Day Foundation PESTS Every locality has its problems with particular insects or diseases. The best way to avoid trouble is to avoid the species that host these pests. In some cases, it is possible to buy cultivars that have been bred for resistance to a disease. For example, where white pine blister rust is a problem, it is best to buy white pine that is certiﬁed to be resistant to it. Some species, such as ginkgo, are known for their natural resistance to most pests. Others, such as American elm or ashes, are just the opposite. In most cases, planting a species on a site unlike its natural environment is asking for trouble. For example, birch trees grow naturally in moist environments, including river and lake edges. Planting them in an arid site subjects them to stress and makes them more vulnerable to boring insects. SOIL Soil factors are probably the most overlooked when selecting a tree. Soil depth, structure, moisture, and pH can make the difference between success or failure after planting. For example, deep-rooted species will need adequate soil depth for their structural roots, whereas shallow-rooted species may do well on sites where soils thinly cover bedrock or a hard layer of clay. Species that need light or sandy soil should not be planted in rocky or clay-type soils. Also, each tree species has a tolerance range related to acidity and alkalinity, just as it does for shade. This requirement should be matched with the soil where you plan to plant. To learn about the soils in your area, obtain a soil survey map at the county ofﬁce of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. Unfortunately, soils are often disturbed in urban areas. Trees that would typically do well in native soil may struggle due to poor soil structure from soil being disturbed or mixed during construction or other building activities. Compaction of any soil due to heavy pedestrian or vehicle use often reduces a tree’s growth, size potential, and overall health. AIR POLLUTION Unfortunately, the ability of a species to tolerate air pollution is becoming more important. Chemicals in the air vary with localities, and in some cases, the accumulative effects of pollution are just beginning to show up. The best course of action is to ask a local professional if there are problems in your town and, if so, what species are affected. Similarly, salt spray from either the ocean or street de-icing can be a problem locally, and some species are more sensitive to it than others. Where these are problems, ask a certiﬁed arborist, nursery professional, urban forester, or extension agent about which trees to avoid. TIP: Local nurseries generally do not carry trees that are incompatible with the local climate. However, for site factors other than climate, it is pretty much a matter of “buyer beware.” Get the answers before you buy, and look around your neighborhood to see what may be growing well. TREE CITY USA BULLETIN No. 4 • Arbor Day Foundation • 3 4 • TREE CITY USA BULLETIN No. 4 • Arbor Day Foundation Tree Factors to Consider NOON 9 a.m. JULY 3 p.m. 20-foot tree N NOON 9 a.m. SEPTEMBER 3 p.m. 20-foot tree 0 5 10 15 20 25 Feet 1THE TREE’S PURPOSE A tree’s function is the purpose you want it to serve for you. Some of the most common are listed here to help ensure you get the right tree for the right place. SHADE This is why many people plant trees. Trees provide a greater cooling effect than man-made structures because not only are the rays of the sun blocked, water is also added to the air through transpiration. Observation is the best way to determine where to plant to maximize shade. In the drawing, notice the difference between July and early autumn. Plant for where you want the shadow during the hottest time of the year — and the time of day you desire the shade. High, wide-crowned trees with deciduous leaves are the best providers of shade. AESTHETICS To create an accent, select a tree that will contrast with the predominant landscape character. For example, to give the lot an appearance of greater depth, plant on a diagonal line outward from the front corners of the house. This is called framing. Trees planted behind the house and to the side will provide background. Trees can also add visual appeal to a patio, pool, or play area. They can also be used to separate spaces and provide space enclosure. ACCENTS: A tree with color or some other showy feature can be used as an accent point in your landscaping picture. Don’t overdo accents. One accent plant in a given setting or view area is usually enough. For a visual accent, select a tree that contrasts with the characteristic landscape in one or more of the design elements — form, size, color, or texture. The more contrasts, the stronger the accent will be. If you wish to have a strong point of emphasis, select a specimen tree with two, three, or even all four of these characteristics: O FORM OR SHAPE: A tree’s form should contrast with the predominate landscape character in a setting. For example, horizontal lines may dominate in a rural midwestern landscape. Accent forms will be those that contrast with that character, such as pyramidal, columnar, or upright oval tree shapes. Weeping forms will also accent since they are uncommon to this characteristic landscape. O SIZE: A tree that stands out because of its large size will tend to accent. O COLOR: Planting trees for their spring ﬂower color, fall foliage color, or interesting winter bark is quite popular. While such color is often temporary, it is an important consideration. Summer foliage color, while not as intense, can lend an accent element of longer duration. O TEXTURE: Foliage texture can be classiﬁed as ﬁne, medium, or coarse. If a tree’s texture is used as an accent element, it should be an abrupt change from textures that predominate in the characteristic landscape. Bark texture or picturesque branching structure can also complement an accent plant. WINDBREAKS AND SCREENS Low-branching conifers that hold their foliage are most effective for screening unsightly areas and providing privacy. Noise is best reduced by tall, densely planted trees with ﬂeshy, broad leaves. If combined with conifers, some noise reduction can be extended throughout the year. Dust can also be ﬁltered by such a combination. Windbreaks can be made most effective through a dense, step-like arrangement of both conifers and deciduous trees. However, for protection on south and east sides of a house, deciduous species work best because they allow incoming solar radiation in winter. BOUNDARIES Trees can help to visually delineate your property. Small, narrow-crowned species will do the job while not invading your neighbor’s space. Plant far enough on your property to avoid the trunk touching the actual property line when mature. TREE CITY USA BULLETIN No. 4 • Arbor Day Foundation • 5 2 SIZE AND LOCATION Available space is probably the consideration most often overlooked or misunderstood when deciding what tree to plant. Even for professionals, it is often difﬁcult to envision the planting site ﬁve, 10, or 20 years in the future. Yet this is essential. Before planting, know what the tree will look like as it nears maturity. Consider its height, crown spread, and root space. Some of the problems below can be dealt with by subsequent pruning. However, it is far easier, less expensive, and better for tree health to select and plant your tree to meet a desired objective while at the same time preventing it from: • Lifting walks. • Entering or moving drainage pipes or other utilities. • Tangling with wires or eaves. • Shading gardens. • Ruining the shape of nearby trees. • Blocking windows or scenic views. • Interfering with outdoor lighting. • Covering chimneys. • Blocking solar collectors. • Encroaching on your neighbor. Spacing Guide Spacing plant massings Minimum spacing from wall (one-story building) Minimum spacing from corner (one- story building) Small tree (<30’) 6’-15’ 8’-10’ 6’-8’ Medium tree (30’-70’) 30’-40’ 15’ 12’ Large tree (>70’) 40’-50’ 20’ 15’ Shrubs Dogwood, Sassafras, Pin Oak, White Oak, Ponderosa Pine, Flowering Plums, Post Oak, Arborvitae, Linden, Redwood, Hawthorn, Quaking Aspen, Hemlock, Red Oak, Planetree Sumac, Eastern Redcedar, Blue Spruce Tuliptree, Hornbeam, Flowering Pear Walnut, Redbud Many Pines (These examples are typical mature heights in city conditions. Check booklets published by local forestry professionals or books such as Manual of Woody Landscape Plants for the expected mature height and crown spread of trees you are considering.) *Individual specimens may grow larger in natural settings. 3 CROWN FORM OR SHAPE ROUND White Oak OVAL Sugar Maple V-SHAPED Elm PYRAMIDAL Spruce COLUMNAR Poplar The character of tree crowns and thus the form or shape of trees varies among species as much as leaf shapes or bark patterns. Shape is another clue to how well a tree will ﬁt the space you have avail- able, what problems might occur, and how well it will help meet the goals you have for your property. Columnar cultivars help adapt street trees to ﬁt narrow spaces or avoid signs. 100 80 60 40 20 Average Mature Height* (Feet)BEFORE PLANTING, know what the tree will look like as it nears maturity. Under some urban conditions there is no alternative to planting trees in planters or containers. Because of the severe conditions of restricted space for roots and exposure to freezing, it is essential to use a container that is as broad and deep as space allows. Roots freeze more easily in narrow containers; the recommended minimum is 5 feet on the sides and 2 feet deep. When considering using planters, recognize that regular, conscientious maintenance will be needed and that the tree’s longevity will be relatively short, requiring replacement. Other tips: • In dry weather during the growing season, water at a rate equivalent to 1 inch of rain per week. • Slope the bottom slightly toward small-diameter drain tile or 1-inch plastic pipe with holes drilled in it. Wrap in ﬁlter pads to prevent clogging and cover with 1 inch of sand. If no outlet is possible, place tile over gravel to help remove excess water. • To reduce weight and aid aeration, a soil mix of coarse sand, organic matter or perlite, and a small amount of loam soil is necessary. Ask an arborist or nursery specialist what is used locally. • For most tree species, the soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. • To help keep tree size small, fertilize only if a nutrient deﬁciency is indicated (by leaf discoloration). If you must use planters in a cold climate, it’s best to use large ones with several trees. The earth mass helps protect the roots. Crapemyrtle Dwarf Conifers Dwarf Fruit Trees Holly Japanese Maple Star Magnolia SOME TREES THAT DO WELL IN PLANTERS DIFFICULT Raised planter with open bottom, soil level raised not more than 1 foot above grade. This container is aes- thetically pleasing, has excellent space deﬁnition, a strong sense of perma- nence, and provides good drainage, a place for people to sit, and a place to plant ﬂowers. Trees plant- ed in this type of container are generally safe from snowmelt salt and are easy to water and mulch. Deep roots can pene- trate well below the frost line. DISADVANTAGES: These containers are expensive to install, are usually limited to outdoor use, and may interfere with snow removal operations and pedestrian trafﬁc. There are a limited number of tree species suitable for planting in this type of container due to root restriction. Shallow feeder roots of trees may freeze, reducing tree life. GOOD Seat-wall ground-level planter, planted at grade. This planter has a neat appearance, fair aeration and root room, is conve- nient to water, provides a place for people to sit, and has a good sense of permanence. Trees planted in such a container are generally safe from snowmelt salt, are easy to mulch, and have normal frost tolerance. The container provides good drainage and offers a place to plant ﬂowers. DISADVANTAGES: These containers are expensive to build or buy, difﬁcult to clean, may restrict pedestrian trafﬁc, and may interfere with snow removal opera- tions. Root constriction limits the number of species suitable for planting in the open-bottom container. — Adapted from Containerized Trees for Urban Settings by Jean E. Olson, Iowa State University. MOSTDIFFICULT Closed-bottom container. This container is aes- thetically pleasing, easy to install and move, provides a sitting area, and is relatively safe from snowmelt salt. Such containers provide good deﬁnition of space and are readily available at known cost in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, materials, textures, and colors. Trees planted in these containers can be placed in almost any location; exotic species can be used indoors. Flowers can be planted in this container. DISADVANTAGES: Trees planted in closed- bottom containers are highly susceptible to salt buildup from normal watering procedures (unless drainage holes are provided) and to root freezing. The containers can burst from winter freezing. Tree species suitable for planting in this container are very limited. It does not work in colder areas of the country. What About Planters? 6 • TREE CITY USA BULLETIN No. 4 • Arbor Day Foundation Right Trees and Urban Forestry Programs All that has been said about selecting the right tree for the right place is as true for street, park, and public building plantings as it is for residential properties. In fact, mistakes at the community level are magniﬁed many fold. The widespread planting of a disease-prone species or trees too large or too small along an avenue will eventually plague the taxpayers with costly maintenance bills. Fortunately, communities served by an urban forester or arborist are usually assured that species are selected with great care. In fact, if a staff forester, arborist, or landscape architect is not employed by the municipality, it will pay great dividends to retain the service of a qualiﬁed consultant when planning for tree plantings. When such professionals are on staff, the ideal situation is to combine their expertise into a team. For example, the knowledge of a forester or arborist about the site requirements of a tree or its maintenance needs can often be joined with the artistic talents of a landscape architect and the infrastructure knowledge of a city engineer to produce a plan that is both workable and visually attractive. THE EDUCATION CHALLENGE One of the challenges to all professionals is the large task of public education about trees. Helping homeowners and businesses start their trees correctly through careful selection and placement is one of the greatest needs in the wide spectrum of tree-care topics. It is preventive medicine at its best. Fortunately, there is much material available to help, including this bulletin. The need, however, is to (a) localize the information, and (b) get it into the hands of the people who need it. Information needed in community literature includes lists that show: • Species that thrive in the local climate, preferably arranged by tree characteristics and/or functions they best serve. • Species to avoid because they are known to have persistent insect or disease problems or are sensitive to local air pollution. • Species that are prohibited or discouraged — and the reasons why. • Locations such as an arboretum, park, campus, or street where mature specimens of desirable species may be viewed. Getting the information into the hands of people who can use it is not easy. Budget constraints are often the ﬁrst problem but should not be allowed to stop the project. The publications that are illustrated above range from single-page ﬂiers that can be duplicated at little cost on ofﬁce equipment to elaborate multicolor booklets. Whatever the cost, the investment will repay taxpayers in the long run. Distributing the publications should not be left to chance. The use of literature racks in the ofﬁce or distribution at workshops reaches too few people. Door-to-door distribution in new developments, direct mail, and using local realtors, developers, and nursery operators are more effective ways to reach the entire population of tree owners. PLANNING AHEAD In the urban forestry program, the best ideas for using the right trees in the right places can come undone when the desired planting stock is not available, is too expensive, or is the wrong size. One solution that sounds simple, but is rarely practiced was developed by the late Bob Skiera, former forester for the City of Milwaukee. Bob studied his streets and parks and planned for new plantings several years in advance. He then grew the needed stock in the city nursery and was assured of an adequate supply in his preferred size of 2-inch caliper. Similar arrangements could be made with contract suppliers and would give them the advantage of being sure of their future market. Either way, the result will be less reliance on chance and more precision in planting the right tree in the right place. Publicity about planting the right tree is essential to the long-term health of any community forest. TREE CITY USA BULLETIN No. 4 • Arbor Day Foundation • 7 Finding More Information ... 1. How to Prune Young Trees 1. ____________ 2. When a Storm Strikes 2. ____________ 3. Solving Tree/Sidewalk Conﬂicts 3. ____________ 4. The Right Tree for the Right Place 4. ____________ ---- Tree City USA Annual Report ____________ TOTALS: $ Annual Friends of Tree City USA Membership ..........................................................$15.00 $ ____________ Tree City USA Bulletin 3-Ring Binder ...........................$7.95 $ ____________ TOTAL PAYMENT: ....................................................... $ ____________ 1 Issue $3.00 ea. $ Name Organization Address City State Zip Phone 1925 101 For a complete list of Tree City USA Bulletins, visit arborday.org. Tree City USA Bulletin © 2017 Arbor Day Foundation. Published by the Arbor Day Foundation; James R. Fazio, editor; Karina Helm, graphic designer; Gerald Pulsipher, illustrator. Technical reviewers for this issue: Gene W. Grey, William P. Kruidenier, James J. Nighswonger. Published for the Friends of Tree City USA by 50007317 There is considerable help available for selecting the right tree for the right place. Sources include: • Local tree selection guides available from city or state urban foresters. • Publications produced by private and public utilities. • Books on trees that include site requirements and characteristics at maturity. A good place to start your search for more information is arborday.org. This is the ofﬁcial website of the Arbor Day Foundation and includes not only more materials related to Tree City USA Bulletin No. 4, but also additional tips on tree care, how to purchase trees online, and an online tree guide. The guide offers detailed information on dozens of common- ly planted landscape trees that grow throughout the Unit- ed States. Included for each is information on sun and soil requirements for planting, mature height and spread, growth rates, and more. For other sources of information about this topic, go to arborday.org/bulletins. The right trees in a residential median not only beautify the neighborhood, but raise property values and help tame trafﬁc as well. Selecting the right trees for the right places will result in beautiful and safer streets such as this. Proper selection will also reduce maintenance costs and provide other practical beneﬁts such as energy savings, prolonged life of pavement surfaces, and cleaner air. SPANISH LANGUAGE EDITION A one-page summary of Tree City USA Bulletin No. 4 in Spanish is available at no cost. Call Member Services at 888-448-7337 or go online to arborday.org/bulletins to obtain a copy. PHOTOS COURTESY OF: J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co. (page 5), Boise Community Forestry, James R. Fazio (page 8). Order Tree City USA Bulletins online at arborday.org or send this form and mail with your payment to: Arbor Day Foundation • 211 N. 12th Street • Lincoln, NE 68508 888-448-7337 • (Make checks payable to Arbor Day Foundation) THE TREE CITY USA PROGRAM IS SPONSORED BY THE Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service and National Association of State Foresters. To achieve the national recognition of being named as a Tree City USA, a town or city must meet four standards: Standard 1: A tree board or department Standard 2: A tree care ordinance Standard 3: A community forestry program with an annual budget of at least $2 per capita Standard 4: An Arbor Day observance and proclamation Each recognized community receives a Tree City USA ﬂag, plaque, and community entrance signs. Towns and cities of every size can qualify. Tree City USA application forms are available from your state forester, the Arbor Day Foundation at arborday.org/treecity, or your state forestry agency. Tree City USA Bulletin ORDER FORM