City of Rochester Expands Tree Canopy. Goal of Planting 100 Trees!

Oct 17, 2022 - Rochester, MI - In May 2020, a newly established Rochester Tree Committee was formed and two of the major goals were to establish an annual tree report to include tree canopy coverage and allocate the annual tree fund accordingly to invest in expanding our tree canopy throughout the city.

The Tree Committee is made up of Chair and Councilmember Mark Albrecht, Mayor Pro Tem Nancy Salvia, Councilmember Steve Sage, and residents Melissa Weisse, and William Thomas. Nik Banda, City Manager, and our resident professional forester, provides valuable guidance on trees to the committee.

In early 2021, the Rochester 100 program was established, with the goal of planting at least 100 trees annually in the city and in the first year exceeded that goal with 142 trees planted. Rochester also was designated a Tree City by Tree City USA for its eighth consecutive year.

This year has again started off strong with our annual Arbor Day tree plantings in the Municipal Park and the first of two major tree plantings with 27 trees planted along Letica Drive from Parkdale south towards Elizabeth Street. We are very pleased to announce the second major tree investment on our tree canopy with the planting of 23 sugar maple trees near the Community Garden. Future plans for this site include a gazebo, benches and picnic tables for visitors to enjoy this beautiful setting.

All funding for this and future tree planting projects come from our Tree Fund, which generates revenue from tree permits issued, ensuring that we use these dollars to reinvest in our tree canopy.

Mark Albrecht, Tree Committee Chair added, “In addition to the beauty of these magnificent trees and the quiet area for reflection we are creating, the focus on sugar maples will allow young students to learn about tapping trees to create maple syrup, and another area of trees to be enjoyed for generations to come.”

Nik Banda, City Manager added, “This installation was carefully planned so that we can create a park-like setting for our residents to enjoy. We will be offering opportunities for residents to sponsor the benches and trees like we’ve done throughout our city and parks.”

The Tree Committee is confident that we will again exceed our goal of planting at least 100 trees again this year in the city





About the City of Rochester

Incorporated as a Village in 1869, the City of Rochester has pristine small town charm, beautiful natural features, and proximity to everything you need to live, work, and play.

Nestled on the eastern side of Oakland County, Rochester prides itself on being a family-oriented community that stays true to its rich history, while always keeping an eye on the future. A community of around 13,000 people across a four-square mile area.

In a recently completed City-wide survey, out of nearly 1,240 households that responded, 98% reported that the quality of life they experience here as “Excellent” or “Good”. Among the other categories that over 90% of our community recognized as outstanding features are our services provided by the City, the appearance of residential neighborhoods and downtown area, the feeling of safety in the City, and the quality and maintenance of the rivers, trails and parks in the community.

###

October 17, 2022, City of Rochester and Rochester.Life