HomeMy WebLinkAbout7/22/2024 Item 4a, O'Malley
Wilbanks, Megan
From:Hugh OMalley <hughomalley2@gmail.com>
Sent:Monday, July 22, 2024 2:16 PM
To:Advisory Bodies
Cc:Hugh OMalley
Subject:7/22 Tree Committee Comments/Questions - Review of Laguna Lake Dog Park
Revitalization Project
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Good evening. I look forward to attending this evening's meeting w/ a focus on the Laguna Lake Dog Park
Revitalization.
Having reviewed the Project Plan I'm left with 3 questions. I Kindly ask the committee to address these
comments. Advance thanks.
1 - Section 2.2 of the Planting Plan suggests 5 species under consideration for planting (alder, cypress
and chitalpa given highest focus).
My question is why consider the Alder and Cypress if team already knows that Alder (riparian) has high
water needs and existing Cypress as referenced in Section 2.1 (Existing Conditions) are either stunted or
showing signs of distress. We know that existing cypress at Laguna Lake are not robust and Alder will be
considerable distance from the lake.
The Species substitution matrix in Section 2.2 identifies several tree varieties that appear to be a sure bet
for healthy growth, wildlife attraction and low county maintenance (Sydney Red Gum/ Argyle Apple /
Swamp Mallet / Red-Cap Gum and Coral Gum).
Why not move these varieties to the list of Species for primary review and approval.
2 - Will the committee please explain what tree species are being removed. 2 trees have been identified
yet I don't see the names and I can't be certain when reviewing the site plan PDF.
My question, are you certain these trees are distressed, ill and needing to be removed. It takes so long to
regenerate... I fear we're taking 2 steps back and won't see the steps forward for many years. Have you
considered planting the new trees 1st ... then evaluating success, assuring the community that the new
trees are doing well before uprooting the existing trees?
3 - As an avid park visitor and neighborhood birder, has the Tree Committee reviewed tree species
selection with an eye for bird/animal coexistence.
My point being, Laguna Lake is home to some 250+ species of bird (all-time) w/ at least 100 regular
species annually. When the town approved changes in past years, the biodiversity of the park shifted
immediately.
I recommend the committee approve trees that will support migration and protect our biodiversity from
the pressures of SLO County residential and commercial growth.
Thank you for your consideration,
Hugh O'Malley
214 Cypress Street, SLO
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