The new Memorial Tree Program was a key focus of the meeting, with the commission exploring the possibility of designating specific locations throughout Fair Haven for these plantings. The program aims to provide residents with an opportunity to honor loved ones through tree planting, potentially along the Third Street Trail. Discussion included how to properly recognize these trees, whether through plaques or other markers, and who would be responsible for their maintenance. The commission contemplated involving residents in tree care, drawing on previous community initiatives where local involvement proved beneficial. However, concerns were raised about the feasibility of volunteer maintenance, especially regarding liability issues when involving children. The discussion concluded with a consensus on the need for a well-structured plan before presenting the idea to the town council.

In addition to the Memorial Tree Program, the commission discussed their aspirations for advancing Fair Haven’s sustainability status through the Sustainable Jersey program. Currently holding a silver certification, the commission aims to achieve 150 points by February 23rd, striving for a prestigious gold certification. Efforts to reach this milestone involve tracking energy efficiency and utility usage in town buildings. Notably, maintaining a comprehensive utility database has already earned the town 20 points.

The meeting also highlighted educational outreach initiatives aimed at fostering appreciation for trees among residents. One idea was to create informative signs around town, potentially as part of a scavenger hunt-style program. This initiative would encourage residents to explore significant trees in Fair Haven, with each sign providing tree-related facts. Although initially considering producing 200 signs, the commission reconsidered and aimed for a more manageable number of 100.

Another topic was the collaboration with the Environmental Commission and the Green Team to promote sustainability through community events. The upcoming “Love Where You Live Day,” scheduled for April 27th, is planned to coincide with the conclusion of Earth Week. Proposed activities include a scavenger hunt for trees in Willow Street Park, where children can learn about different tree species. This event aims to engage local school students, who will tend to a garden planted the previous year. A Sports Swap event, encouraging residents to trade old sports equipment, is also on the agenda for April.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing the town’s tree management practices, particularly in light of an incident involving tree topping. Concerns were raised about a landscaper who had severely topped a group of Leyland cypress trees, potentially violating local ordinances. The commission discussed the need to clarify the ordinance to explicitly prohibit harmful practices like topping. This led to broader discussions about revising the recommended tree list.

Financial considerations also featured in the meeting, with the commission reviewing its budget and spending. Operating under a temporary budget pending the town’s approval of the annual budget, the commission discussed the importance of aligning expenses with their budgetary limits. They acknowledged a two percent increase from the previous year but noted a lack of specific figures during the discussion. Concerns about tree removal permits were also addressed, with a small number of applications primarily for hazardous trees.