The Urban Canopy Growth Program

This program was established to address the following objectives, as identified in the Council Plan:

Objective 6.4: Provide attractive, well maintained streetscapes, verges, and trees.

Item 6.4.2: Enable growth of the urban tree canopy by making a suitable number of trees available per annum to support a community tree planting program.

 

Program Overview

The Urban Canopy Growth Program (the Program) aims to enhance the verges and increase the wide range of benefits that trees bring to the Shire of Donnybrook Balingup. It also provides an opportunity for residents to play a pivotal role in the enhancement and improvement of our shared natural environment. Participants will be provided with a tree to plant on their verge, all of which are selected for their suitability to the landscape and environment.

 

Outcomes

This Program has been designed to provide support and promote a collaborative approach between the Shire and the community on environmental matters. It will result in mutual engagement and education for all parties involved, and achieve the following outcomes:

  • Learn about the types of trees landowners prefer to have on their properties and the shared local environment as a key resource;
  • Facilitate verge enhancements;
  • Increase the urban canopy to offset the impacts of climate change;
  • Reduce street temperature for the community’s benefit; and
  • Provide more habitats for local birdlife.

 

Additional Information

The Program is limited to residents within the Shire of Donnybrook Balingup townsites, and only a certain number of trees are available each year.

Planting is to take place between May and August on an annual basis, and will be undertaken by Shire’s Parks & Gardens Staff. This is to ensure the success rate of the tree, minimising the watering requirements for landowners in the early months while the tree is establishing an effective root system.

 

Participating in the Program

The Urban Canopy Growth Program for 2024-2025 is now open! To apply, please ensure you have read the Program Information document and submit a completed Application Form, both of which are available below. Submissions are due by 4:00pm on Tuesday 10 December, 2024.

 

Important Information for Applicants

Following the conclusion of the submission period, all applications are assessed and considered base on the location of the property, the preferred tree, the suggested location the tree is to be planted, and if the applicant has previously participated in the Program.

Applications are also subject to a site visit and assessment of underground or overhead services.

Applicants will be advised of the outcome of their submission for the Program in writing (either by post or via email), which is typically completed by the May following the application period. Applications are either approved as requested, approved with modifications, or are rejected with explanation and further advice.

The tree will be installed by the Shire’s Parks & Gardens staff. This is to be scheduled for a time in the Winter period when routine works are being planned and carried out.