In a recent press announcement, Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger has highlighted a parkway tree planting initiative that allows residents of the county's unincorporated areas to get trees planted on their streets at no charge, as part of the celebration of Earth Month, this program aims to beautify neighborhoods and contribute positively to the environment, providing residents with a way to easily engage in community and sustainability efforts.
"Planting a parkway tree is a wonderful way to celebrate Earth Day and bring even more beauty into a neighborhood," Barger stated, emphasizing the program's role in expanding and renewing the urban forest, the Department of Public Works, which includes an Urban Forestry Unit, will coordinate with residents to select the suitable trees and assist them with the planting process; those interested can call (626) 300-2080 or visit the department's website to get started, according to information obtained by Los Angeles County's website.
The Los Angeles County's Department of Public Works outlines the important role parkway trees play in the urban ecosystem, contributing to cooler climates, cleaner air, and potentially higher property values, and with the guidance of Public Works, residents are encouraged to engage with their community's natural landscape by planting these vital trees properly, with a menu of appropriate species provided to match each neighborhood's needs.
Moreover, Public Works Director Mark Pestrella, P.E., told the press that apart from the environmental benefits, parkway trees are critical for improving mental and physical health and enhancing a property's curb appeal, as they bring life, sustainability, and resiliency to the community, however, the trees occasionally need maintenance and trimming, especially when located near power lines, to prevent fires and power outages, with the trimming done under the mandate of the Public Utilities Commission, which is separate from the trimming by Public Works for the sake of tree health and safety.
In terms of maintenance, the Parkway Trees Brochure from the county clarifies that trees are trimmed every two, three, or six years based on their growth rate to ensure they do not interfere with sidewalks or roadways, in addition, residents are warned that any tree trimming or removal must be permitted by Public Works to avoid legal trouble, emphasizing the shared ownership and responsibility for these community trees.
