Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 10/03/2005

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Subd. 5. Critical Root Zone. The root system within the dripline is generally considered to be the critical root zone. To protect these critical root zones, a tree protection area shall be established around each tree or group of trees to be retained. a. The tree protection area shall include no less than the total area beneath the tree canopy as defined by the dripline of the tree or group of trees collectively. b. Wherein authorized excavations it becomes necessary to expose or cut roots more than one (1) inch in diameter, it shall be the duty of the contractor to protect such root(s) under advice from the City. c. All open trenching is prohibited. Utility installation within the dripline of protected trees, during construction or thereafter, can only occur using trenchless methods. d. The mowing, clearing, and grubbing of brush located within or under the dripline of protected trees may be allowed, provided such mowing, clearing, or grubbing is accomplished by hand or by mowers. The use of heavy equipment for this purpose shall not be allowed. Subd. 6. Protection from Disease and Pestilence. All clearing in oak stands shall be performed prior to April 15th or after July 15th of each season. Any development involving oak trees on or adjacent to the development area must submit a plan in conjunction with the preliminary plat. Subd. 7. Encroachment. If encroachment into a tree preservation area occurs which causes irreparable damage to the trees, the tree preservation plan shall be revised to compensate for the loss. Under no circumstances shall the developer be relieved of responsibility for compliance with the provisions of this ordinance, nor shall planned revision activities stop prevent the City from instituting action for violation of this ordinance. Subd. 8. Planting Requirements. All trees chosen shall be from the acceptable/preferred list (or have approval of the City) and native and/or adaptable to this region and climate as described in the Ramsey Tree Book. The quantity of the required plantings shall be in accordance with the performance standards established for the respective zoning district. a. Size of Trees at Planting. For all required plantings, deciduous trees shall be a minimum of one (1) inches caliper at the planting and all evergreen trees shall be a minimum of five (5) feet height at planting. Specifications shall be determined by the American Nurseryman's Standards. 1. All trees shall be protected with a biodegradable tree tube.