Yarra Ranges Council has begun its Street Tree Planting program, which will see approximately 2,500 new trees planted across the municipality in 2023. The main focus of this year's program is streets in Kilsyth, Mooroolbark and Coldstream.
Each year, Council plants and renews street trees in built-up areas where tree canopy cover is lowest.
The Street Tree Program will plant a mixture of mainly small-to-medium-sized native trees with a focus on species that are suitable for roadside conditions and offer benefits such as shade, air purification and habitat and food for fauna.
Tree planting will start in May and continue until September. New trees will be established with regular maintenance for two years after planting, which includes watering and formative pruning – trees that fail to establish will be replaced.
The program will also include removing dead or dying street trees and trees with poor health or structure that can't be remedied. Where appropriate, replacement trees will be planted.
Yarra Ranges Council Mayor, Jim Child said the Street Tree Program is an important initiative for the Council to improve the streetscape in our local communities.
"This program will not only enhance the visual appeal of our streets but also provide environmental benefits such as improving air quality, reducing heat, and providing habitat for wildlife."
"Like most people, I enjoy walking around our streets admiring the beautiful trees we have and feel grateful for the sense of community they provide to us."
"While it may be sad to see some trees removed ,these are trees that are in poor health and are replaced with new plantings to provide a revitalised streetscape for future generations to enjoy."
"The Street Tree Program is a positive step towards creating a more sustainable and liveable Yarra Ranges."
If the street where you live is not part of this year's Street Tree Program, you can request a new street tree for your nature strip by submitting an online request.
