College Park Loses 8 Acres of Tree Canopy Over a Decade: Insights from a New Assessment

In recent years, College Park has experienced a concerning decline in its tree canopy, losing over eight acres of tree coverage across its residential areas according to dbknews. This is a significant issue that demands our attention, not just as residents but as stewards of our environment.

storm and treePhoto byframe harirakonUnsplash

When the College Park City Council met to discuss the results of a recent tree canopy assessment, it was clear that the city's tree coverage had suffered. This isn't just about losing trees; it's about losing the benefits they provide—cleaner air, reduced rainwater runoff, and the natural beauty that makes our neighborhoods livable.

The assessment, which analyzed data from 2009 to 2020, revealed that the city's tree canopy in residential areas has shrunk by one percent. While this might seem like a small number, it's a part of a worrying trend. Over a decade, the loss of over eight acres of trees is a wake-up call for us to take more significant action.

Mike Galvin from SavATree, the company responsible for the assessment, mentioned that the city has already started to take proactive steps to address this issue. However, it's clear that more needs to be done. The city's tree ordinance, introduced after a similar assessment in 2019, was a step in the right direction. Requiring permits for tree removal and imposing fines for violations are necessary measures, but they alone won't reverse the damage.

One positive development is the city's partnership with Casey Trees, a non-profit dedicated to replanting trees in urban areas. Over 70 trees have been replanted in College Park’s residential areas, with more expected in the coming year. This is encouraging, but we can't stop there.

Photo byLukasz SzmigielonUnsplash

The city has also implemented a reimbursement program, offering residents up to $750 over five years for planting trees. This initiative is a great way to involve the community in rebuilding our tree canopy, but it also highlights the importance of clear communication. Many new residents may not be aware of these programs or the tree ordinance, and it’s crucial that they are informed to prevent unnecessary tree removals.

Looking ahead, it’s evident that we need updated data to fully understand the current state of our tree canopy. The last assessment covered data up to 2020, and much has changed since then. A storm in July 2022, for instance, caused significant damage to the city’s trees, potentially exacerbating the loss.

Finally, there’s a need to protect residents from misinformation. Some companies may mislead homeowners into cutting down trees unnecessarily, claiming they are unhealthy or unsafe. The city’s tree health programs are vital in educating the community and preventing such unnecessary losses.

In conclusion, while College Park has taken steps to address the decline in its tree canopy, much more work remains. As a community, we must continue to advocate for our trees, support replanting efforts, and stay informed about the health of our urban forest. Only then can we hope to restore and protect the natural environment that makes College Park such a wonderful place to live.