The City remains committed to increasing tree canopy as a bumper winter planting season draws to a close.
The City has planted more than 50,000 native trees and plants across a range of natural areas, along with 2,500 trees across verges, median strips, parks and reserves, in an effort to enhance its tree canopy, revegetate our natural areas and reduce the urban heat island effect.
Acting Mayor Elli Petersen-Pik said the City of Bayswater community was passionate about trees and encouraged residents to continue to work with the City to help improve canopy cover.
“Of the trees planted on verges this winter, 263 were in response to requests from residents, which is an increase on last year,” he said.
“I encourage residents who are keen to receive a free street tree on their verge next winter to request one now through the City’s website: bayswater.wa.gov.au/streettrees.”
This year, Bayswater Council took an important step forward in its efforts to increase tree canopy around the City by introducing mandatory tree planting along key routes to schools as part of the Safe Routes to School program.
“By providing more shade on our footpaths, this initiative aims to create more walkable and cyclable routes for children and their carers, while also enhancing the aesthetics of our streetscapes and increasing our tree canopy,” Acting Mayor Petersen-Pik said.
“Encouraging more families to choose a healthier way to get to school will also reduce car parking pressures around schools and traffic congestion during drop off and pick up.
“This planting season, we’ve seen 131 trees planted along identified routes to Bayswater Primary School and Maylands Peninsula Primary School.
“The City aims to roll out the program across all schools within the City, so we’ll be undertaking the same process, identifying pathways to schools that could benefit from tree planting and other upgrades.”
Acting Mayor Petersen-Pik said the hottest and driest summer on record had undoubtedly impacted trees not just in the City but all around Perth.
“This year, we have increased the watering of mature trees that are struggling due to the conditions being experienced across the State,” he said.
“The City will also continue to trial more drought-resistant species in an effort to combat the effects of climate change, and look into ways to improve our tree care practices.”
Pictured: City of Bayswater Acting Mayor Elli Petersen-Pik with Maylands Peninsula Primary School students.