Upzoned Podcast Summary: "Urban Forests Are the Stroads of Urban Environmental Policy"

Release Date: November 27, 2024
Hosts: Abby Newsham & Chuck Marohn
Podcast: Upzoned by Strong Towns

Introduction

In the November 27, 2024 episode of Upzoned, hosts Abby Newsham and Chuck Marohn delve into the intricate relationship between urban development and the preservation of urban forests. Drawing insights from Hannah Hett’s article, "Can Urban Forests Survive the Housing Boom?" from National Observer, the conversation explores the challenges cities face in balancing the urgent need for housing with the preservation of green spaces.

The Housing Boom vs. Urban Forests

Abby introduces the central theme by highlighting Canada’s pressing demand for 3.5 million additional housing units by 2030. The discussion underscores the dilemma cities encounter: expanding housing density often comes at the expense of urban forests. Projects like those in Vancouver exemplify the tough choices urban planners must make, striving to design around mature trees while increasing housing density and preserving natural lands to combat urban sprawl.

Chuck's Perspective on Tree Preservation

Chuck approaches the topic with a blend of empathy and critical analysis. He begins by sharing a personal anecdote that illustrates the deep emotional connections people have with their trees:

Chuck Marohn [03:40]: "We have a tree in our front yard. We call it Steve. It has to have been there a hundred years... It has its own cycle."

He criticizes recent public projects that have neglected mature trees, citing an example from his city where a street overhaul resulted in the unnecessary removal of decades-old trees:

Chuck Marohn [06:42]: "They tore them down, and it was horrible. It was unnecessary. It was not needed... You just plant new trees, but they take decades to grow."

Chuck argues that cities often undervalue the long-term benefits of mature trees in favor of short-term convenience. He emphasizes that preserving trees should not be a whimsical decision but a considered aspect of urban planning.

Abby's Insights on Trees as Infrastructure

Abby concurs with Chuck’s concerns and expands on the idea that urban forestry should be integrated into city infrastructure rather than treated as an afterthought. She highlights the multifaceted benefits of trees, including stormwater management, heat reduction, and increased property values:

Abby Newsham [07:36]: "Trees should be thought of as part of infrastructure and really thoughtfully planned into infrastructure... they contribute to that return on investment piece that is so important."

Abby points out that while private landscaping standards exist, public urban forestry remains insufficiently preserved, leading to a skewed distribution of mature trees primarily in private yards rather than along public streetscapes.

Case Studies & Real-World Examples

Disneyland’s Tree Relocation Efforts

Chuck shares an illuminating story from Disneyland’s development, where a dedicated crew meticulously relocated mature trees to maintain the park's aesthetic and environmental integrity:

Chuck Marohn [17:56]: "They went around Orange County and moved mature trees... Walt Disney would adjust trees by just a foot to get everything perfect."

This example demonstrates the feasibility and value of investing in tree preservation through active relocation, contrasting it with typical municipal practices that favor demolition over preservation.

New York City’s Tree Canopy

Examining New York City, Chuck differentiates between urban forests and well-planned street trees:

Chuck Marohn [22:35]: "New York City is probably the city in North America with the most trees per foot of street... These are gorgeous places."

He praises the city for maintaining a thick tree canopy along streets, which enhances urban livability and property values, arguing that such practices are achievable and beneficial.

Solutions and Recommendations

The hosts propose actionable strategies to reconcile housing development with urban forest preservation:

1. Invest in Specialized Equipment:
   Chuck suggests cities allocate resources toward tree movers instead of generic construction equipment to facilitate the preservation and relocation of mature trees.

   Chuck Marohn [13:43]: "If you're going to go buy a big piece of equipment, go buy a tree mover."

2. Plant Diversity and Accessibility:
   Emphasizing the importance of diverse tree species to prevent issues like disease wipeouts, Chuck advocates for thoughtful urban design that integrates tree diversity into street planning.

3. Public Investment and Support Programs:
   Abby highlights Kansas City’s free tree program, which allows residents to request public tree plantings in front of their homes, thereby strengthening the city's canopy:

   Abby Newsham [29:48]: "Kansas City is doing a free tree program... replenishing the canopy is incredibly important."

4. Reframing Urban Forestry Terminology:
   Chuck critiques the term "urban forest," arguing it diminishes the ecological value of true forests and suggests focusing on robust urban tree systems instead.

Downzoned Segment: Personal Updates from the Hosts

In the concluding segment, Downzoned, Abby and Chuck share personal updates, fostering a sense of community and connection with listeners:

• Chuck Marohn [35:17]: Discusses recent readings, including Bob Woodward’s "War" and "The Song of the Cell," reflecting on the endless complexities of human anatomy and societal systems.

• Abby Newsham [40:52]: Shares her excitement about converting her basement into an art studio and announces that two of her paintings have been accepted into an art show, marking her first exhibition.

Chuck commends Abby’s artistic achievements, reinforcing the supportive dynamic between the hosts.

Conclusion

The "Urban Forests Are the Stroads of Urban Environmental Policy" episode of Upzoned offers a compelling examination of the tensions between urban development and environmental preservation. Through thoughtful dialogue and illustrative examples, Abby Newsham and Chuck Marohn advocate for a reimagined approach to urban forestry—one that integrates trees seamlessly into city infrastructure and recognizes their profound ecological, economic, and social value. The episode serves as both a call to action and a blueprint for cities striving to maintain their green heritage amidst inevitable growth.

Notable Quotes:

• Chuck Marohn [06:42]: "They tore them down, and it was horrible. It was unnecessary."
• Abby Newsham [07:36]: "Trees should be thought of as part of infrastructure."
• Chuck Marohn [17:56]: "They went around Orange County and moved mature trees..."
• Chuck Marohn [31:14]: "Planting a hell of a lot of trees... you're going to win 95% of elections just on that."

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the podcast episode, capturing the key points, insights, and engaging discussions between Abby and Chuck. For those passionate about urban planning, environmental policy, or the intricate dance between development and nature, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable ideas.