We've had a number of trees cut down and/or die on our end of the street circle on the top of Oakview Terrace. how can one qualify to get a new one planted?

The city is actually responsible for planting street trees, which can be a lengthy process. The number you would call to request street trees is: 635-PARK.

If you are looking to get front yard trees planted, we are the people to contact for that! We have finished our fall planting, but can take requests for the spring. If these trees concern more than your own yard or sidewalk, you can try to meet with you neighbors and as a group plant some front yard trees through JP Trees.

Let us know if you have any further questions or comments.

It seems that a large yard next to an old house at around 248 Chestnut Ave. is being dug up and cleared. This has been an open yard area probably for over 100 years. Bushes, plants are being pulled up and the space leveled. No trees have been cut SO FAR. They may be clearing to build a house in the large yard next to the house! Is a permit needed? Should abutters have been notified? Any suggestions? Anything that can be done? Another green space is disappearing.

I have seen it, and it's pretty hideous. Unfortunately at this point the owner can kill whatever trees he/she wants, as long as they are on private land. That's why we have to get the city to create and enforce a policy to offer protection for trees on private property, like many cities have. City Councillor John Tobin is interested right now in working with us on this, and it can only help to let him know that you support the idea.

To the best of my knowledge abutters only have to be notified if the developer is seeking a variance (wants to go outside the zoning code, which will require a hearing. Right now there is nothing in the code about trees. However the JP Neighborhood Committee zoning board is becoming more and more aware of trees as a concern, so that if the person does seek variances they may be challenged regarding tree plans. You can find out about any hearings scheduled by contacting the JPNC. The JP Gazette posts them also. If there are still some big trees standing, it can't hurt to talk to the developer and let them know the trees' value. For one thing they increase property value $$$$. (Facts on this at Colorado Tree Coalition website) You could also ask them to take care with not driving equipment over the largest roots of the trees, right around them, compacting them.

If you'd like to join us working on policy, contact me at lockene@mac.com