The Brentwood Public Works Committee discussed on Wednesday the condition of the city’s trees, following the delivery of a tree inventory prepared by Davey Tree.
The 124-page report states that most of the inventoried trees (in city parks and street right of ways) were in fair or poor condition, 14 and 72 percent, respectively.
Thirteen percent of trees on street right of ways were listed as being in good condition.
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The condition of street ROW (right of way) trees is slightly better than that of trees in parks and other public spaces, according to the report.
Forty-six trees, along streets and in parks, were identified as “high risk.” The surroundings of a tree can also increases risk. The report says these “high risk” trees should be removed immediately.
Trees noted as having poor structure (424 trees) or cavity/decay (329 trees) should be inspected regularly and corrective actions should be taken when warranted. If their condition worsens, removal may be required, the report states.
See the full tree inventory here.
The inventory also notes:
- The inventoried trees have an approximate value of $3,182,000
- The overall condition of the inventoried tree population was rated to be fair
- Sweetgum trees made up such a large percentage of the street ROW (16%) that it threatens biodiversity
- Maple trees were found in abundance (14%) on streets, which is nearing a level that creates a concern for the streetscape’s biodiversity
- Overall, the diameter size class distribution of the tree population trended towards the ideal, with a greater number of young trees than established, maturing, or mature trees
- Trees provide approximately $160,000 in annual environmental benefits
- Energy Savings: $16,000/year
- Storm water interception: 7,870,000 gallons valued at $58,800/year
- Carbon Sequestration: 287 tons valued at $1,900/year
- Improved Air Quality: $5,500/year
- Improved property value associated with aesthetics: $77,000
- Brentwood’s inventoried trees have an estimated replacement value of $2,250,000