White Rock City Council adopted a Tree Protection Bylaw this week improving the effectiveness and outcomes of the previous bylaw and policy. It augments protection of all trees and ensures that City practices align with current environmental standards. Notable changes include reducing the diameter of what qualifies as a protected tree and improving requirements for replacement tree plantings.
Adopting this bylaw is an action item from Council Strategic Priorities 2021-22 and it serves to protect and increase the tree canopy and enhance greenspace in the community.
“Careful environmental stewardship to preserve and protect the natural environment for future generations is a priority for our community,” says White Rock Mayor, Darryl Walker. “The Tree Protection Bylaw will help to make sure the city keeps pace with environmental best practices and is an important part of this stewardship.”
“Many thanks to the community members who sit on our Environmental Advisory Committee who worked with city staff to make the significant revisions,” says Councillor Erika Johanson, Chair of the Environmental Advisory Committee. “This bylaw will protect trees rather than just manage the way in which they may be removed.”
The updated Tree Protection Bylaw and Council’s Strategic Priorities 2021-22 can be found on the City of White Rock’s website.