STRATEGIC PRIORITY: Transportation & Infrastructure
AGENDA DATE: October 25, 2023
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): All
DEPARTMENT: Water Utilities Department
EXECUTIVE: Kimberly Bizor Tolbert
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SUBJECT
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Authorize the (1) acceptance of a grant from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Forest Service Region, R8 (Grant No. 23-DG-11083150-602, Federal Assistance Listing No. 10.730), in the amount of $750,000.00 to perform urban tree inventory and condition assessment (2) receipt and deposit of funds in an amount not to exceed $750,000.00 in the USDA Forest Service Region R8 Fund; (3) establishment of appropriations in an amount not to exceed $750,000.00 in the USDA Forest Service Region R8 Fund and; (4) execution of the grant agreement with the USDA, Forest Service Region, R8 and all terms, conditions, and documents required by the agreement - Not to exceed $750,000.00 - Financing: USDA, Forest Service Region, R8 Grant Funds
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BACKGROUND
The City of Dallas is working towards a complete a tree inventory of public open spaces throughout the 400 square mile area. As part of the 2021 Urban Forest Master Plan, the City identified the need for a comprehensive tree inventory and assessment to address management of the existing tree canopy, expansion of the canopy, and to ensure that public equitability across the City is based on the needs of the community.
Trees provide public health benefits and reduce stormwater runoff and cool impervious ground cover, thereby reducing temperatures and preserving natural resources. There are approximately 39,000 acres of property to be inventoried. The City has purchased software (TreeKeeper) and uses in kind work with staff and trained community foresters. The current schedule will take approximately 8 years to complete without additional resources. This funding will expedite the process and provide more complete information for decision making and to ensure equit...
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