The green canopy across the Central Coast will be increased by a Central Coast Council resolution to hand out 1,500 native trees to the community, and developing an Urban Forest Strategy.
Trees that can be planted on private property will be handed out at community events, including National Tree Day, over the next few months, at a cost of around $6,000.
Central Coast Council Mayor, Jane Smith, said the protection and enhancement of the natural environment is a key priority of Council’s first ever Community Strategic Plan, and this program was a great place to start.
“As a community, we place immense value on our green spaces and now we can all be a part of creating a green canopy on the Central Coast,” Mayor Smith said.
“The environmental, social and health benefits of plants are well documented.
“Increased air quality, along with improved physical and mental health, all assist in improving the overall quality of life on the Coast.
“I encourage everyone to plant a tree for our environment on National Tree Day (July 29) and we will begin handing out plants as soon as possible so the community can benefit from this great program.”
Shade trees will be included in the development of the Urban Forest Policy to give consideration of ways to facilitate easier planting of trees on residential nature strips and road reserves.
It is expected that the Policy will be placed on public exhibition in late 2018, with the opportunity for community members to provide input at that time.
Source:
Media release, Jul 9
Jane Smith, Central Coast Council