Tree Maintenance in City Parks
In May 2022, the City received a final draft of a citywide tree inventory report prepared by the Colorado State Forest Service. The primary purpose of this report is to provide a park tree inventory and assessment with recommendations for Salida to assist with maintaining and improving the overall health of trees in local parks.
City trees offer the community considerable economic, social, and environmental benefits and are significant capital assets to Salida’s parks. Trees provide citizens with direct and indirect benefits, including increased property values, improved water quality, enhanced energy conservation, improved mental and physical health, reduced violence, and improved wildlife habitat. New businesses are stimulated to locate in tree-friendly environments. Trees are good for our health, producing oxygen and removing air pollutants, and their beauty enhances the quality of life in Salida.
The report has several important goals, including:
- Establish a baseline for trends to compare trees removed and planted.
- Consider park trees as part of the City’s overall green infrastructure (natural systems that help reduce stormwater runoff and protect the City’s resources).
- Help the Parks and Recreation Department manage maintenance and planting schedules.
- Support grant applications for tree planting and planning projects.
Tree Conservation Efforts in 2023
In addition to routine maintenance of the City’s trees in parks, including pruning, watering and an overall assessment of tree health, the Parks and Recreation Department will implement important recommendations outlined in the report this spring. At least 15 new trees will be planted throughout City parks to enhance age diversity and tree varieties.
The City plans to complete an assessment of the oldest trees in Riverside Park using a tomography tool, which is similar to an ultrasound for trees. This will help staff identify decay and determine the overall health of the trees.
City staff will take extra steps to care for and manage the large trees along the river corridor for the first time. This includes pruning, clean-up and routine health assessments for the trees in this area.
Trash cans chained to trees will be removed to promote healthy growth and prevent tree stress and damage.
The next time you’re visiting a City park, take a moment to enjoy and appreciate the beautiful trees right in our own backyard. The City is dedicated to keeping these important community assets healthy and thriving with the help and guidance from the Tree Inventory Report. View the full report online at www.cityofsalida.com/bc-tb.
