Issue link: https://townofcary.uberflip.com/i/791958
CHAPTER 8: ENRICH 252 Policy Policy Intent Policy 8: Preserve and Protect the Urban Tree Canopy Promote the retention of, addition to, and quality of the tree canopy within Cary's planning area. The intent of this policy is to support retaining and/or adding to our community's tree canopy, particularly within developed areas. Objectives of this policy are to protect and grow our existing canopy as new development occurs, particularly hardwood canopy, and to plan and design new development with ample and strategically located deciduous tree plantings such that new development will have an ample tree canopy at maturity. The urban tree canopy is the layer of trunks, branches, and leaves that cover the ground when viewed from above (i.e., Cary's tree cover). The objectives of this policy, based on the Urban Forest Master Plan, include: Steward and Grow Cary's Tree Canopy Nurture existing trees and forests while planning to maintain and expand tree canopy coverage. Particular care will be given to the growth and expansion of tree canopy where it is needed most (e.g., connecting fragmented forests, rebuilding canopy aer losses, improving walkability with shade cover) and where it reflects the character and needs of individual neighborhoods. Additionally, Cary will continue to evaluate and improve tree protection policies. Improve the Quality of Cary's Trees and Forests Along with increasing the quantity of tree coverage, increasing the quality of tree canopy is critical for ensuring that it is resilient in the face of climate change, sustainable, long-lasting, and will serve the functional and aesthetic needs of both the community and the environment. Promote a Community-Wide, Shared Commitment to a Healthy Urban Forest This work will require residents, businesses, institutions, and Cary to each do their part on their own properties and in their neighborhoods. Thoughtful and measurable partnerships and engagement will be key to making real and long-lasting progress. To fully achieve this policy and the objectives, updates to Cary's development regulations and opportunities for incentives may help to maintain the environmental quality of new development while balancing the pressures on development costs. Strategies and actions noted in the Urban Forestry Master Plan include strengthening policies and codes, enhancing data, and improving urban forestry oversight.