Trees are nature’s original magic. They gift mottled light, create the oxygen we breathe, and offer refuge for lovers and children’s play. They also are home to our neighborhood’s coveted wildlife and they increase property values, soak in polluted stormwater and reduce crime.
And they are being destroyed at an accelerated rate, disappearing before our eyes.
So why are we cutting them all down in Seattle? The rules for public lands like parks and rights of way are actually very strong and represent good thinking… .but the rules for private property and land being developed or redeveloped are very weak. They are also housed in a building department which raises obvious conflict of interest issues.
And they are being destroyed at an accelerated rate, disappearing before our eyes.
So why are we cutting them all down in Seattle? The rules for public lands like parks and rights of way are actually very strong and represent good thinking… .but the rules for private property and land being developed or redeveloped are very weak. They are also housed in a building department which raises obvious conflict of interest issues.
The companion of trees--mature vegetation --such as lilac, rhododendrons, magnolias, hypericum, dwarf evergreens and beautiful twisted fruit trees are also bulldozed during our construction boom.
Seattle Regulations prohibit residential tree removal if 24” diameter and greater More than 60% of trees are on private property But only 14% of private trees are 24” which means 86% are at risk. Poof!
Seattle Regulations prohibit residential tree removal if 24” diameter and greater More than 60% of trees are on private property But only 14% of private trees are 24” which means 86% are at risk. Poof!
