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Tree Commission
The Tree Commission consists of seven members and a certified arborist and meets the second Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
The function of the Tree Commission is to study, advise and encourage the adoption and then implementation of a comprehensive plan for the proper planting of new and replacement trees and maintaining the health of existing trees in the urban forest. The Tree Commission will also provide resource materials and information pertaining to proper tree selection and care.
Arbor Day Foundation Names Avon as 2022 Tree City USA
Lincoln, Nebraska (2/28/2023) - Avon was named a 2022 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation to honor its commitment to effective urban forest management.
Avon achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program's four requirements: maintaining a tree board or department, having a tree care ordinance, dedicating an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and hosting an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.
The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.
"Tree City USA communities see the positive effects of an urban forest firsthand," said Dan Lambe, Chief Executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. "The trees being planted and cared for by Avon are ensuring that generations to come will enjoy to a better quality of life. Additionally, participation in this program brings residents together and creates a sense of civic pride, whether it's through volunteer engagement or public education."
If ever there was a time for trees, now is that time. Communities worldwide are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, energy use, and extreme heat and flooding. Avon is doing its part to address these challenges for residents both now and in the future.
More information on the program is available at www.arborday.org/TreeCityUSA
Avon's Official Tree
After reviewing several varieties of trees, the Tree Commission agreed that the Hearts of Gold Redbud tree was the most appropriate. The tree has purple flowers in the spring and the leaves turn from green to gold, which is perfect for representing Avon's colors. Avon City Council voted unanimously to approve the Hearts of Gold Redbud tree as Avon's official tree. The tree grows to about 20 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide, and can be planted in yards and tree lawns. Two of these trees were planted by the Tree Commission at the Aquatic Center.
Lorain County SWCD 2022 Big Tree Contest Winner
The City of Avon recently won first place in the Lorain County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) 2022 Big Tree Contest. Our American Beech tree measured a circumference of 119 inches. This news was announced at the SWCD Annual Meeting on September 10, 2022.
Monarch Waystation Recognized
The Wilbur Cahoon House at 2940 Stoney Ridge Road was recognized as a Monarch Waystation in September of 2022. Monarch Waystations provide milkweed, nectar plants and shelter for monarchs throughout their annual cycle of reproduction and migration.
Tree Commission Members
- Mary Berges, Chairman Pro Tem
- Alex Boccabella
- Shannon Laurenzi
- Anthony Moore, Chair and Council's Designee
- Matt Smith, Mayor's Designee
- John Traxler
- Richard Varga, Certified Arborist, non-voting member
- Liesa Wetzig
- Does the tree lawn belong to me or the city?
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The tree lawn belongs to the city. However, the owner or occupant of the premises fronting the tree lawn or boulevard, which is defined as that area between a sidewalk and street, shall be the custodian of the tree lawn or boulevard and shall be responsible for the necessary mowing and maintenance to keep the same in good condition, mowed and free of trash or debris. If your tree lawn tree constitutes a safety hazard, then the Service Department may contact you.
- If I plant a tree in my tree lawn, whose responsibility is it?
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It is the owner of the land fronting the tree lawn's responsibility to take care of the tree and maintain it. The Tree Commission has prepared a list of trees which are deemed to be unsuitable for planting in Avon.
- When is the best time of year to plant trees?
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Fall is the best time to plant trees. The temperatures are milder during the day and cooler at night and the soil temperatures are still warm enough to encourage root growth. You may plant trees in the spring, but they may experience stress due to high temperatures and lack of rainfall.
- How deep should the mulch be around my trees?
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Mulch around a tree should be spread out like a donut, not piled up like a volcano. Mulch should not touch a tree’s bark, nor should it be piled higher than three to four inches. Mulch that is too deep decreases the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, which can lead to fungal and bacterial diseases.
- Who do I contact if there is an issue with my tree(s)?
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You should contact a Certified Arborist to evaluate.