Speak for the Trees co-founder, David Meshoulam, recently spoke to North End / Waterfront Neighborhood Council (NEWNC) regarding the burgeoning non-profit’s effort to broaden Boston’s tree canopy.
A tree census is a high priority for the group, counting all trees in the City of Boston by the end of 2020. Each tree is surveyed and uploaded into an app that will be publicly accessible. SFTT members will then turn to filling in the city’s empty tree lots, covering both private and public property.
Meshoulam said, “we think our work is critical, as the climate is changing and trees are key to resilience.”
Speak for the Trees is working with partners at nurseries to offer regular tree giveaways. A tree generally cost $600-$1000 to plant on a city street. Street trees also have a high mortality rate with nearly 50% dying within the first three years.
Tree requests can also be made by calling 311, the Mayor’s hotline to get on a list for Fall plantings.
The question came up regarding the long-dead trees at Cross and Fulton Streets. The property is currently in transition from MassDot to the City of Boston. Maria Lanza from the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services said the city should be in control by the Fall when the trees can be replaced.
View the full presentation in the above video. Get involved with Speak for the Trees at their website.
