Carbondale Establishes Advisory Tree Board to Guide Urban Forestry Matters

The Town of Carbondale has officially established a Tree Board, consisting of seven members and one alternate, to serve in an advisory capacity to the Board of Trustees on all matters related to trees within the community. This decision, made during the recent Tree Board Regular Meeting, aims to enhance the town's focus on tree management and environmental stewardship.

Members of the Tree Board will serve without compensation, with terms set at two years for most members, while two will serve a one-year term to ensure a staggered rotation. In the event of a vacancy, a successor will be appointed to complete the unexpired term. This structure is designed to foster community involvement and ensure diverse representation of Carbondale's citizens, including those with backgrounds in design, arboriculture, and environmental advocacy.

The board's advisory role is crucial, as it allows the Board of Trustees to delegate tree-related responsibilities to a dedicated group of volunteers. This delegation underscores the importance of trees in the community and acknowledges that the trustees may not always focus on these issues. The Tree Board will provide insights and recommendations, ensuring that tree management aligns with the community's needs and values.

During the meeting, members discussed the need for updates to existing ordinances, particularly in light of the recent hiring of a town arborist. The current regulations were established before this position was filled and do not reflect the arborist's responsibilities. Additionally, the board noted the necessity to revise language that pertains to the planning and building departments, ensuring that the Tree Board's authority is clearly defined in relation to landscape plans and tree maintenance standards.

As Carbondale moves forward with this initiative, the Tree Board is poised to play a vital role in shaping the town's environmental policies and enhancing the community's green spaces. The board's establishment marks a significant step toward a more sustainable and tree-conscious future for Carbondale.