Tree Preservation

A complete plan for managing redevelopment should include not just the "built environment" but also the natural environment.  Environmental concerns have, to some extent, been factored into zoning provisions such as the lot coverage and side setback limits, which affect storm runoff and drainage.  However, Downers Grove has not addressed one of the most obvious, direct and visible aspects of teardown redevelopment: the loss of trees. 

The increased footprint of newer houses, together with lanes cleared for access by construction equipment, almost always lead to loss of some if not all trees on the lot.  In some cases, developers or construction companies have simply clear-cut the lot to eliminate obstructions, show off the size of the lot, or for reasons we cannot fathom!

Last year the Village Forester presented carefully drafted proposals to the Council for ordinances to minimize the loss of trees during redevelopment projects and home additions.  The chose to adopt the portion that dealt with trees on adjacent public property – that is why you now see orange fencing (if only temporarily) around parkway trees during a demolition/construction project.  However, the Council chose not to act – either to accept, or formally reject – the part of the proposal dealing with trees on the lot itself.   This modest proposal called for the Village Forester to review and approve tree preservation plans for each project.  Adopting the proposal would not stop any projects, or force design changes; it would merely make the people doing the project consider the impact on trees, and give the Forester a chance to recommend practices to minimize unnecessary damage.

DGCMR would like to see the Village re-consider, and adopt, an ordinance providing for protection of trees on the site of demolition and construction projects.