YORKTON - An amendment to Yorkton’s Urban Forestry Bylaw will see three ash species removed from the city’s list of approved species to plant in the city.
“In order to ensure the health and longevity of the urban forest, a variety of tree species is required in the event species specific diseases impact the existing trees (i.e. Dutch Elm Disease, Emerald Ash Borer),” explained Darcy McLeod – Director of Recreation & Community Services with the city at the regular meeting of Council Monday.
With that in mind McLeod said the bylaw must be “updated to reflect that further planting of some species is not permitted, and allow a wider variety of trees to diversify and preserve our urban forest.
“More specifically, it is being recommended that the Black Ash, Green Ash and Manchurian Ash be removed from the approved species list.”
The American Elm had previously been removed from the list and has not been planted in a number of years.
In general terms; “Urban Forestry is the generally accepted reference that is used when dealing with the maintenance and care of the trees and shrubs that line our streets and beautify our parks. It does not refer to trees on private property however, it is recommended that the public refer to the Urban Forestry Bylaw for a recommended list of tree species for Yorkton, when planting is planned,” noted McLeod as background.
Council gave the amendment unanimous first reading Monday.
