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AGENCY TESTIMONY

Discussion of Intro 800 on tree maintenance prioritization criteria

0:25:53

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Marit Larsen addresses Intro 800, which would codify the criteria for prioritizing tree maintenance work in NYC parks.

Explains current tree risk management practices and industry standards used by the Parks Department
Highlights that the prioritized approach to tree maintenance is already outlined on the agency website
Expresses opposition to codifying operational practices via local law, citing the need for flexibility to adopt new industry standards
Indicates willingness to work with the council to identify ways to achieve shared goals of preserving the tree canopy and protecting New Yorkers

Marit Larsen

0:25:53

Introduction 800 would codify the criteria by which New York City prioritizes tree maintenance work and post a description of the criteria used to prioritize tree maintenance on its website.

0:26:04

As the steward of New York City's urban forest, we care for our city's street and park trees and respond to more than a 100,000 forestry related service requests from concerned New Yorkers each year.

0:26:16

To help keep our tree canopy healthy and safe and ensure that the highest priority tree work is addressed as quickly as possible, we've integrated modern tree risk management practices into the way we care for our urban forest.

0:26:30

Since 2017, we formally incorporated industry standards for tree risk management established by the International Society of Arboriculture and the American National Standards Institute into our tree work management approach.

0:26:43

By applying professional expertise in risk management, we're able to address the conditions that present the highest risk to public safety and property before other work.

0:26:52

As part of our dedicated commitment to public transparency, this prioritized approach to tree maintenance is clearly outlined on our agency website as well as through communication with constituents and other stakeholders regarding tree work service requests.

0:27:08

Though we already conduct our operations in a manner corresponding to the spirit of this legislation, it's important to note we generally advise against codifying operational practices via local law because agencies require flexibility to innovate and adopt new industry standards and best practices as they evolve over time.

0:27:26

As such, we're opposed to the bill as it's as it's currently drafted, but would welcome the chance to work with council to identify how we can best achieve our shared goals of preserving the city's tree canopy while protecting New Yorkers and their property.

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Conclusion and offer to answer questions