LIMIT ON PALM TREE PLANTING

Motion - A recent presentation by the Department of Public Works once more brought to stark attention the low amount of trees in Los Angeles compared to other parts of the country. Using satellite imagery, experts have determined that 17 percent of the City is covered by tree canopy, compared to 28 nationwide. In Council District 15 the figure was just 5 percent. As the City begins to embark on a one million tree initiative, the time is right to review our current practices as it pertains to street tree species selection. Palms, which are technically a type of grass and not trees, are an emblematic part of Los Angeles. However, they provide almost none of the benefits of trees that we can plant instead. Street Services frequently uses palms, particularly Fan Palms (Washingtonia robusta), which produce copious amounts of palm fronds that fall onto City parkways during wind storms and are a hazard to pick up given their size and numerous spines. While cheap to plant, this variety is not optimal and should only be used in areas where it would fill in a gap in an existing planting. There are other, more aesthetic varieties of palm that can be used for street trees and street medians, including king and queen palms and the majestic (though more expensive Canary Island date palm). These should be the preferred variety when palms are chosen. Otherwise, the City should plant trees that release oxygen to the atmosphere and help to reduce carbon dioxide levels and collect rain water. Trees provide a tremendous benefit to our environment. THEREFORE MOVE that the Bureau of Street Services be requested to limit the use of palm species in plantings on City streets and medians, unless it would be consistent with existing plantings in the area or specifically requested by a Council office or community group. Fan palms should be discouraged and preference given to queen and king palms instead.