The primary focus of the meeting was the community forestry management plan, a task made more challenging by the absence of the commission’s two longest-serving members. As a result, newer members took the lead in discussions about the new guidelines and the structure of the plan, which included understanding state requirements and ensuring data-driven decisions. A significant component of the plan involves conducting a comprehensive inventory of Fair Haven’s trees, with specific mention of the Norway maple, which constitutes a large portion of the local tree population. The commission recognized that diversifying tree species is essential, as the current layout does not align with standard urban tree planting practices.

An essential aspect of the discussion was the borough’s canopy cover, which exceeds the recommended 40%. While this is not a state requirement, identifying vacant plots for potential tree planting could enhance future funding opportunities. Potential sites for new trees were suggested, including municipal parks and Fair Haven fields, with the commission considering leveraging inventory software to identify these vacancies. The commission also discussed collaborating with the local school board to apply for grants from Sustainable Jersey for tree planting on school properties.

The conversation on funding and risk management was pivotal. The director of the Department of Public Works was noted to have a list of trees prioritized for removal and pruning, with property owners already contacted. The budget was identified as a limiting factor, and there was a consensus that while additional funding would be beneficial, the plan must realistically reflect what can be achieved within current financial constraints. The commission considered engaging with county entities to manage trees along county roads and discussed the potential use of outside contractors for priority removals.

Further discussions delved into the qualifications necessary for individuals conducting tree inventories. It was clarified that while a licensed tree expert is not required, a qualified individual with sufficient training must be involved. This was underscored by a recent proposal that had its requested funding reduced due to concerns about inexperienced volunteers conducting assessments. Ensuring an updated and dynamic inventory is crucial, allowing for adjustments based on changing conditions and facilitating effective management.

The meeting also covered various initiatives aimed at enhancing local forest management. A point was the transition of the commission from a primarily assistance-oriented agency to one with more regulatory responsibilities, following legislative changes. There was a call to incorporate more community involvement in forest management and to encourage local youth to consider careers in forestry.

In preparation for upcoming events, the commission discussed the need for seedlings for the Arbor Day event and preparations for the “Love Where You Live” day, which includes engaging activities for children. The procurement of seedlings for these events was approved, with a focus on encouraging community participation and documenting the growth of newly planted trees.