Single Dwelling Redevelopment: Impacts on Private Tree Canopy Disturbance
Robert Sim
Advisors: Amy Blood, Sara Barron, Corrine Bassett & Mark McDonald
Abstract
Municipalities regularly study urban tree canopies for their health and percentage of cover. There is a lack of research on the relationship between the private tree canopy and single-dwelling development. This research study aims to explore how much impact single-dwelling development has on the private tree canopy of Ward 18 – Willowdale in the City of Toronto. The data was collected and used to study the impacts of development on the private tree canopy. From the research, it was found 232 trees were removed for single-dwelling development. The 130 construction applications over 130 properties have negatively impacted the private tree canopy by 0.27% over four years. The findings provided results that it is evident that development is impacting the private tree canopy and causing minor canopy loss throughout the ward. This study is the start of bridging the gap between the private tree canopy and development. It will allow the City of Toronto to review and improve the current tree ordinances and replanting obligations. Protecting private trees from development is vital in protecting our environment and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
Keywords: Urban Forestry, Development, Private Trees, Canopy Cover, Ecosystem Services, Tree Ordinances
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