Tree Inventory and Policy (Phase 1)

The Town is embarking on a multi-year tree inventory and policy work. Consultants at Sylveritas Ltd. have recently completed a Tree Inventory, which is the first of two phases of this work. The Tree Inventory (linked on the right) allows us to better understand the type, age, condition, and number of trees in Wolfville.

Sylveritas will be further supporting this work in Phase 2 by developing a policy framework to allow us to understand how we can better manage our trees, and where more trees are needed.

There are three main aspects that the tree inventory include:

1. Municipal Tree Inventory

During July and August, Sylveritas Ltd measured all municipally owned trees in the streetscape and urban parks (not including woodlands). The Inventory Report is linked on the right. The inventory data consists of:

(a) tree location using Global navigation satellite system (GNSS) technology;

(b) tree species identification;

(d) a general condition assessment.

2. New Tree Planting Locations

In late October, 2023, new tree planting locations were identified. New tree planting locations are identified by using a tree-spacing standard of 6-8 metres, and avoiding built infrastructure such as signs and fire hydrants, a plantable-spots map was created to provide an estimate of the number of plantable spots on the municipal right of way for each street block.

3. Town-wide Canopy Cover Estimate

In late October, 2023, using iTree Canopy, Sylveritas Ltd. developed a canopy-cover estimate for the Town and identified areas that should be targeted for any tree-planting programs to build up the canopy in areas where it is needed most.

Engagement

Engagement is a valuable part of the tree inventory and policy work. See information below about the Tree Walking Tours that will be held. This webpage is also available to share information and provide feedback through the comment box below. During July and August 2023, two public tree walking tours were led by consultants to allow participants to learn about the most prominent tree species in the town, the benefits of having trees in the streetscape, and some of the challenges with growing long-lived healthy trees in the built environment. Participants can also express their views about the future of Wolfville’s tree population.

Check back here for further engagement opportunities as we begin Phase 2.

Why does Wolfville need a tree inventory and policy?

Urban forests provide ecological, social and economic benefits. By storing carbon, trees help mitigate climate change by preventing some greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere. Trees also help with climate change adaptation by improving drainage from storm water runoff, reduce the 'urban heat island' effect by providing shade, and their root systems help prevent erosion. Trees also make us happy, improve well-being and increase property values.

Knowing the types, age, condition and location of trees in Wolfville allows us to create a plan to better manage existing trees and plan for a more sustainable urban forest over time.

The tree inventory and policy will help Wolfville reach Council's targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030 and net zero by 2050. Wolfville's Climate Action Plan is linked on the right.

Who is Sylveritas Ltd?

Sylveritas Ltd. is a consultancy firm founded in 2014 by Professor Emeritus Peter Duinker (Dalhousie).

From Sylveritas Ltd. website:

"Peter’s research interests are wide-ranging. Over the past 35 years, he has led investigations in forest ecology, environmental assessment, forest planning, forest management, forest policy, climate change, public participation, conflict resolution, public forest values, biodiversity assessment, protected areas management, urban forests, futures studies, and other topics.

In professional practice, Peter has several specialties. He has served as an expert for three federal Environmental Assessment Panels. He has participated in development of forest-management plans, both for timber-producing forests (in ON and AB) and for urban forests (NS and PE). He has facilitated numerous engagement processes and events for resource and environmental stakeholders. Finally, he has chaired or co-chaired a range of boards, committees, and panels associated with forest management and policy. Peter is a regular member of the NS Institute of Agrologists."

Peter and his team have also created the Halifax Tree Project to "support protection, expansion, and sustainable management of urban trees and forests in Halifax by fostering community-based stewardship."

View the Halifax Tree Project website to access many resources, including the Blog Series, Urban Forest Walkabouts, and the Text-a-Tree program.

Want to plant a tree? Here are some helpful tips.
Trees die. Learn about the number of reasons why here.
The downsides of urban trees.
The value of urban trees.
Learn all about the various species of trees typically found in Nova Scotian cities and towns here.

Phase 2 will begin when phase 1 concludes and is presented to Council. Phase 2 will include more community engagement and policy development.