Boroondara’s Urban Forest
Ray Peck
The term urban forest was first coined by Danish-Canadian forester Erik Jorgensen in 1974. He identified Urban Forestry as ‘A specialized branch of forestry that has as its objectives the cultivation and management of trees for their present and potential contribution to the physiological, sociological and economic well-being of urban society. These contributions include the over-all ameliorating effect of trees on their environment, as well as their recreational and general amenity value.’ Fifty years later, this definition holds up well.
But how are Boroondara’s trees?
Theme 2 of the Climate Action Plan is ‘Biodiversity and trees’ and action 2.11 is ‘Develop an Urban Forest and Urban Greening Strategy for Boroondara with a related planting plan.’ The Tree Canopy Strategy 2024-2024 states, ‘The extent of Boroondara’s tree canopy depends both on the growth of new and existing trees and the planting of new trees.’
However, after the loss of around 16,000 trees from North East Link, more from crossing removal work, and potentially hundreds more if the proposed Camberwell Junction Activity Centre eventuates, Boroondara’s tree canopy is reduced and threatened more than ever.
Residents can help the Council protect and grow our urban forest in several ways.
One way is to identify and nominate significant trees. Significant trees are protected under the Tree Protection Local Law and are listed in the significant tree register. They are outstanding trees because of their impressive size, age, rarity, ecological value, or cultural and historical significance. They can be on private property or public land. A significant tree can be a single tree, an avenue of trees or a hedge.
Identifying a significant tree is an easy process that can even be done on a mobile phone when out walking. Alternatively, take a photograph, note the location and complete the nomination on a computer or tablet when home. The process is described at forms.boroondara.vic.gov.au/nominate-a-significant-tree/
A second way is to request a tree to be planted on your street, at a Council facility or in a park. An arborist will assess the site to make sure it’s suitable. Rather oddly, this is done at service.boroondara.vic.gov.au/report-an-issue/#gf_229 by clicking on the Trees and Tree planting radio buttons and describing your request in the ‘Describe the issue’ box.
These are practical ways residents can help protect and grow Boroondara’s urban forest.