Those who have lived in a community for many years have a deep understanding of the area s needs. Experts such as tree or planning commission members, municipal attorneys, and environmental and natural resource consultants can contribute to the process by analyzing the best tree policies to achieve desired community goals. Encourage local landowners to donate easements on woodlands to the community. Establish a volunteer program to maintain trees for elderly, disabled, or financially burdened property owners. Incentives One of the best ways to promote tree preservation is to provide incentives.
Incentives encourage landowners to protect their trees and improve the community.
While purchasing tracts of woodland or easements is one of the most expensive options, outright purchase is sometimes the only way to permanently protect trees from development pressure. Identify forested areas that are particularly vulnerable to development or deforestation. Investigate donation or purchase of the area, or seek donation of easements on the land. Encourage local governments, nonprofit organizations, land trusts, and private citizens to purchase land and place permanent restrictions on the deed before reselling or donating the land. Regulatory Measures Adopt and enforce sound regulations that will protect the scenic, environmental and economic benefits of trees.