FAQs
Why is tree management important in urban areas?
Tree management is vital for enhancing amenity, liveability, addressing climate change, promoting biodiversity, managing urban development, replacing trees, and managing assets effectively.
We have the opportunity to establish an innovative, and more liveable community in Sutherland Shire by harnessing the benefits of tree canopy.
What is urban tree canopy cover, and why does it matter?
Urban tree canopy cover refers to the layer of leaves, branches, and stems that cover the ground when viewed from above.
It matters because it plays a crucial role in regulating temperature, reducing energy consumption, filtering pollutants, and providing recreational spaces for residents.
What is the current tree canopy cover for the Sutherland Shire?
As of 2020, Sutherland Shire's average urban tree canopy cover is 24.7%. This is significantly below the NSW Government target of 40%.
Our Draft Strategy aims to maintain or increase the canopy cover in urban areas beyond the 2020 benchmark by 2033.
A continued increase in canopy cover will be a focus to 2050 and beyond.
Currently our canopy is declining (0.40% over four years to 2019/20).
The Strategy outlines actions to measure and track more current canopy levels and slow down canopy reduction.
It should be noted that when measuring canopy cover and setting targets, the National Parks within the Sutherland Shire are excluded.
How does Council replace tree canopy removed from private properties?
Council is focused on ensuring the next generation of canopy trees are established - the right trees, planted in the right place, at the right time.
To replace trees removed from private properties, Council has a program of planting new trees in our streets and parks called Green Streets.
The DCP currently requires replacement planting ratios (Clause 4.15) for development.
Every tree removed is required to be replaced by at least four new trees.
The ratio is higher than removal to account for incidental tree loss and the time it takes to create tree canopy.
How does the Draft Tree and Bushland Strategy propose to assess trees more proactively?
The Draft Strategy proposes to implement regular, systematic inspections using expert assessments to identify potential risks posed by dangerous trees before they become hazardous.
This allows potential hazards, such as disease, structural weaknesses, or instability, to be identified allowing for prompt intervention.
This approach helps prevent accidents and ensures public safety. Additionally, early intervention can preserve trees through measures like limb removal, reducing the need for complete tree removal.
Why does Council conduct canopy cover mapping every four years?
Council uses advanced aerial and LIDAR (light detection and ranging) technology to monitor canopy cover.
Tree growth and canopy changes occur gradually over time.
A four-year interval allows for noticeable and measurable changes in canopy cover, providing more meaningful data and trends that can inform effective tree management strategies.
How does Council plan to increase urban canopy cover?
We aim to increase urban canopy cover through a combination of planting new trees, protecting existing trees and working in partnership with our community on tree care and maintenance activities.
On public land, many trees are nearing the end of their useful life and require a consistent and agreed approach to their replacement.
On privately owned and controlled property (which makes up most of our urban land area) existing planning regulations, and Tree Management Permits help to manage trees.
The Draft Strategy focuses on careful management of tree placement within urban developments to maximise benefits and minimise risks.
What consultation was done to develop this Draft Strategy?
The Draft Strategy drew upon Council’s 2021 Community Survey which gathered detailed feedback about our local bushland and natural environment. It also considered the substantial community input into the Urban Tree and Bushland Strategy consultation.
Targeted external stakeholder meetings, as well as briefings and workshops with Council’s Environment and Sustainability Sub-Committee informed the Strategy.
Is the recent exhibition of the Draft DCP Amendment 9 related to the exhibition of the Draft Tree and Bushland Strategy?
The exhibition of the Draft DCP Amendment 9 is separate from the exhibition of the draft Tree and Bushland Strategy.
They are distinct processes, though they address related aspects of urban tree management.