TRC to explore rural, urban community tree planting programs
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Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) will examine ways in which it can partner with the community to plant more trees in rural and urban locations.
Council endorsed a motion calling for a report into tree planting options, subject to budgetary considerations, at its September Ordinary meeting.
TRC Planning and Development Committee chair Cr Megan O’Hara Sullivan said she envisaged a community partnership where Council and interested parties, including private landholders, would work to plant more trees across the Region.
“It is worthy to aim for an ambitious tree planting program in response to recent and past vegetation loss as a result of our expanding urban footprint,” Cr O’Hara Sullivan said.
“Landowners may clear vegetation on their property without seeking approval from Council, so long as they comply with any relevant State or Federal legislation.
“Council is looking at provisions in the new Planning Scheme to provide closer scrutiny on vegetation removal and potential complementary planting.
“There are many opportunities for tree planting programs to be positive community-building exercises.
“Aside from the aesthetic benefits of planting appropriate species in suitable urban and district locations, there are many other positive effects that can be realised.
“Council can continue to play its part in reducing loose carbon in the atmosphere through a growing program such as this proposal.
“Tree planting can help stabilise areas, such as cleared sites along our eastern escarpment, as well as adjacent to waterways and lineal parklands that also function as stormwater conduits.
“Targeted planting programs also could help restore natural water courses that have been denuded due to various activities over the years.
“A million trees only represents five trees per man, woman and child in our population, which is currently around 190,000 people, across our growing Region.”