Enhanced Tree Replacement Strategy for Dwight Avenue Sidewalk Installation - by Councillor Mark Grimes, seconded by Councillor Mike Colle

Ten of the twelve trees are tree species that are no longer being planted due to various impacts such as susceptibility to forest pests, like the Emerald Ash Borer or invasive qualities. As we know, because of these types of pests, it is likely that Ash trees in the City will require removal in the future. While the loss of these trees is significant, there is an opportunity to offset the removal, and bolster our tree canopy by increasing the replanting ratio, and planting healthier trees now.

Seventeen trees are to be planted on-site. The remaining nineteen trees are to be planted by Urban Forestry in the immediate area, in consultation with local Councillor and Toronto District School Board Trustee; b. ensure that replacement trees along Dwight Avenue are a minimum of 80mm caliper (diameter), and fast-growing, large shade species, to the satisfaction of the Director, Urban Forestry; c. establish a maintenance plan to ensure the replacement trees survive; and d. take out an ad in the local newspaper, and circulate a written informational piece to residences in New Toronto and Mimico neighbourhoods, in consultation with the local Councillor for street boundaries, outlining the project and rationale for the tree removals, and the Council-directed enhanced replacement plan in Parts 1a to 1c above.