Tree Board Meeting 4.21.2023

Detailed briefing

Tree Advisory Board Meeting — April 21, 2023 ATTENDEES: The transcript reports Diana Mulder, Patrick Wise, Jamie Melke, Theresa Johnson and Bill Brown present, establishing a quorum; Victor and public member Nancy were also identified. • The board planned its Arbor Day Fest for Saturday, May 27. Discussed activities included a pruning presentation, tree walks, a youth scavenger hunt, bird-feeder craft, nature art, possible disc-golf demonstration, seedling distribution, food, and event publicity. No final vote outcomes were stated. • The pruning presentation was set for 11:30 and 12:30. The tree walk was discussed for 12 and 1. The pruning activity is expected to focus on hand tools and homeowner-level information rather than chainsaws or larger cutting equipment. The board discussed using public materials from treesaregood.org. • Members supported a three-page scavenger-hunt concept built around leaves, bark, and tree-related finds. The activity may include drawings, bark rubbings, and collecting items such as cones or acorns. Members also wanted the materials to explain why some species or leaves may not be found at Kiwanis Park and to help children identify tree features. • Teresa agreed to revise the scavenger-hunt materials and send the final version for printing. Rachel agreed to investigate crayons and small reusable or recyclable bags. Patrick said he would provide an ongoing, demonstration-based nature-art activity near the playscape. Members emphasized that wildflowers should not be picked. • White spruce seedlings have been ordered. If they do not arrive in time for the festival, the board discussed making them available later at the farmers market or City Hall. Ben said bags, twist ties, and planting medium could be supplied. The board discussed planning for about 100 hot dogs, seeking a Harbor Springs Market food sponsorship first, and pursuing another sponsor at about $300. • The board reviewed future work from its project matrix, including possible recommendations on zoning standards for street trees, landscaping, and parking-lot trees; a vegetation-management policy; resident tree-care guidance; and a downloadable tree-awareness packet. Staff and Ben also plan to discuss beginning a rolling tree inventory in parks. Worth watching: • Whether the health department requires approval or a license for festival food service. • Whether the white spruce seedlings arrive before May 27. • Whether proposed tree-related zoning and policy measures advance to the Planning Commission. Upcoming: Arbor Day Fest is scheduled for May 27; the Arbor Day Fest article is due May 5. The next meeting date was not stated. Why it matters: The board is pairing a public tree event with longer-term work on urban canopy protection, resident education, and city tree planning.

No open public follow-ups are linked to this meeting yet.