09/26/2001 Env Bd Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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• AGENDA ITEM 7C STAFF ORIGINATOR: Marty Asleson DATE: Sept 26, 2001 TOPIC: Trade -A -Tree Program/Tree Trust/Xcel Energy /Approval BACKGROUND: This program was introduced at the July Environmental Board Meeting.The Board requested a representative from The Tree Trust come to the September Environmental Board Meeting. Sara Smith from the Tree Trust will be at the meeting. The Trade -A -Tree Program is a partnership opportunity between the City of Lino Lakes, The Twin Cities Tree Trust, and Xcel Energy. The goal of the program is to increase the quantity and quality of trees in the community while reducing power line maintenance and power outages. The Power Company has line clearance safety standards that have to be maintained. When inappropriate trees are planted under these lines, costly and repetitive pruning visits, and disfigured trees are the result. The Trade -A -Tree program replaces each tree removed with two new trees. The • additional trees can be planted throughout the City. The process involves an initial tree inventory and identification of the trees under three phase power lines that we would like to replace. The Tree Trust assists in selecting trees and provides other assistance as needed. The Tree Trust works with community residents by contacting them, explaining the program and addressing concerns. Xcel Energy removes the above ground portion of the targeted trees at no cost. The City would have to remove or treat the stumps and plant the new trees. A formal recommendation to proceed is needed. OPTIONS: 1. Recommend Environmental Board support for this program and City Council Approval. 2. Table for further consideration. RECOMMENDATION: Option 1.