Project Summary N-141: Urban forestry strategy GCCC programming
Implementation of grant-funded work to establish geospatial tree and forested park inventories.
Project Summary: Urban forestry strategy GCCC programming
Priority: Strategic
Public Engagement: Collaborate
Financial Plan: 2026-2030
Reference Number: 1-2-07100-615 CC310-19
Submitted by: Ivan Leung, Director Ivan Leung, Parks
Executive Summary
This project was approved by Council at the February 17, 2026 regular Council meeting Staff will directly award the Growing Canada’s Community Canopies (GCCC) grant-funded work to Diamond Head Consulting, who will act as co-collaborators on the projects, to deliver the awarded Urban Forest Strategy programming over the next two years.
Business problem and opportunity
Urban forests play an important role in contributing to environmental integrity and climate change. Urban forests reduce our carbon footprint by sequestering carbon, filter air and water, protect watersheds, create shade, provide habitat, and slow wind and stormwater. Urban forests contribute to the social well-being by providing healthy and enjoyable recreation opportunities, moderating local climate, shading homes and businesses to conserve energy. The development of an urban forest strategy will provide a long-term sustainable approach to managing our forest in the Town of View Royal.
Proposed project objectives
- 2026 - Establish Geospatial Public Tree Inventory: $70,000
- 2026 - Review the Town’s Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw: $8,000
- 2026 - Establish Forested Parks Asset Inventory: $65,000
- 2027 - Create Tree Planting Plan: $30,000
- 2027 - Update to Terms of Reference Materials: $15,000
Business risks
Understanding the current inventory and recognizing the impacts of development in the community and how it affects the urban forest is integral to creating a sustainable valued community asset.
Proposed sources of funding
Casino revenue
Costs and benefits
| Costs | FY1 | FY2 | FY3 | FY4 | FY5 | 5-year Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capital | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Operational | 143,000 | 45,000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 188,000 |
| Total | 143,000 | 45,000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 188,000 |
| Benefits | |
|---|---|
| Tangible | |
| Intangible |
Recommendation
THAT the Committee recommend the 2026-2030 Financial Plan include Urban forestry strategy GCCC programming in 2026 to be funded by Casino revenue.