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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-11-01 - Agendas - FinalCITY OF FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS Urban Forestry Advisory Board Meeting November 1, 2023 4:00 p.m. City Hall Room 111 113 W. Mountain AGENDA Members: Jim Parrish, John Crow, Ken Eastin, Coy Morris, Tas Zinck, Bethany Douglas, Carlo Bertani City Staff: John Scott, Urban Forester; Melissa Evans, Urban Forester 1. Call to Order: a. Roll Call: John Crow will not be present 2. Approval of Meeting Minutes — Minutes are Video Archived- The committee approved the previous month's meeting motions. 3. Development Projects — Melissa 4. Tree City USA- John a. Growth Award b. Done by Thanksgiving. 5. Code Changes - a. To Hit minimums. b. Construction fines. c. Remove the 10000 sf rules d. Require all residential projects to have tree preservation plans 6. Celebration of Trees. We will need our board members to meet at the Spring Street parking garage at 6:15 a.m. to help with the setup. a. Previous order and situation explanation. b. Podium setup for the Mayor c. Position assignments- Order taker with the post it, a. Traffic controllers- Jim is usually our main guy b. Outside traffic controller, this position is there until the intersections on Spring have cleared out. We need 4 for this spot. School Street, Locust, Church, and Block. c. Runners- Load into vehicles 7. Tree Project- Fall Projects • Vantage Drive — 21 trees planted • Clarence Craft Park- 93 trees planted • Rodney Ryan Park new block — 20 trees planted • Rodney Ryan Re Savanna — 56 Planted in the field • Owl Creek — 75 trees planted. We are having trouble with deer. Mailing Address: 113 W. Mountain Street www.fayetteville-ar.gov Fayetteville, AR 72701 • Clabber Creek- Plans complete — 31 trees planted • Byari Park — Scheduled for November 6-10 planting- 79 trees • Harmony Point Park- Scheduled for November 13-17-53 trees • Lake Fayetteville- Scheduled for November 20-December 1- 100 trees • Persimmon Blvd- Scheduled for Dec 4- 15 122 trees 8. Project updates a. Urban Forestry Management Plan- 4t" Draft sent i. Review ii. UFAB thoughts and edits? Adjourn: i Ao •�• +�.; ,-�,� it WkLi DRAFT URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN CITY OF FAYETTEVI LLE, ARKANSAS OCTO B E R 12023 r � 0 +.. r 71 I 22 :, ,r (This page intentionally left ,blank) DRAFT URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN CITY OF FAYETTEVI LLE, ARKANSAS OCTO B E R 2023 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Funding for this effort supported by the City of Fayetteville - The City of Fayetteville, AR Contributors - Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs - Urban Forestry Development Services -Urban Forestry Public Works- Engineering and Park Maintenance Other Supporting City Departments and Programs Fayetteville Urban Forestry Advisory Board Fayetteville Environmental Action Committee Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Fayetteville Planning Commission City Council Community members of Fayetteville CITY OF FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS PIanIT Geo" developers of TreePlotter All other photos unless noted are from the Cityof Fayetteville, Arkansas (This page intentionally left ,blank) l RECOMMENDED ACTION ITEMS LETTER FROM THE CITY OF FAYETTEVILLE In Fayetteville, trees are a source of pride and hold a special place in our city's identity. Our urban tree canopy is part of what makes Fayetteville unique and attractive to residents and visitors. The City of Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan will serve as a blueprint to guide Fayetteville during rapid growth, helping to make sure our growing community remains healthy, vibrant and green. A coalition of residents, staff, stakeholders and board members created this plan for Fayetteville by reviewing our past and current conditions and considering what the future holds for Fayetteville. I want to express gratitude to all contributors to the Urban Forest Management Plan. The direction outlined in this plan will help us maintain and grow our urban forests, which continue to provide direct benefits to our community. Mayor Lioneld Jordan A LETTER FROM FAYETTEVILLE'S URBAN FORESTERS Trees and forests are the silent workhorses in our City that provide us with many benefits. Trees give us one of the most basic elements of life: oxygen. Trees shelter us from the sun during the blazing summer months. Trees filter pollutants from the air and give us cleaner air to breathe. Trees absorb rainwater and help with stormwater control when located correctly. Trees help make our lives livable. Scientists are making discoveries about trees every year. Within the last ten years, we have learned that trees communicate with each other. We are learning about the complex web of relationships trees have with each other and other organisms. In the past thirtyyears, we have learned that trees produce chemicals we absorb in our skin that naturally lower our blood pressure and reduce our anxiety levels. We are just scratching the surface of what we know about trees. The City of Fayetteville has a unique relationship with trees and tree preservation. The collaboration with our community shows how important trees are to our residents. In master plans by other departments, trees, and our urban forests continue to be a high priority for our residents. We are thrilled to have a plan that embraces our residents' priorities and will help guide us through future growth. Our City is changing quickly, and these changes impact trees. This plan is a guide to help us continue to grow and change while remembering the importance of trees. Over the past ten years, Urban Forestry staff has strengthened our tree preservation and landscape codes, added flexible elements for development in code, and clarified our Unified Development Code. The Urban Forestry Management Plan has a vision to continue strengthening, clarifying, and adding flexibility to our Tree Preservation and Landscape codes. The Urban Forest Management Plan will also help focus our efforts to maintain, grow, and enhance our urban forest programs for the next ten years. Fayetteville's award - winning Urban Forestry programs lead the state in innovation, public outreach, technology, and progress. This plan will help continue this progress, strengthen those attributes, and guide us on what we can do for our urban forests. We are excited to continue to serve Fayetteville with award -winning programs by implementing the recommendations of this plan. Table of Contents EXECUTIVESUMMARY.......................................................................1 Introduction.....................................................................................................................................................................1 KeyFindings....................................................................................................................................................................1 AligningCity Priorities..............................................................................................................................................2 Urban Forest Management Plan Vision and Guiding Principles...............................................................3 SECTION1: INTRODUCTION..............................................................5 AboutFayetteville........................................................................................................................................................6 Backgroundand History.........................................................................................................................................7 Benefits and Services Provided by Fayetteville's Trees....................................................................... 8 PlanPurpose................................................................................................................................................................13 Challenges Facing Fayetteville's Urban Forest.......................................................................................14 TheTime is Now.........................................................................................................................................................15 SECTIONZ: CURRENT CONDITIONS...............................................17 Trees That Make Up Fayetteville's Urban Forest....................................................................................18 Results of the 2022 Public Tree Sample Inventory...............................................................................19 Current Conditions of the Citywide Urban Forest................................................................................26 Current Tree Management in Fayetteville.................................................................................................41 Stakeholder Feedback on Current Conditions.......................................................................................51 Summary of Urban Forest Vulnerabilities.................................................................................................64 Indicators of a Sustainable Urban Forest..................................................................................................65 SECTION 3: VISION FOR THE FUTURE, RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 71 Introduction.................................................................................................................................................................72 PlanVision Statement...........................................................................................................................................72 Guiding Principles and Goals Overview.....................................................................................................74 10-Year Canopy Cover Goal.................................................................................................................................75 Stakeholder- driven Guiding Principles and Goals..............................................................................77 A) Equitable and Resilient Canopy Cover.............................................................................................79 B) Maintenance and Management...........................................................................................................81 C) Tree Preservation and Protection........................................................................................................83 D) Funding and Levels of Service..............................................................................................................85 E) Community Education, Engagement, and Stewardship......................................................87 SECTION 4: IMPLEMENTATION 89 ImplementationSummary.................................................................................................................................91 MonitoringPlan.........................................................................................................................................................99 Evaluate........................................................................................................................................................................100 Monitor..........................................................................................................................................................................103 Report............................................................................................................................................................................105 Revise.............................................................................................................................................................................107 CONCLUSION.................................................................................109 APPENDICESAND REFERENCES..................................................110 Appendix A. Canopy Goals and Planting Targets.................................................................................111 Appendix B.2023 Urban Forest Audit Results.......................................................................................117 Appendix C. Tree Ordinance Evaluation..................................................................................................128 References..................................................................................................................................................................134 LIST OF TABLES Table I. Summary of the vision and guiding principles for Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan ....... 3 Table 2. Minimum canopy requirements by zoning designation according to Table 1 in Chapter 167 Tree Preservation and Protection Ordinance.....................................................................................................................................31 Table 3. Potential vulnerabilityto canopy loss by easement type................................................................................................36 Table 4. Summary of vulnerable canopy in City easements.............................................................................................................36 Table S. Summary of the land acres and the canopy cover within native prairie land...................................................38 Table 6. Summary of the protected prairie -related areas. Source: City of Fayetteville...................................................38 Table 7. Tree canopy on university grounds................................................................................................................................................40 Table 8. Summary of the departments and staff involved in urban forest management in Fayetteville ........... 41 Table 9. Summary of the status of recommendations from the 2012 Urban Tree Canopy Assessment .... ....... 46 Table 10. USDA Forest Service Climate Change Atlas for tree species habitat in Arkansas predicted to increase (low emission scenario)....................................................................................................................................................62 Table 11. USDA Forest Service Climate Change Atlas for tree species habitat in Arkansas' predicted to not change (low emission scenario)......................................................................................................................................................63 Table 12. USDA Forest Service Climate Change Atlas for tree species habitat in Arkansas predicted to decrease(low emission scenario)...................................................................................................................................................63 Table 13. Interpretation of the 2023 Urban Forest Audit scores..................................................................................................... 68 Table 14. Urban Forest Management Plan implementation tables..............................................................................................91 Table 15. Categories for evaluation using the U.S. Forest Service's Urban Forest Audit System ...........................100 Table 16. List of subcategories within the Management Policy and Ordinances category of the audit .......... 100 Table 17. Outcomes of the urban forest audit completed in 2023 for Fayetteville's Plan............................................101 Table 18. Fayetteville's primary urban forest benchmark values to measure Plan progress...................................104 Table 19. Evaluation, monitoring, and reporting techniques to achieve the urban forestry goals.......................105 Table 20. Summary count of the evaluations completed in the 2023 Urban Forest Audit........................................107 Table 21. Results of the 2023 Urban Forest Audit.....................................................................................................................................117 Table 22. Tree ordinance evaluation checklist. Source: PlanIT Geo............................................................................................129 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1. The process to develop Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan..................................................................1 Figure 2. Maps displaying the location of Fayetteville, Arkansas within Washington County....................................6 Figure 3. Aview of the Ozark Mountains from Fayetteville. Source: Experience Fayetteville.......................................7 Figure 4. Human health and social benefits of trees...............................................................................................................................9 Figure S. Eastern towhee habitats are supported by healthy urban forests. Source: Audubon Arkansas .......... 11 Figure 6. Estimated annual benefits of Fayetteville's public trees (based on a sample of2,712 trees in 2022 extrapolated to represent an estimated 25,000 public trees in maintained areas. Values listed summarize the annual benefits and services. Carbon storage is valued at $1.1 million but it is not an annual value. Therefore, the overall value is $72,000 in annual benefits and $1.1 million in cumulative benefits or $1.2 million in total. Source: USDA Forest Service i-Tree research .........................12 Figure 7. Fayetteville's urban forest is a primary component of the city's urban ecosystem.....................................15 Figure 8. Illustration of the types of trees in Fayetteville.....................................................................................................................18 Figure 9. Overview of the sample inventory of public trees completed in 2022..................................................................19 Figure 10. A Certified Arborist examines the tree buds to accurately identify the species..........................................20 Figure 11. Overview of the results of the 2022 sample inventory of public trees..................................................................21 Figure 12. Map displaying the tree canopy mapped from 2019 imagery.................................................................................27 Figure 13. Citywide tree canopy results (2019). Source: City of Fayetteville.............................................................................27 Figure 14. Examples of the land cover classes analyzed as part of the 2019 tree canopy study...............................28 Figure 15. Map displaying the future land use classes for Fayetteville.......................................................................................29 Figure 16. Tree canopy cover percentages (2019) by future land use class.............................................................................29 Figure 17. Summary of the land cover changeover four time periods (2013 - 2019). Source: City of.....................30 Figure 18. Map showing the Tree Equity Scores for Census Block Groups in Fayetteville. Source: American Forests' Tree Equity Score Tool...........................................................................................................................................................32 Figure 19. Inputs for Fayetteville's Tree Equity Score (2022). Source: American Forests' Tree Equity Score ..... 33 Figure 20. Comparison of Tree Equity Scores for select Arkansas cities based on a 2023 study. Source: American Forests' Tree Equity Score Tool...................................................................................................................................33 Figure 21. Tree Equity Score comparisons for select U.S. cities. Source: American Forests' Tree Equity ... ........ 34 Figure 22. An example of higher tree canopy cover east (right) of North Gregg Avenue in the center of the image compared to areas west of the route. Source: Google Earth 2021 imagery .........................................34 Figure 23. Examples of the types of easements found in the City of Fayetteville..............................................................35 Figure 24. Canopy cover within vulnerable easements.......................................................................................................................36 Figure 25. Wilson Springs Preserve, a 121-acre preserve with the largest wetland remnant in Fayetteville and one of the last tall grass prairies in the region..............................................................................................................37 Figure 26. Map of the canopy within native and restored prairie land......................................................................................38 Figure 27. Aerial view of the University of Arkansas campus. Source: University of Arkansas...................................39 Figure 28. Map displaying tree canopy on University of Arkansas property.........................................................................40 Figure 29. Fayetteville's urban forestry programs engage with youth in the community by planting a tree atButterfield Elementary School.....................................................................................................................................................42 Figure 30. Example of the tree canopy assessments and planning /visualization tools developed by the City of Fayetteville (maps.fayetteville-ar.gov).....................................................................................................................................45 Figure 31. Fayetteville's Tree Preservation and Landscape Manual provides the tree -related regulations and standards for entities involved in private development design and construction........................................49 Figure 32. Summary of the feedback received from internal stakeholders...........................................................................52 Figure 33. The project website for Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan...........................................................53 Figure 34. Example of the outreach conducted throughout the planning process........................................................53 Figure 35. City social media post encouraging the public to participate in the survey.................................................54 Figure 36. Infographic summary of the public's priorities and viewpoints regarding the urban forest.............55 Figure 37. Examples of the potential streetscape design solutions for preventing or mitigating tree and infrastructureconflicts.............................................................................................................................................................................58 Figure 38. Emerald ash borer (EAB) insect (top), dieback (left), larvae (bottom left), borer holes (right), and larvae galleries (bottom right). Source: AR Department of Agriculture.................................................................59 Figure 39. Sudden oak death (SOD) wood and bark discoloration (top) and lesions and discoloration of leaves (bottom). Source: AR Department of Agriculture..................................................................................................59 Figure 40. American elm identifying features (left), leaf flagging symptom of Dutch elm disease (middle), and gallery of bark beetles that are the vector for the Ophiostoma uimifungus. Source: University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service..............................................................................................................................60 Figure 41. Bacterial leaf scorch observed on oak (A), redbud(B), elm (C), and maple (D) leaves. Source: University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service.....................................................................................................60 Figure 42. Illustration of the temperature difference in urban areas due to the urban heat island effect . ...... 61 Figure 43. Summary of the climate change vulnerability of Fayetteville's public street trees. Source: USDA ClimateChange Atlas..............................................................................................................................................................................64 Figure 44. Summary of the 2023 Urban Forest Audit completed for Fayetteville's Plan..............................................66 Figure 45. Fayetteville's draft 10-year canopy goal milestones and targets...........................................................................75 Figure 46. Scenarios for priority planting areas to achieve canopy goals and the Plan's outcomes....................76 Figure47. Summary of the Plan implementation and monitoring process.........................................................................99 Figure 48. Results of the 2023 urban forest audit to utilize in Plan monitoring...............................................................102 Figure 49. Example of the plan implementation, evaluation, and revision process.......................................................107 Figure 50. Priority planting maps by planting theme..........................................................................................................................113 (This page intentionally left ,blank) 40, 7 ecytive Sumin 4 A�k Executive Summary INTRODUCTION The quality of life for Fayetteville's community members is strongly influenced by the urban forest, as trees make a vital and affordable contribution to the sense of community, pedestrian -friendly neighborhoods, energy savings, and air quality. Future climate predictions indicate that heat waves will become more frequent, and the average yearly temperatures are expected to continue to rise. In addition, it is anticipated that the region will experience more frequent extreme weather events and temperature changes, prolonged periods of drought, and shortened or disrupted natural seasons. But there are ways to mitigate climate change and beat the heat. Fayetteville's trees (collectively known as the urban forest) provide much -needed shade and are one the most effective mechanisms to cool urban areas, reduce stormwater runoff, and make the City more livable. Protecting, maintaining, and expanding Fayetteville's urban forest is essential to preserving and improving quality of life. Purpose To plan and manage Fayetteville's urban forest, a baseline assessment of tree canopy cover was conducted in 2019. The City's Urban Forest Management Plan ("Plan") aims to preserve and expand tree canopy cover and maximize the benefits of Fayetteville's urban forest both sustainably and equitably for the long-term. KEY FINDINGS THE PLANNING PROCESS The development of the Fayetteville Urban Forest Management Plan was based on answering four key questions: 0 What Do We Have? 0 What Do We Want? 0 How Do We Get There? 0 How Are We Doing? This structure, termed "adaptive management," is commonly used for resource planning and management and provides a useful conceptual framework for managing Fayetteville's urban forest resource (Miller,1988). Figure 1. The process to develop Fayetteville's Fayetteville's programs for urban forest Urban Forest Management Plan. management, community engagement, public tree maintenance, tree ordinances, and the supporting Urban Forestry Advisory Board are critical to meeting the City's commitment to climate change mitigation and adaptation, carbon sequestration, stormwater reduction, water conservation, wildlife habitat enhancement, and customer service. The process to develop Fayetteville's Plan uncovered key findings about the City's trees, its programs, and the community. Executive Summary Page l 1 ❖ 39.4% of the City is shaded by urban tree canopy cover in 2019 and has a Tree Equity Score of 87 out of 100. ❖ The citywide urban forest provides an annual estimated benefit of $76.5 million by improving air quality and reducing stormwater volumes (based on the 2016 assessment and extrapolated for the 2019 assessment. Excludes property values, carbon services, energy savings, health savings, among others). ❖ A sample inventory of 2,712 public trees and 848 private trees was completed in 2022. The public trees are diverse— the top ten species only comprise 44% of all trees. ❖ Fayetteville has an estimated 42,000 public trees of which 25,000 are in maintained areas. An unknown number of trees exist in natural areas of the City. ❖ The 25,000 public trees provide an estimated $1.2 million in ecosystem benefits equating to an annual average of $49 per tree and $13 per capita (2021 population). ❖ The urban forest is managed by three different City departments— Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs; Public Works; and Development Services. ❖ 1.00 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff is in Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs (Park Planning & Urban Forestry Division) and oversees tree plantings, Arbor Day Celebration, the Tree City USA program, specifies new tree plantings in public spaces, is the Staff Leader for the City's Urban Forestry Advisory Board (UFAB), works on Code changes, outreach, budgets, and advises maintenance best management practices. ❖ 6.00 FTEs in Park Maintenance in Public Works perform public street tree maintenance. ❖ 1.00 FTE in Development Services manages trees as part of private development in accordance with Chapter 167 "Tree Preservation and Protection" within Fayetteville's Unified Development Code and Chapter 177 "Landscape Requirements Code." ❖ An estimated 74% of public trees are 12 inches in diameter or less, 75% of trees are in good condition, and the most common maintenance need for public trees is clearance pruning (8%) and removals (6%). ❖ Fayetteville's Urban Forest Audit Score based on U.S. Forest Service criteria is 73% (completed in 2023). The Audit evaluates and scores 11 categories of sustainable urban forest management according to industry standards and best practices. ❖ Challenges and shared priorities among City staff and commission members include staffing, ordinance and standards, and infrastructure conflicts with 50% or more of participating staff indicating these as challenges or concerns. ALIGNING CITY PRIORITIES The Urban Forest Management Plan complements existing city and regional planning efforts such as the City Plan 2040 comprehensive plan for Fayetteville, the Park and Recreation System Master Plan, Energy Action Plan, and the Climate Action Plan (in development as of June 2023). DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 12 Stakeholder involvement has been key to development of the Urban Forest Management Plan and establishing the Plan's priorities. A diverse group of city staff, residents, and community stakeholders provided perspectives on the most important issues faced by the urban forest. Collectively, this group prioritized preserving existing trees and incorporating healthy, climate -resistant trees into the City's built environment, particularly in underserved areas. The Plan's goals reflect these values and priorities. URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN VISION AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES Healthy Trees, Equitable and Resilient Canopy Cover: We value and Healthy City.- Our appreciate the benefits and services provided by the trees in our community. These benefits and services vision for should be maximized and equitably distributed across Fayetteville's urban the City by growing an urban forest that is sustainable forest is to cultivate a and resilient to current and future challenges. thriving, diverse, and Maintenance and Management: We care for our trees and well -maintained tree the citywide urban forest to ensure the benefits are available for current and future generations. Our operations canopy that and investments prioritize sustainability, fiscal responsibility, enhances the and equity. livability, health, and Tree Preservation and Protection: Our existing tree sustainability of our canopy cover and the investments made in planting and communityfor caring for the urban forest are preserved through sound but fair policies and regulations that align with shared current and future priorities in the City and best practices. generations Funding and Levels of Service: The programs and staffing involved with the trees in our community have the resources necessary to meet current and future demands and challenges. Community Education, Engagement, and Stewardship: A sustainable urban forest requires a shared commitment from the City and the community. We will instill and foster tree stewardship in our community through equitable and impactful community education and engagement. Table 1. Summary of the vision and guiding principles for Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan. Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan includes an ambitious but achievable goal of 44.49/o canopy coverage citywide. Within the 10-year planning timeframe of the Plan, it is recommended that a total of1,850 trees be planted per year on average. Of these trees, 60% should be large -canopy trees at maturity but in the short-term, 20% of annual plantings could be two-inch caliper trees and the remaining 80% could be smaller plantings or seedlings with proper post -planting care. Over time, the majority of annual tree plantings should be two-inch caliper trees. 50% of all plantings should be led by the City with the other 50% accounted for by private landowners and development projects. To achieve 44.4% canopy cover, the annual tree planting targets and existing tree canopy cover should be evaluated every 10 years as an update to the Plan. Executive Summary Page J 3 m 1 Section 1: Introduction In 2022, the City of Fayetteville committed to developing the City's Urban Forest Management Plan ("Plan") and conducting a sample inventory of public trees to support the Plan. The Plan was developed with a shared commitment from the City, its partners, and the community to manage and grow a sustainable and equitable urban forest. -_ 0416;RRP �. .AL Introduction City of ❑ Washington ❑ State of Fayetteville County Arkansas Figure 2. Maps displaying the location of Fayetteville, Arkansas within Washington County. ABOUT FAYETTEVILLE Nestled within the picturesque Ozark Mountains in the northwestern part of the state, Fayetteville, Arkansas, stands as a vibrant and growing community that harmoniously blends urban development with natural beauty. As the heart of Washington County and home to the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville exudes a unique character that attracts residents, students, and visitors alike. Fayetteville is the second most populous city in Arkansas with 93,949 people as of the 2020 U.S. Census. It spans 55.8 square miles and of that area, 39.4% (22 square miles) is covered by the canopy of trees that comprise Fayetteville's urban forest. Fayetteville's location between the Springfield Plateau and the Boston Mountains within the Ozarks gives rise to a wide variety of land forms and environmental features including native prairie wetlands, steeply sloped and forested uplands, and a variety of streams and water bodies. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 16 Figure 3. A view of the Ozark Mountains from Fayetteville. Source: Experience Fayetteville BAC KG RO U N D AN D H I STO RY Situated in the Ozark Mountains, Fayetteville is known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. However, over time, the natural environment in and around Fayetteville has been significantly altered due to human settlement and development. As development occurred, the natural environment transitioned to what is referred to as an urban forest, meaning trees in an urban area. There still remains forested areas and woodlots along with forested public parks and open space. The following provides an overview of the history of the natural environment which led to the City's urban forest and the focus of this management plan. The earliest settlers in the Fayetteville area were Native American tribes who lived off the land and hunted and gathered food from the natural environment. However, with the arrival of European settlers in the early19th century, the landscape began to change. The first settlers cleared large areas of land for farming, which led to deforestation and loss of habitat for many species of plants and animals. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, industrialization began to take hold in Fayetteville. Sawmills and other factories sprang up, leading to further deforestation and pollution of the local waterways. The construction of railroads and highways also had a significant impact on the natural environment, as large areas of land were cleared to make way for these transportation routes. As Fayetteville continued to grow and develop, urbanization became a significant factor in altering the natural environment. The population increased, and more land was needed for housing, development, and infrastructure. This led to further deforestation and loss of habitat, as well as increased pollution and degradation of waterways. Despite these significant changes, Fayetteville has also taken steps to preserve and protect its natural environment. A pivotal moment in Fayetteville's Urban Forestry history came in 2000 when Mary Lightheart protested the removal of trees at a proposed development and climbed into a massive oak tree, living there for three weeks. She and 50 other activists were protesting a new shopping center that would cause the removal of a large stand of oak trees. At the time, the Mayor and City Council approved the project. Two organizations, the League of Women Voters and Sierra Club, sued the City. The activists helped bring light to tree preservation and triggered political change. The following year, a stronger tree preservation ordinance was enacted with a new Mayor. The residents of Fayetteville made it clear that trees are vital to this City. This commitment to the natural environment is demonstrated by Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan and the City's programs for trees that are detailed in the Current Conditions section. Introduction Page 17 BENEFITS AND SERVICES PROVIDED BY FAYETTEVILLE'S TREES Ad iverse and healthy urban forest works to the benefit of the community, the environment, and the economy. Following is a summary of some of the key benefits and services of trees, nature, and greenspaces in urban areas that was compiled from research to develop Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan. Improve the Quality of Life Trees make cities more livable by decreasing summer temperatures and improving well-being. Greater contact with natural environments correlates with lower levels of stress, improved performance, and less sick days. Residents in areas with more greenery are three times more likely to be physically active and less likely to be overweight than residents living in areas with little greenery. View the following section for additional details about Fayetteville's urban forest improving the quality of life for residents. Cooler Pavement Diminishes Urban Heat Islands Tree canopy lowers temperatures by shading buildings, asphalt, and concrete. Trees deflect radiation from the sun and release moisture into the air, reducing surface temperatures by as much as 36 degrees. Lower temperatures diminish fumes from heated asphalt and mitigate the urban heat island effect. Improve Air Quality Trees produce oxygen and clean the air by removing pollutants that would otherwise contribute to human health problems such as asthma and other respiratory diseases. Protect Wildlife and Ecosystems l Preserving and planting trees provides valuable habitat for wildlife, supports pollinator species, and provides favorable conditionsfor beneficial soil microorganisms. Save Energy and Lower Energy OCosts for Buildings As natural screens, trees insulate homes and businesses from extreme weather, keeping buildings cooler and reducing air conditioning bills. Shade trees planted on a sunny exposure can provide savings of up to 50% in the summer. In winter, evergreen trees provide a barrier to cold winter winds. Conserve Water and Soil A tree's root system draws water into the soil and their canopy slows rainfall, reducing runoff and erosion while removing contaminants. In contrast, impervious surfaces like roads and parking lots allow water to run off unfiltered and at high volumes, increasing the likelihood of flooding and impaired water quality. Other benefits include increased property values, reduced 0 o Pavement wear, traffic calming, public safety, among others. View a compilation of research on urban forest benefits and services prepared by the Alliance for Community Trees (www.actrees.org). Tree benefits are quantified in the following section. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 18 A Closer Look at Trees Improving the Quality of Life in Fayetteville Trees come in various forms— shade trees, flowering trees, trees with edible fruit and nuts, and trees with vibrant fall color. All types contribute benefits and services to the urban ecosystem— an ecosystem that brings nature into cities through tree canopy, parks, and greenspace. Many environmental benefits of trees in urban areas are identifiable and measurable, while other benefits are experienced, such as the calming feeling of walking a quiet tree - covered trail. The following provides a summary of the social and human health benefits of trees and greenspaces. The urban forest brings a myriad of social and health benefits to Fayetteville's communities. Park and street trees create a sense of community, offering opportunities for people to come together and engage in various activities. These shared spaces foster a sense of belonging and connection among residents. Additionally, Fayetteville's urban forest provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering peaceful retreats where individuals can relax, unwind, and enjoy nature. Research summarized in the following paragraphs shows the presence of trees and greenery in urban areas reduces stress, improves mental well-being, and encourages physical activity, all of which contribute to healthier and happier communities. Moreover, Fayetteville's urban forest creates opportunities for environmental education and volunteering, inspiring residents to learn about nature, participate in tree planting initiatives, and engage in environmental stewardship. INCREASES ENCOURAGES SOCIAL ATTENTION SPANS IMPROVES MENTAL If I INSPIRES PHYSICAL HEALTH IMPROVES SOCIAL INTERACTION. C ACTIVITY OHESION L � 1111 I �117DT� ■■■ ■■■coo oil Figure 4. Human health and social benefits of trees. HELPS CHILDREN LEARN ■■ ■■ n� 1■ ■1 ■■ III pi", Introduction Page 19 Overall, Fayetteville's urban forest plays a crucial role in enhancing social interactions, well-being, human health, and community engagement, making Fayetteville a more livable and enjoyable city. Studies have found that the amount of trees and vegetation in common spaces such as parks are related , to a sense of neighborhood safety and more social activity. In turn, greenery in cities enhances the strength of social ties among neighbors (Kim, et al., 2020). Encounters with nature in cities also lead to enhanced „j( r• positive attitudes, decreased stress levels, improved �I attention spans, and better performance on cognitive memory assessments (Wolf, et al., 2020). Tree canopy cover and greenspaces in cities motivate 10 r - . and provide opportunities for people to be physically active. The percentage of greenspace within a two mile radius of a person's home has been associated with the percentage of residents reporting good health, particularly among the elderly and those with lower socioeconomic status —groups that are typically less likely to get sufficient physical activity. Research shows that community residents are three times as likely to be physically active when living in areas with more greenspace (Ulmer, et al., 2016). Opportunities to experience urban nature —whether it's a view of a street tree out a window or actually being outside in nature— are key to the mental well-being of city residents. People are happier, experience a greater sense of well-being, and have reduced stress levels when they live in areas with more greenspace nearby or on a tree canopied neighborhood street (White, et al., 2013). More tree cover near schools also has a positive effect on student performance. Children with challenges concentrating are more focused following a 20-minute walk in an urban park or tree canopy covered sidewalk than they do after walks in other urban settings without trees and greenery (Taylor, et al., 2009). Trees in neighborhoods and parks connect children to nature. The link between time spent in natural settings and health outcomes has been the center of focus for healthcare and insurance industries in recent years. Trees and greenspaces have shown to increase longevity, reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease, reduce anxiety and depression, improve immune function, and reduce stress hormones. A study in 2016 of 108,000 people found a 12% lower rate of nonaccidental mortality among those with the most greenery in a 250-meter radius around their homes (James, et al., 2016). In addition, hospital patients placed in rooms with views of nature experienced shorter stays in the hospital compared to patients in rooms that faced other buildings (Mihandoust, et al., 2021). DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 110 Environmental Benefits of Trees Research over the past several decades provides valuable quantified data on environmental benefits for urban forest researchers, managers, and practitioners. This data can be used to communicate tree benefits to residents and stakeholders and to incorporate trees into infrastructure design such as stormwater management. It can also be used to develop strategies that redress inequities. A tree canopy assessment conducted by the City in 2020 (with 2019 imagery) determined that 39.4% of the City (14,000 acres) was shaded by tree canopy. In 2022, a sample inventory of 2,712 public trees and 848 private trees was conducted to make estimates about the composition and structure of public and private Figure 5. Eastern towhee habitats are supported by healthy urban forests. Source: Audubon Arkansas tree populations. These datasets were used to calculate the following benefits of the citywide urban forest and public tree population as noted. Citywide Tree Canopy Benefits The citywide tree canopy across public and private land provides an annual estimated benefit of $76.5 million by improving air quality and reducing stormwater volumes (based on the 2016 assessment and extrapolated for the 2019 assessment. Excludes property values, carbon services, energy savings, health savings, among others). Updates to the 2019 tree canopy assessment should include ecosystem benefit calculations and analyses of change in canopy cover and associated benefits. Public Tree Benefits The 2022 sample inventory of public trees determined the 2,712 trees provide $7,800 benefits and services annually equating to $71,600 for the estimated 25,000 maintained public trees. It is estimated that the 25,000 maintained public trees sequester (capture) 1.4 millions pounds of carbon dioxide annually equating to a value of $34,000 of the $71,600 total value. Over the life of the public trees, nearly 50 million pounds of carbon dioxide are stored in the public trees resulting in a savings of $1.1 million. Therefore, the annual value of ecosystem services for the 25,000 maintained public trees equates to nearly $72,000 while the cumulative benefit of carbon storage values the public trees at $1,218,268. Using the cumulative benefits of $1,218,268 for the 25,000 maintained public trees result in an average of $49 in benefits per tree, and $13 per capita (2021 population). The estimated asset value of the public tree population amounts to $6.8 million (average of $274 per tree). A comprehensive public tree inventory would more accurately estimate the value and benefits of trees. View a summary of the ecosystem benefits provided by the public trees (estimated) on the following page. Introduction Page Ill IIIIII ■■■ �--„ :�� m, 0 1 1�� . mono_ OVERALL ECO CARBON AIR STORMWATER BENEFITS SERVICES QUALITY SERVICES Annual value 1.4 million 11,000 1.6 million of ecosystem pounds of pounds of gallons services carbon pollutants of provided by dioxide (CO2) removed stormwater the urban sequestered from the air diverted forest (49 million pounds (CO, NO2, 03, of CO2 stored) PM2.5, S02) Figure 6. Estimated annual benefits of Fayetteville's public trees (based on a sample of 2,712 trees in 2022 extrapolated to represent an estimated 25,000 public trees in maintained areas. Values listed summarize the annual benefits and services. Carbon storage is valued at $1.1 million but it is not an annual value. Therefore, the overall value is $72,000 in annual benefits and $1.1 million in cumulative benefits or $1.2 million in total. Source: USDA Forest Service i-Tree research DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 112 PLAN PURPOSE Caring for and prioritizing the urban forest is an important part of maintaining a sustainable and vibrant city. However, urban forest management must also support the City's goals including economic development, transportation, urban design, and the goals of property owners. In recognition of this, Fayetteville's Code of Ordinances requires the creation of an urban forest management plan that is updated every 10 years. The 2023 Urban Forest Management Plan serves as a guide to proactively manage, care for, protect, and expand the City's tree canopy while navigating these competing pressures. The Urban Forest Management Plan provides a strategic and systematic framework for the sustainable stewardship, enhancement, and utilization of trees within the urban areas of Fayetteville. This Plan serves as a roadmap to guide decision -making and actions related to the urban forest. The key purposes of Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan include: Sustainability and Environmental Health: The Plan ensures that the ecological benefits are maintained and enhanced, contributing to the overall environmental health and resilience of the City. Quality of Life and Community Well-being: The Plan provides the strategies to create and maintain accessible and inviting greenspaces that enhance the quality of life and foster community pride. Urban Planning and Design: The Plan aligns with urban planning and design principles, ensuring that tree preservation, planting, maintenance, and removal are integrated into the built environment while reducing or clarifying competing priorities. Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation: The Plan's overarching goal to increase canopy cover to 44.4% enables the City to maximize the urban forest's contribution to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. Public Safety and Infrastructure: The Plan provides recommendations for public tree maintenance and risk management. Education and Outreach: The Plan includes recommendations for community engagement, outreach, and education to raise awareness about the value of trees, promote responsible stewardship, and support the community in tree planting and maintenance activities. Long -Term Vision: A vision for the urban forest ensures decisions made today have a positive impact on future generations. It provides a framework for adaptive management, allowing for adjustments based on changing conditions and priorities. Coordination and Collaboration: The Plan fosters collaboration among various internal and external stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and holistic approach to urban forest management. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Creation of the Plan is required by City Code. Recommendations in the Plan improve regulations for tree preservation, protection, maintenance, planting, and compliance. Introduction Page 113 CHALLENGES FACING FAYETTEVILLE'S URBAN FOREST External Challenges Urban forests across the country face common stressors including urban heat, poor air quality, weather extremes, pressure from development, and invasive plants, pests, and diseases. These challenges are often intensified by conflicting priorities and a shortage of resources. Fayetteville's urban forest has been growing and changing as development and redevelopment occurs in the City. In many ways Fayetteville and the northwest region of the state is fortunate to be such a highly desirable place to live, work, recreate, and study. Rapid growth in northwest Arkansas is predicted and the effects are already being felt. From 2010 to 2020, Washington County's population rose by 21.1% and almost half of that growth was in Fayetteville alone. Specifically, Fayetteville is experiencing a 28% growth rate and is now the second largest city in the state, replacing Fort Smith (NWAPPC). According to Woods & Poole Economics, Inc., the Fayetteville -Springdale - Rogers metropolitan area has a 76% population growth projected from 2022 to 2060. Like many cities, the tree canopy cover in Fayetteville is not equitably distributed across the City. As a result, some neighborhoods experience higher surface and ambient temperatures, poorer air quality, and more frequent flooding than neighborhoods with greater canopy cover. Additionally, the lack of access to trees and greenspace impacts residents' physical and mental health, sense of community, and overall well-being. Climate change is an overarching challenge that is compounding the issues facing Fayetteville's trees. In addition to the known pests, diseases, and weather that the native trees have evolved to withstand, the new changes in temperature and weather extremes bring a new onslaught of pests, diseases, and wet/drought cycles. Healthy trees can play a significant role in making Fayetteville more resilient to weather and climate extremes by sustaining the natural ecosystem health. Yet the ability of community trees and forests to achieve their full potential is often significantly limited due to poor tree health stemming from reactive fixes instead of holistic solutions, limited training of tree care professionals, and insufficient municipal budgets. Internal Challenges ❖ Proper and timely management of the trees in accordance with current best management practices. ❖ The need for updated tree -related regulations that preserve, protect, and grow the urban forest aligned with best practices and City priorities. ❖ Limited financial and operational resources to address the gradual and immediate impacts of climate change. ❖ Concerns regarding the organizational structure and communications with having three groups working in three different departments. ❖ Preparing for emerald ash borer and other emerging tree pests and diseases. ❖ Strategic tree planting programs and initiatives needed to sustain and expand tree canopy and the associated benefits. ❖ Educating and revitalizing community tree stewardship. DRAFT Fayetteville, AP Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 114 THE TIME IS NOW Figure 7. Fayetteville's urban forest is a primary component of the city's urban ecosystem. It is critical for Fayetteville's environment, economy, and community welI-being that the City act now to sustainably manage the urban forest. The City has a Comprehensive Plan for how Fayetteville will grow and change with development. Among other plans in place or in development is the City's Climate Action Plan in progress as of June 2023. Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan supports and builds on the goals and policies of these plans and supplements those with vital analyses, studies, metrics, and strategies relating to the City's natural environment and specifically, the urban forest. Undeveloped areas contain native trees and vegetation, fertile soils, vital water resources, natural prairie, and wetlands. Protection and conservation of these critical areas is up to the citizens and the choices made by the City. Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan provides the roadmap with goals and supporting recommendations to manage, grow, preserve, and strengthen the urban forest through invigorated partnerships that align with city and community priorities. Section 2 of this Plan is an overview of the current state of Fayetteville's urban forest and will serve as a baseline to measure future progress. Section 3 is an overview of Fayetteville's priorities for the urban forest which were identified through community and stakeholder input which informed the Plan's vision, guiding principles, goals, strategies, and priority actions. Section 4 of the Plan details the implementation and monitoring guidelines and the Appendices section provides additional information and studies to support the Plan and its implementation. Let's begin by exploring Fayetteville's urban forest. Introduction Page 115 Ids 4� i 3 • It .4% 1 • 1 _ opt ICE. let �i PIC . j Current Conditions TREES THAT MAKE UP FAYETTEVILLE'S URBAN FOREST When the term infrastructure is used, oftentimes roads, bridges, power lines, and storm drains are most recognized. In addition to these staples of city infrastructure, trees lining streets and shading parks and backyards are to be included. These trees, collectively known as the urban forest, provide essential benefits that help Fayetteville function. Services generated by trees in Fayetteville provide immense value to the City. Like other city infrastructure, urban trees require management and maintenance to succeed. The urban forest is comprised of trees across all city landscapes including streetscapes, parks and open space, trail and waterway corridors, commercial and residential properties, among others. While the Plan primarily addresses public trees, all trees across ownership types and the care of these trees contribute to overall urban forest health, sustainability, and associated benefits. To present an analysis of the current conditions of Fayetteville's urban forest, tree populations in these landscapes are characterized by the type of setting and land ownership type (public or private) and the responsibility for maintenance (City, property owner, or other). In the following section, analyses are first summarized for the public street tree population, and private trees are then incorporated into the summary by describing the citywide urban tree canopy cover. Public trees are comprised of trees along streetscapes, in medians, backup lots, alleys, parks, open space, and natural areas on City -owned land. The City is primarily responsible for the maintenance of these trees and the Urban Forest Management Plan focuses on the public street trees. View the illustration below for a summary of the tree types in Fayetteville. Figure 8. Illustration of the types of trees in Fayetteville. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 118 RESULTS OF THE 2022 PUBLIC TREE SAMPLE INVENTORY Fayetteville's urban forest is a diverse ecosystem consisting of young and mature trees of varying species, function, and associated benefits. As part of the planning process, a sample inventory was conducted for public trees and private trees (utilizing public rights -of -way for visual assessments). A total of 2,712 public trees were inventoried and research and analysis were applied to estimate the total public tree population. Based on the sample and assumptions, it is estimated that Fayetteville has over 40,000 public trees of which an estimated 25,000 are in maintained areas of public parks and street rig hts-of-way. Lake Fayetteville Pa Figure 9.Overview of the sample inventory of public trees completed in 2022. �J oScull _Creek Trail Corhdi p m oo® I o C7D Underwood Park Clabber Creek Trail Corridor i�Gulle�y P< 0 JlBryce Davis Park cO 4� 8 Gregory Park slow ,-'"Harmony Pointe Par WilsowPaork,W F Mount Sequoyah)Woodsr� O r Centennial Park �® �..:, Walker Park 0 Q► Combs Park V. KesslerWountain Regional Park Public trees inventoried in 2022 Select City parks for map wayfinding Address: #### Northern red oak Good Condition 3" Diameter Structural Prune Lake Sequoyah Park Current Conditions Page 119 Tree Inventory Overview Figure 10. A Certified Arborist examines the tree buds to accurately identify the species. In October 2022, a sample inventory of public and private trees in Fayetteville was conducted by Certified Arborists accredited by the International Society of Arboriculture The scope of the public and private tree sample inventory was prepared as part of the City's Urban Forest Management Plan. The tree inventory was intended to gather data that informs the current extent, structure, characteristics, and maintenance needs of the urban forest that can be addressed in the Plan. Note, the sample public and private tree inventory analysis was conducted in the months of November and December 2022. Due to ongoing tree maintenance and the dynamic characteristics of trees, changes such as condition, tree size, and maintenance needs may have changed since the analysis. Additional summaries and analyses of the sample public and private tree inventories from 2022 are provided in a separate report. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 120 Summary of the Public Street Tree Population 7% Princeton elms (Ulmus americans `Princeton') 111 unique public tree species V 6% Post oaks (Quercus stella ta) 75% of public trees in good condition 6% Willow oaks (Quercus phellos) SS% of public trees are 1 to 6 inches in Figure 11.Overview of the results of the 2022 sample inventory of public trees. diameter Interpretation of Public Tree Inventory Analyses and Citywide Estimates To grow a healthy and diverse urban forest, the public tree population must be well understood and managed. The data from the 2022 sample tree inventorywere examined and assessed to determine the species, size, health, structural integrity, quality of the growing space, and maintenance needs, among other key characteristics for management that is representative of the citywide public tree population. Current Conditions Page 121 Species Diversity Species composition data are essential since the types of trees present throughout the City dictate the amount and type of benefits produced, tree maintenance activities required, budget considerations, and influences species selection for future plantings. It is estimated the public tree population consists of 111 different species and 54 unique tree genera— relatively average in terms of species diversity in the region based on benchmarking research. Princeton elms comprise the highest percentage of trees with 7% of the total tree population, followed by post oaks at 6% and willow oaks with 6%. The top ten most prevalent species comprise 44% of the total public tree population — slightly lower than average compared to benchmarking research —which is a potential indicator of tree species diversity. If the most common tree species comprise less than half of the population, it may be a sign that the tree population is relatively diverse due to the number of unique tree species and their frequency of occurrence. The remaining 56% of public trees are made up of other species that are primarily pin oaks, blackgums, red maple, northern red oak, baldcypress, and hackberry. Size and Relative Age Distribution The distribution of public tree ages and size classes influences the structure of the citywide urban forest and impacts present and future management costs. An unevenly aged urban forest offers continued flow of ecological benefits and a more uniform workflow allowing managers to more accurately allocate annual maintenance schedules and budgets. To optimize the value and benefits of Fayetteville's trees, the public tree population should have a high percentage of large canopy trees which provide greater ecosystem benefits. On the other hand, there must be a suitable number of younger, smaller trees in the urban forest to account for and eventually replace large and mature trees in decline. Having a healthy percentage of young trees in the urban forest will ensure a sustainable tree population. To compare Fayetteville's urban forest structure to industry -recommended standards, the "ideal distribution" is used (Richards,1983 and 1993). The diameter at breast height ("DBH" measured at 4.5-feet above grade) is used to measure relative age. Overall, based on the sample inventory and estimated public tree population, the size distribution of Fayetteville's public tree population is similar to the ideal age distribution. Generally, an ideal distribution has a larger proportion of small diameter trees compared to larger diameter trees. Specifically, an ideal distribution for public trees consists of: 40% in the 0-6-inch class (young trees) 55% 25% in the 6-12-inch class (established trees) 19% 15% for 12-18-inch trees (established trees) 14% 10% of 18-24-inch trees (maturing trees) 6% 6% of 24-30-inch trees (maturing trees) 4% 4% of trees in the over 30-inch class (mature trees) 2% DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 122 It is estimated that SS% of Fayetteville's public trees are in the 0-6-inch class compared to the recommended 40%. In contrast, the City also has less 6-12-inch trees (19%) compared to the ideal distribution of 25%. The remaining size classes are within 4% of the ideal percentage. The size and relative age distribution of Fayetteville's public trees indicates the population is relatively young given the City has more small -diameter trees and fewer trees than the ideal percentage for each of the larger size classes. This distribution may be an indication of an increase recently in planting efforts. The City should expect a growing demand for maintenance as the large number of young / small trees mature. Condition Tree characteristics and environmental factors affect the management needs for urban trees. An analysis of the condition can provide an indicator of how well the trees are managed and how they are performing given site -specific conditions. Understanding current and changing conditions plays an important role in planning, budgeting, and resource allocation. Tree maintenance needs are assigned for public safety reasons and by tracking these needs, managers are able to better plan and manage Fayetteville's public trees and the citywide urban forest. The sample inventory of public trees was analyzed and extrapolated to identify potential trends in tree condition and the management recommendations to improve condition or minimize the deterioration of tree condition. Each inventoried tree's health was evaluated by ISA Certified Arborists based on the condition of the wood and the foliage as well as the structure. Based on the analysis, it is estimated that three out of four public trees (75%) are in good condition and 15% are in fair condition with only 5% of trees in poor and dead condition. The dead trees or trees noted for removal should be addressed and planned for immediately. Trees classified as "Fair" or "Poor" should be examined to determine the necessary mitigation or plant health care, if any to improve their condition. Observations and Defects Tree observations (or defects) were recorded during the 2022 sample inventory to further describe a tree's health, structure, or location when more detail was needed. A total of 20 observation categories were available for the arborists to note during the inventory. The public trees were noted to have 11 of the 15 categories. A total of1,283 observations were recorded during the tree inventory. Crown dieback was the most frequent observation recorded. It is estimated that 30% of the citywide public tree population has some level of crown dieback and 6% have cavity decay present. Mechanical damage due to lawnmowers, weed trimmers, construction, or other may comprise 5% of the public tree population followed by poor structure with 4%. Of the recordings,17% of the observations or defects may be preventable or mendable meaning the defects or concerns observed are primarily human -caused. For example, poor structure can be prevented or limited with proper young tree pruning, implementing best practices and standards would prevent or reduce the number of Current Conditions Page 123 improperly pruned trees, and poor root systems can be prevented by choosing quality tree nursery stock, proper planting, and amending soils. Trees with poor location and/or hardscape damage observations could have been prevented by choosing the appropriate species for the site and ensuring adequate root space. Lastly, adequate mulch rings, growing space, grates, and awareness would reduce the count of mechanical damage observations. The data also shows the impacts of deferred maintenance. Also, about 35% of the observations recorded could be addressed or prevented with proactive pruning and/or plant health care. Maintenance Needs It is estimated that 8% of the public tree population requires clearance pruning while only 6% require removal, 3% need pruning for clearance around utilities, and 1% require routine pruning or crown cleaning. The low percentage of maintenance needs may be an indicator of the City's current practices of conducting routine proactive pruning of public trees across the City. Newly planted trees should be structurally pruned (training pruned) within five years of planting though it was not an observable need in the recorded sample inventory. Young tree training pruning is performed to improve tree form or structure; the recommended length of young tree pruning cycles is three years since young trees tend to grow at faster rates (on average) than more mature trees. The young tree cycle differs from a routine pruning cycle in that these trees generally can be pruned from the ground with a pole pruner or pruning shear. The objective is to increase structural integrity by pruning for one dominant leader in most cases for most tree species. Young tree training pruning is species -specific, since many trees may naturally have more than one leader. For such trees, young tree training pruning is performed to develop a strong structural architecture of branches so that future growth will lead to a healthy, structurally sound tree. In addition to training pruning, young trees may also require additional maintenance such as added or amended mulch, watering, added or removed stakes and ties, and/or clearance of debris and litter. These needs can potentially be addressed during young tree training pruning. Trees included in the young tree training pruning cycle are generally less than six inches DBH. These younger trees sometimes have branch structures that can lead to potential problems as the tree ages. Potential structural problems include codominant leaders, multiple limbs attaching at the same point on the trunk, crossing/interfering limbs, or dead/diseased/damaged limbs. If these problems are not corrected, they may worsen as the tree grows, increasing risk and creating potential liability. DRAFT Fayetteville, AP Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 124 Interpretation of Private Tree Analyses and Estimates Though less data was collected for private trees during the 2022 sample inventory, this data is valuable in providing information about the citywide urban forest. A total of 850 private trees were inventoried from the public rights -of -way. Based on industry research and benchmarking of comparable cities, it is estimated that there are 80,000 trees in maintained areas of private property. Using the sample inventory and an analysis that extrapolated the data, it is estimated that most tree species are oaks or Quercuswith 19%, maples or Acerwith 12%, and pines or Pinuswith 9%. The top ten most common tree genera comprise 78% of the private tree population whereas, the top ten most common tree species comprise 57% of the population. The most common tree species include pin oaks (9%), loblolly pine (8%), red maple (8%), arborvitae, London planetree, hackberry, eastern redbud, eastern red cedar, Princeton elms, and black cherry. Most private trees are in the 0-6-inch class with 39%, followed by the 12-18-inch class (23%) and trees in the 6-12-inch class with 20%. Only 2% of private trees are greater than Winches. Similar to public trees, it is estimated the private tree population is primarily in good condition (70%) with only 4% in poor condition and 2% consist of dead trees. Based on the Certified Arborists observations of private trees from the public rights -of - way, it appears that the most common maintenance need is pruning for clearance (9%), removing hardware from trees (6%), and utility pruning (2% Summary of Tree Inventory Analyses Understanding the extent, structure, condition, characteristics, and maintenance needs of public trees enables Fayetteville's Urban Forestry Program and Transportation Department's right-of-way crews to effectively budget, plan, and address maintenance and planting needs in a sustainable, safe, and equitable manner. A comprehensive citywide public tree inventory is recommended in the Plan, and it is essential that the City maintain the data and routinely update the inventory. For private trees, understanding the extent, health, composition, and other factors provides the Urban Forestry Program with a better picture of the entire urban forest. Challenges such as pests and diseases, invasive plant species, climate resiliency, among other threats to the urban forest can be addressed for private trees by providing resources, education, training, and other support to property owners to support growing a sustainable and resilient urban forest. As stated at the ,beginning of this section, additional summaries and analyses of the sample public and private tree inventories from 2022 are provided in a separate report. Current Conditions Page 125 CURRENT CONDITIONS OF THE CITYWIDE URBAN FOREST Tree Canopy Cover Overview An assessment of tree canopy cover citywide provides the data and information to develop goals and strategies relating to tree planting, preservation, tree equity, and risk management along with the data to support community outreach and education. These urban tree canopy assessments, referred to as "UTC Assessments" or "Tree Canopy Assessments" and "TCA's" provide the information for long-term planning and serve as a measurement of change and progress over time. This information can be utilized with other city planning efforts for sustainability, equity, human health, climate resiliency, stormwater management, water quality, wildlife preservation and enhancement, air quality improvements, and development guidelines among many others. UTC assessments provide a baseline understanding of existing canopy cover across the entire city. In addition, these assessments provide an analysis of possible planting areas citywide and by various planning boundaries. This assessment for Fayetteville represents an important step in better understanding current conditions of the urban forest, its tree canopy distribution and value, and the importance of urban forestry during planning processes. This baseline assessment should be utilized in measuring progress resulting from implementing this Plan. DRAFT Fayetteville, AP Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 126 Urban Tree Canopy (UTC) Findings - Overview A consultant provided an analysis and a report with recommendations on Fayetteville's tree canopy cover change from 2002 to 2010, and in 2020, the City's Geographic Information System (GIS) Department assessed the existing tree canopy and possible planting areas citywide using imagery from 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2019. The historical imagery and related assessments provide information on the canopy change over time though this section focuses on the most current assessment from 2019. The summaries below provide an overview of the baseline conditions relating to urban tree canopy cover and possible planting area in the City. 2019 UTC Findings - Citywide The City of Fayetteville is 56 square miles in size. Tree canopy covers 22 square miles of this area (39.4%) according to 2019..-, imagery i, YR Figure 12. Map displaying the tree canopy mapped from 2019 imagery. 1.6% 33.: 1Rre-, 23.5% 1� ■ Citywide Tree Canopy Cover (2019) ❑ City Boundary ■ Field -Shadow ■ Tree Urban Water Figure 13. Citywide tree canopy results (2019). Source: City of Fayetteville Current Conditions Page 127 Urban Tree Possible Shadows Caused Impervious Waterbodies Canopy Planting Area by Structures Area ("Water") ("Tree") ("Field") ("Shadow") ("Urban") Figure 14. Examples of the land cover classes analyzed as part of the 2019 tree canopy study. The 2019 UTC assessment first classified land cover by various types. The acreage and percentage of tree canopy, field, shadow, urban, and water were calculated based on the total city area of 35,505 acres. Of the total city land area, 39.4% is tree canopy, 33.2% is field, 23.5% is urban, and 1.9% is water. The citywide tree canopy cover of 39.4% means there are 14,081 acres of tree canopy when viewed from above. This amount of canopy translates to 22 square miles of canopy across the City. For reference, the City's total land area is 56 square miles. Of the 35,505 total acres of Fayetteville, 33.2% is classified as "field" meaning it is land cover that is either grass, turf, low-lying shrubs, or bare soil. These areas may be potential future opportunities for tree plantings and the following section provides details on examining this potential area to determine if it is feasible, preferable, and a priority. 23.5% of area that is classified as "urban" means these areas are either buildings, road surfaces, parking lots, sidewalks, or other paved and impervious surfaces. Certain impervious areas such as parking lots and sidewalks could potentially be new opportunities for tree planting. While it may be more difficult and costly to plant trees in these areas, the benefits of the trees once established may be far greater due to the reduction of impervious surfaces that contribute to stormwater runoff, urban heat islands, and reduced air quality. Communities frequently use this data to establish tree canopy goals and achieve a shared vision for the urban forest. When canopy data is available, goals are set based on a comparison of existing and potential tree canopy coverage with a focus on equitable distribution. According to a national analysis by U.S. Forest Service researchers, a 40- 60% urban tree canopy is achievable in forested communities. Realistic baseline targets are lower in grassland cities (20%) and desert cities (15%). However, higher percentages are attainable through greater investment and prioritization (Leahy, 2017). It is important to note that urban tree canopy percentage is just one of many criteria to consider. Age and species diversity, condition of trees, and equitable distribution are equally important (Leahy, 2017). DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 128 2019 UTC Findings - Future Land Use Classes Existing tree canopy cover and possible planting areas were summarized by Land Use Class as delineated in the City's future land use maps. There are a total of nine classes as shown in the figure below. The available resources, opportunities, and constraints vary by land use class and as the City continues to grow, it is essential to understand the extent of canopy in order to sustainably manage the urban forest over time. Each class is summarized below to inform the Plan's goals and strategies. Note, the canopy percentages are based on the total area of the future land use consisting of 53,604 Natural Civic & Private Open Space Rural Residential Residential Neighborhood Industrial City Neighborhood Civic Institutional Non Municipal Government Urban Center Civic Institutional City Neighborhood Residential Neighborhood Rural Residential Non -Muni Government Urban Center Civic & Private Open Space Natural Industrial 15. Map displaying the future land use classes for Fayetteville. id Use Class 62% 62% 48% 41% - 30% - 30% - 30% 17% 16% Figure 16. Tree canopy cover percentages (2019) by future land use class. Based on the chart above, the future land use classes with the highest amount of canopy cover are the natural and the civic / private open space classes, each with 62% or 6,189 and 2594 acres, respectively. Natural land use has nearly 10,000 total land acres whereas civic / private open space has 4,183 total acres. The urban center has the least proportion of canopy with 16% of the 1,681 total land acres. Overall, the residential neighborhood land use class has the largest amount of land area with 14,522 but 41% is tree canopy whereas, rural residential has 12,847 total land area with 48% tree canopy. These findings are in line with what is expected of the various land uses based on the limitations and opportunities within each of these. View the 10-Year Canopy Cover Goal section for details on how these assessments informed the Plan's overarching canopy goal. Current Conditions Page 129 Special Considerations and Vulnerabilities Canopy Cover Change By measuring changes in tree canopy cover, city planners, urban forest managers, and policymakers can understand how changes and regulations in the urban landscape are affecting the health and vitality of the City, as well as the quality of life of residents. Secondly, tree canopy cover is a key indicator of urban forest health. Urban forests are dynamic systems that are impacted by a variety of factors, including urbanization, climate change, and invasive species. By analyzing changes in tree canopy cover over time, planners can take action to address the underlying causes of tree canopy loss or tree health decline. Change in tree canopy cover can also be used to inform future policy and decision - making. For example, by tracking changes in tree canopy cover over time, city planners can identify areas where new trees may need to be planted to maintain or increase overall canopy cover. The information can also be used to inform land -use planning and development decisions, such as determining where to locate new parks or green spaces. In Fayetteville, the Urban Forester within Development Services actively monitors and tracks tree canopy cover change through development regulations and is supported by the Urban Forester in Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs. Comprehensive worksheets and data are utilized to track on a monthly and yearly basis. The tracking includes forecasting the future canopy growth and loss. In addition to this extensive tracking system, the City completed tree canopy assessments for four time periods— 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2019. The following provides a summary of the canopy cover change that was utilized to inform the long-term canopy goals and priority planting areas discussed in the following section. 50.0% 43.0% 39.4% 41.0% 40.0% 33.2% 30.0% 10.0% 0.0 /o Tree Field 20.0% 23.5% 3.0% 1.9% 2.0% 1.6% Urban Water Shadow 02013 ■2015 -2017 ■2019 * Note: Technology (e.g., data, imagery, resolution) for canopy assessments continues to improve. Figure 17. Summary of the land cover change over four time periods (2013 - 2019). Source: City of Fayetteville From 2013 to 2019, the canopy cover decreased from 43.0% to 39.4% and the land cover classified as field decreased from 41.0% to 33.2%. Urban land cover increased by 3.5% going from 20.0% to 23.5%. This is an increase of 1,400 acres or 2.2 square miles of urban land since 2013. The data is representative of the changes occurring in the City over time as development increases. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 130 Canopy Requirements in Chapter 167 Tree Preservation and Protection Ordinance Chapter 167 of Fayetteville's Code of Ordinances regulates and monitors tree canopy cover change in the City. The chapter addresses canopy cover preservation, afforestation, and mitigation and the regulations and procedures vary depending on factors and considerations such as the zoning designation, the type or size of a project, and the quality of the tree canopy removed. The table below summarizes the tree minimum canopy cover requirements by zoning designation that are factored into the canopy goals recommended in the Urban Forest Management Plan. Note, the zoning designations in the table below are consolidated into generalized categories. Specific zoning designations and details for each are available in Table 1 of Chapter 167.04.C. Table 2. Minimum canopy requirements by zoning designation according to Table 1 in Chapter 167 Tree Preservation and Protection Ordinance. Residential (includes single-family, residential office, residential intermediate, multi -family) Neighborhood Services (includes limited and general) Neighborhood Commercial Community Services Thoroughfare (includes commercial and urban thoroughfare) Central Business Commercial Downtown Core Main Street Center Downtown General Neighborhood Conservation Heavy Commercial & Light Industrial General Industrial Institutional Planned Zoning District* (Hillside/Hilltop Overlay District, "HHOD") 15-25% (depending on designation) 20% (for both sub -categories) 20% 20% 15% (for both categories) 15% 10% 10% 10% 20% 15% 15% 25% 25% (30%) All residential zoning districts and C-1 districts within the Hillside/Hilltop Overlay District shall have their percent minimum canopy requirements increased by 5%to a total requirement of either 30% or 25%. * See Table 1 in Chapter 167.04.0 for details regarding planned zoning districts. Current Conditions Page 131 Tree Canopy Equity Tree canopy is often not distributed equitably across city landscapes and ownership types. The American Forests organization created the Tree Equity Score (TES, www.treeequityscore.org) tool to measure tree equity across 1SO,000 U.S. neighborhoods and 486 municipalities in urban areas. Each community's TES indicates whether there are enough trees for everyone to experience the health, economic, and climate benefits that trees provide. The scores are based on how much tree canopy and surface temperature align with income, employment, race, age, and health factors. A 0- to-100-point system makes it easy to understand how a community is doing. With the knowledge the score provides, Fayetteville's community leaders, tree advocates, and residents alike can address climate change and public health through the lens of social equity, attract new resources, factor the scores into technical decisions, guide implementation of the 2023 Urban Forest Management Plan, and track progress toward achieving tree equity. A score of 100 represents tree equity. Based on a 2022 analysis, Fayetteville's overall tree equity score is 87 out of 100. Based on the nationwide dataset for 197,SOS U.S. Census - defined urban areas, the average score is 8S (as of 2023). Figure 18. Map showing the Tree Equity Scores for Census Block Groups in Fayetteville. Source: American Forests' Tree Equity Score Tool DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 132 0 0 Onno ❑- 1(lflfl( -- Existing Canopy Population Density Income Employment Surface Temperature Race Age Health Figure 19. Inputs for Fayetteville's Tree Equity Score (2022). Source: American Forests' Tree Equity Score Tool The map on the previous page displays the Tree Equity Scores for each U.S. Census Block Group within the City of Fayetteville based on the data inputs listed in the figure a bove. Compared to other cities in the state, Fayetteville's Tree Equity Score of 87 is the second highest score out of 10 Arkansas cities in the study (see figure below) and has the fourth highest score out of eight U.S. cities commonly used in comparing Fayetteville (see figure on the following page). This score for Fayetteville is based on a combination of metrics listed in the figure above for 47 Census Block Groups (CBG) comprising the City and averaged for a combined total score. 100 Average Score: 77 87 87 77 77 75 72 70 66 59 Figure 20. Comparison of Tree Equity Scores for select Arkansas cities based on a 2023 study. Source: American Forests' Tree Equity Score Tool *Note, the Tree Equity Score tool utilized data from Earth Define and found the canopy cover percentage to be 35.6% though this Plan utilizes the 39.4% determined by the City. Current Conditions Page 133 93 92 92 Average Score: 87 87 85 85 82 81 LL A ■ ■ Off- O O Figure 21. Tree Equity Score comparisons for select U.S. cities. Source: American Forests' Tree Equity Score Tool Tree Equity Discussion In the past fewyears, regional partners are increasingly acknowledging and confronting the past practices, current perceptions, and accelerating progress to ensure that communities, landscapes, and policies are more intentional about enhancing historically disinvested areas. Driven in part by the Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan and other City/regional initiatives, ambitious goals to increase tree canopy in areas of greatest need are taking hold. Although the City would oversee and monitor these canopy goals, the effort would inevitably require extensive support from all City departments, community -based organizations, and others aiming to prepare for a hotter and drier climate while development increases. Figure 22. An example of higher tree canopy cover east (right) of North Gregg Avenue in the center of the image compared to areas west of the route. Source: Google Earth 2021 imagery DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 134 Easements City easements refer to the legal rights granted to a city or municipality to use certain portions of private property for public purposes, such as the installation of utilities or the construction of public infrastructure like sidewalks or roads. In Fayetteville, city easements can lead to the loss of tree canopy cover if not managed properly or if regulations do not adequately preserve and protect the existing trees. When the City constructs public infrastructure like sidewalks or roads, they may need to remove trees that conflict with the design and function. In some cases, easements may restrict the planting of trees or other vegetation that could interfere with the infrastructure or utilities that are installed. This restriction can limit the ability to plant new trees and thus limit the potential for future tree canopy cover. Also, the installation of underground utilities in City easements can damage tree roots, which can lead to tree decline or death. When trees are damaged or killed due to city easement activities, the tree canopy cover can be significantly reduced. In addition, maintenance activities such as pruning or tree removal may be necessary in easements to ensure the proper functioning of public infrastructure. However, if not done properly, these activities can result in the loss of tree canopy cover. An analysis of tree canopy within Fayetteville's easements was conducted in 2023 utilizing the City's 2019 tree canopy assessment. The City contains a number of different types of easements ranging from access, avigation, conservation, drainage, utilities (e.g., gas, sewer, and water), grading, landscape, private, sidewalk, telephone, trail, tree preservation, and vacated. The potential for tree canopy gains and losses largely depends on the intended use of the easement, responsible parties, and the regulations. Easements where canopy is vulnerable were analyzed to determine the existing tree canopy cover within to support the strengthening of regulations, monitoring, and management efforts guided by this Plan. City Easement .-j- Conservation Tree Preservation I Figure 23. Examples of the types of easements found in the City of Fayetteville. The table and map below describe the easement types vulnerable to canopy loss. Conservation, Tree Access, Null, Avigation, Drainage, Access, Landscape, Preservation Utilities, Grading, Landscape, Sidewalk, Trail, Vacated Private, Sidewalk, Telephone, Trail, Vacated Table 3. Potential vulnerability to canopy loss by easement type_ ,"`�' ■ Canopy at risk in „�--jf City easements ❑ City Boundary LA Or JOE Figure 24. Canopy cover within vulnerable easements. IN 3,981 1,015 25% 2.6% total acres of acres of canopy in canopy within potential loss vulnerable vulnerable vulnerable (39.4% reduced to easements easements easements 36.8%) Table 4. Summary of vulnerable canopy in City easements. Based on these categories, the vulnerable easements amount to a total of 3,981 acres and within that area, there are a total of 1,015 acres of canopy or 25%. The 1,015 acres of canopy represents 7.2% of the total citywide canopy cover (14,081 acres). This means that if the trees in these easements are not protected and canopy is removed, the City's canopy cover of 39.4% would be reduced to 36.8%. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 136 Native Prairie Figure 25. Wilson Springs Preserve, a 121-acre preserve with the largest wetland remnant in Fayetteville and one of the last tall grass prairies in the region. Fayetteville's native prairie land is a rare and valuable ecosystem that is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. Historically, areas of the City were covered in tallgrass prairie, which supported a variety of grasses, wildflowers, and other plants, as well as large grazing mammals like bison and elk. Today, much of Fayetteville's native prairie land has been converted to other land uses, such as agriculture, urban development, and transportation infrastructure. However, there are still some remnant prairie areas in and around the City that provide important habitat for native plant and animal species. One example of a native prairie area in Fayetteville is the Wilson Springs Preserve, a 121- acre site that is the largest wetland remnant in Fayetteville and one of the last tall grass prairies in the region (Northwest Arkansas Land Trust). In considering a plan for Fayetteville's urban forest and goals to increase tree canopy cover, it is important to evaluate areas of the City where it may not be preferable or permitted to plant trees. While some native prairie lands have been lost to development and other areas are being restored, it's important to consider the native habitats and ecosystems and whether they support growing trees that survive and thrive. Based on GIS maps provided by the Northwest Arkansas Land Trust (NWALT) and the City of Fayetteville, there are areas of the City that perhaps may not be suitable as priorities for tree plantings. The following map provides an overview of these native prairie lands. Current Conditions Page 137 am WilsonSpringsP etPrairie Call Guy°,°,Park t V 1� Figure 26. Map of the canopy within native and restored prairie land. rieAdjacent ■ Native prairie (NWALT source) Restored or protected prairie (City source) ■ Canopy in native prairie land ❑ City Boundary ■ 9,769 ■ 1,957 ■ 20% total native prairie land total canopy acres in canopy in native prairie acres native prairie land land Table S. Summary of the land acres and the canopy cover within native prairie land. Woolsey Farmstead and Wet Prairie Sanctuary 50 Westside Prairie 40 Wilson Springs Preserve 121 Underwood Park 5 (estimated) Callies Prairie 33 Gulley 3 TOTALacres* Total acres may include land area that is not prairie, for example, Wilson Springs Preserve and Underwood Park Table 6. Summary of the protected prairie -related areas. Source: City of Fayetteville DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 138 As shown in the map and tables above, the City has nearly 10,000 acres of land that was native prairie land. 20% of the native prairie land contains tree canopy which amounts to 1,957 acres of canopy. Over time, the City and organizations have actively restored and protected or preserved portions of this native prairie land as shown in the previous table. Based on the figures provided by the City, 2S2 acres of prairie have been restored and/or protected while other native prairie land has been reshaped by development or is vulnerable. In Appendix A priority planting areas are explored with a consideration to preserve or restore native prairie land by not introducing trees into the landscape. Figure 27. Aerial view of the University of Arkansas campus. Source: University of Arkansas The University of Arkansas located in Fayetteville owns and manages the urban forest within its campus, while the City of Fayetteville manages the urban forest within its jurisdictional boundaries. The goals of managing the urban forest at the University may differ from those of the City. The University may prioritize aesthetics, education, and research, while the City focuses more on public safety, stormwater management, improving air quality, reducing the loss of canopy due to development, and improving human health and well-being. While the urban forest within the University grounds contributes benefits to all city residents, the environment, and local economies, the City does not have authority to determine how canopy is preserved, expanded, or reduced. Therefore, an analysis was conducted to look at the amount of canopy on University grounds and the section of this Plan that discusses priority planting areas considers excluding these areas within the University. Current Conditions Page 139 LI. Table 7. Tree canopy on university grounds. University' Canopy M ♦♦ ♦ 22 377 acres of 6° �O campus canopy on canopy on acres campus campus Figure 28. Map displaying tree canopy on University of Arkansas property. Citywide Acres 35,712 Citywide Canopy Acres 14,081 Citywide Canopy % 39.43% Citywide Canopy Acres 14,059 Excluding University Citywide Canopy % 39.37% Excluding University University of Arkansas property ■ Canopywithin University of Arkansas property As shown in the map and table above, an analysis of tree canopy cover within the University of Arkansas property was completed as part of the study. A total of 377 acres of University property were mapped and it was found that within those areas, there are a total of 22 acres of canopy resulting in a 6% canopy for the University of Arkansas. Hypothetically, if all trees were to be removed on the University property, the citywide tree canopy cover would be reduced from 39.43% to 39.37%. While the loss is not significant, the benefits the canopy provides to students, visitors, and residents warrant continued coordination and communication with institutions and stakeholders in the community. City development regulations, including for tree preservation, do not apply to the University of Arkansas as it is State property. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 140 CURRENT TREE MANAGEMENT IN FAYETTEVILLE The City of Fayetteville has a wide range of existing policies, regulations, and programs that are used to manage the City's urban forest. City departments engaged in Fayetteville's urban forest planning effort each bring important expertise, perspective, and resources to this commitment —to the tune of nearly $700,000 ($6.66 per capita) to manage approximately 42,000 public trees of which an estimated 25,000 trees are in maintained areas of streetscapes, parks, and properties. Fayetteville is a leading city in urban forestry, having been recognized as a Tree City USA for 28 years, the fifth longest running designation in Arkansas. Fayetteville has also received more Growth Awards than any other city in the state, with 10 awards as of 2023. Programs for Managing Fayetteville's Trees Table 8. Summary of the departments and staff involved in urban forest management in Fayetteville. Development Development 1.00 Services Review Parks, Natural parks Planning & Resources and Urban Forestry 1.00 Cultural Affairs Public Works Park 6.00 Maintenance Urban ISA** Certified Arborist Forester Urban ISA Certified Arborist, Forester ISA Municipal Specialist, ISA TRAQ*** Urban 3 ISA Certified Foresters Arborists * Full-time employee or full-time equivalent, ** International Society of Arboriculture, *** Tree Risk Assessment Qualification Summary of Programs and Services The Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs Department was reimagined and restructured in late 2021/early 2022 to give more focus to natural resources, arts, and culture in addition to the quality programming, greenspaces, and facilities it already provides. Prior to restructuring, it was referred to as the Parks and Recreation Department. A new10-year Parks Strategic Master Plan was completed in late 2022. This plan identifies themes set forth by the community to guide the growth and development of parks and it supports the goals of this Urban Forest Management Plan. The City's Urban Forestry Program within the Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs Department is overseen by one of the City's Urban Forester. The Urban Forester in Parks is responsible for public park and trail tree maintenance and community Current Conditions Page 141 engagement. This position supports public street tree maintenance crews, the Urban Forester in Development Services, and the City's Urban Forestry Advisory Board. Development Services' Urban Forester provides services related to development plan reviews and other supporting services. Specifically, the Urban Forester administers, reviews, and monitors regulations within Chapter 167 of Fayetteville's Unified Development Code titled, "Tree Preservation and Protection" and Chapter 177 "Landscape Requirements Code." Public Works has six Urban Foresters in Public Works Park Maintenance for public street tree management. The Parks Maintenance Division was integrated into Public Works in 2021 and continues to support Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs in operations, facility improvements, and tree activities. Sharing public tree maintenance and management responsibilities across departments can yield many benefits, such as utilizing limited resources efficiently. It is critical that workflows are clear and understood. Fayetteville's urban forest continues to grow and change, public awareness of the City's urban forest and its programs is increasing, and the beneficial impacts of trees to mitigate climate change are understood better than ever. In turn, it is anticipated the service demands will continue to rise, especially as the City implements the Plan's strategies to increase tree canopy cover. As service demand continues to increase so does the need to find methods to increase capacity and efficiency under strained fiscal support. Figure 29. Fayetteville's urban forestry programs engage with youth in the community by planting a tree at Butterfield Elementary School. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 142 Staffing Levels for Urban Forest Management Many cities struggle to maintain adequate staffing and resource allocation. Available resources may cover short-term needs while neglecting important initiatives necessary to sustain long-term urban forest management. Determining and maintaining optimal staffing levels is critical to a program's efficiency. Optimal staffing depends on several factors including the number of public trees, how authority and responsibility is defined in the municipal code, internal and external expectations, customer service (i.e., the public), operations, and existing programs. Understaffed programs typically contend with excess overtime, morale issues, absenteeism, employee burnout, and difficulty with relief coverage and training requirements. The City of Fayetteville's commitments to public health and safety, combatting climate change, and addressing inequities translates into a growing demand for both long- term initiatives, and the staff to operate them. The growing urban forest will require increased staffing levels to achieve and maintain urban forest goals. To assess growth and demand, the Urban Forestry Program and Park Maintenance's rights -of -way tree maintenance crews should develop annual work plans and reports (as applicable) based on key performance indicators provided with this Plan. Some capacity and efficiencies for existing workloads can be improved through clarifications of roles, responsibilities, and workflows among City departments and divisions. Periodically examining program structures, staffing needs, and levels of service may identify ways to improve efficiencies, communications, and workflows within and among departments. Cities often consider consolidating their tree programs into one division or section to achieve these outcomes. Establishing a strong organizational structure with clear operating procedures is foundational in reducing future costs and addressing increased service demands. Current Conditions Page 143 Tree -related Plans and Regulations in Fayetteville Evaluating the alignment of existing policies and plans in Fayetteville with urban forest management elements ensures a strong connection among the programs that manage the urban forest and the projects and initiatives that support them. Proper alignment of urban forestry program recommendations reduces the risk of wasting resources and enables success of key projects that support urban forestry goals. Plans cannot live in isolation, therefore, cross-examining various plans and documents brings to light any projects or initiatives that are a misplacement of resources and time. Tree regulations in the City provide the foundation from which tree canopy cover can be preserved, protected, and expanded while aligning with industry standards and best practices. Regulations for trees on private property are the primary tools for urban foresters to guide private landowners and developers in sustainable practices. Several documents and resources were reviewed and indexed as part of the information discovery process to develop the Urban Forest Management Plan. These documents included: Relevant Plans and Studies City Plan 2040 Uy V hyanenRe. AR &+-m -4o W City Plan 2040 (2020 update): The City of Fayetteville adopted its first comprehensive plan in 1970. The plan, and all of its subsequent updates and revisions, seek to establish a framework of goals, policies, and guidelines to direct future physical, economic, and social development. Energy Action Plan (2018): This plan is structured around one overarching goal: reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) for activities occurring in Fayetteville. While GHG reduction is the guiding goal, a host of co - benefits accompany these actions. The plan outlines ways that the City can increase energy efficiency, transition to cleaner fuel sources, improve public health outcomes, build more resilient local businesses, among other core principles. Active Transportation Plan (updated February2023): The plan serves as a guiding document for Fayetteville infrastructure and program development related to active transportation. It outlines a network of sidewalks, trails, and bicycle facilities to provide walkers, cyclists, and other users with clear pathways and connections to important city destinations. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 144 Park and Recreation System Master Plan (2023): This plan was �►.....""" in development during the planning stage of the Urban IMAGINE-�{0 FAYETTEVILLE Forest Management Plan. In February 2023, the Park and PARK AND RECREATION SYSTEM MASTER PLAN Recreation System Master Plan was completed. It exemplifies the City's values in providing a thriving park system for all ages, abilities, and activities. The strategic plan will guide the future of Parks and Recreation for the next decade. It evaluated the existing conditions of the park network and identified areas for growth, improvement, and preservation. Climate Action Plan (in progress): The goal of the Climate Action Plan will be to inform future policies, programs and actions undertaken by the City and to assist the City in its efforts to remain resilient to the anticipated changes in the climate to preserve the quality of life for those who live, work and play in Fayetteville. The relevant plans and studies are summarized above to demonstrate the parallels among urban forestry and other planning efforts in the City. The Urban Forest Management Plan's long-term framework aims to complement goals and policies within these City plans and studies that pertain to trees in Fayetteville. This evaluation of existing resources serves to reduce conflicting priorities in the City. Tree Canopy Assessments (2002, 2010, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019) and Studies (2020): 12015 Urban Tree Canopy 2017 Urban Tree Canopy 2019 Urban Tree Canopy Legend Land Classification - Tn» �ShaOOY �WaW Grn Urbm Land Class Change Searing �CW N �Dl vdq*9 (ft. Re1L) Dew4ft (mm Tree) Figure 30. Example of the tree canopy assessments and planning /visualization tools developed by the City of Fayetteville (maps.fayetteville-ar.gov). High -resolution GIS assessments of land cover were completed to identify the extent and opportunities for urban tree canopy cover. The City conducted these assessments based on 2002, 2010, 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2019 imagery to analyze canopy cover change. A consultant provided an analysis and report on the City's tree canopy cover change from 2002 to 2010 (in 2012), and in 2020, the City's GIS Department completed the Tree Canopy Cover and Environmental Equity study, report, and supporting web map for the 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2019 time periods to examine the correlations between canopy cover and socioeconomic data. Current Conditions Page 145 To develop recommendations for the Urban Forest Management Plan, the recommendations in the 2012 Urban Tree Canopy Assessment Report (2010 imagery) were evaluated. The following provides a summary of the status of recommendations in that 2010/2012 report (view the Vision for the Future and Recommendations section for goals that build on the 2012 recommendations) Table 9. Summary of the status of recommendations from the 2012 Urban Tree Canopy Assessment Conduct periodic UTC assessments. Assess Hillside / Hillslope Overlay Districts for canopy change over time. Completed Assessments based on 2002, 2010, & Ongoing 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2019 imagery. Not Started Status is attributable to limited resources such as time and staffing. Hedonic Pricing models can be used to assess Not Started Status is attributable to limited canopy's contribution to property values. resources such as time and staffing. Track Registry Tree growth of individual Status is attributable to limited registry trees to ensure longevity and protection. Not Started resources such as time and staffing. Consider requiring developers to conduct a post -development tree inventory could be a Not Started Would require additional steps and cost-effective way to initiate Fayetteville's hurdles for developers. citywide inventory. Conduct developer workshops hosted by Performed when ordinance Fayetteville's urban forestry staff to promote changes were recommended. best management practices (BMPs) and Completed Cluster Development Ordinance is specific development strategies (such as not accomplishing more tree ordinance requirements or recommendations preservation (green space like cluster development). requirements may be too low). Develop BMPs such as maintaining higher Currently,15-20% canopy is the canopy cover in ecologically sensitive areas Not Started minimum requirement for these (wetlands), parking lots, schools, and areas compared to 10% for the commercial properties. Downtown Core. The City's Green Stormwater Practice (GSP) is currently working against tree preservation code for Streamline tree -related policies and identify if In Progress sites that are 1,200 to 6,000 square feet of impervious area. It is on the codes are working against local goals. urban forestry programs radar to propose a code change to add tree preservation to that size of developments. Enforce requirements in the Tree Preservation Completed plan, especially the 90% survival rate for & Ongoing forested areas and tree plantings. Collaborate on planning efforts to reduce costs and provide consistency for public works Not Started officials, planners, developers, and stormwater and resource managers. Develop a regional urban tree canopy assessment report in Arkansas. Utilize the information gained from this assessment and Not Started others in the state to compile and compare resu Its. Assess tree canopy every 8-10 years to monitor trends and assess the effectiveness of public Completed Assessments based on 2002, 2010, education & outreach campaigns and the tree & Ongoing 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2019 imagery. preservation ordinance. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 146 Foster academic partnerships. Recommend that the University of Arkansas become a Tree Campus USA and work with local schools to educate and plant/care for trees. Explore all potential partnerships to achieve urban forest goals: public/private including corporate and academic sponsors, council representatives, environmental quality and stormwater associations, volunteers, non- profit organizations, and neighborhood associations. Promote hardy, climate -adapted, and long In Progress Attempts were made in the past without success. Continuing efforts. City is aiming to increase efforts, In Progress especially with non-profit organizations. lived tree species that are appropriate for Completed Fayetteville's environment to ensure & Ongoing investments in trees achieve maximum benef its. Use results to justify targeted public tree plantings in the public rights -of -way and greater private planting in commercial landscaping. Ground -truth possible planting areas and planting site locations. Make these data sets available on a GIS webmap as social assessment tools available to residents and businesses. Planting efforts have been ongoing Not Started but not targeted or strategic as described in the recommendation. Planting efforts have been ongoing Not Started but not targeted or strategic as described in the recommendation. Create a central repository for monitoring tree planting and tree removals on public and Not Started private property, possibly using a web -based application that is open to the public. The City utilized a consistent Ensure consistency in future UTC assessments Completed approach for the 2013-2019 by using comparable procedures and data. & Ongoing assessments although they differ from the 2002 and 2010 study. Create or update an existing targeted education and outreach campaign using the Completed The City is doing this as resources ecosystem be n ef its va I u es. & Ongoing allow. Work urban forestry goals and design specifications into other environmental planning initiatives. Assess forest stands at risk from development. Promote cost-effective professional development in urban forestry. Provide an environment for natural forest regeneration. Completed The City is doing this as resources & Ongoing allow. Not Started Requires land acquisition and/or partnerships. Completed & Ongoing Completed Naturally occurring in different & Ongoing areas across the City. * Note: The 2012 Urban Tree Canopy (UTC) Assessment Report utilized 2010 imagery and industry best practices to assess canopy cover and it was found that the City of Fayetteville had 36.0% compared to 39.4% in 2019. The difference may be a result of canopy increase, improvements in technology, or as stated in the accuracy assessment for the 2012 UTC Assessment Report "The Producer's accuracy of 92% can be interpreted as up to 8% of the overall landscape may be tree cover but was classified as another land cover category. Conversely, the User's accuracy of 99% indicates that if a pixel is classified in the classification map as Tree Canopy, there is 99% confidence that the pixel is tree canopy in the reference map. When combined, these two figures indicate that 36.0% likely underestimates the true canopy percent (and that the Green Vegetation category probably contains some actual tree canopy). The accuracy assessment uses concepts defined as Quantity and Allocation disagreement (Pontius, et al., 2011) to estimate true land cover percent values based on statistical results" (see the "CO F_Class ification_Accuracy-Assess ment_Document" PDF provided to the City in 2012 for more details). Therefore, 36% is likely underestimating the amount of tree canopy in 2010 by up to 8% meaning the canopy in 2010 could have been as high as 44%. Current Conditions Page 147 As shown in the previous table, Fayetteville has demonstrated a proactive commitment to urban forest management by assessing tree canopy cover over several time periods and implementing the recommendations as resources allow. By monitoring the state of tree canopy cover, the City can better understand the urban ecosystem's health and make informed decisions. Fayetteville has also made strides in public and developer education on the significance of trees within the cityscape. Resources and guidance are provided to ensure responsible tree care and development practices, emphasizing the importance of preserving and enhancing the urban tree canopy. Additionally, the Urban Forestry staff have recognized policies and regulations that need to be updated to align with contemporary urban forestry standards, prioritizing the protection and growth of this vital green infrastructure. Furthermore, Fayetteville has invested in planting resilient tree species, making its urban forest more adaptive to climate challenges. These efforts reflect the City's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents while fostering a greener, more sustainable future. While Fayetteville's urban forestry efforts have made commendable progress, the 2023 Urban Forest Management Plan builds on the progress and guides the City toward a long-term vision. The City must continue its commitment to reassessing canopy cover overtime and expanding public education efforts to ensure a sustainable and thriving urban tree canopy. By successfully implementing the Plan, Fayetteville can bolster its urban forestry programs and grow a resilient urban forest. ��.A DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 148 Tree Ordinances in Fayetteville • Chapter 167, Tree Preservation and Protection: This preservation ordinance within Fayetteville Code of Ordinances preserves and protects trees and natural areas in the City based on the type of project and its location. The regulations require a tree preservation plan and canopy cover retention or the planting of trees to meet minimum canopy cover requirements by zoning designation for proposed development projects. Chapter 177 Landscape Regulations: In 2007 the Urban Forester (then titled Landscape Administrator) collaborated with other City staff to consolidate landscape requirements found throughout multiple sections of the Unified Development Code into this single ordinance (Chapter 177). The intention of consolidating requirements was to help meet the needs of those applying for development review. The ordinance aimed to meet the following goals: a greener, more attractive city with reduced heat, noise and air pollution; and increased property values. The City of Fayetteville requires developers to include landscaping in their building plans to beautify property, provide shade, and screen the perimeters of parking lots, utilities, incompatible uses, and vehicular use areas. Tree Preservation and Landscape Manual (2016): The original manual was created in 1999, updated in 2006, and was condensed in 2016 in coordination with the Parks and Recreation Division and the Sustainability and Resilience Department. It was then approved by the Urban Forestry Advisory Board. The updated manual's primary purpose is to provide developers, engineers, architects, landscape architects, and contractors with the City's requirements for tree preservation and protection and landscape installation. The manual corresponds with the requirements detailed in the City of Fayetteville Unified Development Code Chapter 167: Tree Preservation and Protection and Chapter 177: Landscape Regulations. Figure 31. Fayetteville's Tree Preservation and Landscape Manual provides the tree -related regulations and standards for entities involved in private development design and construction. A cursory review of existing tree -related ordinances in Fayetteville was conducted based on industry tools and resources, comparisons of findings from benchmarking research, input gathered from internal stakeholders, and a cross-examination of regulations compared to industry standards and best practices. This integrated approach aims to balance goals for tree canopy cover, development, and other priorities in the future. Appendix C provides a summary of the evaluation of Fayetteville's tree -related ordinances. Current Conditions Page 149 Summary of Fayetteville's Key Urban Forestry Programs and Resources ❖ The Park Maintenance team in Public Works performs tree maintenance on street trees not adjacent to private property. •:' Park and trail maintenance performed by Park Maintenance in Public Works. ❖ Tree preservation and protection for new development is performed bythe Urban Forester. ❖ Development Services administers Chapter 167 of the Unified Development Code to ensure Fayetteville maintains, enhances, and preserves trees and the City's natural beauty. ❖ The City's Urban Forestry Advisory Board advises City Council and the Mayor on urban forestry issues. ❖ Fayetteville Code of Ordinances Chapter 167 Tree Preservation and Protection to preserve and expand the City's urban forest. Chapter 177 regulates landscape for developments. ❖ Volunteer opportunities for tree stewardship and education. ❖ Tree City USA accreditation and Arbor Day celebrations. ❖ Amazing Trees of Fayetteville program and online inventory. ❖ Celebration of Trees Event and other events celebrating and educating attendees about Fayetteville's urban forest. ❖ The City has an invasive plant ordinance, encourages Ozark native trees, and discourages trees found to have issues. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 150 STAKEHOLDER FEEDBACK ON CURRENT CONDITIONS Internal and external engagement is critical to the success of an urban forest management plan. By engaging with Fayetteville's staff, residents, businesses, and other stakeholders, urban forestry staff are given a better understanding of the needs and concerns of the community. Engagement was conducted throughout the development of Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management. The feedback and input gathered was used to shape a plan that is representative of the needs of all stakeholders in the City. The engagement conducted throughout the development of the Plan also helps to build support for Fayetteville's urban forest and to ensure the Plan is implemented effectively. Internal Stakeholder Feedback In August and September 2022, engagement with City staff in various departments to develop the Urban Forest Management Plan began with an online survey to identify workflows, measures of success, concerns, priorities, and shared goals and outcomes as it relates to trees in the City. A total of 28 of the 59 (47%) invited staff and board / commission members participated in the survey and follow-up interviews as desired. Staff participants represented the departments of Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs; Public Works; Environmental; and Development Services. In addition, members from the Urban Forestry Advisory Board, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Environmental Action Committee, Planning Commission, and Keep Fayetteville Beautiful participated. The figure on the following page provides a graphic summary of responses. From the survey, most respondents serve as advocates for public trees and park improvements, over 60% support community recreation and engagement, and half are involved with City planning. Over half of the respondents noted the staffing levels as a challenge, along with needed improvements as they relate to ordinances and infrastructure conflicts (50% each). 46% feel there is more to be done in terms of preparedness planning as well as 46% concerned with the sustainability of ecosystems. The respondents noted their top priorities to address in the Plan as procuring funding for the City to purchase land for tree preservation and canopy expansion, supporting local businesses and others in the community to cooperatively grow and maintain the urban forest, and increase funding to purchase trees to be planted to support canopy goals. Current Conditions Page 151 Section 2: Current Conditions PARTICIPANTS _ Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural • ' ` • ' • Affairs Department Public Works Department A A • . Environmental (Sustainability & Resilience) Department • Development Services Department • _ • • • • • • • 0 Urban Forestry Advisory Board • Parks and Recreation Advisory Board A Environmental Action Committee • _ _ _ • Planning Commission • Keep Fayetteville Beautiful City Departments represented 4 PARTICIPANTS' ROLE(S) WITH TREES IN FAYETTEVILLE City Boards, Committees, and 5 Advocate for Commissions represented public tree & park Recreation, / OTHERS out of 59 internal stakeholders improvements community (y 28 participated in the survey engagement `ode City enforcement To view more information on the project and Fayetteville's planning Land) (46%)Landscape •maintenance urban forest, visit www.fayetteville-ar.gov/339/Urban- • (43%)Environmental Forestry • justice (39%) ISSUES, CHALLENGES, & CONCERNS Staffing � Tree (54%) Ordinances (50%) ` Infrastructure Urban Forest a Conflicts Sustainability , Preparedness Budgets Planning $ g • • • • • - (39%) (46%) �� MOST IMPORTANT URBAN FORESTRY GOALS Increase efforts to reduce urban heat island effects 29% in the city Improve policies and practices to address threats 39% such as pests, diseases, and climate change Increase funding to increase tree canopy cover by 43% purchasing trees to be planted Support private landowners and businesses through 43% cooperative planting programs (e.g., free yard trees) Procure funding to purchase land for tree 57% preservation to reach canopy goals External Engagement Project Website To support the development of the Urban Forest Management Plan's vision, goals, and recommended actions, the urban forestry consultants met with Urban Forestry staff to develop strategies for community education, outreach, and engagement. The project team utilized the City's "Speak Up Fayetteville" website (speakup.fayetteville-ar.gov) to share information about the project and opportunities for engagement. To raise awareness and encourage engagement in the project, the website included background information and resources, project timelines, draft outcomes, and the platform for launching the public survey. Media and Messaging Throughout the development of the Plan, information was shared about the project and the City's urban forest through various mediums including news outlets, City website content, press releases, and social media. Mf _ wathin, sport vm" Q Fayetteville receives 28th consecutive 'Tree City USA' designation The designation Is given to titles who showcase commitment to effective urban forest management. Is Sel- Language SPEAK UP F-TEVILLE Urban Forest Management Plan InVaM Consultation has concluded The City of Fayetteville is developing an Urban Forest Management Plan to create a shared vision and at guide for the City's urban forest that enhances the quality of life for all who live. work. and visit Fayetteville. The Urban Forest Management Plan will be utilized to assess the state of urban forestry in the City and identify how to create a sustainable urban forest for the future. The urban forest consists of all the trees. shrubs, and vegetation within the City, including parks, along roadways, private yards, and natural areas- The connectivity and quality of the urban ecosystem is a contributor to the quality of life for residents and visitors to Fayetteville. Caring for the urban forest is imperative to create a sustainable healthy. vibrant city. Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan Community Survey We want to hear from you! Your participation is critical to the success of this project. The following survey consists of 13 questions In gather insights into your understanding, viewpoints, Ideas, and priorities. Consultation has concluded 91 V ID b Figure 33. The project website for Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan. OCity of Fayetteville Arkansas Government O 6d Q Count'em: 28 years in a row! ilp Earlier this year, the City of Fayetteville was named a 2022 Tree City USA community in honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management. Yesterday, John Scott with Urban Forestry placed our new sticker onto the Tree City USA sign at Walker Park Fayetteville recognizes and promotes the value of a healthy urban forest. Trees provide multiple benefits, including increased property values, reduced home -cooling costs, carbon sequestr... See more Qp 110 Figure 34. Example of the outreach conducted throughout the planning process. Current Conditions Page 153 Community Survey From December 2022 through mid -January 2023, a 14-question online survey was launched on the City's Speak Up Fayetteville website to learn how trees impact the lives of Fayetteville's community members, to gather feedback on canopy goals and priority planting areas, to identify where the City should prioritize resources and investments, and to recognize the benefits and services provided by trees that the community values most. A total of 169 responses were received. The following provides an overview of the engagement garnered from the effort followed by a summary infographic. 4City of Fayetteville Arkansas Government O 1d 0 The City of Fayetteville is developing an Urban Forest Management Plan to create a shared vision and guide for the City's urban forest that enhances the quality of life for all who live, work and visit Fayetteville. We want to hear from you! A survey has been posted to Speak Up Fayetteville, the City's online engagement portal. To learn more and take the survey, go to: https://speakup.fayetteville- ar.gov/ 016 =0 snares 0�) Like Q Comment Fig ure35. City social media post encouraging the public to participate in the The majority of respondents own a home in survey. Fayetteville (61%) and are between 25 and 35 years old (28%). Respondents are engaged with their urban forest in that they understand and appreciate trees providing shade and reducing surface temperatures (62%) and would like to see trees planted where there is historically less canopy coverage (50%). The trees planted should be resilient to pests and diseases, changing climates, limited space, and storm events (40%). To improve public tree health, respondents support setting and achieving canopy goals that are based on reducing heat, improving ecosystems, expanding canopy cover in underserved communities, and increasing the benefits trees provide (74%). They would also like to see more trees and preservation incorporated into development projects (66%) and planting trees that can coexist with sidewalks and underground utilities (41%). Future resources and investments that result from the Plan should be focused on strengthening ordinances for private development (70%), purchasing land for conservation (54%), planting trees on public property (51%), and partnering with private property owners to plant trees on private property (41%). To achieve canopy goals, respondents would like to see parks and greenways prioritized (69%), followed by planting trees along streets (68%), on commercial and industrial property (60%), and on school and campus grounds (40%). The kinds of trees respondents would like to see planted include trees and priority areas that are climate -based (56%) and location -based using the right tree right place principle and replanting trees that were removed (25%). Most respondents support watering the street trees adjacent to their property during periods of drought (73%). The success of this engagement effort is largely attributed to the City's commitment to share the survey and conduct outreach. The survey was announced on the City's website, the Speak Up Fayetteville project webpage, social media posts, press releases, news media, and shared throughout relevant partner networks. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 154 16 cT responses 3 0 % of participants from Ward 3 (northeast area) HOW OLD ARE SURVEY RESPONDENTS 75 and older: 1% 65-74: 8% 55-64: 12% O 45-54; 14% O O yy 25-34:28% 4:c�) 18-24: 12% <18: 1% SUPPORT FOR WATERING PUBLIC STREET TREES ADJACENT TO THEIR PROPERTY DURING PERIODS OF DROUGHT YES Survey Timeline: 73% December 2022 - January 2023 N/A UNSURE To view more information on the project, head to NO www.fayetteviIIe-ar.gov/339/Urban-Forestry 130/ 11% 4% FOCUS AREAS FOR FUTURE INVESTMENTS DO YOU SUPPORT PLANTING WHERE TO Strengthening City purchasing MORE TREES THROUGHOUT tree code for $ land for THE CITY TO INCREASE TREE PLANT? IImo�1-- i development Imo/ conservation 69% Spaces 70% 54% AS OCOIATED BENEFITS? Planting trees Partnering with on public property owners YES NO 68% Streets rp 60% & Industrial property for plantings 51% 41%)Eg 40% Schools Improving Other o o ': conservation 0 0 0 22 �° ^� / ^ / y O� L O� R opee�Yial strategies 31% 9 31a� Pr WHERE TO PRIORITIZE RESOURCES TO WHERE TO PRIORITIZE PLANTINGS IMPROVE PUBLIC TREE HEALTH? Other (5%) No more plantings (1%) More resources for public 15 ° Addressing 1 tree management equity (12%) Plant trees that can withstand _ 33°% prolonged droughts Plant trees to coexist with sidewalks and utilities 41 ° Replanting Climate - based More trees and preservation incorporated into development removed locations a projects — 66 /o trees (25%) (56%) Set canopy goals based on reducing heat, improving ecosystems, 74°/ ° and addressing underserved communities Section 2: Current Conditions Irban Forest Vulnerabilities This section describes the challenges and �. vulnerabilities facing Fayetteville's trees that are addressed in the Urban Forest Management Plan. These include: ❖ Development and Land Use Change ❖ Climate Change m pacts ❖ Resources for Management ❖ Inequitable Tree Canopy Cover As noted in the Introduction, Fayetteville's 1 trees face multiple challenges from various F}�, sources. The urban forest is vulnerable to changing conditions due to urbanization, extreme weather, and pests and diseases. 1 _J Development and Land Use Change The Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission (NWARPC) estimates that Fayetteville will grow to a population of 142,496 by the year 2040. This will bean increase of an additional 58,670 people added to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau estimated population of 83,826 in 2017 (City of Fayetteville, AR City Plan 2040). Planning and anticipating the location, form, and function of land use and growth patterns enables the City and the existing residents to guide where and in what pattern this growth will occur. Relative to neighboring cities, Fayetteville has a large percentage of undeveloped land including swaths of canopy cover and native prairie land. However, according to the City's Urban Forestry Program, Fayetteville lost 35 acres of tree canopy cover in 2022 due to development. While the City's tree ordinances do require tree preservation, protection, and planting to mitigate canopy loss, it is projected that there will be a net loss of 20 acres of canopy solely for those development projects reported in 2022. Additionally, existing urban areas rezoned for more dense development reduce available space for trees and greenspace. Fragmentation Development often results in fragmentation of tree canopy, creating isolated populations that are less likely to cross-pollinate. This can reduce biological and genetic diversity of the ecosystem and change the species composition (Fahrig, 2003). It may also result in the loss of buffering potential, such as vegetative stabilization of stream banks. As sites become fragmented and the amount of ecosystem space is reduced, many plants and animals that rely on connected habitats may disappear from the region (Saunders, et al.,1991). Altered Soils Urban trees must often survive in compacted soils that have been altered for the built environment. A good growing medium for trees contains approximately 50% pore space (which allows the root system access to the air and water it needs to survive) and a layer of organic matter. In contrast, construction soils typically have less than 25% pore space and organic matter combined. Competition for Space Conflicts with hardscapes and utilities often occur when trees are not provided adequate space for root and canopy growth. In rights -of -way, trees may compete for space with signs and streetlights, underground utilities, and overhead electric and telephone lines. As trees outgrow available space, their roots can raise sidewalks as they search for water, air, and growing space. The resulting sidewalk repairs may require removal of the tree or application of alternative sidewalk solutions. The City has regulations and best management practices (BMPs) for addressing these situations. Current Conditions Page 157 The prevention of future conflicts requires streetscape design that considers the mature size of trees being planted as well as available technologies that allow trees to thrive in this environment. Examples of these unique designs are provided in the graphic below: EASEMENTS ROOT BARRIERS SUSPENDED PAVING STRUCTURAL SOILS Figure 37. Examples of the potential streetscape design solutions for preventing or mitigating tree ana infrastructure conflicts. To prevent and address negative impacts from development, the City of Fayetteville coordinates efforts to ensure projects adhere to city requirements such as tree canopy cover, stormwater management, public safety, and accessibility. Climate Change Impacts As the effects of climate change take hold, already stressed trees will decline more rapidly, and healthy trees will have to endure multiple stressors to survive and thrive. The extreme heat and drought will reduce water availability, the plant hardiness zone will shift and introduce invasive plant species, stronger storms will occur resulting in more downed trees and limbs due to the canopy declining, and existing and introduced tree pests and diseases will flourish as trees continue to weaken. If the City does not commit to a long-term proactive approach and disciplined investment to improve the health and reliability of the public trees, Fayetteville will fight a costly, reactive and escalating battle against failing trees —which will have a detrimental impact to public safety, budgets, tree crews, road closures, and utility reliability. The negative environmental, public well-being and scenic impacts will also be significant. With a quarter of Fayetteville's public street trees in fair or worse condition, and with climate change altering the types of species that thrive, the City's tree canopy is at considerable risk. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 158 Urban Tree Pests and Diseases Pests and diseases add to the existing stresses faced by trees in an urban environment. Stressed trees are more vulnerable to insects and diseases, although some pests and diseases pose an equal threat to healthy trees. Climate change can create conditions that are favorable for the spread of pests and diseases. Also, prolonged drought stresses trees causing them to be more susceptible to pests and diseases. Though emerald ash borer (EAB) was found in Arkansas in 2002, it is still a concern for the ash (Fraxinus) trees across the City. From the sample inventory of public trees in 2022, it is estimated that 2% (600 trees) are ash trees. Currently, the City does not treat any ash trees on public land, but ash trees are no longer planted or recommended. The insect attacks and kills healthy as well as stressed trees, causing catastrophic loss to all ash species. Its impact on the structural integrity of host trees can cause these trees to become safety hazards. Figure 38. Emerald ash borer (EAB) insect (top), dieback (left), larvae (bottom left), borer holes (right), and larvae galleries (bottom right). Source: AR Department of Agriculture Sudden oak death (SOD) is caused by Phytophthora ramorum, a fungus-like microorganism. At least 90 species of trees and woody ornamentals are hosts for SOD. Changing climates may cause SOD to become more widespread and harder to control. The disease produces rapid decline in oaks; death may occur I-;:- within months to years later. Symptoms include bleeding cankers on the lower trunk. Other symptoms include leaf spots with dark margins and stem cankers. Control of SOD is focused on early detection and eradication of infected plants. Figure 39. Sudden oak death (SOD) wood and bark discoloration (top) and lesions and discoloration of leaves (bottom). Source: AR Department ofAgriculture Current Conditions Page 159 Dutch elm disease (DED) is caused by a fungus (Ophiostoma ulmi) that infects the vascular system of elm (Ulmus) trees. The disease propagates on a number of different elm species but the majority of cases in Arkansas have been found on American elm (Ulmus americans). 400 Figure 40. American elm identifying features (left), leaf flagging symptom of Dutch elm disease (middle), and gallery of bark beetles that are the vector for the Ophiostoma ulmifungus. Source: University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service Bacterial leaf scorch (BLS) is a systemic disease caused by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosathat disrupts the transportation of water through the tree. It is commonly transmitted by insects with piercing mouthparts, impacting sycamore, sweetgum, American elm, and various maple, oak, and other tree species. With higher temperatures and drought predicted, the impact of BLS on Fayetteville's trees is likely to increase. Figure 41. Bacterial leaf scorch observed on oak (A), redbud(B), elm (C), and maple (D) leaves. Source: University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service There are other pests and diseases to monitor such as the jumping oak gall disease affecting white oak trees, tent caterpillars with a wide range of hosts, oak wilt, red oak borer insect, thousand cankers disease, laurel wilt disease, and the threat of Asian long - horned beetle that prefers maples but also has a wide range of preferred host tree species. Additional information regarding tree pests and diseases can be found at the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 160 Urban Heat Like many urban areas, Fayetteville is experiencing the detrimental effects of excessive summer heat. Urban heat is a phenomenon that describes the higher air and surface temperatures in urban areas compared to surrounding rural areas. The temperature difference is largely due to the prevalence of buildings, roads, and other elements of the built environment that absorb and retain heat. Increased emissions of greenhouse gases and reduced tree canopy serve to magnify these impacts. Without strategic intervention, urban heat threatens the well-being and health of the community, particularly vulnerable populations lacking the cooling shade of trees. With urban heat rising, the concern of tree decline is at the forefront of planning in urban areas. To understand Fayetteville's urban forest vulnerability to urban heat, analyses were conducted to measure and project potential impacts on its trees. These impacts include: Increased stress on trees: Urban heat adds to stress trees are already facing from factors such as air pollution, drought, and pests, making it more difficult for trees to survive and thrive. Reduced tree growth: Urban heat can slow down tree growth, which can lead to a decline in the overall health of the urban forest. Increased tree mortality: Urban heat increases the risk of tree loss, which can lead to gaps in the urban forest. Reduced air quality: Urban heat tends to hold pollutants in the atmosphere, worsening air quality. This places an additional burden on trees' air purifying capabilities while also having a negative impact on human health and the environment. Changes in plant communities: Urban heat can lead to changes in the composition of plant communities, as some species are more tolerant of heat than others. This can lead to a loss of biodiversity in the urban forest. gp°+ HOT L50+ CpOL •� ■ ■�'� ■ Figure 42. Illustration of the temperature difference in urban areas due to the urban heat island effect. Current Conditions Page 161 Changes in Plant Communities Climate change will have a dramatic impact on the tree species that can survive and thrive in Fayetteville. To inform the Plan's recommendations, the USDA Forest Service Climate Change Tree Atlas was utilized to model habitat changes for tree species growing in the southeast region of the United States, which includes Arkansas. However, some native species are not currently modeled in the Tree Atlas and no cultivars or exotics are included (Iverson, et al., 2019). The tables below list tree species that may be found growing in Fayetteville and their predicted vulnerability to habitat loss due to changing conditions. It also includes the proportion of those tree species that are currently in Fayetteville's public tree population based on the 2022 sample inventory. The percentages are then extrapolated to represent a public tree population of 25,000 trees (estimated). Post oak 6% Willow oak 6% Blackgum 4% New Harmony Elm 3% Red maple 3% American elm 3% Eastern redbud 3% Green ash 2% Eastern red cedar 1% Winged elm 1% Water oak 1% Species Habitat Eastern hophornbeam 1% Predicted to Honeylocust 1% INCREASE Flowering dogwood 1% Tulip tree 1% Osage orange 1% Note: this list is not all Shortleaf pine 1% inclusive or a Black cherry 1% recommendation, it is an Loblolly pine 0.5% ever -evolving list. The City will decide on the types of American sycamore y 0.4% species to be approved. Pecan 0.3% Overcup oak 0.3% Sweetg u m 0.3% American holly 0.2% American hornbeam 0.2% Mockernut hickory 0.2% Southern red oak 0.2% Persimmon 0.2% Southern magnolia 0.1% Blackjack oak 0.1% River birch 0.1% White ash 0.1% Sassafras 0.04% Table 10. USDA Forest Service Climate Change Atlas for tree species habitat in Arkansas predicted to increase (low emission scenario). DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 162 Baldcypress 3% Hackberry 3% White oak 2% Species Habitat Black walnut 1% Predicted to NOT Nuttall oak 1% Change Mulberry 1% Scarlet oak 0.4% Note: this list is not all Boxelder 0.3% inclusive ora Shumard oak 0.3% recommendation, it is an Swamp chestnut oak 0.1% ever -evolving list. The City will decide on the types of American beech 0.1% species to be approved. C h i n ka p i n oak 0.1% Pignut hickory 0.1% Bitternut hickory 0.04% Black Hickory 0.04% • _ 0741-- Table 11. USDA Forest Service Climate Change Atlas for tree species habitat in Arkansas' predicted to not change (low emission scenario). Pin oak S% Species Habitat Northern red oak 3% Predicted to Sugar maple 3% DECREASE Serviceberry 2% Bur oak 1% Note: this list is not all Silver maple 0.4% inclusive ora Shagbark hickory 0.4% recommendation, it is an American basswood 0.3% ever -evolving list. The City will decide on the types of Black oak 0.2% species to be approved. Ohio buckeye 0.1% Black locust 0.1% Table 12. USDA Forest Service Climate Change Atlas for tree species habitat in Arkansas predicted to decrease (low emission scenario). Important Note: The USDA Forest Service Tree Atlas models predict habitat change for 134 native tree species in the eastern United States. The research is then modeled for tree species in the southeast U.S. including Arkansas. Some native species are not currently modeled in the Tree Atlas and no cultivars or exotics are included. With limited data currently available on the resilience and vulnerability of native Arkansas tree species, this table provides a glimpse of how the species' composition of Fayetteville's urban forest may change. Web source: www.fs.usda.gov/nrs/atlas/tree/ Current Conditions Page 163 Habitat Increase No Habitat Change Habitat Decrease S1% or 12,703 public street trees 12% or 2,913 public street trees 16Yo or 3,899 public street trees Figure 43. Summary of the climate change vulnerability of Fayetteville's public street trees. Source: USDA Climate Change Atlas According to the Climate Change Atlas and based on the 2022 sample inventory of Fayetteville's public street trees, Sl% or an estimated 12,703 trees are expected to have their growing conditions and habitat improve and increase due to climate change.12% or 2,913 public trees in Fayetteville are predicted to not be impacted by changing climates and 16% or 3,899 trees are predicted to be negatively impacted by climate change and experience habitat loss. SUMMARY OF URBAN FOREST VULNERABILITIES In summary, the key issues or challenges facing Fayetteville's urban forest that are addressed with the Urban Forest Management Plan include: ❖ Managing the urban forest for sustainability and resiliency ':• Addressing street tree maintenance needs ':• Tree risk management ❖ The need for updated tree -related regulations • •V• Development pressure and construction / infrastructure conflicts •i• Limited resources to address climate change impacts •i• Strategic tree planting programs and initiatives •i• Equitably expanding tree canopy cover, associated benefits, and levels of service •i• Revitalizing and strengthening community tree stewardship DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 164 INDICATORS OF A SUSTAINABLE URBAN FOREST Methodology To assess the current state of Fayetteville's urban forest, the programs that manage it, and the community that shapes and benefits from it, a comprehensive evaluation was conducted using the framework of the U.S. Forest Service's Urban Forest Sustainability and Management Audit (Abbot, et al., 2015). The framework was adapted from the Model of Urban Forest Sustainability (Clark, et al.,1997) and subsequent iterations. The primary objectives of the evaluation of Fayetteville's urban forest are defined by the authors and adapted by the Fayetteville Urban Forest Management Plan consulting team: ❖ Engage the full spectrum of the organizations' management team. ❖ Provide program direction for ongoing professional training. ❖ Conduct a gap analysis of management practices and the health of urban forests. ❖ Provide strategic direction to improve the health of the urban forest. ❖ Optimize management for environmental justice and equitable distribution of resources. A sustainable system can be defined as one that survives or persists. In the context of urban forests, the objective can be stated as attempting to achieve the maximum long-term benefits over the greatest amount of time. Clark's framework provides specific criteria to evaluate sustainability along with measurable indicators. Social and economic factors as well as natural science are considered, as sustainability is often viewed as the "overlap between what is ecologically possible and what is societally desired by the current generation". Recognizing that both conditions will change over time, sustainability is addressed as a process rather than a goal (Clark, et al., 1997). Current Conditions Page 165 Clark's framework categorizes urban forest sustainability indicators in terms of the trees (or resource), the management, and the people who benefit from the urban forest. Within each category, a series of urban forestry industry standards and best management practices were used to evaluate Fayetteville's current performance level. Indicators were rated as low, medium, or high based on available data and information provided by stakeholders. Assessment results were used to identify areas where Fayetteville's urban forest can be improved and to develop recommendations. The complete Urban Forest Audit for Fayetteville conducted in 2023 is available in Appendix B. The following provides a summary of the evaluation: Resu Its Based on the analysis of findings from the needs assessment, Fayetteville scored a 73% in terms of urban forest sustainability and management as defined by the U.S. Forest Service, partners, and planning consultants. Based on similar audits completed by the urban forestry consultants, of the 16 audits, the average score is 64%. The City of Fayetteville scored relatively high when compared to other urban forestry audits completed by the consultants for other communities of similar size. Overall, the City scored highest in Professional Capacity and Training, Community, Green Asset Management, and Risk Management— all of which are at or above 75%. The Urban Forest Management Plan provides guidance to maintain these strengths and to address shortcomings as opportunities. 71% 89% _ 67% ® 63% = 65% 54% 78% - 64% 73% 89% 80% Figure 44. Summary of the 2023 Urban Forest Audit completed for Fayetteville's Plan. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 166 Urban Forest Audit Summary Discussion The main purpose of the urban forest audit is to apply the research and findings gathered throughout the planning effort to inform the Plan's goals, strategic actions, and targets. This audit or "gap analysis" enables the City's Urban Forestry Program to control different aspects of its program with data. This gap analysis identified the shortcomings that the program should overcome and by quantifying them, the program can make improvements. It also enables effective monitoring of Plan goals in that the audit categories and elements can be revisited at key intervals in the implementation process to measure progress and adapt strategies accordingly. For the comprehensive evaluation of all subcategories within the Urban Forest Audit, see Appendix B. The information provided in the table above describes the current conditions of Fayetteville's urban forest, the programs that manage it, and the community framework. As recommended in the Plan's monitoring methods, the City should use this framework to evaluate implementation progress, report successes, and inform changes to Plan actions. Many of the urban forest audit elements were given a rating of "In Development" as they previously did not exist but are addressed in this Urban Forest Management Plan. This means that the City is alreadywell underway in advancing its program and its Urban Forest Audit score. Interpreting the Urban Forest Audit Scores The Urban Forest Audit System should serve as a baseline assessment from which progress can be measured and strategies can be adjusted using an adaptive management approach. Overall, Fayetteville scored a 73 out of 100 based on the consultants' evaluation. The scores resulting from the evaluation are informative but should not be considered a definitive assessment or a reason for excessive action due to a currently low score or inaction due to a high score. The following provides an interpretation of the scores for the City to consider when implementing the Plan's corresponding actions. See Appendix B for details regarding scores for each Audit category and the criteria or indicators to improve scores for each category. Current Conditions Page 167 Table 13. Interpretation of the 2023 Urban Forest Audit scores. The City scored relatively average in this category due to the existing tree ordinances, development standards, and the Tree Preservation and Management Landscape Manual. The Tree -related Plans and Regulations section of Policy and this Plan summarizes existing tree ordinances and Appendix C provides a Ordinances summary of an evaluation of these ordinances based on industry standards and best practices. The City's Comprehensive Plan includes Rating of urban forestry and tree canopy as a vital component in addressing 71% climate change. As part of the Plan, a canopy analysis was completed, and canopy goals were drafted to support a "no net loss" approach with canopy expansion. Professional Staff have industry certifications, qualifications, and training. The Urban Capacity and Forestry Program has staff for park and trail tree maintenance and to Training administer tree preservation and protection for new development. In Rating of addition, the program works with other departments, partners, and 89% contractors to plant trees. The City's adopted budgets have specific line items for the Urban Forestry Program and staff. The City's Tree Escrow account is the primary funding source for urban forestry activities. The figures reported for Arbor Funding and Day Foundation Tree City USA accreditation incorporate budgets from Accounting other departments but do not include the urban forestry budgets for Rating of Public Works' programs responsible for planting trees. The Urban 67% Forestry Program in Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs is solely funded through the Tree Escrow which is required by developers as a last option for mitigation and must be spent within the associated park quadrant. An Urban Forestry Advisory Board exists to advise on urban forestry matters. Currently, urban forest management is distributed across three Decision and groups in three different departments. The delineation of responsibilities Management is unclear and there is no single department or staff person designated Authority as a point of contact for urban forestry. It is likely that communications Rating of and workflows could be improved with an adjusted program structure. Unique to other cities, Fayetteville's Urban Forester in Development 63% Services has direct authority and oversight on tree preservation and protection for new development. Fayetteville completed a sample inventory of public trees and planting spaces along with a private tree sample inventory. In addition, the City Tree -related conducted GIS analyses of urban tree canopy cover over four time Inventories periods and examined the correlation of tree canopy to sociodemographic data. Also, the Urban Forester actively tracks canopy Rating of gains and losses occurring on development projects— one of the most 65% robust tracking systems the urban forestry consultants have seen. Within the City, the University of Arkansas has an inventory of its trees through its Arboretum Mapping Project. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 168 Tracking and reporting of urban forest management activities, this Plan, Tree -related and urban forestry referenced in the Comprehensive Plan and canopy Plans goals in the Energy Action Plan resulted in higher than average scores Rating of for certain elements within this category. The City completed a Tree 54% Canopy Cover and Environmental Equity Story Map and supporting reports. The Urban Forester in Parks, Natural Resources and Cultural Affairs is Risk trained in tree risk assessments and the City has an adopted standard of Management care. The City completed a sample public tree inventory in 2022 to inform management strategies. The City also has an Emergency Rating of Operations Plan, actively manages invasive plant species and pests and 78% diseases, and has lists and resources for recommended and prohibited trees. Disaster Planning The City's maintenance staff and contractors address downed trees and Rating of limbs and collaborate when extensive response is needed. 64% Standards, Fayetteville has an average rating for this category though its strengths and Best include tree ordinances, the Tree Preservation and Landscape Manual, Practices Comprehensive Plan, Standard Details such as the Tree Preservation detail, clear guidance on the City's website relating to regulations and Rating of best practices, tree species lists, and tree protection requirements for 73% construction and development. Fayetteville has been a Tree City USA city consecutively since 1995, demonstrating the value placed on urban forests. This Plan included a public survey and has engaged and informed the public through an Community interactive project website— Speak Up Fayetteville. The City conducts Arbor Day events, has an Urban Forestry Advisory Board, engages the Rating of public through social media, website, and other platforms, addresses 89% service requests, conducts the annual Celebration of Trees event, has an online resource for Amazing Trees in Fayetteville, provides education resources and trainings, and works closely with other community partners. The sample public tree inventory determined there are 54 unique tree genera and 111 unique tree species resulting in no tree species exceeding the recommended diversity thresholds. The size classes of Green Asset public trees are in line with an ideal distribution and the majority (75%) Management of public trees are in good condition. Also, only 6%of trees are Rating of recommended for removal and the primary maintenance need is 80% clearance pruning (8%). Most importantly, the City's Park Maintenance's right-of-way crews proactively prune approximately 4,000 public trees per year resulting in an estimated 5.7-year rotation and the Urban Forestry Program conducts public park and trail tree maintenance. Current Conditions Page 169 lic mlAl �- ��Piit�r • �,q�,.... -rim_ t�� , =�, _ . c .: � t ���� R' . � j_ �, � Rd . rrf YCI er : l ,'19r; . ►� i l� bra Ve 44;- SK Jt f't' �'at• � -. _''� _.. .9 sir, � r Y � - F b`.<- �J/}y'=¢�', r 4� dip,% .r�I r S•' y J .� Jk �pi'S'� aF �.: fd! rr. 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Via' �l+�` < YS•.t .. `�' �_ �z �, .. •_ � .. �` L •.'r n - s 1. i f*;,,.,y �f.�_ ,s �;�.s / �i � ,� � r .� "�,': t• Wit, yt �'•, �` ,�,� f j. �, .g, k � ? rys r�' •' '' _ r R -��ae t. ,ixr•�,L%A5_ �.., \.�_ ; •/•� o � r' ii�.,$: �i' ';�w•>,t• T : \N'�' ,.� i, hY^�. f : `ll �r„ y t�+ ' � � $' o- ^ � t ��/ ` i rr'>k %'i- � ijK�� ��y .�, � : �sr71�. '�: e y _ .• , . �tA .*; �,r{�' �'. � �'• .' � I _ .'�T^i R e � f r y 1 ;'±.�1t..I ,�% � _ /,. •� _3' . 'r,� , f, a = .� ..i �, �v _ "R .lj Vision for the Future and Recommendations INTRODUCTION This section provides guidance and recommendations for the City of Fayetteville to continue to provide high levels of service now and into the future over the next 10 years The Urban Forest Management Plan's recommendations include those that may only take a few months and others that will require a coordinated effort that may need to continue on beyond the 10-year timeframe. PLAN VISION STATEMENT "Healthy Trees, Healthy City: Our vision for Fayetteville's urban forest is to cultivate a thriving, diverse, and well -maintained tree canopy that enhances the livability, health, and sustainability of our community for current and future generations." GUIDING PRINCIPLES, GOALS, STRATEGIES, AND ACTIONS A series of guiding principles supported by goals, strategies, and actions are provided to serve as a 10-year roadmap toward the urban forest vision. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 172 Vision What does the urban forest and its programs look like 10 years from now? The vision guides direction on where Fayetteville is headed and helps guide recommendations for the future. Guiding Principles What are we aspiring to achieve? These are the aspirations for the City over the next 10 years. They are key themes for organizing the Plan and include a citywide canopy cover goal. Goals How do we achieve our principles and vision? The goals are specific opportunities for the City to move toward the 10-year vision. Strateg ies What is the approach to take? Strategies provide the general direction or method to take to achieve the goals. Priority Actions What is the next step? This is the prioritized list of steps to take. Vision for the Future and Recommendations Page J 73 GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND GOALS OVERVIEW Fayetteville's Urban Forest Management Plan was designed to guide the City in managing, protecting, and growing its urban forest. The goals, strategies, and priority actions were developed based on research and analysis of available data, extensive internal and external engagement, and an evaluation of urban forest sustainability criteria. The resulting goals and recommendations address the current conditions, existing and potential challenges, and shared priorities described in Section 2 of the Urban Forest Management Plan. The Plan's long-term framework supports the shared vision for Fayetteville's urban forest. To achieve the vision for the urban forest, a citywide canopy cover goal was established as the cornerstone metric for tracking progress in implementing the Urban Forest Management Plan. The canopy goal embodies the City's commitment to sustainability and community well-being. This metric can be used by the City for tracking and monitoring the urban forest and it resonates with residents, creating a tangible and shared vision of a lush and vibrant urban environment. Moreover, the canopy cover goal aligns with other goals and priorities in the City such as environmental stewardship, climate change resilience, public health, air quality enhancement, and temperature moderation. By using canopy cover as an overarching measure, Fayetteville ensures a comprehensive approach that not only improves the urban ecosystem but also fosters a sense of pride, unity, and responsibility among its residents. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 174 10-YEAR CANOPY COVER GOAL Fayetteville's Tree Canopy Cover Goal The 2023 Urban Forest Management Plan is a roadmap for urban forestry over the next 10 years. Therefore, this section focuses on the actions necessary from 2023 to 2033 that will contribute to a 30-year canopy goal of 44.4%— a 10% increase from the 2019 imagery used in the canopy study (see pages 29-40 "2019 UTC Findings" for the details on how the canopy goal was determined). In the first 10 years an average of 1,850 trees need to be planted per year, amounting to 18,500 trees planted by the end of 2033. It is recommended that the City lead 50% of these plantings and 20% could be seedlings in the first few years. The City already gives away approximately1,500 trees to citizens yearly, therefore the goal is ambitious but achievable although the trees must survive. The following provides a summary of Fayetteville's canopy goal over the next 10 years. The City may adopt these goals, approve action steps and targets, and implement a tree planting initiative that is supported by City staff, community partners, and Fayetteville residents. Progress should be measured, tracked, and shared to guide urban forest management and maintain community interest and support. To arrive at the canopy goal and number of trees per year, considerations, assumptions, and calculations are provided in Appendix A of the Urban Forest Management Plan. The Plan should be updated every 10 years and similarly, the canopy goals and planting targets should be evaluated and updated as needed. YEAR 1 YEAR 5 YEAR 10 —18'*0- ota treented 1,850 trees per year (925 City -led plantings and 925 led by others each year) 2019 �dft dAL dft dft dft Aft MAL dft dft L ttt"t"'llp 2023 2027 2032 100 trees planted across the city that have large canopy cover at maturity equals 3 acres of new canopy cover. Approximately 430 acres of new canopy cover is needed to reach 40.6% by 2032.1,850 trees per year for 10 years is recommended. See the 2019 UTC Findings section for more details. Figure 45. Fayetteville's draft 10-year canopy goal milestones and targets. Vision for the Future and Recommendations Page J 75 Priority Planting Areas Low Tree Canopy (<35%) Tree Equity Score <80 Low Income& Tree Canopy a Vulnerable & Exclusion Areas AI Average S u rface Temperature Development & Future Land Use Health Risk Index View Appendix A for larger maps of the priority planting areas. Figure 46. Scenarios for priority planting areas to achieve canopy goals and the Plan's outcomes. By identifying priority planting areas to achieve the canopy goal, tree planting and maintenance can be strategically targeted where trees will have the most beneficial impact. The figure above provides an illustration of the priority areas for consideration and Appendix A provides the criteria going into the priorities along with larger maps. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 176 STAKEHOLDER- DRIVEN GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND GOALS During the analysis of data, collection of information, and gathering of internal and external stakeholder input, a series of overarching guiding principles emerged that helped to set the Plan's direction and solidify its foundation. The following five principles summarize the community's priorities and are reinforced by the feedback received from internal stakeholder engagement sessions. These priorities along with the Urban Forest Audit and the Indicators of Sustainable Urban Forestry (detailed in Section 2) established the foundation of the Plan. A) Equitable and Resilient Canopy Cover We value and appreciate the benefits and services provided by the trees in our community. These benefits and services should be maximized and equitably distributed across the City by growing an urban forest that is sustainable and resilient to current and future challenges. B) Maintenance and Management We care for our trees and the citywide urban forest to ensure the benefits are available for current and future generations. Our operations and investments prioritize sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and equity. A) Equitable and Resilient Canopy Cover Goals • Goal Al: Increase tree canopy cover citywide beginning in priority areas and purchased land. • Goal A2: Implement a cooperative tree planting program with businesses, institutions, organizations, neighborhoods, and property owners. • Goal A3: Plant trees that are resilient to current and future challenges such as climate change and tree pests. B) Maintenance and Management Goals • Goal Bl: Prioritize public tree maintenance and tree risk management. • Goal 132: Reduce conflicts between trees and other infrastructure such as sidewalks and utilities. • Goal 133: Manage harmful tree pests and diseases that are present or expected to impact the urban forest. • Goal 134: Conduct ongoing industry and professional training for City staff interacting with trees in Fayetteville. Vision for the Future and Recommendations Page J 77 E TT ll C) Tree Preservation and Protection Our existing tree canopy cover and the investments made in planting and caring for the urban forest are preserved through sound but fair policies and regulations that align with shared priorities in the city and best practices. D) Funding and Levels of Service The programs and staffing involved with the trees in our community have the resources necessary to meet current and future demands and challenges. T E) Community Education, Engagement, and Stewardship A sustainable urban forest requires a shared commitment from the City and the community. We will instill and foster tree stewardship in our community through equitable and impactful community education and engagement. Q Tree Preservation and Protection Goals • Goal Cl: Establish or update policies and practices to reduce the urban forest's vulnerability to tree pests, diseases, and climate change impacts. • Goal C2: Update or amend tree -related ordinances to support the citywide canopy cover goal and other goals in the Plan. • Goal C3: Monitor and enforce tree - related ordinances. D) Funding and Levels of Service Goals Goal DI: Procure funding for the City to purchase land for tree preservation and planting and to achieve other City goals. Goal D2: Increase funding to purchase trees to be planted and supporting infrastructure in support of the canopy cover goal. Goal D3: Evaluate the staffing levels, structure, and resources for tree -related programs and adjust as needed to meet the goals of the Plan and growing demands of the urban forest. E) Community Education and Engagement Goals • Goal El: Continue to achieve Tree City USA status and other industry recognitions. Goal E2: Create and implement an engagement strategy for all demographics and stakeholders in the community. Goal E3: Provide inclusive program offerings such as events, education, and training to meet the needs of all. DRAFT Fayetteville, AP Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 178 A) Equitable and Resilient Canopy Cover We value and appreciate the benefits and services provided by the trees in our community. These benefits and services should be maximized and equitably distributed across the City by growing an urban forest that is sustainable and resilient to current and future challenges. STAKEHOLDER INPUT AND SUPPORT Experts and stakeholders stressed the importance of setting and achieving local and citywide canopy goals to support the long-term health and sustainability of the urban forest. For example, planted trees must be resilient to drought and extreme weather events while supporting biodiversity in the urban ecosystem. A diverse mix of tree species is necessary to ensure the ability of the urban forest to survive pest and disease outbreaks. Success is predicated on planting trees matched to the site in terms of soils, water availability, space, and desired function. Post -planting care is required for trees to become established and thrive in the urban environment. Goal Al: Increase tree canopy cover citywide beginning in priority areas and purchased land. a) Procure funding to purchase land for the City to preserve and plant trees. b) Review and refine the priority planting areas provided by the Plan. c) Continue to offer free trees to citizens. d) Plant 1,850 trees per year for 10 years and reassess citywide canopy cover. e) Coordinate with other City plans and programs. • Review, refine, and finalize the canopy cover goals and planting priorities. Consider the status of recommendations outlined in the 2012 Urban Tree Canopy Assessment Report (see Table 9 in the Urban Forest Management Plan). • Develop a neighborhood -level and citywide planting plan to achieve the canopy goals. Align efforts with the Climate Action Plan, Energy Action Plan, the 2023 Park and Recreation System Master Plan, and other initiatives. • Fully integrate tree plantings into City projects. Use the recommendation to inform the annual tree planting plan for parks as recommended in Goal E3 of the 2023 Park and Recreation System Master Plan. • Continue to offer tree care information especially in the priority neighborhoods. • Monitor progress toward achieving the canopy goals and planting targets. • Use high -resolution imagery to assess and monitor canopy cover every two years. At minimum, reassess canopy cover citywide and by planning boundaries by 2029 for a 10-year canopy change assessment. A) Equitable and Resilient Canopy Cover Page J 79 Goal A2: Implement a cooperative tree planting program with businesses, institutions, organizations, neighborhoods, and property owners. a) Identify existing and potential stakeholders. b) Collaborate and share resources to identify program funding opportunities. c) Track progress and recognize successes. d) Conduct pilot programs to determine efficient ways to assist private land owners with tree plantings. GOAL A2 PRIORITY • Draft a list of existing and potential stakeholders with input from multiple departments. • Organize workshops or seminars that focus on the importance of the program. • Create a task force or utilize the Urban Forestry Advisory Board to collaborate on program design, priority planting locations, funding, tree selection, and ongoing maintenance. • Utilize data management software to track the plantings and recognize partnerships and program success possibly during Arbor Day celebrations. Goal A3: Plant trees that are resilient to current and future challenges such as climate change and tree pests. a) Use data and research to make decisions on approved tree species for planting. b) Select the right tree for the right site. c) Provide ongoing tree care and monitor the condition of tree plantings. GOAL A3 PRIORITY • Utilize the Climate Tree Atlas study in the Plan to adjust approve tree species lists. • Evaluate the composition of the urban forest to inform changes to tree species selection for planting to maintain diversity. • Provide watering and irrigation for public tree plantings. • Evaluate measures to improve the enforcement of regulations for post - planting maintenance within Chapters 167 and 177 of Fayetteville's Code of Ordinances. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 180 XB) Maintenance and Management We care for our trees and the citywyide urban forest to ensure the benefits are available for current and future generations. Our operations and investments prioritize sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and equity. STAKEHOLDER INPUTAND SUPPORT The community would like to see more shade trees along streets and sidewalks, recognizing that this will require additional resources. Participants in the engagement to develop the Plan stated that they would like the City to maintain street trees in a routine, proactive manner. City staff are in support of cooperative planting programs with businesses, institutions, organizations, and individuals where trees can be planted in yards to shade sidewalks. The staff engaged in the planning effort also support improving policies and practices for better public tree maintenance addressing concerns such as tree pests, diseases, and climate change impacts. Goal Bl: Prioritize public tree maintenance and tree risk management. a) Assess the public tree population for maintenance needs and potential risks. b) Develop a public tree maintenance plan. c) Develop a plan for maintaining trees that are planted toward the canopy goal. d) Stay current with industry research, tools, technology, standards, and best practices. e) Focus on planting strategies and designs that produce long-lived trees. • Periodically conduct sample inventories or windshield surveys of public trees to identify changes to maintenance and risk management priorities. • Create annual work plans and seek funds to implement those plans using the actions within Goal D3. • Track maintenance records for public trees. Continue to add assets and management data to databases that track total asset management for more efficient maintenance planning. • Acquire and maintain industry certifications and trainings for Urban Foresters. • Continue to manage invasive plant species on public properties and within public rights -of -way. Support controlled burns to manage invasives and wildlife on public properties. • Strengthen or establish public tree risk assessment and mitigation protocols. • Develop a framework and approach to utilize more biomass resulting from public tree maintenance, removals, and post -storm cleanup. Expand efforts beyond mulching by including logs for wood products for local craftsmen. B) Maintenance and Management Page 181 Goal 132: Reduce conflicts between trees and other infrastructure such as sidewalks and utilities. a) Assess public trees for current and potential infrastructure conflicts. b) Identify existing and potential alternative solutions to infrastructure conflicts. c) Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders. d) Ensure trees are planted with the proper soil volume. • Establish or improve protocols and checklists for evaluating current and potential infrastructure conflicts which includes potential alternative solutions to the conflict. Establish regular meetings and protocols with internal and external stakeholders for improved coordination during infrastructure and utility planning, design, construction, and maintenance phases. Goal 133: Manage harmful tree pests and diseases that are present or expected to impact the urban forest. a) Identify the primary tree pests and diseases of concern. b) Provide information for identifying tree pests and diseases. c) Monitor public trees and the urban forest for tree pests and diseases of concern. d) Create a preliminary emerald ash borer (EAB) plan. • Develop and implement an integrated pest management or plant healthcare plan for public trees. • Integrate tree pest and disease education into the community education strategy (Goal El - E3). • Focus on education and technical assistance with large private landowners. Goal 134: Conduct ongoing industry and professional training for City staff interacting with trees in Fayetteville. a) Identify the staff and training needs and secure the annual budget required. b) Conduct internal cross -training and document training materials and protocols. c) Consider offering or supporting training of volunteers and tree care professionals. • Utilize free and available online trainings and materials where appropriate. Support the Urban Forestry Advisory Board in attending the free online Tree Board University program developed by the U.S. Forest Service. Expand the trainings to include considerations for youth and workforce development. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 182 Q Tree Preservation and Protection Our existing tree canopy cover and the investments made in planting and caring for the urban forest are preserved through sound but fair policies and regulations that align with shared priorities in the City and best practices. STAKEHOLDER INPUTAND SUPPORT Preservation and protection of existing trees was identified as a high priority. Existing mature trees have an outsized impact on sustainabiIity, environmental justice, wildlife and ecosystems, and human health. Exploring changes to the tree ordinances was raised in most engagement activities and sessions. Preservation and planting requirements should be robust but not unduly burdensome to developers. They should also be tailored to the biome, e.g., different standards for natural prairies compared to forested areas. Trees planted or protected should survive post -development and be replaced if they die. City staff are in support of procuring funding to purchase land for tree preservation in order to maintain and increase tree canopy cover. Goal Cl: Establish or update policies and practices to reduce the urban forest's vulnerability to tree pests, diseases, and climate change impacts. a) Quantify the urban forest's role in climate change mitigation. b) Maintain tree regulations to minimize urban forest vulnerabilities. • Calculate the carbon sequestration, storage, and avoided carbon generated from the citywide urban tree canopy cover and the public tree population using industry tools such as i-Tree. Utilize the data to build support and inform climate -related plans. Update the Tree Preservation and Landscape Manual with any changes to tree -related ordinances. • As needed, update tree lists that prioritize native and climate -resilient tree species. Consider updates based on the diversity of the urban forest and existing / potential pests and diseases. At minimum, maintain a list of prohibited tree species reflective of the latest research and concerns. C) Tree Preservation and Protection Page 183 Goal C2: Update or amend tree -related ordinances to support the citywide canopy cover goal and other goals in the Plan. a) Monitor and track tree plantings and removals. b) Adopt a no -net -loss policy for public trees. c) Review and implement recommended changes to tree ordinances. • Identify the departments, roles, and workflows (i.e., City Engineering and Transportation) and track public tree removals and plantings in a data management program. • Analyze the potential causes for canopy cover gains and losses as identified in the canopy assessments of four time periods. • Strengthen the mechanisms for tracking tree preservation, removals, plantings, mitigation, and canopy percentages for development projects. Use the tracking to inform potential changes to minimum canopy requirements for zoning designations as needed to support the canopy goal. • Review and refine the tree ordinance evaluation worksheet completed as part of the Plan (see Appendix C). Gather feedback from internal and external stakeholders before significant changes to ordinances are made. For example, develop incentives to preserve existing canopy instead of opting for mitigation and consider updating the penalties for illegal removal of protected trees. • Conserve open space and protect areas of significant riparian benefit, tree canopy, prairie, and other environmental resource through cluster development provisions, density controls, protective easements, and/or other development tools. • Update design standards to be more accommodating to trees and the necessary soil volume while balancing the needs for development. • Establish a policy for reassessing the citywide tree canopy cover at regular intervals to monitor the canopy goal. Goal C3: Monitor and enforce tree -related ordinances. a) Distribute information and resources regarding changes to tree regulations. b) Establish a formal protocol. c) Recognize exemplary tree preservation practices and projects. • Update information on the City's website and in materials as tree regulations change. • Consider developing a protocol for scheduled inspections, random spot checks, recordkeeping, an on -site education. Develop a program that recognizes exemplary and innovative development projects that preserve and expand tree canopy cover. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 184 4WD) Funding and Levels of Service The programs and staffing involved with the trees in our community have the resources necessary to meet current and future demands and challenges. STAKEHOLDER INPUTAND SUPPORT During engagement exercises, concerns were raised regarding limited resources in terms of staffing, funding, and time to address the current challenges— especially as it relates to the experienced and predicted effects of climate change. Additional resources are needed for monitoring compliance and enforcing tree regulations, proactive maintenance and hazard abatement, and planting trees to mitigate climate change and tree losses from development projects and extreme weather. Stakeholders largely supported the allocation of additional resources to ensure availability of the urban forest resource now and in the future. City staff support increasing funding to purchase trees to plant towards a citywide canopy cover goal. Goal DI: Procure funding for the City to purchase land for tree preservation and planting and to achieve other City goals. a) Identify potential areas for land acquisition. b) Coordinate with partners for land acquisition and management. c) Lead by example and distribute information about the program. • Review the priority areas for tree planting and preservation to identify opportunities for land acquisition. Consider vacant land as an initial step and utilize the City Plan 2040's Enduring Green Network map and data. • Develop a multi -year program and allocate funding for land acquisition. Build support from land trusts and other organizations. • Implement best management practices and share information for private landowners to learn about the opportunities for urban forest stewardship on their own property(s). • Develop management plans for the properties purchased. • In the long-term, consider utilizing land acquired for pilot projects such as testing new tree species for the region and in-house tree production (i.e., tree n u rse ry) . D) Funding and Levels of Service Page 185 Goal D2: Increase funding to purchase trees to be planted and supporting infrastructure in support of the canopy cover goal. a) Identify the funding gap and funding source(s). b) Communicate the benefits of a robust planting effort. c) Develop and implement a tree planting program aligned with the canopy goal. • Determine the funding gap of planting 1,8S0 trees per year where 92S of those trees planted are led by the City. • Quantify the benefits and services provided by the 1,8S0 trees planted per year to communicate the future value added to Fayetteville's ecosystem, community, and economy. • Secure the necessary funding to meet the annual tree planting targets. • Provide annual reports on canopy goal progress to justify continued funding for tree plantings. • Coordinate with tree nurseries the tree species for planting to reduce costs and address tree species diversity goals. Goal D3: Evaluate the staffing levels, structure, and resources for tree -related programs and adjust as needed to meet the goals of the Plan and growing demands of the urban forest. a) Track and report program activities and Plan implementation progress. b) Analyze the organization of departments involved with trees in Fayetteville. c) Conduct cost -benefit analyses and evaluate growing service demands. • Develop a mission and vision statement for urban forest management in the City that align with the goals in this Plan. • Share with City departments and stakeholders the progress made in implementing the Plan by using the Monitoring section's guidelines. Successes and shortcomings build awareness and supporting for changes to staffing and program structure(s). • Evaluate staffing and contractor resources required to effectively plant trees aligned with canopy goals and to provide post -planting care. • Determine the need for consolidating tree programs into one department, section, or division to improve efficiencies and levels of service. • Consider the need and framework for establishing a City section specific to managing natural areas and open space (e.g., wetlands, bottomlands, prairies). • Secure funding to implement a tree watering program for newly planted public trees. Continuously explore avenues to ensure diverse funding sources and advocate for increased operations and capital funding to address priority tree maintenance and care needs. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 186 ***Engagement, E) Community Education, and Stewardship A sustainable urban forest requires a shared commitment from the City and the community. We will instill and foster tree stewardship in our community through equitable and impactful community education and engagement STAKEHOLDER INPUTAND SUPPORT Participants reported a perception of conflicting policies and priorities regarding the City's trees. City departments, partners, developers, and the community must have a common understanding of the challenges and opportunities surrounding the urban forest to develop a shared vision for addressing them. A public communications plan stemming from a citywide coordinated effort was seen as a necessary step in bringing clarity to the roles of City departments involved with the urban forest and tree care. Half of the internal stakeholders engaged support bolstering community engagement and volunteer efforts. Goal El: Continue to achieve Tree City USA status and other industry recognitions. a) Continue to track program activities and budgets. b) Explore the opportunities and requirements for other recognition programs. Continue to track and annually report urban forestry activities of all partners and continue to maintain Arbor Day Tree City USA designation. Strive to continue to achieve Arbor Day Foundation Growth Awards and Sterling Tree City status. • Achieve an award from the American Public Works Association's Awards Program for innovative programs and outcomes resulting from this Plan. Conduct a follow-up benchmarking exercise toward year 10 of this Plan to compare program budgets and activities to other Tree City USA communities in the region. E) Community Education, Engagement, and Stewardship Page 187 Goal E2: Create and implement an engagement strategy for all demographics and stakeholders in the community. a) Identify and collaborate with stakeholders to draft the strategy. b) Implement the strategy as a coordinated effort. c) Review and adapt the strategy as changes occur. • Finalize a robust community outreach strategy and a communications plan to garner support, spur behavior change, and increase participation from the community. Use the data and recommendations from this Plan. • Increase outreach and marketing for improving and expanding tree canopy for the public good. • Implement the outreach strategy as a coordinated citywide effort by convening with other City departments and stakeholders. Gather input and feedback from the Urban Forestry Advisory Board. • As outlined in the community outreach strategy, gather input and feedback from the public regarding implementation of this Plan and changes to urban forestry programs. • Identify existing and potential partners and organizations to support the implementation of the community outreach strategy and support engagement that is inclusive and equitable. Goal E3: Provide inclusive program offerings such as events, education, and training to meet the needs of all. a) Implement programs and services through the lens of environmental justice. b) Coordinate with new and existing community and regional partners. c) Develop strategies to remove barriers to participation. • Use the outreach strategy from Goal E2 to identify community groups that represent all neighborhoods. • Identify low tree canopy neighborhoods for targeted engagement. • Coordinate with partners and secure funding for regular public events, training, and educational materials as outline in the outreach strategy. • Make the data and information from this Plan accessible to the public online. • Gather feedback for continual improvements to events, education, and trainings. DRAFT Fayetteville, AP Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 188 Implementation The framework of the goals and actions in the Urban Forest Management Plan provides the City of Fayetteville with the means to measure progress and adapt to an everchanging environment and availability of resources. Each of the goals align with the U.S. Forest Service's Urban Forest Audit System described and summarized in Section 2 of this Plan. The actions are intended to guide the City towards improvements in ranking for each of the nearly 130 elements within the 11 categories of urban forest management. As actions are implemented, the City may conduct new iterations of the Urban Forest Audit to gauge success, evaluate progress, and adjust accordingly. View the Evaluate section of the Monitoring Plan for more information. It is recommended the City utilize the expertise of the Urban Forestry Program and the Urban Forestry Advisory Board or establish an urban forestry working group to manage Plan implementation and monitoring. This team should coordinate the implementation of actions with the respective partners or collaborators. Based on the assessment of Fayetteville's urban forest resource, the programs that manage it, and the community that shapes and benefits from it, the following implementation schedule is recommended. Implementing the Plan in this manner will effectively and efficiently address the City's shared challenges and priorities using available resources. As the Plan progresses, more resources will become available to implement the longer -term actions. FAVITTIVOw.LE DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 190 IMPLEMENTATION SUMMARY I able 14. Urban Forest Management Plan implementation tables. A) Equitable and Resilient Canopy Cover We value and appreciate the benefits and services provided by the trees in our community. These benefits and services should be maximized and equitably distributed across the City by growing an urban forest that is sustainable and resilient to current and future challenges. Policy & Ordinances; Standards & Best Practices Goal Al: Increase tree canopy cover citywide beginning in priority areas and purchased land. a) Procure funding to purchase land for the City to preserve and plant trees. b) Review and refine the priority planting areas provided by the Plan. c) Continue to offer free trees to citizens. d) Plant 1,8S0 trees per year for 10 years and reassess citywide canopy cover. e) Coordinate with other City plans and programs. Review, refine, and finalize the canopy cover goals and planting priorities. Consider the status of recommendations outlined in the 2012 Urban Tree Canopy Assessment Report (see Table 9 in the Plan). Develop a neighborhood -level and citywide planting plan to achieve the canopy goals. Align efforts with the Climate Action Plan, Energy Action Plan, the 2023 Park and Recreation System Master Plan, and other initiatives. Fully integrate tree plantings into City projects. Use the recommendation to inform the annual tree planting plan for parks as recommended in Goal E3 of the 2023 Park and Recreation System Master Plan. Continue to offer tree care information especially in priority neighborhoods. Monitor progress toward achieving the canopy goals and planting targets. Reassess canopy cover citywide and by planning boundaries by 2029 for a 10-year canopy change assessment. Goal A2: Implement a cooperative tree planting program with businesses, institutions, organizations, neighborhoods, and property owners. a) Identify existing and potential stakeholders. b) Collaborate and share resources to identify program funding opportunities. c) Track progress and recognize successes. d) Conduct pilot programs to determine efficient ways to assist private land owners with tree plantings. Draft a list of existing and potential stakeholders with input from multiple departments. Organize workshops or seminars that focus on the importance of the program Create a task force or utilize the Urban Forestry Advisory Board to collaborate on program design, priority planting locations, funding, tree selection, and ongoing maintenance. Utilize data management software to track the plantings and recognize partnerships and program success possibly during Arbor Day celebrations. Goal A3: Plant trees that are resilient to current and future challenges such as climate change and tree pests. a) Use data and research to make decisions on approved tree species for planting. b) Select the right tree for the right site. c) Provide ongoing tree care and monitor the condition of tree plantings. Utilize the Climate Tree Atlas study in the Plan to adjust approve tree species lists. Evaluate the composition of the urban forest to inform changes to tree species selection for planting to maintain diversity. Provide watering and irrigation for public tree plantings. Enforce the post -planting regulations regarding maintenance within Chapters 167 and 177 of Fayetteville's Code of Ordinances. Implementation Page 191 B) Maintenance and Management We care for our trees and the citywide urban forest to ensure the benefits are available for current PrinciplGuiding We and future generations. Our operations and investments prioritize sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and equity. Green Asset Management; Tree Inventories; Tree Plans Goal Bl: Prioritize public tree maintenance and tree risk management. a) Assess the public tree population for maintenance needs and potential risks. b) Develop a public tree maintenance plan. c) Develop a plan for maintaining trees that are planted toward the canopy goal. d) Stay current with industry research, tools, technology, standards, and best practices. e) Focus on planting strategies and designs that produce long-lived trees. Periodically conduct sample inventories or windshield surveys of public trees to identify changes to maintenance and risk management priorities. Create annual work plans and seek funds to implement those plans using the actions within Goal D3. Goal B2: Reduce conflicts between trees and other infrastructure such as sidewalks and utilities. Goal B3: Manage harmful tree pests and diseases that are present or expected to impact the urban forest. a) Assess public trees for a) Identify the primary current and potential tree pests and infrastructure conflicts. diseases of concern. b) Identify existing and potential alternative solutions to infrastructure conflicts. c) Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders. d) Ensure trees are planted with the proper soil volume. Establish or improve protocols and checklists for evaluating current and potential infrastructure conflicts which includes potential alternative solutions to the conflict. Establish regular meetings and protocols with internal and external stakeholders for improved coordination during infrastructure and utility planning, design, construction, and maintenance phases. b) Provide information for identifying tree pests and diseases. c) Monitor public trees and the urban forest for tree pests and diseases of concern. d) Create a preliminary emerald ash borer (EAB) plan. Develop and implement an integrated pest management or plant health care plan for public trees. Integrate tree pest and disease education into the community education strategy (Goal El - E3). Goal B4: Conduct ongoing industry and professional training for City staff interacting with trees in Fayetteville. a) Identify the staff and training needs and secure the annual budget required. b) Conduct internal cross -training and document training materials and protocols. c) Consider offering or supporting training of volunteers and tree care professionals. Utilize free and available online trainings and materials where appropriate. Support the Urban Forestry Advisory Board in attending the free online Tree Board University program developed by the U.S. Forest Service. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 192 GoalsGoal Bl: Prioritize Continued public tree maintenance and tree risk management. Goal B2: Reduce conflicts between trees and other infrastructure such as sidewalks and utilities. Goal B3: Manage harmful tree pests and diseases that are present or expected to impact the urban forest. Goal B4: Conduct ongoing industry and professional training for City staff interacting with trees in Fayetteville. PriorityTrack maintenance Focus on education Expand the trainings Actionsrecords for public and technical to include Continued trees. Continue to add assistance with large considerations for assets and private landowners. youth and workforce management data to development. databases that track total asset management for more efficient maintenance planning. Acquire and maintain industry certifications and trainings for Urban Foresters. Continue to manage invasive plant species on public properties and within public rights -of -way. Support controlled burns to manage invasives and wildlife on public properties. Strengthen or establish public tree risk assessment and mitigation protocols. Develop a framework and approach to utilize more biomass resulting from public tree maintenance, removals, and post - storm cleanup. Expand efforts beyond mulching by including logs for wood products for local craftsmen. Implementation Page 193 C) Tree Preservation and Protection Our existing tree canopy cover and the investments made in planting and caring for the urban PrinciplGuiding Our forest are preserved through sound but fair policies and regulations that align with shared priorities in the City and best practices. Policy & Ordinances; Standards & Best Practices; Capacity & Training; Authority Goal Cl: Establish or update policies and practices to reduce the urban forest's vulnerability to tree pests, diseases, and climate change impacts. a) Quantify the urban forest's role in climate change mitigation. b) Maintain tree regulations to minimize urban forest vulnerabilities. Calculate the carbon sequestration, storage, and avoided carbon generated from the citywide urban tree canopy cover and the public tree population using industry tools such as i-Tree. Utilize the data to build support and inform climate -related plans. Goal C2: Update or amend tree - related ordinances to support the citywide canopy cover goal and other goals in the Plan. a) Monitor and track tree plantings and removals. b) Adopt a no -net -loss policy for public trees. c) Review and implement recommended changes to tree ordinances. Identify the departments, roles, and workflows (i.e., City Engineering and Transportation) and track public tree removals and plantings in a data management program. Goal C3: Monitor and enforce tree -related ordinances. a) Distribute information and resources regarding changes to tree regulations. b) Establish a formal protocol. c) Recognize exemplary tree preservation practices and projects. Update information on the City's website and in materials as tree regulations change. Update the Tree Preservation Analyze the potential causes for Consider developing a and Landscape Manual with canopy cover gains and losses as protocol for scheduled any changes to tree -related identified in the canopy inspections, random spot ordinances. assessments of four time periods. checks, recordkeeping, an on -site education. As needed, update tree lists that prioritize native and climate -resilient tree species. Consider updates based on the diversity of the urban forest and existing / potential pests and diseases. At minimum, maintain a list of prohibited tree species reflective of the latest research and concerns. Strengthen the mechanisms for tracking tree preservation, removals, plantings, mitigation, and canopy percentages for development projects. Use the tracking to inform potential changes to minimum canopy requirements for zoning designations as needed to support the canopy goal. Review and refine the tree ordinance evaluation worksheet completed as part of the Plan (see Appendix C). Gather feedback from internal and external stakeholders before significant changes to ordinances are made. For example, develop incentives to preserve existing canopy instead of opting for mitigation and consider updating the penalties for illegal removal of orotected trees. Develop a program that recognizes exemplary and innovative development projects that preserve and expand tree canopy cover. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 194 •. Goal Cl: Establish or update • -• policies and practices to reduce the urban forest's vulnerability to tree pests, diseases, and climate change impacts. Goal C2: Update or amend tree -related ordinances to support the citywide canopy cover goal and other goals in the Plan. Goal C3: Monitor and enforce tree -related ordinances. • Conserve open space and • protect areas of significant • -• riparian benefit, tree canopy, prairie, and other environmental resource through cluster development provisions, density controls, protective easements, and/or other development tools. Update design standards to be more accommodating to trees and the necessary soil volume while balancing the needs for development. Establish a policy for reassessing the citywide tree canopy cover at regular intervals to monitor the canopy goal. Implementation Page 195 D) Funding and Levels of Service The programs and staffing involved with the trees in our community have the resources necessary to meet current and future demands and challenges. Green Asset Management; Community Goal D1: Procure funding for the City to purchase land for tree preservation and planting and to achieve other City goals. a) Identify potential areas for land acquisition. b) Coordinate with partners for land acquisition and management. c) Lead by example and distribute information about the program. Review the priority areas for tree planting and preservation to identify opportunities for land acquisition. Consider vacant land as an initial step and utilize the City Plan 2040's Enduring Green Network map and data. Develop a multi -year program and allocate funding for land acquisition. Build support from land trusts and other organizations. Implement best management practices and share information for private landowners to learn about the opportunities for urban forest stewardship on their own property(s). Develop management plans for the properties purchased Goal D2: Increase funding to purchase trees to be planted and supporting infrastructure in support of the canopy cover goal. a) Identify the funding gap and funding source(s). b) Communicate the benefits of a robust planting effort. Goal D3: Evaluate the staffing levels, structure, and resources for tree -related programs and adjust as needed to meet the goals of the Plan and growing demands of the urban forest. a) Track and report program activities and Plan implementation progress. b) Analyze the organization of departments involved with trees in Fayetteville. c) Develop and implement a c) Conduct cost -benefit tree planting program aligned analyses and evaluate growing with the canopy goal. service demands. Determine the funding gap of planting 1,850 trees per year where 925 of those trees planted are led by the City. Quantify the benefits and services provided by the 1,850 trees planted per year to communicate the future value added to Fayetteville's ecosystem, community, and economy. Secure the necessary funding to meet the annual tree planting targets. Provide annual reports on canopy goal progress tojustify continued funding for tree plantings. Develop a mission and vision statement for urban forest management in the City that align with the goals in this Plan. Share with City departments and stakeholders the progress made in implementing the Plan by using the Monitoring section's guidelines. Successes and shortcomings build awareness and supporting for changes to staffing and program structure(s). Evaluate staffing and contractor resources required to effectively plant trees aligned with canopy goals and to provide post -planting care. Determine the need for consolidating tree programs into one department, section, or division to improve efficiencies and levels of service. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 196 •. Goal D1: Procure funding for • -• the City to purchase land for tree preservation and planting and to achieve other City goals. Goal D2: Increase funding to purchase trees to be planted and supporting infrastructure in support of the canopy cover goal. Goal D3: Evaluate the staffing levels, structure, and resources for tree -related programs and adjust as needed to meet the goals of the Plan and growing demands of the urban forest. • In the long-term, consider Coordinate with tree nurseries Consider the need and • utilizing land acquired for pilot the tree species for planting to framework for establishing a • -• projects such as testing new reduce costs and address tree City section specific to tree species for the region and species diversity goals. managing natural areas and in-house tree production (i.e., open space (e.g., wetlands, tree nursery). bottomlands, prairies). Secure funding to implement a tree watering program for newly planted public trees. Continuously explore avenues to ensure diverse funding sources and advocate for increased operations and capital funding to address priority tree maintenance and care needs. Implementation Page 197 E) Community Education, Engagement, and Stewardship A sustainable urban forest requires a shared commitment from the City and the community. We GuidingPrincipl_ will instill and foster tree stewardship in our community through equitable and impactful community education and engagement. Goal El: Continue to achieve Tree City USA status and other industry recognitions. a) Continue to track program activities and budgets. b) Explore the opportunities and requirements for other recognition programs. Continue to track and annually report urban forestry activities of all partners and continue to maintain Arbor Day Tree City USA designation. Strive to continue to achieve Arbor Day Foundation Growth Awards and Sterling Tree City status. Achieve an award from the American Public Works Association's Awards Program for innovative programs and outcomes resulting from this Plan. Conduct a follow-up benchmarking exercise toward year 10 of this Plan to compare program budgets and activities to other Tree City USA communities in the region. Community Goal E2: Create and implement an engagement strategy for all demographics and stakeholders in the community. a) Identify and collaborate with stakeholders to draft the strategy. b) Implement the strategy as a coordinated effort. c) Review and adapt the strategy as changes occur Finalize a robust community outreach strategy and a communications plan to garner support, spur behavior change, and increase participation from the community. Use the data and recommendations from this Plan. Increase outreach and marketing for improving and expanding tree canopy for the public good. Implement the outreach strategy as a coordinated citywide effort by convening with other City departments and stakeholders. Gather input and feedback from the Urban Forestry Advisory Board. As outlined in the community outreach strategy, gather input and feedback from the public regarding implementation of this Plan and changes to urban forestry programs. Identify existing and potential partners and organizations to support the implementation of the community outreach strategy and support engagement that is inclusive and equitable. Goal E3: Provide inclusive program offerings such as events, education, and training to meet the needs of all. a) Implement programs and services through the lens of environmental justice. b) Coordinate with new and existing community and regional partners. c) Develop strategies to remove barriers to participation. Use the outreach strategy from Goal E2 to identify community groups that represent all neighborhoods. Identify low tree canopy neighborhoods for targeted engagement. Coordinate with partners and secure funding for regular public events, training, and educational materials as outline in the outreach strategy. Make the data and information from this Plan accessible to the public online. Gather feedback for continual improvements to events, education, and trainings. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 198 MONITORING PLAN This Urban Forest Management Plan will be updated and revised periodically (i.e., every 10 years) to reflect changes in the urban forest resource structure and function, to incorporate changes in industry standards, to consider community response, and to measure the progress of the urban forest partners in implementing the recommendations and reaching the established goals. This process should be overseen by an urban forestry working group consisting of members from the community with an array of skill sets and background. Examples include the City's Urban Forestry Program, Urban Forestry Advisory Board members, other City staff, and stakeholders. Monitoring of the Plan should follow the Evaluate, Monitor, Report, and Revise methodology. Knowing how the City and its partners are doing will require a continual process of evaluation. This section presents examples of how to monitor, analyze, and revise the Plan, which will keep stakeholders informed of the status of the Urban Forestry Program. To monitor progress toward implementing the Plan recommendations, an evaluation similar to the U.S. Forest Service's Urban Forest Audit (details below in the Evaluate section) conducted to develop the initial Plan should be completed. This evaluation will identify progress and shortfalls compared to the baseline audit. In addition, a report card could be created based on outcomes of the audit and distributed to the public periodically. This will measure the progress toward implementing the Plan's actions. The Report section provides a suggested structure to measure and report success toward accomplishing each goal. Other indicators to measure progress may need to be developed to ensure a thorough and accurate evaluation. Figure 47. Summary of the Plan implementation and monitoring process. EVALUATE MONITOR BENCHMARKS nuoir � I REPORT CARD REPORT REVISE Implementation Page 199 EVALUATE The U.S. Forest Service's Urban Forest Audit System provides a framework for AUDIT routine evaluations of the urban forest, the programs that manage it, and the community that shapes and benefits from it. The deliverables to this Urban ' Forest Management Plan project include guidance for completing an update to the audit completed in 2023 to develop the Plan. This audit system consists of 11 categories of urban forest management, sustainability, and community. Within the 11 categories are approximately 130 subcategories or elements. Each element was ranked or scored based on the consultants' evaluations in 2023 for the Urban Forest Management Plan. It is recommended the City's urban forestry working group (or similar) complete a bi-annual audit to inform any alterations to actions and strategies. Table 15. Categories for evaluation using the U.S. Forest Service's Urban Forest Audit System. About the Urban Forest Audit 1) Management Policy and Ordinances The primary objectives of the audit are defined by 2) Professional Capacity and Training the Urban Forest Audit System authors and 3) Funding and Accounting adapted by the City's urban forestry consulting 4) Decision and Management Authority team to engage the full spectrum of the organizations' management team, provide program direction that increases the level of professionalism in management, conduct a gap analysis of management practices and the health of urban forests, provide strategic direction to improve the health of the urban forest, and optimize management for environmental justice and equitable distribution of resources. Urban Forest Audit Process The process of analyzing the urban forest involved extensive information and document gathering and research to identify policies, practices, programs, and standards pertaining to categories of urban forest sustainability and management as defined by Clark et al. (1997), Kenney et al. (2011), and the Forest Service. The categories are listed in the table above. Each category has a series of subcategories pertaining to the specific category. As an example, the subcategories listed on the right are in the Management Policy and Ordinances category: 5) Tree -related Inventories 6) Tree -related Plans 7) Risk Management 8) Disaster Planning 9) Standards and Best Practices 10) Community 11) Green Asset Management Table 16. List of subcategories within the Management Policy and Ordinances category of the audit. 1.01) Climate Change (Sustainability) 1.02) No Net Loss 1.03) Risk Management 1.04) Tree Canopy Goals 1.05) Tree Protection 1.06) Utility 1.07) Human Health 1.08) Wildlife Diversity/Habitat/Protection 1.09) Performance Monitoring 1.10) Private Tree Ordinances 1.11) Public Tree Ordinances 1.12) Development Standards 1.13) High -Conservation Value Forests 1.14) Urban Interface (WUI) DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 100 All available documents and plans were reviewed and tallied in the audit worksheet as part of the information discovery phase. Based on the evaluation of the documents and outcomes of all planning processes (i.e., research, City staff interviews, urban forest benchmarks, data analyses, and community engagement) each subcategory within the 11 categories was "ranked" using the following system: 0) Not Practiced - Component doesn't exist or is not practiced; 0 points 1) In Development - Component is in development as part of or aside from this Plan;1 point 2) Adopted Practice - Component is routinely practiced; 2 points 3) Exceeds Adopted Practice - The component is exceeded; 3 points The points were then totaled for an overall rating to provide a summary of the City's level of achieving each category of urban forest management and sustainability. Urban Forest Audit Results for Fayetteville Table 17.Outcomes of the urban forest audit completed in 2023 for Favetteville's Plan. 1 Management Policy, Ordinances 50% 67% 20 71% 2 Professional Capacity and Training 100% NA 16 89% 3 Funding and Accounting 75% NA 8 67% 4 Decision, Management Authority 50% 100% 5 63% 5 Tree -related Inventories NA 56% 17 65% 6 Tree -related Plans NA 50% 13 54% 7 Risk Management 83% 50% 14 78% 8 Disaster Planning NA 67% 9 64% 9 Standards and BMPs*** 75% 69% 44 73% 10 Community 100% NA 25 89% 11 Green Asset Management NA NA 16 80% *Standard of Care (SOC) elements represent the minimum group of urban forestry management "best practices" that a municipality should consider for implementation. SOC refers to the degree of prudence and caution required of an individual who is under a duty of care (i.e., legal obligation of the controlling authority, owner, or manager) to minimize risk. Neither state, regional, nor national minimum management components have been established for SOC but these are interim recommendations for consideration. (NA = not applicable) **Base Practices (BP) elements represent additional urban forest management activities or components that may effectively expand a program beyond the SOC group (see footnote above). These elements are typically precursors to other "non -core" elements in the category. (NA = not applicable) ***Best Management Practices (BMPs) Implementation Page 1 101 Urban Forest Audit Summary Discussion The main purpose of the urban forest audit is to apply the research and findings gathered throughout the planning effort to inform the Plan's goals, strategies, and actions. This audit or "gap analysis" enables the Urban Forestry Program to control different aspects of its program with data. This gap analysis identified the shortcomings that the Urban Forestry Program should overcome and by quantifying them, the program can make improvements. It also enables effective monitoring of Plan strategies in that the audit categories and elements can be revisited at key intervals in the Plan implementation process to measure progress and adapt strategies accordingly. For the comprehensive evaluation of all subcategories within the Urban Forest Audit, see Appendix B. The information provided in the table above describes the current conditions of Fayetteville's urban forest, the programs that manage it, and the community framework. As recommended in the Plan's monitoring methods, the City should use this framework to evaluate implementation progress, report successes, and inform changes to Plan actions. Many of the urban forest audit elements were given a rating of "In Development" as they previously did not exist but are addressed in this Urban Forest Management Plan. This means that the City is already well underway in advancing its program and its Urban Forest Audit score. 71% 89% _ 67% Im 63% = 65% 54% 78% - 64% 73% 89% 80% Figure 48. Results of the 2023 urban forest audit to utilize in Plan monitoring. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 102 MONITOR Measuring accomplishment of the actions will require ongoing analysis. BENCHMARKS The outcomes of the Urban Forest Audit System in the Evaluate section can be used to monitor change over time. These benchmark values should be tracked, and a state of the urban forest report should be prepared and distributed to the public every 2 to S years. Analysis may include an updated public tree inventory, i-Tree benefits analyses, or urban tree canopy assessments. The state of the urban forest report should include the benchmark values as reported in the Plan and the Urban Forest Audit System as of 2023, so that the City can measure and compare changes to the urban forest. The report should reflect changes to the audit system that are measured. The following table provides a summary of the benchmark values that can be used to monitor and report on Plan progress. Implementation Page 1 103 Primary Urban Forest Benchmark Values to Measure Plan Progress Table 18. Favetteville's orimary urban forest benchmark values to measure Plan progress. Tree Equity Score (2022) UTC Short-term Canopy Goals Long-term Canopy Goals Total Trees to Reach 10-year Goal Total Trees to Reach 30-year Goal City -led Tree Plantings to Reach Goals Total Public Trees (alive or dead) Total Public Street Trees Total Public Street Planting Sites Total Public Open Space Trees Citywide (UTC Assessment) Ecosystem Benefits of Public Trees Asset Value of Public Trees 87 out of 100 39.4% 39.9% by 2027 (1,850 trees/year) 40.6% by 2032 (1,850 trees/year) 44.4% by 2052 (3,000 trees/year) 18,500 trees by 2032 (1,850 trees/year) 91,000 trees by 2052 (3,000 per year avg.) 50% of total trees required (1,500 trees/yeas 42,000 (estimated) 25,000 TBD Unknown 2019: $76.5 million (total) 2022: $1.3 million (annual estimate) $6.8 million ($274 per tree average' Public Trees (street and park) per Capita 0.44 Budget per Capita $6.66 Budget per Public Tree (inventoried) $14.52 Urban Foresters (3 departments) 8.00 (2023) Total Public Trees per Staff 5,000 trees for every 1.0 FTE Public Trees Pruned Public Trees Removed Public Trees Planted Number of Volunteers and/or Hours Management Policy and Ordinances Professional Capacity and Training Funding and Accounting Decision and Management Authority Tree -related Inventories Tree -related Plans Risk Management Disaster Planning Standards and Best Management Practices Community Green Asset Management To be recorded at the end of the year To be recorded at the end of the year To be recorded at the end of the year To be recorded at the end of the vear 71% 89% 67% 63% 65% 54% 78% 64% 73% 89% 80% Tree -related priorities 62% want trees for shade Preference for improving public tree health 74% for setting canopy goals, 66% for more trees and preservation in development Where to prioritize future investments 70%for improved tree code for development DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 104 REPORT REPORT CARD Based on the evaluation of Plan implementation progress, the City's urban forestry working group (or similar) should track, record, and report on the metrics described below that are measures or indicators of success based on the Urban Forest Audit utilized in developing the Plan's goals. Table 19. Evaluation, monitoring, and reporting techniques to achieve the urban forestry goals. POLICY AND ORDINANCES Urban forest policies are the foundation for preserving the environmental benefits, resiliency, and the character of Fayetteville's urban forest. ■ List all City and partner -led planning efforts. ■ Describe related planning efforts. ■ Communicate citywide canopy goals and local planting targets. ■ List recommended changes to City Code, policies, and manuals. ■ Summarize a list of plans in which urban forestry is integrated. ■ Distribute any recommended tree list to city staff, partners, and residents. ■ Summarize updates made to tree -related ordinances, policies, and standards. ■ Report the number of permits received and approved. ■ Report the number of trees inspected. ■ Report the number of trees in the Amazing Trees of Fayetteville. ■ List audit score and actions/targets achieved, ongoing, and not started. CAPACITY, TRAI N I NG, AN D AUTHORITY Fayetteville has the capacity and expertise to provide optimal levels of service for sound urban forest management. ■ List the team members assembled to implement and monitor the Plan. ■ List the existing staff and supporting departments and partners. ■ Summarize roles and responsibilities of the Urban Forestry Advisory Board. ■ Describe existing and needed certifications, qualifications, and training. ■ Provide a count of the number of trainings completed. ■ Report the proportion of public trees to tree management staff. ■ Report the number of volunteers and volunteer hours. ■ Describe changes in levels of service based on community service requests. ■ Report the number of unattended tree maintenance and service requests. ■ List audit score and actions/targets achieved, ongoing, and not started. BUDGETAND FUNDING Funding and resources enable comprehensive and sustainable urban forest management for the preservation and enhancement of tree benefits. ■ Report the proportion of public trees to tree management staff. ■ Report the proportion of budget to the total public tree population. ■ Report the proportion of public trees to the City population. ■ Report the number of volunteers and volunteer hours. ■ List the unfunded urban forestry needs. ■ Report the budget, partner funding, permit revenue, and donations. ■ List audit score and actions/targets achieved, ongoing, and not started. Implementation Page 110S ASSESSMENTS AND PLANNING A thorough understanding of the urban forest ensures data -driven decisions, sustainable and comprehensive planning, and amplified tree benefits. ■ Report the number of trees inventoried. ■ Report the number of public trees planted, pruned, and removed. ■ Report the number of trees assessed for risk. ■ Report the value of the entire urban forest and public tree population. ■ Report the urban forest audit score and future audit scores. ■ Report the condition, structure, and diversity of public trees. ■ Provide a summary of existing tree canopy cover citywide and locally. ■ List the priority planting areas, canopy goals, and recommended species. ■ Report the assessment and planning efforts of partners. ■ Describe the high -value conservation and preservation areas. ■ List audit score and actions/targets achieved, ongoing, and not started. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Sustainable urban forest management and equity is achieved through a partnership with the City and its residents resulting in improved well-being, human health, and local economies. ■ List the existing and potential outreach platforms and initiatives. ■ List existing and potential partners. ■ Report the number of planting events and trees planted. ■ Report the history/count of Tree City USA and supporting awards. ■ Report the number of volunteers, events, and volunteer hours. ■ Report the number of city residents reached through messaging. ■ Report on the website user traffic. ■ Report the number of private tree plantings as feasible. ■ Report the number of trainings, workshops, and attendees. ■ Report the results of public surveys. ■ Recognize exemplary urban forest stewards. ■ Report on the activities of the Urban Forestry Advisory Board. ■ Report the activities of local partners as feasible. ■ List audit score and actions/targets achieved, ongoing, and not started. GREEN ASSET MANAGEMENT Fayetteville proactively manages the public trees, continues to grow and expand a healthy canopy, effectively mitigates climate change impacts, maintains public safety, and optimizes urban forest benefits. ■ Report the number of public trees pruned, removed, and planted. ■ Report on the public tree pruning rotation (i.e., number of years). ■ Provide a map of the trees prioritized for programmed pruning. ■ Report the number of trees managed for pests and diseases. ■ Provide an estimate on the amount of invasive plant species managed. ■ Report the number of trees planted to address tree equity, climate change. ■ Report the number of mitigation plantings and stormwater plantings. ■ Count the number of introduced tree species to combat climate change. ■ Report progress towards canopy goals and tree planting targets. ■ Provide a map of priority planting areas for upcoming year. ■ Report the volume of woody biomass utilized. ■ List audit score and actions/targets achieved, ongoing, and not started. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 106 REVISE ADAPT&REVISE Completion of this Plan is a critical step towards meeting the vision for 04074W Fayetteville's urban forest. Continual monitoring, analysis, and reporting will help to keep urban forest partners involved and focused on accomplishing the actions. Plans are typically revised every 10 to 15 years; hence, the Plan will need formal revision to respond and adapt to changes as they develop. Formal revision of the Plan should coincide with the update of the City's Comprehensive Plan, Park and Recreation System Master Plan, Energy Action Plan, Tree Preservation and Landscape Manual, climate/sustainability and stormwater plans, and other relevant planning efforts. Recommendations and goals of each should be compared. Revisions to the Plan should occur with major events, such as newly discovered pests or diseases, changes in program budget and resources, or significant changes to industry standards or legal codes. Figure 49. Example of the plan implementation, evaluation, and revision process. Years 1-5 Annual Action Plans and Reports Year 5 Urban Forest Audit and Plan Amendments Years 6-10 Annual Action Plans and Reports Applying the Urban Forest Audit to Revise the Plan Year 10 Urban Forest Audi and Plan Update The Urban Forest Audit can serve as the tool for the City to effectively Evaluate, Monitor, Report, and Revise the Plan as part of the implementation and monitoring protocols. As found in the 2023 Urban Forest Audit completed to develop the Plan, there are areas of urban forest management where the City is performing at a high level and other areas where improvements are needed. The goals and actions in the Plan address both these strengths and challenges. The following summarizes the relationship of the Plan's actions to the categories in the Urban Forest Audit. Each action in the Plan includes a reference to the Audit's category and subcategory (see Appendix B). Table 20. Summary count of the evaluations completed in the 2023 Urban Forest Audit. Zoiking Count y '. ot Tota 1) In Development 63 25% 49% 2) Adopted Common Practice 62 48% 48% Ol Not Practiced 4 0% 3% Out of the nearly130 elements (or subcategories) within the Audit, the majority (63 elements or 49%) ranked 1) In Development" followed by 62 (48%) elements ranked as "2) Adopted Common Practice". Most of the elements given the "In Development" ranking was a result of the outcomes from the Urban Forest Management Plan or the strategic actions within the Plan to be implemented. As the Plan is being implemented, the status or score of the categories within the audit should change. Implementation Page 1 107 Prop,,- Alo -%Alm Al 44, te. j p"filli p op a PW let -- a Ao irAk *A 4, 1 , r't Conclusion Trees are an integral part of the community and the ecological systems in which they exist. They provide significant economic, social, and ecological benefits, such as carbon sequestration, reduction of urban heat islands, energy savings, reduction of stormwater runoff, improvement of water quality, enhancement of human health and wellness, and increase the value of properties. Planting and maintaining trees help Fayetteville become more sustainable and reduce the negative impacts on the ecosystem from urban development. Trees are as necessary as water, infrastructure, and energy to sustain healthy communities. The health of the urban forest is directly linked to the health of the region. The Urban Forest Management Plan is a roadmap for a strategic approach to manage Fayetteville's urban forest. The Plan contains goals and supporting actions that are critical to the long-term vitality of the forest. However, in order for the Plan to actually have an impact on the forest resource, it requires stewardship and financial resources to begin implementation. Further, it needs to be institutionalized as a document requiring implementation with a sense of urgency to get things started. Completion of the Urban Forest Management Plan clearly demonstrates that City leadership understands that a healthy urban forest is critical to guaranteeing the long-term health and vitality of the community, and that it is not a luxury but an absolute necessity. In order to accomplish the goals, the City should consider the following commitments: Recognize that the trees of the urban forest are more than aesthetic enhancements. Recognize trees as the backbone of the urban ecosystem and an essential part of the community's green infrastructure. Promote the health and growth of the urban forest by following scientifically established best management practices for tree selection, planting, watering, and pruning. Promote a robust urban forest through policies and practices that reduce its vulnerability to known diseases or pest infestations, and future threats, including the anticipated effects of climate change. Engage in a continuous process of long-range planning for the growth and maintenance of the urban forest. V Promote public appreciation of the urban forest through educational outreach programs. Support local businesses, institutions, organizations, and individuals in their efforts to grow and maintain the urban forest through community education. Proceed in a manner that is inclusive and transparent. Successful implementation of actions in this Plan will bring Fayetteville to a higher level of service that is more equitably distributed across the City resulting in a sustainable and thriving urban forest that benefits all residents and future generations— ultimately achieving the Plan vision: Healthy Trees, Healthy City.• Our vision for Fayettevilles urban forest is to cultivate a thriving, diverse, and well -maintained tree canopy that enhances the livability, health, and sustainability of our community for current and future generations Conclusion Page 1 109 Pro - 44 All ,e�ndfc $ and ' Ref r Inces A-1 IN APPENDIX A. CANOPY GOALS AND PLANTING TARGETS Canopy Goal Assumptions Data from Fayetteville's tree canopy cover assessments (2019) and the American Forests Tree Equity Score (TES) tool was analyzed to identify a feasible canopy goal and to develop strategies to achieve it. The draft canopy goal was then refined through examinations of available land area, available resources, other ongoing city priorities, future land use, land ownership types, opportunities to mitigate urban heat, preservation of native prairie land, among other considerations. Using this integrated approach, the City of Fayetteville's ambitious and achievable goal is 44.4% tree canopy in 30 years— up from 39.4% based on 2019 imagery. To achieve this, the City and partners must preserve the existing canopy to the extent possible and increase its coverage by planting a total of 91,000 trees. These new trees would collectively grow the canopy throughout the City to an area equivalent to over 1,600 professional football fields and would provide additional ecosystem benefits in the amount of approximately $1.7 million annually once established. In addition, the 91,000 trees would sequester a total of13.6 million pounds of carbon annually. ❖ Existing tree canopy cover is based on imagery from 2019 with 2023 as the starting year. ❖ A no -net -loss strategy is sought, meaning the number of public trees removed along with removals on private property or through development are replaced. ❖ Trees that grow into large canopy trees are planted wherever feasible. In the 30- year timeframe though, it is assumed that overall, 60% of plantings will be large canopy trees at maturity, 30% of trees planted will be medium trees, and 10% will consist of small-statured trees at maturity. But, in the first 10 years, 20% of annual tree plantings could be two-inch caliper trees and the remaining 80% could be smaller plantings or seedlings if a plan is in place for post -planting care to ensure survival. ❖ The number of trees per year includes City -led, partner, volunteer, and private tree plantings. It is recommended the City plant 50% of the necessarytrees or approximately 925 trees per year for 10 years. ❖ The City will need to plant public street planting sites and consider converting impervious surfaces to planting sites and/or planting in parks and natural areas. ❖ Assumes a potential for young tree mortality post -planting (the standard is1%). ❖ $408 per tree is the average cost for contracted tree planting. ❖ Emphasis should be placed on planting native and highly adaptable trees that support strategies for climate resiliency and tree species diversity. Appendices and References Page j 111 Priority Planting Areas to Achieve Canopy Goals and Tree Equity Once the City finalizes local and citywide tree canopy goals, it is recommended to establish priority areas based on a variety of themes and community needs. Themes may include ownership type (public and private), areas of low existing tree canopy, Tree Equity Scores (Tree EquityScore.org), and greatest amount of available planting space while other themes may address air quality, stormwater reduction, water quality, and preserving native land cover (e.g., native prairie land). Others may evaluate opportunities to address disadvantaged areas, densely populated regions, loss due to development, and human health factors such as asthma cases, median age, and mental health. In any planting prioritization scenario, the scale may include U.S. Census Bureau Census Block Groups, Future Land Use Classes, neighborhoods, ownership (public, private, campus and institutional), and citywide. Using the results from the 2019 Urban Tree Canopy Assessment and an analysis of canopy change over four time periods and analyses in a Geographic Information System (GIS), a series of recommended prioritization techniques is provided. The description of the prioritization techniques and scenarios is provided below followed by a series of corresponding priority maps. ❖ Low Tree Canopy: It is important to understand the existing distribution of existing tree canopy across the City. This scenario shows Census Block Groups (CBGs) that are low in canopy cover (less than 35% canopy cover). ❖ Low Income and Tree Canopy: This scenario shows the CBGs with a high proportion of low-income populations and low amounts of tree canopy cover (less than 35%). ❖ Vulnerable and Exclusion Areas: Certain areas of the City may not be preferable to plant trees such as in native prairie land. Other areas are outside of the City's jurisdiction such as the University of Arkansas. And other areas such as easements have tree canopy that is vulnerable to change such as the removal of trees for a utility easement. ❖ Development and Future Land Use: With robust tree regulations in place, tree plantings in future land use areas can be considered to support a citywide canopy goal. ❖ Tree Equity: The American Forests' Tree Equity Score tool evaluates the correlation between tree canopy cover, surface temperatures, and socioeconomic data. Priority areas may include CBGs that have less than the citywide score of 87 out of 100. ❖ Percent People of Color: Redressing tree canopy cover inequities requires multiple facets of urban forest management though identifying canopy cover and the proportion of people of color within CBGs can assist in determining priority areas for plantings. ❖ Average Surface Temperature: Trees and green spaces have been proven to lower surface temperatures and mitigate urban heat island effects. Data from USGS Landsat 8 imagery, thermal bands. ❖ Health Risk Index: Research shows trees can improve human health through air quality improvements and encouraging physical activity. Priority areas are based on self - reported poor mental health, poor physical health, asthma, and coronary heart disease from the Centers for Disease Control. View the maps on the following pages for examples of the listed planting priority techniques. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 112 Priority Planting Maps by Theme Figure 50. Priority planting maps by planting theme. C ❑ City boundary ❑ Block Group boundary Block Groups with low income populations and low tree canopy 7 cover r - a V. Appendices and References Page 1 113 ❑ City boundary ■ Civic Institutional City Neighborhood ■ Residential Neighborhood ■ Rural Residential ■ Non -municipal Government ■ Urban Center ■ Civic & Private Open Space ■ Natural ■ Industrial ` s DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 114 ❑ r� ■E ■E ■Q Appendices and References Page l 115 n l'ity hni inrlary DRAFT Fayetteville, AP Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 116 APPENDIX B.2023 URBAN FOREST AUDIT RESULTS Urban Forest Audit Scoring Key Not Practiced (0) In Development (1) Adopted Practice (2) Table 21. Results of the 2023 Urban Forest Audit. Management Policy Climate Change Also referred to as Sustainability. With reference to urban trees. 1.01 (Sustainability) Addresses the long-term health and productivity of the natural resource. 1.02 No Net Loss Can refer to trees, basal area, or canopy. 1.03 Risk Management Should reference: ANSI A300 Part 9, ISA BMP, and prioritization funding mechanisms. 1.04 Tree Canopy Goals Overall community/campus goal, or by designated "zone". 1.05 Tree Protection Construction and/or landscape maintenance. 1.06 Utility Utility pruning, planting, and installation policy (e.g. boring vs. trenching). Recognizes and addresses the human health benefits of the Human Health - Physical & shade natural resource (e.g., exercise, air quality, stress management, 1.07 Psychological ) Could also include Urban Heat Island (UHI) policies. 1.08 Wildlife Mammals, birds, or reptiles. Diversity/Habitat/Protection Recognizes the annual or biennial calculation of metrics (e.g. 1.09 Performance Monitoring some component of ecosystem services) for the purpose of tracking management performance. 1.10 Ordinance (Private) Tree protection and management for trees on private property. 1.11 Ordinance (Public) Tree protection and management for public trees. US Green Building Council's LEED® rating systems (or similar internationally) 1.12 Development Standards LEED v4 BD+C (Sustainable Sites) LEED 4 ND (Neighborhood Pattern & Design, Green I of rastructu re) ASLA's SITES® Rating System High -Conservation Value Programs or policies for identification, acquisition, and/or 1.13 Forests protection of groups of trees or forests that provide unique public benefits. 1.14 Urban Interface (WUI) Programs or policies that improve management of the urban interface for fire and/or invasive species. Appendices and References Page 1 117 Capacity and Training 2.01 Certified Arborist - Staff International Society of Arboriculture 202 Certified Arborist - International Society ofArboriculture Contracted 2.03 Certified Arborist - Other International Society ofArboriculture Resource Other Professional - This could be a professional in an allied field like Landscape 2.04 Advising/directing OF Architecture. management 2.05 Municipal Forestry Graduate of Society of Municipal Arborist's MFI program or Institute similar 2.06 USFS Urban Forestry Attendance at USFS UFI or similar Institute or similar Campus/city arborist - ISA 2.07 CA instructor for CEUs Arborist routinely provides ISA CEU presentations/workshops. 2.08 Tree Board University or On-line training modules from Oregon U&CF for Tree similar Board/Advisory Council or similar Organizational Process, procedures, and protocol for cross -professional 2.09 Communications communications within the organization (all departments "touching" trees). DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 118 Funding and Accounting 3.01 Budgeted Annually Budget authorized/required for tree board, tree maintenance, and/or tree planting. Contingency Budget A protocol is in place to prioritize urban forestry management 3.02 activities during budget shortfalls; e.g. during times of limited Process funding for:') risk management, ')young tree care, 3) mulching. 3.03 Funding Calculated from Budget in terms of per capita, per tree, or for performance (e.g. Community Attribute per tree weighted by size class or age. 3.04 Funding Based on Budget connected with/based on ecosystem service (ES) Performance Monitoring monitoring and performance. 3.05 Urban Forestry Line Item Is the budget specific to urban forest management? Maintain green infrastructure data in the "unaudited 3.06 Green Asset Accounting supplementary disclosure of an entity's comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR) . GASB 34 implementation for municipalities. Authority Professional urban forest manager with authority over the 4.01 Urban Forest Manager program and day-to-day activity. Including designated budget line item. 4.02 Staff Authority Designated staff with authority over the program and day-to-day activity. Including designated line item. Established protocol and mechanism(s) for communication among all members of the urban forest management 4.03 Communication Protocol "community" in your municipality or organization (e.g. manager, department under control, advisory board, finance, field operations, public, NGOs, business community, developers). 4.04 Tree Board, Commission, Establishes a board for public participation (advisory or with or Advisory Council authority). Appendices and References Page 1 119 Tree -related Inventories 5.01 Canopy Inventory (UTC) Periodic (<_5 year) canopy inventory and assessment. Public & private. Recent (<_5 year) ecosystem services (ES) inventory & assessment? 5.02 Ecosystem Services Public: 100% or street trees; Public & Private: Sample; or Campus. Or, are ES calculated annually or biennially based on partial re - inventory and projected growth as a monitoring tool. 5.03 Public Trees Evaluate below 5.04 Street Trees Is there a recent (5 year) inventory? 5.05 Parks/Riparian Areas Is there a recent (5 year) inventory? 5.06 Other Public Trees Public facility landscaped areas, Industrial parks, green space. Partial re -inventory to support continuous forest inventory, Continuous inventory on a growth projections, 5.07 cycle (<_5 years; i.e. panel) and the calculation of ecosystem services for the purpose of long- term monitoring of urban forest management performance (e.g. carbon or leaf surface). 5.08 Private Trees Evaluate below 5.09 Campus (Educational) Is there a recent (5 year) inventory? 5.10 Corporate Is there a recent (5 year) inventory? 5.11 Other Private Property Is there a recent (5 year) inventory? Continuous inventory on a Partial re -inventory to support continuous forest inventory, 5.12 cycle (<_5 years; i.e. panel), growth projections, and the calculation of ecosystem services for inventory software the purpose of long-term monitoring of urban forest management performance (e.g. carbon or leaf surface). 5.13 Green Stormwater BMP stormwater mitigation practices and locations (e.g. Infrastructure (GSI) Washington DC) Inventory data includes Lat/Long (i.e. GIS). Should address the spatial relationship between the natural resource and people (i.e. 5.14 Spatial residents, visitors, activities) that would help manage the resource for benefits associated with proximity (air quality, recreation, stress mitigation, improved educational opportunity). Maintenance and Planting Planting details (nursery, species, size, cost, contractor, etc.) 5.15 maintained with inventory or as separate database or Records Maintained recordkeeping system. Also pruning and removal histories. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 120 Tree -related Plans 6.01 Annual Maintenance An annual calendar that defines typical activity by season. To Calendar support scheduling. 6.02 Public Trees Evaluate below 6.03 Street Tree Management Is there a recent (5 year) plan for street trees? 6.04 Parks/Riparian Area Management 6.05 Other Public Trees 6.06 Private Trees 6.07 WE Is there a recent (5 year) plan ? Public facility landscaped areas, Industrial parks, green space. Evaluate below Campus (Educational) Is there a recent (5 year) plan for Campus trees? Corporate Is there a recent (5 year) plan? 6.09 Other Private Property Is there a recent (5 year) plan? 6.10 Green Infrastructure Is there a plan for green infrastructure (i.e. nodes & linkages)? Large-scale projects. 6.11 Other Written Plans Other natural resource plans (e.g. tree canopy). May be a component of another plan. 6.12 Tree Planting Is there a recent (3 year) tree planting plan? ). May be a component of another plan. 6.13 OF as Part of a Is any OF management plan referenced in the comprehensive Comprehensive Plan plan (i.e. county or municipality) or master plan (i.e. Campus)? Criteria and indicators based on A Model of Urban Forest Urban Forest Planning and Sustainability(Clark, J.R., Matheny, N.P., Cross, G., and Wake, V. 6.14 Management Criteria and 1997 Journal of Arboriculture.) or on work of W.A. Kenney, P.J.E. Performance Indicators van Wassenaer, and A.L. Satel in Criteria and indicators for strategic urban forest planning and management. (2011) Appendices and References Page 1 121 Risk Management 7.01 7.02 7.03 7.04 7.05 7.06 TRAQ Attained At least one staff or consultant is TRAQ. Annual Level 1 (ANSI A300 All trees in high occupancy areas visited annually. Part 9 & ISA B M P) Mitigation Prioritization A protocol for prioritizing mitigation following Level 1 and Level 2 assessments. Reflects the controlling agency's threshold for risk. Occupancy Areas Mapped Has TRAQ staff/consultant discussed/mapped occupancy levels with controlling authority? A process has been put in place to maintain records on requests, Recordkeeping, Reporting, inspections, evaluations, and mitigation of risk; and on the and Communications communications among the managers related to those risk assessments. Standard of Care Adopted Controlling authority has adopted a Standard of Care (SOC) or risk management policy. Is there a written specification that meets requirements of ANSI 7.07 Tree Risk Specification A300 (Part 9)? And, has it been discussed with the controlling authority with relevance to the controlling authority's threshold for acceptable risk? 708 Urban Tree Risk The community has prepared and follows a comprehensive Management program for urban tree risk management. 7.09 Invasive Management Plan to address and manage invasive: plants, insects, and disease. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 122 Disaster Planning 8.01 8.02 8.03 8.04 : •. Response/Recovery Staff knowledge of the municipality's protocol for requesting Mechanism disaster resources through the county or state with access to mutual aid and EMAC. Urban Forestry as part of The OF plan (8.3) is incorporated into the county/municipal the County Disaster Plan disaster plan; specifically in reference to debris management and risk mitigation. Urban Forestry Disaster A separate/specific plan within the urban forestry management Plan program (i.e. who to call, priorities). Pre -disaster Contracts Contracts are in place for critical needs. Mitigation Plan A mitigation plan has been developed for pre -disaster, recovery, and post -disaster. EMAC Mission Ready Municipality has published disaster resources with state EM and Packages (MRP) Participates in inter -state Mutual Aid to support Urban Forest StrikeTea ms (UFST). Urban Forest Strike Team Participation in the UFST project. Appendices and References Page 1 123 Standards and Best Management Practices Reference and adherence to ANSI Standards for arboricultura1 9.01 ANSI Standards practices (A300), safety (Z133), or Nursery Stock (ANSI Z60.1) (any or all). 9.02 Specific management for the development of an age -diverse Ages/Diameter Distribution tree population 9.03 Arborist Standards Standards of practice for arborists (i.e. Certification). 9.04 Best Management Establishes or references tree maintenance BMPs (i.e. written Practices (BMPs) comprehensive standards & standards). 9.05 Fertilization and Mulching Fertilization or mulching standards required for conserved & planted trees. 9.06 Lightning Protection BMP written to the ANSI A300 Standard. Systems 9.07 Planting Planting and transplanting standards required/specified. 9.08 Pruning Pruning standards required for conserved & planted trees. 9.09 Removal Infrastructure damage, stump grinding, etc. 9.10 Support Systems (Guying BMP written to the ANSI A300 Standard. and Bracing) 9.11 Tree Risk Tree risk assessment procedures; ISA BMP or equivalent. Construction Management Written standards for: tree protection, trenching/boring in CRZs, 9.12 Standards pre -construction mulching, root or limb pruning, watering (any or all). 9.13 Design Standards Standards for design that specifically require trees; standards for tree placement (i.e. location), soil treatment, and/or drainage. 9.14 Genus/Species Diversity Suggests or requires diversity of plant material. 9.15 Green Stormwater BMPs for site level GI practices like rain gardens and swales. Infrastructure (GSI) Small-scale projects. 9.16 Inventory Data Collection Community has adopted or developed applicable standards for local urban tree inventory data collection to support QA/QC. 9.17 Minimum Planting Volume Minimum required root zone volume. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 124 Standards and Best Management Practices (continued) 938 Minimum Tree Size Minimum caliper for tree replacements, and/or minimum size of existing trees to receive tree density or canopy credit. 9.19 Root Protection Zone (CRZ) Defines adequate root protection zone; Critical Root Zone (CRZ). 9.20 Safety Safety logs, trainings, reference to ANSI Z133 Safety Standard 9.21 Topping Prohibits topping or other internodal cuts (public & private). Identifies and publishes a list of the most desirable, 9.22 Tree Species List recommended, and/or preferred species (may include native and non-native species); alternatively, a list of species prohibited. 9.23 Tree Quality Standards Written standards for tree selection at nursery in addition to Z60.1. 924 Utility Right -of -Way ( ROW) Requirements for planting, pruning, and/or removal of trees Management within a utility ROW. 9.25 Urban Agriculture Enabled urban food forestry practices. 9.26 Wood Utilization Larger diameter material is processed for wood products. 927 Third -party forest products Examples: American Tree Farm System (ATFS), Forest certification compliance Stewardship CouncilTM (FSC®). Local or regional use of chips or other woody debris for co- 9.28 Energy generation generation facilities (an efficient process that uses one fuel to generate two types of energy— electrical and thermal). 9.29 Composting of Leaf and/or Leaves and small woody debris are captured and used on -site or Other Woody Debris processed by someone by composting for reuse. 9.30 Watering Standards Appendices and References Page 1 125 Community Does your community/campus use social media platforms or 10.01 Social Media Website or similar to document and publicize your urban forestry program, Similar activity, or events? 10.02 Education The urban forest is used as an educational laboratory for class activity; Kids in the Woods, PLT, high school, or college level. 10.03 Private Property Tree Does your community sponsor this program locally? Program Public -facing Tree Public access to the community tree resource via an on-line 10.04 Inventory and mapping program (i.e. any Web Map Service; WMS). Management Software Is public management consistent with private property 10.05 Public Perception requirements for tree protections and care? Does the Campus/public tree management reflect neighborhood norms? 10.06 Recognition Programs Programs that raise awareness of trees or that use trees to connect the community to significant events or activities. 10.07 Arbor Day Celebration Whether or not associated with Tree City USA. 10.08 Arboretum designation Internal or third party arboretum designation. 10.09 Significant trees For example: size, history. Tree planting or tree care programs than honor/memorialize 10.10 Memorial/Honorarium individuals, organizations, or events. 10.11 Social Media Does your community/campus make use of Twitter, Facebook, Blogs for internal or external outreach? 10.12 Active Communications Press releases, regular news articles (print), "State of the Urban Forest" reports, periodic analysis of threats and opportunities. 10.13 Tree Care Are volunteers trained and used for basic tree care (e.g. mulching, pruning, planting). 10.14 Tree Campus USA®, Tree Community/campus meets current qualifications for any of these City USA®, Tree Line USA® programs. 10.15 Volunteer Opportunities Ad hoc or scheduled. Any/all age groups. Tree Campus USA student activities. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 126 Green Asset Management 11.01 Deadwood Look for evidence of periodic or ad -hoc deadwood removal (i.e. lack of dead limbs >_ 2" in the trees or on the ground). No genera exceed 20% of population; make specific observations 11.02 Genus Diversity for Acer, Quercus, Fraxinus, Uimusand other local species of concern. 11.03 Mature Tree Care Mature trees are retained in the landscape, and are of acceptable risk; i.e. veteran tree management. 11.04 Mulching Evidence of adequate (i.e. spatial extent, depth, and material) roots zone mulching for all age classes. 11.Os Planting Site Volume Are species & sites matched for optimization of above ground Optimization canopy; right tree in the right spot concept. 11.06 Rooting Volume Are species & sites matched for optimization for below ground Optimization rooting volume; right tree in the right spot concept. No species/cultivars exceed 10% of population; make specific 11.07 Species Diversity observations for Acer, Quercus, Fraxinus, Uimusand other local genera of concern. Also evaluate the role of regionally local native species. Observe evidence of soil compaction by users or staff during 11.08 Soil Compaction maintenance. Include "desire" lines and construction activity at time of evaluation. 11.09 Tree Health Rate the overall tree health in all size (age) classes; look for crown dieback, decay, foliage density & color. Look for evidence of periodic (e.g. every 3 years to year 9) 11.10 Young Tree Pruning structural pruning (e.g. subordination cuts, dominant central leader, co -dominant stems lower that 20'). Appendices and References Page 1 127 APPENDIX C. TREE ORDINANCE EVALUATION The following considerations are provided for Chapter 167 Tree Preservation and Protection and Chapter 177 Landscape Regulations of Fayetteville's Code of Ordinances. The evaluation is based on a checklist shown in the table on the following page. Considerations for changes may also pertain to City design standards, protocols, and manuals such as the Fayetteville Tree Preservation and Landscape Manual (referred to as the Tree Manual in this section). Based on this approach, the following summary provides the City with considerations for tree regulation changes in the future. ❖ Prior to any significant change(s) to tree ordinances, it is recommended that the City engage with internal and external stakeholders and the general public to gather input and feedback. ❖ Include references to the Urban Tree Canopy (UTC) assessments and the amount of tree canopy cover (39.4% based on 2019 imagery) and associated ecosystem benefits. Begin by updating section 167.01 Purpose and section 177.01 Purpose with these references and expand on the purpose to include the benefits of trees in mitigating climate change and other benefits and services not currently listed such as the human health and social benefits. ❖ Consider creating a section within Chapter 167 ("Definitions") that specifically defines and clarifies urban forestry -related terms. An example of a clarification could include descriptions and criteria for "significant trees", "priority trees" (listed in section 167.04.E.3), and trees within the "Tree Registry". As an alternative, the definitions could be listed in the Tree Manual and referenced in Chapter 167. ❖ Identify changes to resources needed to provide adequate staffing for administration, monitoring, and enforcement of tree -related ordinances. Update Code language accordingly. ❖ Consider a more nuanced approach to tree mitigation requirements for private development. For example, large mature and/or specimen trees that are approved for removal should have a greater requirement in terms of mitigation, replacement plantings, and/or fees. Explore mitigation and penalties for the unauthorized removal of private protected trees (Chapter 167) and public trees (Chapter 177). Periodically review and update canopy goal requirements as needed. ❖ Gather feedback to determine if any changes are necessary for public and private tree variances to the regulations. Develop incentives and regulations for projects to meet the canopy cover requirements (%'s) rather than defaulting to mitigation. ❖ During the periodic update to the Tree Manual, review the recommended tree species for planting and revise as needed based on the latest research and goals for tree species diversity. Periodically revisit the invasive plant species list in section 177.09 of Fayetteville's Code of Ordinances and update as needed based on the latest research, presence of species of concern, and the emergence of favorable habitats for new invasives to the region due to changing climates. ❖ Clarify roles and responsibilities for public street trees planted as part of private development projects (Chapter 177). Consider updating regulations for public street trees that are not planted as part of private development projects. ❖ Clarify regulations for trees in proximity or in conflict with overhead utilities. ❖ Review the evaluation table on the following page to finalize a scope of potential changes to tree -related ordinances. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 128 Table 22. Tree ordinance evaluation checklist. Source: PlanIT Geo. Priority Level Key:1 = High Priority, 3 = Low Priority "-" = adequate regulations in place Credentials Requires certified arborist for paid X 167.07 private tree work Requires certified arborist for public X 167.07 tree work Requires licensing of private tree X 167.07 care firms Defines official authority for public X Throughout tree management Ch. 177 *bh Public Tree Management and Protection Establishes/authorizes Urban X Throughout Forester to regulate public trees Ch.177 Establishes/Authorizes City position (e.g., Mayor, City X Administrator, DPW Director) to regulate public trees Requires annual public tree work plans Identifies formula for determining monetary tree value Establishes responsibility for public tree maintenance (e.g., City, X (Limited) adjacent property owner) Requires regular public tree maintenance Requires particular types of maintenance (e.g., pruning) Requires adherence to ANSI A300 standards and best management practices Establishes permit system for work on public trees Establishes provisions for penalties for non-compliance X (Limited) Defines the auth 177.02.13 and role of the U Forestry Advisory Chapter 177 does not 177.05 define responsibility 177.10 beyond those street trees planted as part of private development Provided only for street 177.10 trees planted as part of private development (3 yea rs) X 167.06.A X 167.06.A 1 1 3 2 Appendices and References Page 1 129 Requires post -planting care for tree survival and establishment Public Tree Management and Protection (continued) Restricts public tree removal X 167.06.0 Permit or approval required for tree removal, pruning or excavating near public trees Prohibits damage to public trees "Damage" should be (e.g., attaching ropes, signs, wires, X 177.01 defined and prohibited rather than "remove and chemicals, storing materials, 167.06.D replace damaged excavation etc.) landscape" Restricts burning of solid wood waste Establishes a wood utilization program Establishes an insect/disease control strategy Defines tree maintenance requirements on public property Prohibits tree topping Regulates abatement of hazardous or public nuisance trees Regulates removal of dead or diseased trees Tree Fund X (Limited) 177.10 X 167.06.E X 167.08 X 167.08 X (Limited) 177.10.A.S.b ublic Tree Planting Regulates tree species which may or may not be planted on private X 167.04.1.6 property (approved tree list) Requires replacement of removed X (Limited) 177.01 publicly owned trees Regulates tree species which may Revisit species list ,677.0 or may not be planted on public X 16 periodically and update property (approved tree list) .0as needed 177.10 Should apply to all street X (Limited) 167.10 trees not just street trees from development Address pests/diseases of concern. Consider ability to remove diseased trees on private property if a hazard Only applies to street trees as part of private development Only applies to street trees as part of private development. Consider adjusting $2S0 fee -in -lieu and $42S3-year maintenance fees to align with industry and comparable cities' rates Update periodically based on research and trends Only applies to private development street trees 1 3 2 1 1 1 2 3 DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 130 Private Tree Protection and Preservation Requires tree planting around X 177, 167.04 reconstructed parking lots Ch.167 Table 1 Requires tree plantings around X 167.04 Required for lots with 5 or new parking lots Ch. 167 Table 1 more spaces Plantings are regulated in Requires tree plantings around new X 167.04.1.4 terms of canopy retention developments Ch.167 Table 1 and high or low priority canopy Consider fees / fines for Restricts tree removal on private X (Limited) 167.04.L.3 violation(s). Only property restricted in tree preservation easements Permit or approval required for tree X (Limited) 167.04 Only restricted in tree removal on private property preservation easements Requires preservation of trees Mitigation is an option during development on private X 167.04 and should be a last property resort to preservation Prohibits damage to X 167.05 preserved/protected trees Prohibits damage or removal of Mitigation is the only trees on another person's property X (Limited) 167.05 penalty though. Consider changes Inventory of trees on site required X 167.04 Requires a preservation plan Identification of forests/woodlands X 167.04 required Revisit periodically to Specific species and/or size of trees determine if sizes reflect regulated (e.g., heritage/significant X (Limited) 167.04.E species significance and trees) value. Needs more protection in Code Location of Critical Root Specification provided in Zone/Dripline required X 167.05 Tree Preservation and Landscape Manual Table 1 Consider updating Minimum canopy coverage X 167.04.0 canopy requirements requirement set using the canopy assessment data and canopy goals as needed 3 2 Appendices and References Page 1 131 Private Tree Protection and Preservation (continued) Identification of riparian buffers, X 167.04.E.2 natural areas, preservation zones Tree protection/preservation plan rX 167.04 required i red Identification of prohibited activities X 167.05 Also in Tree Preservation in dripline/critical root zone and Landscape Manual 167.04.H.2 Tree protection fencing required X 167.04.H.3 Chain link or orange 167.05. B fence required Location/type of other tree protection measures (e.g., root pruning, aeration, vertical 167.04.H.2 mulching, trunk/soil protection, X 167.04.H.3 irrigation,) on development plans 167.05.13 (e.g., site plans, construction plans, etc.) On- and off -site mitigation offered, fee -in - lieu toward Escrow Provide incentives for tree X (Limited) 167.04.1 account. Reevaluate for preservation 167.04.J additional incentives to preserve canopy rather than mitigate. No credits considered Landscape plan with proposed landscaping and mitigation trees to X 167.04 be planted Requires Grading plan to include X 167.04.A.10 protected/preserved trees Consider referencing industry standards for utility pruning and to consult with Urban Utility plan with trees to include X (Limited) 167.06.J Forester for pruning or protected/preserved trees removing trees encroaching utilities (above and below ground, including proposed lights) 1 1 DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 132 Private Tree Protection and Preservation (continued) Consider a 2:1 replacement ratio for significant specimen Tree planting requirements for removal of regulated trees X 167.04.0 special /priority trees or - mitigation that is based on the diameter inches of tree(s) removed Determine if Escrow Fee in Lieu of planting mitigation Account fee per tree trees X 167.04.J.4 required and 3-year maintenance fee is adequate Tree mitigation survival Binding 3-year requirements X 167.10 maintenance and - monitoring plan New tree planting survival Binding 3-year requirements X 167.10 maintenance and monitoring plan No penalties, fees, or Fine for removal of regulated trees fines listed. Only tree mitigation (planting) currently Penalties established for damage and removal of preserved/saved fines listed trees Bonding utilized to discourage tree removals A tree bond requires a land developer to deposit a certain amount of money with the local authority during development. If the identified tree or trees are not present and healthy after the development, the funds are forfeited. Tree Fund X 167.04.J.4 City's Tree Escrow 1 1 1 Appendices and References Page 1 133 REFERENCES Abbot, J., Hartel, D., Kidd, S., Macie, E., Mitchell, C., "Urban Forest Sustainability and Management Review" spreadsheet developed by Urban Forestry South (USDA Forest Service, Region 8, SRS-4952, Athens, GA. Original checklist develop in cooperation with Agnes Scott College Office of Sustainability, the ASC Arboretum Advisory Council, and the City of Austin, TX, 2015. Alliance for Community Trees. 2011. Benefits of trees and urban forests: A research list. www.actrees.org. Brook, R. D., Rajagopalan, S., Pope, C. A., Brook, J. R., Bhatnagar, A., et al., Particulate matter air pollution and cardiovascular disease: An update to the scientific statement from the American Heart Association, National Library of Medicine, June 2010. Clark, J. R., Matheny, N. P., "A Model of Urban Forest Sustainability: Application to Cities in the United States." Journal of Arboriculture 24(2): pp.17-30, March 1997. Drescher, M. "Urban heating and canopy cover need to be considered as matters of environmental justice." National Library of Medicine, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), December 2019; 116(52):26153-26154. Environmental Protection Agency, What Climate Change Means for Arkansas, EPA 430- F-16-006, August 2016. Fahrig, L. (2003). Effects of habitat fragmentation on biodiversity. Annual Review of Ecology Evolution and Systematics, 34, 487-515. Fowler, A. (Ed) 2015. Arkansas Wildlife Action Plan. Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Little Rock, Arkansas.1678 pp. Hauer, R., Petersen, W., "Municipal Tree Care and Management in the United States: A 2014 Urban & Community Forestry Census of Tree Activities." 2016. Iverson, L.R., Peters, M.P., Prasad, A.M., and Matthews, S.N. (2019). Analysis of Climate Change Impacts on Tree Species of the Eastern US: Results of DISTRIB-II Modeling. Forests.l0(4): 302. https://doi.org/10.3390/f10040302. Keet, C. A., Matsui, E. C., McCormack, M. C., Peng, R. D., Urban residence, neighborhood poverty, race/ethnicity, and asthma morbidity among children on Medicaid, Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 140, Issue 3, 2017, Pages 822-827, ISSN 0091- 6749. Kellert, S.R., Wilson, E.O.1993. The Biophilia Hypothesis. Island Press, Washington, DC. 484 pp. Kim Y. J., Kim, E. J. Neighborhood Greenery as a Predictor of Outdoor Crimes between Low and High -Income Neighborhoods. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020 Feb 25;17(5):1470. Konijnendijk, C., "Promoting health and wellbeing through urban forests - Introducing the 3-30-300 rule, Linkedln, February 2021. Leahy, I. (2017). Why We No Longer Recommend a 40 Percent Urban Tree Canopy Goal. American Forests, americanforests.org. Accessed January 2023. McPherson, G.E., 2016. Structure, function and value of street trees in California, USA. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening 17 (2016) 104-115. DRAFT Fayetteville, AR Urban Forest Management Plan 2023 Page 1 134 Mihandoust, S., Joseph, A., Kennedy, S., MacNaughton, P., Woo, M. Exploring the Relationship between Window View Quantity, Quality, and Ratings of Care in the Hospital. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Oct 12;18(20). Miller, R. W. (1988). Urban Forestry: Planning and Managing Urban Greenspaces. New Jersey: Prentice Hall. Miller, R. W., Hauer, R. J., & Werner, L. P. (2015). Urban Forestry: Planning and Managing Urban Greenspaces, Third Edition. Northwest Arkansas Regional Planning Commission (NWARPC). Regional and Community Planning. Accessed February 2023, nwarpc.org. Pontius, R. and M. Millones. 2011. Death to Kappa: birth of quantity disagreement and allocation disagreement for accuracy assessment. International Journal of Remote Sensing. 32,15: 4407-4429. Richards, N. A.1983. "Diversity and Stability in a Street Tree Population." Urban Ecology 7 (2):159-171. Richards, N.A.1993. Reasonable guidelines for street tree diversity. Journal of Arboriculture 19:344-349. Saunders, D. A., Hobbs, R. J., Margules, C. R., Conservation Biology, Volume 5, No.1, pp. 18-32. "Biological Consequences of Ecosystem Fragmentation: A Review." March 1991. Taylor, A. F., Kuo, F. E., "Children With Attention Deficits Concentrate Better After Walk in the Park," Journal of Attention Disorders 12.5 (2009): 402-409. Ulmer, J.M.; Wolf, K.L.; Backman, D.R.; Tretheway, R.L.; Blain, C.J.; O'Neil -Dunne, J.P.; Frank, L.D. Multiple health benefits of urban tree canopy: The mounting evidence for a green prescription. Health Place 2016, 42, 54-62. Wolf, K. L., Lam, S. T., McKeen, J. K., Richardson, G. R. A., van den Bosch, M., Bardekjian, A. C., "Urban Trees and Human Health: A Scoping Review." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, June 2020. Woods & Poole Economics, Inc., Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Statistical Area Data Pamphlet, Washington County, Arkansas. Accessed February 2023, woodsandpoole.com. Appendices and References Page 1 135 CITY OF FAYE-FTEVI LLE, AR DRAFT URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN OCTOBER 2023 CITY OF 10 FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS ;J / W PIanIT Geo" developers of TreePlotter