Tree Challenge Program

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MISSION STATEMENT

The purpose of the COSA Tree Planting Challenge program is to unite citizens in a common effort to increase the tree canopy of San Antonio. By undertaking a tree-planting, citizens make improvements to our greater community that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but environmentally beneficial as well.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Eligible planting locations are within COSA city limits and it’s ETJ (Extra- Territorial Jurisdiction) which is 5 miles outside the city limits.
• Groups can apply for up to 25 trees to plant in an area no larger than 25 square blocks, (i.e. 2 blocks by 12 blocks, 5 blocks by 5 blocks, etc.) to be delivered to ONE (1) designated location in the fall. Applicants who apply for 5 or fewer trees will need to make arrangements to pick up their trees, mulch, and TreeGator® irrigation bags.
• Applications are due July 26, 2013, at 4 p.m. at the City Clerk’s Office and will be selected on eligibility criteria.
• A match which can be volunteer sweat equity (site prep. such as asphalt removal, removal of dying trees as well as planting the trees and providing maintenance) and submitting a final report will be required of applicants.
• Tree species are to be selected from the included list (Page 3).
• Groups must follow the required maintenance plan for TWO (2) years.

HOW DO YOU GET STARTED?

• Canvas your neighborhood and recruit volunteers to help with the project.
• Review this application to make sure you understand it and are able to fulfill the requirements.
• Select planting sites and trees (include first and second choices), paying close attention to all guidelines mentioned in this handout. Keep in mind the utilities when selecting locations.
• Submit an application to the City Clerk’s Office. Only complete applications will qualify.
• Each Council district is eligible for 100 trees. Unused funds per Council district will be divided equally among other selected qualifying applicants within that district.

WHO WILL CARE FOR YOUR TREES?

• Typically, owners of the property on which trees will be planted will be responsible for TWO YEARS of maintenance. Care must follow the required maintenance plan.
• In the case of public property or if the owner cannot provide tree care, group members must agree to care for the trees following the maintenance agreement.

WHERE CAN YOU PLANT YOUR TREES?

• Plantings are limited to two trees per residential lot or one street tree every 50 feet on commercial property. An unlimited number of trees can be planted in parks or other public spaces.
• For maximum benefit for energy savings, large deciduous trees should be planted on the west and south sides of climate controlled buildings.
• Trees planted along streets play a direct role in creating pleasant drives, cleaning the air, controlling stormwater, and beautifying neighborhoods.
• Applicants must be aware of all utility infrastructure before applying for and planting trees. Utility lines above the site may require a small tree species; utility lines below may require an alternate location. You must call the numbers in the margin for utility line-locator service prior to finalizing your planting sites.
• Planting sites must consider clear lines of sight for traffic and be at least 30 ft. from intersections, 15 feet from driveways, and 10 feet from utility poles or fire hydrants. Large species must be at least 25 feet from overhead utilities.
• If your planting site is in a park, you must call Michael Nentwich at COSA Parks Department (207-3108) to verify the existence of a suitable water source, inquire about upcoming or planned park construction projects, and get approval in writing (e-mails are acceptable).
• Planting sites located near active capital improvement projects and Metropolitan Planning Organization Projects are not eligible for trees.

HOW DO YOU PICK YOUR TREES?

• Tree species on the attached list (Page 3) have been selected for their drought-resistant qualities as well as their beauty.
• Depending on the species, trees will be purchased in the 1"- 1.5" caliper, 10- 15 gallon size range. If not available, then smaller size trees may be substituted.
• Commercial projects are eligible for 2" – 2.5" caliper trees: 45-gallon.