street tree preservation and planting design guidelines

REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORK

Street Tree Preservation And Planting Design Guidelines

Environmental Services Department Environmental Promotion and Protection Branch - Natural Heritage and Forestry February 2013

Street Tree Preservation and Planting Design Guidelines Regional Municipality of York

February 2013 Page i

Forward The Street Tree Preservation and Planting Design Guidelines were originally prepared for the Region’s Road Design Guidelines (developed by Capital Delivery - Roads Branch). The Road Design Guidelines were prepared to assist professional service providers and Regional staff in the preparation of construction drawings for Regional road improvement projects. Street tree preservation and planting design also occurs outside this process by others including developers, utility companies and local municipalities. To provide design guidelines to these other groups, a stand alone version of the Street Tree Preservation and Planting Design Guideline has been prepared. In the preparation of this stand alone version, minor modifications were made to the original version.


February 2013 Page 1 of 14

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Forward .................................................................................................................. i 1.0 PURPOSE .................................................................................................. 2 2.0 STANDARD REFERENCES ...................................................................... 2 3.0 STREET TREE PRESERVATION AND COMPENSATION ....................... 3

3.1 Street Tree Inventory .............................................................................. 3 3.2 Street Tree Preservation Plan ................................................................ 3 3.3 Street Tree Compensation Planting ........................................................ 4

4.0 STREET TREE PLANTING PLAN ............................................................. 5 5.0 STREET TREE PLANTING DESIGN CRITERIA ....................................... 5

5.1 Site Context ............................................................................................ 5 5.2 Spacing Between Trees .......................................................................... 6 5.3 Offset From Curb .................................................................................... 6 5.4 Offset From Intersections and Entrances ............................................... 7 5.5 Offset From Sidewalk and Property Boundaries ..................................... 7 5.6 Offset from Ditches and Drainage .......................................................... 7 5.7 Other Design Considerations .................................................................. 7 5.8 Hydro (Energized) Lines ......................................................................... 8 5.9 Telephone and Other Non-Energized Lines ........................................... 8 5.10 Light Standards and Utility Poles ............................................................ 8 5.11 Watermains and Sewers ......................................................................... 8 5.12 Other Utilities .......................................................................................... 8 5.13 Species Selection: .................................................................................. 8

a) General: .................................................................................................. 8 b) Stock: ...................................................................................................... 9 c) Diversity: ................................................................................................. 9

5.14 Provision for tree root development ...................................................... 10 5.15 Construction requirements and planting specification........................... 10

6.0 COMMON DESIGN ERRORS ................................................................. 11



1.0 PURPOSE To ensure that tree preservation and tree planting requirements are incorporated into the design process and plans for construction projects (road infrastructure, water and wastewater infrastructure and utility relocations). This includes the review and implementation of innovative design alternatives that preserve existing trees and provide opportunities for sustainable tree planting. Street trees and other vegetation form an important component of our green infrastructure. York Region, through its Streetscape Policy, Greening Strategy, and other initiatives, has made a strong commitment to the preservation and enhancement of our green infrastructure. 2.0 STANDARD REFERENCES York Region’s Utility Design Guidelines York Region’s Drawing Information Manual York Region’s Consultant Package York Region’s Streetscaping Policy – December 2001 Roadside Safety Manual (MTO Document) Canadian Standard for Nursery Stock York Region’s Site Triangle Manual, 2007 York Region’s Street Trees - Enhanced Planting Strategies, 2008 Appendix S (a) – Tree Protection Details (NHFS-04) Appendix S (b) – Tree Protection Notes and Sign Detail (NHFS-05) Appendix S (c) – Tree Protection Specifications Appendix S (d) – Acceptable Street Tree Species List for Regional Roads Appendix S (e) – Tree and Shrub Planting, Transplanting and Maintenance

Specification Appendix S (f) – Caliper Deciduous Tree Planting Detail for Softscape

Boulevards (NHFS-01) Appendix S (g) – Caliper Coniferous Tree Planting Detail for Softscape

Boulevards (NHFS-02) Appendix S (h) – Container Grown Shrub Planting Detail (NHFS-03) Appendix S (i) – Caliper Deciduous Tree Planting Detail on Slope (NHFS-06) Appendix S (j) – Caliper Coniferous Tree Planting Detail on Slope (NHFS-07) Appendix S (k) – Container Grown Deciduous Tree Planting Detail on Slope

(NHFS-08) Appendix S (l) – Container Grown Coniferous Tree Planting Detail on Slope

(NHFS-09) Appendix S (m) – Container Grown Shrub Planting Detail on Slope (NHFS-

10) Appendix S (n) – Container Grown Deciduous Tree Planting Detail (NHFS-11) Appendix S (o) – Container Grown Coniferous Tree Planting Detail (NHFS-

12)



Appendix s (p) – Boulevard Tree Planting Soil Trench for Softscape Boulevards (NHFS-13)

3.0 STREET TREE PRESERVATION AND COMPENSATION Existing street trees and roadside vegetation communities are an integral part of our green infrastructure and are considered an asset within the Regional right-of-way. Preserving established trees requires careful design considerations to mitigate negative impacts. Grade changes and other construction activities in proximity to trees cause direct and indirect physical damage to trees, and often have long term negative consequences for tree structural stability and tree survival. The following sections outline the information and plans required to respond to the need for tree protection, relocation, and replacement during the planning and design stages. These plans are to be prepared by landscape/forestry professionals such as foresters, arborists, or landscape architects in consultation with engineering designers. Designers should also refer the Environmental Study Report for the additional information on tree preservation requirements specific to the project. 3.1 Street Tree Inventory During the initial design phase, the Environmental Study Report’s street tree inventory shall be reviewed, updated and supplemented if necessary for trees within and adjacent to the right-of-way for the entire project limits. At a minimum the street tree inventory shall:

1. Identify natural vegetation communities, including species composition, diameter at breast height (DBH), crown diameter, location, and spatial extent. This includes communities within and adjacent to the right-of-way.

2. Identify single trees, including location, species, size and condition:

a) Rural cross sections – identify all trees greater than 10-cm in diameter, and trees smaller than 10 cm in diameter that have been planted.

b) Urban cross sections – identify trees of all sizes c) Trees on adjacent lands whose crown extends onto the right-of-way.

The street tree inventory shall be completed for submission with the initial design (30% design submission for York Region projects). 3.2 Street Tree Preservation Plan Using the information collected from the street tree inventory, a street tree preservation plan shall be developed for the 30% detailed design review



submission. The street tree preservation plan shall provide information regarding street trees and vegetation communities, minimum tree protection zones and other mitigation measures, such as transplanting. Utilizing the information provided in the street tree inventory and street tree preservation plan, the designer shall incorporate design measures, such as adjustments to grading, which will minimize the impact to vegetation. The design drawings shall identify all street trees and vegetation communities to be removed, transplanted, and preserved. For York Region projects this shall be included with the 60% design submission. To ensure that trees identified for preservation and transplanting are protected during construction, tree protection and mitigation measures should be identified during the design. Tree protection measures should be identified on the design drawings as a set of separate tree protection and mitigation sheets. For York Region projects this should be included with the 90% design submission. The tree protection and mitigation sheets should include at a minimum:

1. The location of all trees to be preserved or transplanted. For trees to be transplanted their existing and future locations should be identified.

2. The location of tree protection fencing and other mitigation measures for all trees to be preserved or transplanted.

3. A tree protection and mitigation details sheet with standard drawings and specifications for protection fencing, transplanting, and other mitigation measures. Please refer to Appendices S (a), S (b) and S (c) for the Region’s standard tree protection details and specifications and Appendix S(e) for the Region’s transplanting specifications.

Tree transplanting should be completed when the tree is dormant. As such transplanting may need to be completed in advance of the construction project. Where woodlots will be impacted as a result of tree removal, pre-stressing techniques (e.g. edge thinning) should be employed as a means to minimize the negative impacts associated with the creation of a new edge. York Region Natural Heritage and Forestry Services staff shall be consulted on tree preservation, removal and compensation matters and special operational constraints prior to and during construction. 3.3 Street Tree Compensation Planting York Region considers the principle of ‘no net loss of trees or forest cover’ when reviewing the footprint of individual projects. It is recognized that this approach will not be feasible in all cases. Where vegetation removal can not be avoided, efforts should be made to provide compensation in the form of new plantings.



These new plantings shall be incorporated into the design to offset what was lost, and where possible enhance the streetscape and/or natural environment. For vegetation communities, such as woodlots, compensation plantings should be designed on an area basis to restore what was lost and take into consideration the functions and attributes of the feature. This compensation can be accomplished through right of way plantings which buffer impacts. In urban areas, plantings should integrate the urban form with the natural vegetation adjacent to the right-of-way (e.g. stream valley corridors). In locations where there is limited space for tree planting, consideration should be given for providing tree planting at the edge or beyond the right-of-way. Street tree compensation plantings shall be prepared as part of the streetscape design and included as separate landscape sheets. The streetscape/tree planting plan shall address compensation as well as the Region’s streetscaping/tree planting requirements. 4.0 STREET TREE PLANTING PLAN Street Tree Planting shall complement and conform to the Region’s Streetscape Policy and Towards Great Regional Streets Design Guidelines. The Street Tree Planting Plan should be submitted early in the design process to ensure the proposed road design allows for sustainable street tree planting opportunities. For Region projects the Street Tree Planting Plan shall be submitted with the 60% submission. The Street Tree Planting Plan will clearly show both the proposed trees and relocated trees. The relocated trees are to be distinguished graphically for easy reference. Trees will be labelled clearly with plant keys and a plant list will be shown complete with symbol, botanical and common name, quantity, and condition. The planting plan shall conform to the following Street Tree Planting Design Criteria. 5.0 STREET TREE PLANTING DESIGN CRITERIA The concept of a green infrastructure recognizes that street trees provide many important and measurable benefits which are vital to the overall health of our landscapes and communities. However, successfully establishing and maintaining the green infrastructure requires more than just planting trees. The following design parameters shall be considered when developing street tree planting plans: 5.1 Site Context



Site context is of paramount importance in the planting of trees, since adjacent land uses such as commercial, industrial, institutional, and residential present different needs. Transition between uses is imperative so the streetscape is unified and integrated. The following are guidelines to suitable tree location and planting:

Visibility and sight line requirements at intersections need to be maintained.

Public safety and security needs to be ensured by planting appropriate species that keep their form to maintain clear visibility.

Co-ordinate the location of street trees with the site landscaping for a unified streetscape.

Plant street trees closer together (6-8m) approaching a major intersection or highly visible locations such as gateways or nodes.

Introduce coniferous plant material where visual screening is appropriate such as along railway corridors, rail overpasses, parking lots.

Choose plant material with ecological compatibility, appropriate for site conditions (e.g. salt and drought tolerant).

Maintain a pedestrian connection to the street and enhance this by planting trees flanking this connection.

5.2 Spacing Between Trees The spacing of trees along Regional roads is defined in York Region’s Streetscaping Policy – December 2001. The desired spacing of trees is based on the size and form of the tree species at maturity. For full form species:

Trees should be spaced at 10 metres on centre Spacing can be varied from 8 to 12 metres on centre

For small form species (hydro acceptable):

Trees should be spaced at 8 metres on centre Spacing can be varied from 6 to 10 metres on centre

Designers are encouraged to consider alternative tree planting schemes that are compatible with the site context. 5.3 Offset From Curb Preference is given for the offset from curb to follow the minimum distances for fixed objects as defined in the Roadside Safety Manual. The absolute minimum



offset is 2.5 metres in order to allow for snow storage. A tree species’ salt tolerance is also a concern when considering the offset from curb. 5.4 Offset From Intersections and Entrances Sight distance triangles are maintained free of tree trunks and branches. Branches may droop over time and interfere with sightlines. To maintain minimum site line distances the following offsets shall be followed:

Trees should not be planted within 9.0 metres of an intersection Trees should not be planted within 3.0 metres of an entranceway or

driveway Other landscaping elements may be considered within site distance triangles. Designers should refer to the Region’s Sight Triangle Manual for design criteria. 5.5 Offset From Sidewalk and Property Boundaries Street trees should be planted to minimize conflicts with sidewalk construction and maintenance. To allow for sidewalk construction and maintenance the following offsets shall be followed:

Trees shall be planted a minimum of 1.0 metres from edge of sidewalk, a 1.5 metre offset is preferred.

Where no sidewalk exists trees should be planted at a 3.5 metre offset from the property line. This offset allows for the future construction of a sidewalk at York Region’s standard location, 0.6 metres from the property line.

Where sufficient room exists between an existing sidewalk and property boundary, tree planting may occur at the following offset:

Trees should be planted a minimum of 1.0 metres from property boundaries.

5.6 Offset from Ditches and Drainage Trees should not be located within 1.0 metre of the ditch line in order to allow for maintenance of the ditch. Tree should not be planted where water may collect and temporarily pool. 5.7 Other Design Considerations Trees should not be planted in urban cross sections fronting undeveloped properties or in areas where future grade changes are anticipated.



5.8 Hydro (Energized) Lines Where overhead hydro wires are present, tree species whose mature form is relatively small should be selected. Conversely, where there are no overhead wires present, full form trees shall be used. Designers shall refer to the York Region Acceptable Tree Species List for Regional Roads, Appendix S (d). 5.9 Telephone and Other Non-Energized Lines Full sized trees may be planted directly under overhead utilities which are non-energized, such as telephone wires. 5.10 Light Standards and Utility Poles Trees should not be planted within 3.0 metres of a utility pole or light standard. 5.11 Watermains and Sewers For watermains and sewers, the offset guideline from the centre of the pipe is 1.0 metres, or as much as possible. However, where no other suitable locations exist trees may be located directly over pipe(s). 5.12 Other Utilities Minimum required offsets from other utilities should be observed. Where none is specified a minimum of a 1.0 metre offset is acceptable. 5.13 Species Selection: a) General: Street tree planting and streetscape design is an integrated effort. Street tree species need to withstand the tough conditions on regional roads and be tolerant of drought, salt, and wind. When selecting a species the designer should consider the current and future site conditions and select a species appropriate for the site. Some factors affecting species selection include:

Presence of overhead hydro. Achievable offset from curb Available soil volumes, boulevard vs. median Road side, east vs. west, north vs. south Adjacent land use (e.g. avoid invasive species near nature areas)

To ensure that only species suitable for planting in this environment are used, the Region has prepared an acceptable species list with species selection guidelines.



A copy of the York Region Acceptable Street Tree Species List for Regional Roads can be found in Appendix S (d). b) Stock:

1. High quality nursery stock is a pre-requisite to tree survival 2. Balled and burlap wrapped stock is the York Region standard for trees. 3. Tree planting stock shall conform to the following sizes:

Deciduous trees shall be 50-mm in calliper Coniferous trees shall be 1.5 metre in height

4. Shrub planting stock shall be potted and 50 cm in height 5. A copy of the Region’s tree planting specifications can be found in

Appendix S (e). 6. Whips (bare root stock 1.0 to 1.5 metres in height) may be planted in

low profile, rural areas 7. Seedlings or whips may be used for naturalization or restoration areas

c) Diversity: The Region supports the creation of a diverse urban forest while providing for an aesthetically pleasing streetscape. Diversity will be created at the urban forest level allowing for the creation of aesthetically pleasing streetscapes at the street block level. The creation of monocultures (i.e. dependence on one species) is not supported as part of this balanced approach to species diversity. This design approach supports our commitment to maintaining a healthy urban forest and biodiversity, and recognizes the importance of a proactive integrated pest management approach to street tree planting. While acknowledging the need for species diversity, the Region requires that 75% of species planted be selected from its top performing street tree list, Appendix S (d). Designers should attempt to incorporate the following species diversity guidelines:

Maximum of 20% of plantings to be from the same genus of trees Maximum of 10% of plantings to be from the same species of tree.

The table below provides the minimum number of species required associated with a given size of a planting. Number of Trees in Planting Minimum Number of Species

1-30 1 31-50 2 51-100 4

101-200 6



200 + 8 Species selection should consider the harsh environment in the road right of way and where reasonable incorporate species native to the area. 5.14 Provision for tree root development For street tree planting plans to be successful they must be based on the principle of sustainable design. Criteria such as species selection, offset from curb, etc. are important components in sustainable designs. In addition, designs most provide for the healthily development of tree root systems capable of supporting tree growth and health. In order to monitor the success of our designs and tree planting efforts, the Region has developed the following street tree performance standard:

Medium to large form trees should reach a minimum size of 40 centimetres in diameter and a crown width of 10 metres.

To achieve this standard adequate, space for tree root development will be required. Root development requires both below ground space and an appropriate growing medium. Based on the Region’s performance target, each tree requires a minimum of 16 cubic metres of good quality soil for root development. The growing medium or soil shall follow the specification provided in the document Street Trees, Enhanced Planting Strategies. During the design process, consideration must be given to providing adequate soil volume and quality for root development. Innovative techniques may be required to provide this space in constrained environments (e.g. soil cells, structural soils, root paths, etc). 5.15 Construction requirements and planting specification The majority of Regional plantings on capital projects are carried out through a separate contract administered by the Natural Heritage and Forestry Services Section of the Roads Branch. This allows for better timing of plantings and involves technically skilled personnel in the administration of the contract. Where tree planting is to be incorporated into a construction contract, the attached tree planting specifications and standard drawings should be incorporated into the tender package:

Appendix S (e) – Tree and Shrub Planting, Transplanting and Maintenance Specification



Appendix S (f) – Caliper Deciduous Tree Planting Detail for Softscape Boulevards (NHFS-01)

Appendix S (g) – Caliper Coniferous Tree Planting Detail for Softscape Boulevards (NHFS-02)

Appendix S (h) – Container Grown Shrub Planting Detail (NHFS-03) Appendix S (i) – Caliper Deciduous Tree Planting Detail on Slope

(NHFS-06) Appendix S (j) – Caliper Coniferous Tree Planting Detail on Slope

(NHFS-07) Appendix S (k) – Container Grown Deciduous Tree Planting Detail on

Slope (NHFS-08) Appendix S (l) – Container Grown Coniferous Tree Planting Detail on

Slope (NHFS-09) Appendix S (m) – Container Grown Shrub Planting Detail on Slope

(NHFS-10) Appendix S (n) – Container Grown Deciduous Tree Planting Detail

(NHFS-11) Appendix S (o) – Container Grown Coniferous Tree Planting Detail

(NHFS-12) 6.0 COMMON DESIGN ERRORS

Trees as an afterthought Designs that do not take into account that street trees are part of the design and construction process. Tree damage For existing trees to be preserved, soil compaction or other direct and indirect physical damages have to be proactively considered. Such impacts often have long term negative consequences for tree survival. Tree protection measures must be effectively identified and deployed in the contract documents. Proximity to curb Trees are often identified on plans less than 2.5 metre setback from the curb. Obstructions Trees should not be planted where they will obstruct sight lines to intersections, signs, entrances or traffic control signals. Overhead Wires



Avoid planting trees which will grow to full size within 2.5 metres of overhead wires. Monoculture Plantings While this type of planting is preferred by some for aesthetic reasons, these plantings should be avoided to prevent future pest management problems.

APPENDIX S

YORK REGION – STREET TREE PROTECTION AND PLANTING SPECIFICATIONS

Appendix S is for information purposed only, the following tree protection and planting specifications and species selection listings can be found using the following hyperlinks: Appendix S (a) – Tree Protection Details (NHFS-04) Appendix S (b) – Tree Protection Notes and Sign Detail (NHFS-05) Appendix S (c) – Tree Protection Specifications Appendix S (d) – Acceptable Street Tree Species List for Regional Roads Appendix S (e) – Tree and Shrub Planting, Transplanting and Maintenance

Specification Appendix S (f) – Caliper Deciduous Tree Planting Detail for Softscape Boulevards

(NHFS-01) Appendix S (g) – Caliper Coniferous Tree Planting Detail for Softscape Boulevards

(NHFS-02) Appendix S (h) – Container Grown Shrub Planting Detail (NHFS-03) Appendix S (i) – Caliper Deciduous Tree Planting Detail on Slope (NHFS-06) Appendix S (j) – Caliper Coniferous Tree Planting Detail on Slope (NHFS-07) Appendix S (k) – Container Grown Deciduous Tree Planting Detail on Slope (NHFS-

08) Appendix S (l) – Container Grown Coniferous Tree Planting Detail on Slope (NHFS-

09) Appendix S (m) – Container Grown Shrub Planting Detail on Slope (NHFS-10) Appendix S (n) – Container Grown Deciduous Tree Planting Detail (NHFS-11) Appendix S (o) – Container Grown Coniferous Tree Planting Detail (NHFS-12) Appendix s (p) – Boulevard Tree Planting Soil Trench for Softscape Boulevards

(NHFS-13)

PLAN VIEW SIDE VIEW

REFER TO NHFS-05 FOR TREE PROTECTION NOTES AND SIGN DETAIL

Transportation Services

TREE PROTECTION DETAIL

DATE: DECEMBER 2008

REV. SCALE N.T.S.

REV. X X NHFS - 04

TREE PROTECTION SIGN

TREE PROTECTION NOTES FENCE MATERIAL:

PLASTIC ORANGE FENCING (120 CM TALL) SHALL BE USED OR EQUIVELANT AS APPROVED BY YORK REGION AND INSTALLED WITH WIRE TIES ON METAL T-BAR POSTS (180 CM TALL) SPACED 250 CM APART

FENCE MAY BE COMBINED WITH SILT FENCING FENCE LOCATION:

INSTALL FENCE AS PER NHFS-04 TREE PROTECTION DETAIL

FOR INDIVIDUAL TREES, FENCE IS TO BE INSTALLED AT THE LIMITS OF CONSTRUCTION OR AT THE DRIPLINE OF THE TREE, WHICHEVER IS FURTHER FROM THE TREE. FENCE CAN BE LOCATED CLOSER TO THE TRUNK ONLY WITH AUTHORIZATION FROM YORK REGION

FOR ROWS OF TREES, SUCH AS FOUND IN BOULEVARDS, A SINGLE LINEAR FENCE SHOULD BE INSTALLED WHICH FOLLOWS THE LIMITS OF THE CONSTRUCTION ZONE

SIGNAGE:

INSTALL TREE PROTECTION SIGN ON FENCE FACING CONSTRUCTION ZONE AT 100 METER INTERVALS AS PER NHFS-04 TREE PROTECTION DETAIL

PRUNING:

ALL ROOTS WHICH ARE EXPOSED THROUGH EXCAVATION ARE TO BE PRUNED BACK TO THE SOIL SURFACE

BRANCHES DAMAGED OR INTERFERING WITH CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES ARE TO BE PRUNED BY AN INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ARBORICULTURE (ISA) CERTIFIED ARBORIST

FENCE MAINTENANCE:

MAINTAIN FENCE IN WORKING CONDITION AT ALL TIMES

DO NOT STORE MATERIALS OR EQUIPMENT IN THE PROTECTED AREA

DO NOT MOVE FENCE WITHOUT PRIOR AUTHORIZATION FROM YORK REGION

MONITORING:

CONDUCT WEEKLY MONITORING OF FENCE AND TREE HEALTH THROUGHOUT THE DURATION OF THE CONSTRUCTION PROJECT OR ACCORDING TO A SCHEDULE NOTED IN AN APPROVED TREE PRESERVATION PLAN.

Transportation Services

TREE PROTECTION NOTES AND SIGN DETAIL

DATE: OCTOBER 21, 2011

REV. SCALE N.T.S.

REV. X X NHFS - 05

THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORK

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES DEPARTEMENT

ROADS BRANCH

TREE PROTECTION SPECIFICATIONS

Revised March 2009

THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORK

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT ROADS BRANCH

TREE PROTECTION SPECIFICATIONS

This item shall include all Work required for the supply, installation, maintenance and removal of ‘Tree Protection Fencing’ in accordance with Natural Heritage and Forestry Services Standard Drawings NHFS-04 and NHFS-05.

‘Tree Protection Fencing’ shall be constructed using steel posts, spaced at 250 cm, and plastic orange fencing, minimum height of 120 cm, attached to the steel posts. Tree protection signs shall be attached to ‘Tree Protection Fencing’ at a minimum interval of 100 m.

The Contractor shall install ‘Tree Protection Fencing’ as shown on the Contract Drawings. ‘Tree Protection Fencing’ shall be installed at the edge of the tree crown (drip line) or edge of the construction zone, whichever is furthest from the tree. The Contractor will be responsible for providing and installing additional quantities of ‘Tree Protection Fencing’, as may be necessary to protect trees including their root systems from damage.

Tree Protection fencing shall be installed prior to commencement of construction activities and shall remain until construction activities have been completed.

The Contractor is responsible for the maintenance of ‘Tree Protection Fencing’ at all times during construction. Maintenance includes repairing damaged fence sections and reinstatement of ‘Tree Protection Fencing’ as required.

Revised March 2009

February 7, 2013 Page 1 of 4

THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORK ACCEPTABLE STREET TREE SPECIES FOR REGIONAL ROADS

Regional road allowances present an extremely harsh environment for street tree establishment and growth. Only a select group of hardy tree species establish and thrive in this environment. The Regional Municipality of York has developed the following street tree species lists and guidelines to ensure that only those hardy tree species proven to establish and thrive along Regional roads are planted. The Region continually reviews these lists and guidelines in an attempt to ensure they reflect the most current knowledge and are as broad as possible. The Region is continually trying new species and varieties in controlled trials to identify additional species for the lists. Top Performing Street Tree Species The Regional Municipality of York has developed a list of “Top Performing Street Tree Species” based on an extensive literature review, results of recent street tree health assessments and anecdotal records of species performance in Regional road allowances. This list represents species which have desirable characteristics and are tolerant of the harsh growing environment present along Regional roads. While being sensitive to species diversity, this list has been developed to ensure that trees planted meet performance expectations and achieve the expected benefits for Region residents. These species will form the majority of species planted within Regional road allowances. At a minimum, 75% of trees planted along Regional roads will come from the Region’s top performing street tree species list. In road side locations where conditions are particularly harsh, up to 100% of species planted may come from the top performing street tree species list.

TABLE 1: Top Performing Small Form (Hydro Acceptable) Species List

Species Name Native Characteristics

Shubert cherry (Prunus virginiana ‘Shubert’) 1

Yes Very susceptible to black knot, requires annual pruning to control

fungus Prone to suckering from base of tree

Ivory silk lilac (Syringa reticulata) No Showy lilac-like blooms in early summer, followed by seed

capsules that persist on the tree Fairly pest and disease resistant

Acceptable Street Tree Species For Regional Roads


TABLE 2: Top Performing Full Form Species List

Species Name Native1 Characteristics

Silver maple (Acer saccharinum)1 Yes Develops large crown, therefore plant in locations with

adequate space

Ohio Buckeye (Aesculus glabra) 1 Yes

Showy flower spikes followed by seed husks covered in soft spines

Less susceptible to leaf scorch and leaf blotch than horsechestnut

Horsechestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) 1

No Showy flower spikes, less seed production than Ohio buckeye,

seed husks covered in soft spines Susceptible to leaf scorch and leaf blotch

Honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis)

Yes Small leaves provide a filtered shade

Can be susceptible to defoliation by leafhoppers Acceptable cultivars for Regional roads include: Shademaster

Kentucky coffee tree (Gymnocladus dioicus) 1

Yes

Coarse branching structure, large double-compound leaves with small leaflets

Dioecious tree with male and female plants, male tree preferred

Notes: 1Spring planting only 2A native tree is defined as a tree whose natural range is within Ontario and/or the northern U.S lake states. Notable Street Tree Species for Select Planting Sites

The Regional Municipality of York has developed a list of “Notable Street Tree Species for Select Planting Sites” based on an extensive literature review, results of recent street tree health assessments and anecdotal records of species performance in Regional road allowances. This list represents species which have many desirable characteristics and tolerances, but are sensitive to specific environmental conditions (exposure to prevailing winds, de-icing salt, etc,). Their use is limited to specific sites where the environmental conditions are ideal for their initial survival and long term performance. These species will form a minor component of species planted within Regional road allowances. The Region has developed a series of street tree species fact sheets that provide additional information on many of these species. These are available upon request.



TABLE 3: Notable Full Form Species List

Species Name Native2 Planting/Site Restrictions

Norway maple (Acer platanoides)

No Invasive

This species is invasive. Although some of the cultivars are less invasive, it is not to be planted near natural areas.

Autumn Blaze maple (Acer x freemanii ‘Autumn Blaze’) 1

Yes Sensitive to desiccation from winter winds. Use in locations sheltered

from prevailing winds.

Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) 1

Yes Sensitive to de-icing salts (airborne spray). Use in locations where

exposure to salt spray will be minimized, e.g. wide boulevards (6 m +) on the north and west sides of roads.

Swamp white oak (Quercus bicolor) 1

Yes

Of the oak species, this has shown the greatest tolerance to Regional road conditions. Still considered sensitive to de-icing salts (airborne

spray). Use in locations where exposure to salt spray will be minimized, e.g. wide boulevards (6 m+) on the north and west sides of roads.

Bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa)1

Yes

Has shown tolerance to Regional road conditions. Still considered sensitive to de-icing salts (airborne spray). Use in locations where

exposure to salt spray will be minimized, e.g. wide boulevards (6 m+) on north and west sides of roads.

Littleleaf linden (Tilia cordata)

No

Sensitive to desiccation from winter winds and de-icing salt. Plant in locations were exposure to salt spray will be minimized, e.g. wide

boulevards (6 m+) on the north & west sides of roads and in a location sheltered from prevailing winds.

Acceptable cultivars for Regional roads include: Glenleven and Greenspire

Accolade elm (Ulmus japonica x Ulmus

wilsoniana) No

Initial plantings of this species have shown tolerance to the growing conditions on Regional road allowances. Experience with this species is limited and it should be used in limited quantities until further evaluation

of its performance is completed.

Colorado spruce (Picea pungens) 1

No

Sensitive to desiccation from winter winds and de-icing salt. Plant a minimum of 6 m from edge of road, and preferably in a sheltered location.

Should always be planted behind sidewalk/pedestrian zone Susceptible to yellow-headed spruce sawfly defoliation

White spruce (Picea glauca) 1

Yes

More sensitive to desiccation from winter winds and de-icing salt than Colorado or Norway spruces. Plant a minimum of 6 m from edge of road,

and preferably in a sheltered location. Should always be planted behind sidewalk/pedestrian zone

Can be susceptible to yellow-headed spruce sawfly defoliation

Norway spruce (Picea abies) 1

No


Should always be planted behind sidewalk/pedestrian zone Fairly pest and disease resistant

Austrian pine (Pinus nigra) 1

No


Should always be planted behind sidewalk/pedestrian zone Susceptible to Diplodia blight, select locations with good air flow and

avoid mass plantings of this tree



TABLE 4: Notable Small Form (Hydro Acceptable) Species List

Species Name Native2 Planting/Site Restrictions

Hedge maple (Acer camprestre)

No Sensitive to desiccation from winter winds. Use in locations sheltered

from prevailing winds.

Ornamental pear (Pyrus calleryana) 1

No Sensitive to desiccation from winter winds. Use in locations sheltered from prevailing winds. Acceptable cultivars for Regional roads include:

Chanticleer Pear Columnar Norway

maple (Acer platanoides ‘Columnare’)

No Invasive

Species suitable for planting adjacent to overhead hydro due to its narrow width. Must be planted a minimum of five (5) metres from overhead

hydro

English pyramidal oak (Quercus robur

‘fastigiata’)1 No

Species suitable for planting adjacent to overhead hydro due to its narrow width. Must be planted a minimum of five (5) metres from overhead

hydro Should always be planted behind sidewalk/pedestrian zone

Notes: 1Spring planting only 2A native tree is defined as a tree whose natural range is within Ontario and/or the northern U.S lake states.

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ITEM xx SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF CALIPER TREES

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Planting Locations

Planting locations will be identified by the Commissioner by:

1. Detailed drawings provided to the Contractor; or 2. A wooden stake, coloured flag, or painted “T” on the curb or sidewalk,

accompanied by a tree planting details sheet.

In the event of any discrepancies between the planting details sheet and the on site markings, the Contractor shall contact the Region for clarification. The Contractor is responsible for the collection and disposal of all wooden stakes and coloured flags.

Inspections

The Commissioner has the right to inspect all plant material and planting practices at his/her discretion. All plant material and/or planting practices which do not meet the requirements of the Contract Documents shall be corrected by the Contractor within 20 Working Days of receiving written notification from the Region.

Planting Time The supply and installation of caliper trees shall be completed beginning on May 1 and ending on June 30. The Commissioner at his/her sole discretion may extend or shorten the planting time based on weather conditions.

Site Operations and Work Conditions

All planting Work shall be carried out by personnel who are qualified, skilled and experienced in the various aspects of tree and shrub planting, transplanting and maintenance. The Contractor shall ensure consistent and continuous operations once planting commences.

The Contractor shall minimize the amount of mud and debris deposited on boulevards and roadways as a result of excavation and hauling operations. The Contractor shall be responsible for dust control and shall minimize the amount of dust created by its operations. Any mud, debris or dust deposited on boulevards and roadways as a result of the Work shall be removed by the Contractor, at its own expense, within 24 hours of being directed to do so by the Commissioner. Any damage to the roads and/or boulevards as a result of the Work shall be repaired by the Contractor, to the satisfaction of the Commissioner, at the Contractor’s expense, within five (5) Working Days of being directed to do so by the Commissioner.

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SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF CALIPER TREES

The Contractor shall supply and install caliper trees in accordance with the following:

Caliper Tree Planting Stock

Origin Information concerning the geographical origin of seed or cuttings used to

produce the caliper trees for this Contract shall be made available to the Commissioner upon request. If, in the sole opinion of the Commissioner, the plant material is of an origin unsuitable climatically to the Regional area, it will be refused.

All caliper trees for this Contract shall have been grown for a minimum period of

two (2) growing seasons at a nursery located within Canadian Plant Hardiness Zones 4b, 5a, 5b or 6a. The Contractor shall provide written documentation confirming that this requirement has been satisfied. If, in the sole opinion of the Commissioner, the documentation does not satisfy this condition, the plant material will be refused.

Conformity to Species and Variety

The botanical nomenclature used for species and cultivars of caliper trees shall

conform to the publication Hortus Third, 1976. All caliper trees shall conform to the species and/or varieties named in the Bid

Form. No substitutions will be accepted without the prior written approval of the Commissioner. The Contractor shall not be entitled to any increase in the Contract Price in the event that a species substitution is approved by the Region, and may be required to provide a credit should the Region deem, in its sole discretion, that the substituted species is of a lesser quality than that specified in the Contract.

Form and Vigour of Caliper Trees All caliper trees shall be nursery stock conforming to the 8th Edition of the

Canadian Standards for Nursery Stock as published by the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association, unless specified otherwise in the Contract Documents.

All caliper trees shall be true to type, structurally sound with no evidence of dead

branches, sun scald, frost cracks, abraded or broken bark, included bark, and shall be free of insect or disease infestation. All caliper trees shall have a full, well-developed crown with one distinctive vertical leader and a root system typical of the species, free of girdling roots. All parts of the plant shall be moist and show active green cambium when cut and show vigorous growth for a minimum of the last two growing seasons.

All caliper trees shall meet the requirements of these Specifications at the time of

planting and the warranty inspections. Caliper trees that do not meet the

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requirements of these Specifications shall be replaced by the Contractor at its own expense.

Stock Type and Size of Caliper Trees

Unless otherwise stated by the Commissioner:

1. All caliper trees shall be wire basket stock;

2. All deciduous caliper trees shall be a minimum of 50 millimetres in caliper, measured at 15 centimetres above the root collar;

3. All deciduous caliper trees shall have a minimum of 150 centimetres of clear

stem, measured above the root collar; and

4. All deciduous caliper trees shall have a minimum of ten (10) scaffold branches in the crown.

5. All coniferous caliper trees shall be a minimum of 150 centimetres in height,

measured from the top of the root ball to the base of the leader.

6. All caliper trees shall have the root collar at the surface of the root ball.

7. All caliper trees shall have the stem centred in the root ball.

8. All caliper trees shall have a root ball that is firm and intact and free of cracks.

Minimum Root Ball Diameter and Height, Caliper Trees The minimum acceptable root ball diameter for caliper (wire basket) deciduous

trees shall be: 60 centimetres for 40 millimetre caliper trees 70 centimetres for 50 millimetre caliper trees 70 centimetres for 60 millimetre caliper trees 80 centimetres for 70 millimetre caliper trees 100 centimetres for 100 millimetre caliper trees 150 centimetres for 150 millimetre caliper trees The minimum acceptable root ball height for caliper (wire basket) deciduous

trees shall be: 40 centimetres for 40 millimetre caliper trees 40 centimetres for 50 millimetre caliper trees 40 centimetres for 60 millimetre caliper trees 50 centimetres for 70 millimetre caliper trees 50 centimetres for 100 millimetre caliper trees 80 centimetres for 150 millimetre caliper trees The height of the root ball shall be measured from bottom of the root ball to the

root collar.

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The minimum acceptable root ball diameter for caliper (wire basket) coniferous

trees shall be: 45 centimetres for 100 centimetre height trees 50 centimetres for 125 centimetre height trees 60 centimetres for 150 centimetre height trees 70 centimetres for 175 centimetre height trees 80 centimetres for 200 centimetre height trees 90 centimetres for 225 centimetre height trees The minimum acceptable root ball height for caliper (wire basket) coniferous

trees shall be: 40 centimetres for 100 centimetre height trees 40 centimetres for 125 centimetre height trees 40 centimetres for 150 centimetre height trees 40 centimetres for 175 centimetre height trees 50 centimetres for 200 centimetre height trees 50 centimetres for 225 centimetre height trees The height of the root ball shall be measured from bottom of the root ball to the

root collar.

Burlap and twine shall be biodegradable. Synthetic burlap and twine is not acceptable. Nursery Inspection and Tree Marking

The Commissioner will inspect and mark all, or a portion, of the caliper tree stock at the nursery or holding yard prior to planting. The Contractor shall use the marked tree stock for planting.

The Commissioner’s inspection and marking of caliper tree material prior to planting does not imply acceptance of the tree material. All caliper trees must meet the requirements of these Specifications at the time of planting and warranty inspections. Caliper trees that do not meet the requirements of these Specifications shall be replaced by the Contractor at its own expense. Shipping of Trees

Caliper trees must be transported to the planting site in a manner that will minimize damage to crowns, boles and/or roots. Trees shall be protected from sun and wind during transport. Wire basket trees must have no cracks in the ball. All trees must have their root systems in a moist state at all times. Trees shall be handled by their root balls at all times. If trees must be lifted by the stem as well as the root ball to maintain control, lifting forces shall be directed to the root ball and not the stem.

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Temporary Storage of Trees If conditions preclude the immediate use of caliper trees, trees shall be stored in a sheltered area protected from the sun and wind. The root balls shall be kept in a moist state at all times.

Deciduous and Coniferous Caliper Tree Planting

The following specifications for Deciduous and Coniferous Caliper Tree Planting shall be read in conjunction with Natural Heritage and Forestry Standard Drawings NHFS-01, NHFS-02, NHFS-06 and NHFS-07.

Digging and Size of Planting Holes

The diameter of the planting holes shall be 60 cm wider than the diameter of the

root ball. The depth of the holes shall result in the root collars being at 5 centimetres to 10 centimetres above the surrounding grade after settling (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-01, NHFS-02, NHFS-06 and NHFS-07). The sides of the planting hole shall be constructed at a shallow angle, with the top of the planting hole being wider than the bottom.

All planting holes shall be hand dug. Alternate digging methods and/or

equipment may be approved, in writing, at the Commissioner’s sole discretion.

No holes shall be dug unless the trees are present for planting. Under no circumstances are planting holes to be left open overnight. Should an existing tree and/or root ball be encountered when digging the planting hole, the Contractor shall remove and dispose of the existing tree and/or root ball including wire basket, burlap and rope. This does not apply to trees or stumps over 70 mm in diameter.

Orientation of Tree The tree shall be installed at the same azimuth as it was grown in the nursery. For trees selected and tagged at the nursery, a vertical white line at the base of the tree will mark the north side. The tree shall be planted with the vertical white line facing north. Backfilling of Planting Holes

Existing soil shall be used to backfill planting holes. Any large soil clods shall be

broken apart prior to backfilling. Any large stones or debris contained in the existing soil shall be removed prior to backfilling. Where soil needs to be added, it shall consist of friable natural loam and is to be mixed with the native soil material before backfilling.

Wire basket stock shall have all wire, rope, burlap and twine removed from the top 1/3 of the root ball. The tree shall be placed in the planting hole such that the stem is in a vertical position prior to backfilling. The root ball shall not be damaged when straightening the tree.

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Backfill shall be placed in layers approximately 15 centimetres in depth and firmly tamped in place in such a manner that the tree retains its vertical position without support. When the planting hole has been 50% backfilled, 20 litres of water shall be placed in the planting hole and allowed to fully drain before continuing to backfill. Particular care is to be taken to ensure that no air pockets remain under, or around, the root ball and that no damage occurs to the root system.

At the time of backfilling, the Contractor shall supply and install Myke Pro Landscape G mycorrhizae inoculants according to the manufactures instructions.

At grade, a ridge of soil located at the edge of the planting hole shall be formed

to a height of 10 centimetres, to act as a catch basin for any watering and in order to retain mulch (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-01, NHFS-02, NHFS-06 and NHFS-07). Existing sod removed from the planting hole may be used to create the ridge at the edge of the planting hole. Sod must be inverted such that the above ground grass growth faces down.

All excess fill removed from the planting holes and any other debris resulting

from the Contractor’s performance of the Work shall be removed and disposed of by the Contractor.

Bed Preparation Area

At the time of planting the Contractor shall establish a circular bed preparation area extending 35 centimetres from the edge of the planting hole for the entire circumference of the planting hole. Within the bed preparation area all grass shall be removed and the soil cultivated to a depth of a minimum of 15 centimetres to improve future root growth (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-01, NHFS-02, NHFS-06 and NHFS-07). Pruning

The crown of the tree shall be pruned at the time of planting to remove all dead

and damaged branches. All cuts shall be made flush with the branch collar leaving no stubs. Pruning shall be completed according to the ANSI A300 standard. Large wounds produced by any means other than branch pruning will render the tree unacceptable, requiring replacement by the Contractor, at its own expense. Staking

The Contractor shall note that staking and securing of trees is not a typical

requirement of the Region. However, should any trees move 10 degrees or more from the vertical plane prior to the expiration of the warranty period, or if a tree has excessive stem movement within the root ball at the time of planting, the Contractor will be required to straighten and stake the trees at its own expense. Straightening and staking shall occur within 20 Days of written notification from the Region.

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Where staking is required, caliper trees shall be supported by two wooden stakes driven outside the ball in line with the direction of the prevailing wind. The stakes must be driven a minimum of 70 centimetres below the grade line, leaving a minimum of 5 centimetres between the top of the stakes and the first branch.

Ties shall be ArborTie Green, manufactured by Deep Root Canada Corp., with a

minimum tensile strength of 408 kg, or an approved equivalent. The ties shall be installed according to the manufactures instructions such that the tree is firmly, but not too tightly, supported, remaining in a vertical position (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-01, NHFS-02, NHFS-06 and NHFS-07). During the warranty period the Contractor will be responsible for the maintenance of stakes and ties. Broken stakes or ties shall be repaired by the Contractor within 20 Working Days of written notification from the Region. Upon the final warranty inspection, the Contractor will be responsible for the removal and disposal of stakes and ties on all trees. Mulching

At the time of planting the Contractor shall apply a wood chip or shredded bark

mulch, to a depth of 15 centimetres after settling, over the entire planting hole and bed preparation area. A ring of mulch 30 centimetres in depth shall be shaped around the outer edge of the planting hole in order to capture rainfall (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-01, NHFS-02, NHFS-06 and NHFS-07). Mulch shall not be in contact with the stem of the tree. The mulch shall be free of non-organic debris and contaminants which could adversely affect the tree’s survival and growth.

Tree Wrapping, Tags and Labels

The Contractor shall remove all tree wrapping and ties at the time of planting. The Contractor shall not remove tags and/or labels.

Watering and Installation of Gator Bags

The Contractor shall surface water each tree immediately following planting with 40 litres of water. Water shall be free from any contaminants which could adversely affect the tree’s survival and growth. The Contractor shall not apply fertilizer to any tree without the prior written permission of the Region. The Contractor is responsible for obtaining its own source of water. At the time of planting the Contractor shall supply and install a new 75 litre TreeGator Watering Bag manufactured by Spectrum Products Inc. or an approved equivalent according the manufactures instructions on each deciduous tree planted. During the warranty period the Contractor will be responsible for the maintenance of TreeGator watering bags or their approved equivalent. Damaged watering

8

bags shall be replaced by the Contractor within 20 Working Days of written notification from the Region. Tree Guards

The Contractor shall supply and install tree guards around all deciduous trees planted. Tree guards shall be ArborGard + AG9-4 Tree Trunk Protector or an approved equivalent. Tree guards shall be installed flush to the ground following the manufacturer’s instructions (refer to Standard Drawing NHFS-01 and NHFS-06).

Warranty Period

For the purposes of GC 36, defects and deficiencies shall include, but not be limited to:

1. Dieback of the original crown, 30% or greater, such that in the sole opinion of the Commissioner, the form and vigour of the tree or shrub is no longer of an acceptable standard and/or size as previously specified; or

2. Leaning of a tree or shrub of 10 degrees or more from the vertical plane.

Year One

During August of the first year following planting, or at such other time(s) as the Region may deem appropriate, the Region may inspect the caliper trees planted to identify those which require replacement under the warranty provisions of the Contract. Following the inspection, the Region will supply the Contractor with a written list of those caliper trees requiring replacement under the warranty provisions of the Contract. The Contractor shall replace these trees during the Spring Planting Season of the following year. Year Two During August of the second year following planting, or at such other time(s) as the Region may deem appropriate, the Region will inspect the caliper trees planted to identify those which require replacement under the warranty provisions of the Contract. Following the inspection the Region will supply the Contractor with a written list of those caliper trees requiring replacement under the warranty provisions. The Contractor shall replace these caliper trees during the Spring Planting Season of the following year. Trees not identified for replacement in the second year following planting are considered acceptable and the warranty shall expire. Replacement Caliper Trees – Additional Warranty Caliper trees planted as warranty replacements shall be guaranteed for the greater of, the remainder of the warranty period, or an additional period of 12 months following the date of planting. At the end of the warranty period, the Region will inspect the warranty replacement caliper trees to identify those which require replacement under the warranty provisions of the Contract. Following

9

inspection the Region will supply the Contractor with a written list of those caliper trees requiring replacement under the warranty provisions of the Contract. The Contractor shall replace these caliper trees during the Spring Planting Season of the following year. Warranty replacement caliper trees shall be the same species as the caliper tree originally planted. All warranty replacement caliper trees shall meet the stock and planting specifications noted above.

Warranty Period Maintenance

Watering The Contractor shall water each caliper tree once per week for the months of May to September inclusive for the first three years following planting. The Contractor shall apply 75 litres of water per calliper tree through the filling of a TreeGator Watering Bag. The Contractor will be responsible to ensure that each TreeGator Watering Bag filled, empties within 24 hours of filling. For calliper trees without a TreeGator Watering Bag the Contractor shall apply 75 litres of water through surface application. Water shall be free from any contaminants which could adversely affect tree survival and growth. The Contractor shall not apply fertilizer to any tree without the prior written permission of the Region.

The Contractor is responsible for obtaining its own source of water. Wrapping of Coniferous Trees During the warranty period, the Contractor shall install and remove burlap on each coniferous tree planted. The burlap shall protect all green foliage and be secured to prevent unwrapping. The burlap shall be installed in such a way as to minimize damage to the tree. The Contractor shall repair any damage to tree as a result of installation of burlap. If in the sole opinion of the Commissioner, the damage is repairable, the Contractor shall replace the tree at its own expense. Coniferous trees shall be wrapped during the months of December, January, February and March, or at such other times as the Region may deem appropriate in its sole discretion. Wrapping shall not be installed prior to November 15 and shall be removed by April 15. The Contractor will be responsible for the maintenance of tree wrapping. Deficient tree wrapping and tree damage shall be repaired or replaced by the contractor within ten (10) Working Days of written notification from the Region. Year One Maintenance In the first year after planting, the Contractor shall provide additional maintenance (as indicated in the following paragraph) to all caliper trees planted.

Year one maintenance shall consist of the reapplication of mulch in accordance with the specifications noted above and the application of a granular slow release or water soluble complete fertilizer (N-P-K, 12-14-20) with micronutrients and a

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salt index of less than 50. Application of fertilizer shall be completed by September 1. End of Warranty Maintenance Following the warranty inspection in the second year after planting, the Contractor shall provide additional maintenance (as indicated in the following paragraph) to all caliper trees planted which have not been identified for replacement.

End of warranty maintenance shall consist of pruning in accordance with ANSI A300 standard to remove sucker growth and dead wood, the reapplication of mulch in accordance with the specifications noted above, the application of a granular slow release or water soluble complete fertilizer (N-P-K, 12-14-20) with micronutrients and a salt index of less than 50, the removal of the Tree Gator watering bag, and the removal and disposal of stakes and ties. Application of fertilizer shall be completed by September 1. Removed Tree Gator watering bags are to be returned to Region at 90 Bales Drive East, Town of East Gwillimbury. There is no separate item for the maintenance of caliper trees during and at the end of the warranty period. This work shall be considered to be part of Work under this Contract and the Contract unit prices for the supply and installation of the caliper trees shall include the costs for maintaining the trees during and at the end of the warranty period.

Payment Payment shall be made at the applicable unit price per caliper tree supplied and installed and shall be full compensation for all labour, material and equipment required to complete the Work of these items.

ITEM xx SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF CONTAINER GROWN TREES AND SHRUBS

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Planting Locations

Planting locations will be identified by the Commissioner by:

1. Detailed drawings provided to the Contractor; or 2. A wooden stake, coloured flag, or painted “T” on the curb or sidewalk, accompanied by a tree planting details sheet.

In the event of any discrepancies between the planting details sheet and the on site markings, the Contractor shall contact the Region for clarification.

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The Contractor is responsible for the collection and disposal of all wooden stakes and coloured flags.

Inspections

The Commissioner has the right to inspect all plant material and planting practices at his/her discretion. All plant material and/or planting practices which do not meet the requirements of the Contract Documents shall be corrected by the Contractor within 20 Working Days of receiving written notification from the Region.

Planting Time The supply and installation of container grown trees and shrubs shall be completed starting on May 1 and ending on June 30. The Commissioner at his/her sole discretion may extend or shorten the planting time based on weather conditions.

Site Operations and Work Conditions

All planting Work shall be carried out by personnel who are qualified, skilled and experienced in the various aspects of tree and shrub planting, transplanting and maintenance. The Contractor shall ensure consistent and continuous operations once planting commences.

The Contractor shall minimize the amount of mud and debris deposited on boulevards and roadways as a result of excavation and hauling operations. The Contractor shall be responsible for dust control and shall minimize the amount of dust created by its operations. Any mud, debris or dust deposited on boulevards and roadways as a result of the Work shall be removed by the Contractor, at its own expense, within 24 hours of being directed to do so by the Commissioner. Any damage to the roads and/or boulevards as a result of the Work shall be repaired by the Contractor, to the satisfaction of the Commissioner, at the Contractor’s expense, within five (5) Working Days of being directed to do so by the Commissioner.

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SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF CONTAINER GROWN TREES AND SHRUBS The Contractor shall supply and install container grown trees and shrubs in accordance with the following: Container Grown Tree and Shrub Planting Stock

Origin Information concerning the geographical origin of seed or cuttings used to

produce the container grown trees and shrubs for this Contract shall be made available to the Commissioner upon request. If, in the sole opinion of the Commissioner, the plant material is of an origin unsuitable climatically to the Regional area, it will be refused.

All container grown trees and shrubs for this Contract shall have been grown for

a minimum period of two (2) growing seasons at a nursery located within Canadian Plant Hardiness Zones 4b, 5a, 5b or 6a. The Contractor shall provide written documentation confirming that this requirement has been satisfied. If, in the sole opinion of the Commissioner, the documentation does not satisfy this condition, the plant material will be refused.

Conformity to Species and Variety The botanical nomenclature used for species and cultivars of container grown

trees and shrubs shall conform to the publication Hortus Third, 1976. All container grown trees and shrubs shall conform to the species and/or

varieties named in the Bid Form. No substitutions will be accepted without the prior written approval of the Commissioner. The Contractor shall not be entitled to any increase in the Contract Price in the event that a species substitution is approved by the Region, and may be required to provide a credit should the Region deem, in its sole discretion, that the substituted species is of a lesser quality than that specified in the Contract.

Form and Vigour of Container Grown Trees and Shrubs All container grown trees and shrubs shall be nursery stock conforming to the 8th

Edition of the Canadian Standards for Nursery Stock as published by the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association, unless specified otherwise in the Contract Documents.

All container grown trees and shrubs shall be true to type, structurally sound with

no evidence of dead branches, sun scald, frost cracks, abraded or broken bark, included bark, and shall be free of insect or disease infestation. All container grown trees and shrubs shall have a full, well-developed crown and a root system typical of the species, free of girdling roots. All container grown trees shall have a crown with one distinctive vertical leader. All parts of the plant shall be moist and show active green cambium when cut and show vigorous growth.

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All container grown trees and shrubs must meet the requirements of these Specifications at the time of planting and the warranty inspections. Container grown trees and shrubs that do not meet the requirements of these Specifications shall be replaced by the Contractor at its own expense.

Stock Type and Size of Container Grown Trees

Unless otherwise stated by the Commissioner:

1. All deciduous container grown trees shall be a minimum of 150 centimetres in height, measured from the root collar to the top of crown.

2. All coniferous container grown trees shall be a minimum of 100 centimetres in

height measured from the top of the root collar to the base of the leader.

3. All container grown trees shall have the root collar at the surface of the root ball.

4. All container grown trees shall have the stem centred in the container.

5. All container grown trees shall have a root ball that is firm and intact and free

of cracks.

Minimum Container Size, Container Grown Trees The minimum acceptable container size for container grown deciduous trees

shall be:

#1 (1 gallon) for 50 centimetre to 80 centimetre height trees #2 (2 gallon) for 80 centimetre to 125 centimetre height trees #3 (3 gallon) for 100 centimetre to 150 centimetre height trees #5 (5 gallon) for 150 centimetre to 250 centimetre height trees #7 (7 gallon) for 200 centimetre to 300 centimetre height trees

The minimum acceptable container size for container grown coniferous trees

shall be:

#1 (1 gallon) for 15 centimetre to 40 centimetre height trees #2 (2 gallon) for 30 centimetre to 60 centimetre height trees #3 (3 gallon) for 50 centimetre to 100 centimetre height trees #5 (5 gallon) for 100 centimetre to 150 centimetre height trees

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The tree stem shall be centred in the container. Trees shall be grown in the container for a minimum of three months prior to planting. Stock Type and Size of Container Grown Shrubs

Unless otherwise stated by the Commissioner all shrubs shall be container grown stock with a minimum height of 50 centimetres.

Minimum Container Size for Container Grown Shrubs

The minimum acceptable container size for container grown shrubs shall be: #1 (1 gallon) for 15 centimetre to 40 centimetre height shrubs #2 (2 gallon) for 25 centimetre to 60 centimetre height shrubs #3 (3 gallon) for 30 centimetre to 80 centimetre height shrubs #5 (5 gallon) for 40 centimetre to 100 centimetre height shrubs Shrubs shall be grown in the container for a minimum of three months prior to planting. Nursery Inspection and Tree and Shrub Marking

The Commissioner will inspect and mark all, or a portion, of the container grown tree and shrub stock at the nursery or holding yard prior to planting. The Contractor shall use the marked tree and shrub stock for planting.

The Commissioner’s inspection and marking of container grown tree and shrub material prior to planting does not imply acceptance of the tree and shrub material. All container grown trees and shrubs must meet the requirements of these Specifications at the time of planting and warranty inspections. Container grown trees and shrubs that do not meet the requirements of these Specifications shall be replaced by the Contractor at its own expense. Shipping of Trees and Shrubs

Container grown trees and shrubs must be transported to the planting site in a manner that will minimize damage to crowns, boles and/or roots. Trees shall be protected from sun and wind during transport. All trees and shrubs must have their root systems in a moist state at all times. Trees and shrubs shall be handled by their containers at all times.

Temporary Storage of Trees and Shrubs If conditions preclude the immediate use of container grown trees and shrubs, the trees and shrubs shall be stored in a sheltered area protected from the sun and wind. The root systems shall be kept in a moist state at all times.

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Deciduous and Coniferous Container Grown Tree Planting

The following specifications for Container Grown Tree Planting shall be read in conjunction with Natural Heritage and Forestry Standard Drawing NHFS-08, NHFS-09, NHFS-11 and NHFS-12. Digging and Size of Planting Holes

The diameter of the planting hole must be 60 cm larger than the diameter of the

container. The depth of the holes shall result in the root collars being at 5 centimetres to 10 centimetres above the surrounding grade after settling (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-08, NHFS-09, NHFS-11 and NHFS-12). The sides of the planting hole shall be constructed at a shallow angle with top of the planting hole being wider than the bottom.


equipment may be approved in writing, at the Commissioner’s discretion.

No holes shall be dug unless the shrubs are present for planting. Under no circumstances are planting holes to be left open overnight. Should an existing tree and/or root ball be encountered when digging the planting hole, the Contractor shall remove and dispose of the existing tree and/or root ball including wire basket, burlap and rope. This does not apply to trees or stumps over 70 mm in diameter.

Backfilling of Planting Holes

The container shall be removed prior to planting. Should circling roots be encountered when the container is removed, the outside of the root ball shall be shaved to remove circling roots. The tree shall be placed in the planting hole such that the stem is in a vertical position prior to backfilling. The root ball shall not be damaged when straightening the tree. Backfill is to be placed in layers approximately 15 centimetres in depth and firmly tamped in place in such a manner that the tree retains its vertical position without support. When the planting hole has been 50% backfilled, 10 litres of water shall be poured in the planting hole and allowed to fully drain before continuing to backfill. Particular care is to be taken to ensure that no air pockets remain under, or around, the root ball and that no damage occurs to the root system.



to a height of 10 centimetres, to act as a catch basin for any watering and in order to retain mulch (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-08, NHFS-09, NHFS-11 and NHFS-12). Existing sod removed from the planting hole may be used to create the ridge at the edge of the planting hole. Sod must be inverted such that the above ground grass growth faces down.

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All excess fill removed from the planting holes and any other debris resulting from the Contractors performance of the Work shall be removed and disposed of by the Contractor.


At the time of planting the Contractor shall establish a circular bed preparation area extending 35 centimetres from the edge of the planting hole for the entire circumference of the planting hole. Within the bed preparation area all grass shall be removed and the soil cultivated to a depth of at least 15 centimetres to improve future root growth (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-08, NHFS-09, NHFS-11 and NHFS-12). Pruning

The crown of the tree shall be pruned at the time of planting to remove all dead

and damaged branches. All cuts shall be made flush with the branch collar leaving no stubs. Pruning shall be completed according to the ANSI A300 standard. Large wounds produced by any means other than branch pruning will render the tree unacceptable, requiring replacement by the Contractor, at its own cost.

Staking

The Contractor shall note that staking and securing of trees is not a typical requirement of the Region. However, should any trees move 10 degrees or more from the vertical plane prior to the expiration of the warranty period, or if a tree has excessive stem movement within the root ball at the time of planting, the Contractor will be required to straighten and stake the trees at its own expense. Straightening and staking shall occur within 20 Days of written notification from the Region.

Where staking is required, caliper trees shall be supported by two wooden stakes

driven outside the ball in line with the direction of the prevailing wind. The stakes must be driven a minimum of 70 centimetres below the grade line, leaving a minimum of 5 centimetres between the top of the stakes and the first branch.


minimum tensile strength of 408 kg, or an approved equivalent. The ties shall be installed according to the manufactures instructions such that the tree is firmly, but not too tightly, supported, remaining in a vertical position (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-08, NHFS-09, NHFS-11 and NHFS-12). During the warranty period the Contractor will be responsible for the maintenance of stakes and ties. Broken stakes or ties shall be repaired by the Contractor within 20 Working Days of written notification from the Region. Upon the final warranty inspection, the Contractor will be responsible for the removal and disposal of stakes and ties on all trees.

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Mulching At the time of planting the Contractor shall apply a wood chip or shredded bark

mulch, to a depth of 15 centimetres after settling, over the entire planting hole and bed preparation area. A ring of mulch 30 centimetres in depth shall be shaped around the outer edge of the planting hole in order to capture rainfall (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-08, NHFS-09, NHFS-11 and NHFS-12). Mulch shall not be in contact with the stem of the tree. The mulch shall be free of non-organic debris and contaminants which could adversely affect the tree’s survival and growth.

Tree Wrapping, Tags and Labels

The Contractor shall remove all tree wrapping and ties at the time of planting. The Contractor shall not remove tags and/or labels.

Watering

The Contractor shall surface water each container grown tree immediately following planting with 20 litres of water. Water shall be free from any contaminants which could adversely affect the shrub’s survival and growth. The Contractor shall not apply fertilizer to any tree without the prior written permission of the Region.

The Contractor is responsible for obtaining its own source of water.

Tree Guards

The Contractor shall supply and install tree guards around all deciduous trees planted. Tree guards shall be ArborGard + AG9-4 Tree Trunk Protector or an approved equivalent. Tree guards shall be installed flush to the ground following the manufactures instructions (refer to Standard Drawing NHFS-08 and NHFS-11).

Container Grown Shrub Planting

The following specifications for Container Grown Shrub Planting shall be read in conjunction with Natural Heritage and Forestry Standard Drawings NHFS-03 and NHFS-10. Digging and Size of Planting Holes

The diameter of the planting hole must be 40 cm larger than the diameter of the

container. The depth of the holes shall result in the root collars being at the surrounding grade after settling (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-03 and NHFS-10).


equipment may be approved in writing, at the Commissioner’s discretion.

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No holes shall be dug unless the shrubs are present for planting. Under no circumstances are planting holes to be left open overnight.


The container shall be removed prior to planting. Should circling roots be encountered when the container is removed, the outside of the root ball shall be shaved to remove circling roots.

Existing soil shall be used to backfill planting holes. Any large soil clods shall be broken apart prior to backfilling. Any large stones or debris contained in existing soil shall be removed prior to backfilling. Where soil needs to be added, it shall consist of friable natural loam and is to be mixed with the native soil material before backfilling.

Backfill shall be firmly tamped in place in such a manner that the shrub retains its vertical position without support. Particular care is to be taken to ensure that no air pockets remain under, or around, the root ball and that no damage occurs to the root system (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-03 and NHFS-10).



to a height of 10 centimetres, to act as a catch basin for any watering and in order to retain mulch (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-03 and NHFS-10).

All excess fill removed from the planting hole and any other debris resulting from

the Contractors performance of the Work shall be removed and disposed of by the Contractor. Pruning

The shrub shall be pruned at the time of planting to remove all dead and

damaged branches. Pruning shall be completed following accepted horticultural practices appropriate to the species. Large wounds produced by any means other than branch pruning will render the shrub unacceptable, requiring replacement by the Contractor at its own cost.

Mulching

At the time of planting the Contractor shall apply a wood chip or shredded bark

mulch, to a depth of 15 centimetres after settling, over the entire planting hole (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-03 and NHFS-10). Mulch shall not be in contact with the stem of the shrub. The mulch shall be free of non-organic debris and contaminants which could adversely affect shrub’s survival and growth.

Shrub Labels

The Contractor shall not remove tags and/or labels identifying the species of shrub.

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Watering

The Contractor shall surface water each shrub immediately following planting with 20 litres of water. Water shall be free from any contaminants which could adversely affect the shrub’s survival and growth. The Contractor shall not apply fertilizer to any shrub without the prior written permission of the Region.

The Contractor is responsible for obtaining its own source of water. Warranty Period

For the purposes of GC 36, defects and deficiencies shall include, but not be limited to:

1. Dieback of the original crown, 30% or greater, such that in the sole opinion of the Commissioner, the form and vigour of the tree or shrub is no longer of an acceptable standard and/or size as previously specified; or

2. Leaning of a tree or shrub of 10 degrees or more from the vertical plane.

Year One

During August of the first year following planting, or at such other time(s) as the Region may deem appropriate, the Region may inspect the container grown trees and shrubs planted to identify those which require replacement under the warranty provisions of the Contract. Following the inspection the Region will supply the Contractor with a written list of those container grown trees and shrubs requiring replacement under the warranty provisions. The Contractor shall replace these trees and shrubs during the Spring Planting Season of the following year. Year Two During August of the second year following planting, or at such other time(s) as the Region may deem appropriate, the Region will inspect the container grown trees and shrubs planted to identify those which require replacement under the warranty provisions of the Contract. Following the inspection the Region will supply the Contractor with a written list of those container grown trees and shrubs requiring replacement under the warranty provisions. The Contractor shall replace these trees and shrubs during the Spring Planting Season of the following year. Trees and shrubs not identified for replacement in the second year following planting are considered acceptable and the warranty shall expire. Replacement Container Grown Trees and Shrubs – Additional Warranty Container grown trees and shrubs planted as warranty replacements shall be guaranteed for the greater of, the remainder of the warranty period, or an additional period of 12 months following the date of planting. At the end of the warranty period, the Region will inspect the warranty replacement container grown trees and shrubs to identify those which require replacement under the warranty provisions. Following inspection the Region will supply the Contractor with a written list of those container grown trees and shrubs requiring

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replacement under the warranty provisions. The Contractor shall replace these trees and shrubs during the Spring Planting Season of the following year. Warranty replacement container grown trees and shrubs shall be the same species as the tree or shrub originally planted. All warranty replacement container grown trees and shrubs shall meet the stock and planting specifications noted above.

Warranty Period Maintenance

Watering The Contractor shall water each container grown tree or shrub once per week for the months of May to September inclusive for the first three years following planting. The Contractor shall apply 40 litres of water per container grown tree or shrub through surface application. Water shall be free from any contaminants which could adversely affect tree survival and growth. The Contractor shall not apply fertilizer to any tree without the prior written permission of the Region.

The Contractor is responsible for obtaining its own source of water. Wrapping of Coniferous Trees During the warranty period the Contractor shall install and remove burlap on each coniferous tree planted. The burlap shall protect all green foliage and be secured to prevent unwrapping. The burlap shall be installed in such a way as to minimize damage to the tree. The Contractor shall repair any damage to tree as a result of installation of burlap. If in the sole opinion of the Commissioner, the damage is repairable, the Contractor shall replace the tree at its own expense. Coniferous trees shall be wrapped during the months of December, January, February and March, or at such other times as the Region may deem appropriate, in its sole discretion. Wrapping shall not be installed prior to November 15 and shall be removed by April 15. The Contractor will be responsible for the maintenance of tree wrapping. Deficient tree wrapping and tree damage shall be repaired or replaced by the Contractor within ten (10) Working Days of written notification from the Region. Year One Maintenance In the first year after planting, the Contractor shall provide additional maintenance (as indicated in the following paragraph) to all container grown trees and shrubs planted.

Year one maintenance shall consist of the reapplication of mulch in accordance with the specifications noted above and the application of a granular slow release or water soluble complete fertilizer (N-P-K, 12-14-20) with micronutrients and a salt index of less than 50. Application of fertilizer shall be completed by September 1.

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End of Warranty Maintenance

Following the warranty inspection in the second year after planting, the Contractor shall provide additional maintenance (as indicated in the following paragraph) to all container grown trees and shrubs planted which have not been identified for replacement.

End of warranty maintenance shall consist of pruning in accordance with ANSI A300 standard to remove sucker growth and dead wood, reapplication of mulch in accordance with the specifications noted above, the application of a granular slow release or water soluble complete fertilizer (N-P-K, 12-14-20) with micronutrients and a salt index of less than 50 and the removal and disposal of stakes and ties. Application of fertilizer shall be completed by September 1. There is no separate item for the maintenance of container grown trees and shrubs during and at the end of the warranty period. This work shall be considered to be part of Work under this Contract and the Contract unit prices for the supply and installation of the container grown trees and shrubs shall include the costs for maintaining the trees and shrubs during and at the end of the warranty period.

Payment Payment shall be made at the applicable unit price per container grown tree or shrub supplied and installed and shall be full compensation for all labour, material and equipment required to complete the Work of these items.

ITEM xx TREE TRANSPLANTING

The Contractor shall transplant trees in accordance with the following:

Lifting of Tree

All equipment to be used shall be designed specifically for tree transplanting and shall be clean, sharp, and in proper safe working order. The root ball size shall be a diameter of 30 centimetres for every 2.54 centimetres of trunk diameter measured at 1.37 metres above grade and a depth of 90 centimetres. The trunk shall be centered in the root ball. Prior to lifting the root ball, the roots shall be separated from the surrounding soil. Cuts to roots shall be clean and shall avoid breaking, crushing or tearing the roots. Root balls shall be secured and held firmly in order to prevent the root ball from breaking apart. Burlap and twine, and wire baskets may be required to secure the root ball. Trees shall be lifted by the root ball and not the trunk. Trees shall be immediately moved to, and planted in, their new locations as specified below.

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The root ball, trunk and crown shall be protected from damage during transplanting. Trees shall be protected from sun and wind during transport.

Digging and Size of Planting Holes The diameter of the planting hole must be 60 centimetres wider than the

diameter of the root ball. The depth of the hole shall result in the top of the root ball being 5 centimetres to 10 centimetres above the surrounding grade. The sides of the planting hole shall be deglazed to allow for optimal root growth. The sides of the planting hole shall be constructed at a shallow angle with the top of the planting hole being wider than the bottom.

Adjustments shall be made for the differences in slope of the old and new

planting sites. Trees shall be planted at the new location at the same azimuth as in their previous location.

The planting hole shall be dug just in advance of lifting the tree. Under no circumstances are planting holes to be left open and unattended.


Existing soil shall be used to backfill planting holes. Any large soil clods shall be

broken apart prior to backfilling. Any large stones or debris contained in the existing soil shall be removed prior to backfilling. Where soil needs to be added, it shall consist of friable natural loam and is to be mixed with the native soil material before backfilling. Trees which have been balled and burlapped for transplanting shall have all wire, rope, burlap and twine removed from the top 1/3 of the root ball. The tree shall be placed in the planting hole such that the stem is in a vertical position prior to backfilling. The root ball shall not be damaged when straightening the tree. Backfill is to be placed in layers approximately 15 centimetres in depth and firmly tamped in place in such a manner that the tree retains its vertical position without support. When the planting hole has been 50% backfilled, 20 litres of water shall be poured in the planting hole and allowed to fully drain before continuing to backfill. Particular care is to be taken to ensure that no air pockets remain under, or around, the root ball and that no damage occurs to the root system.



to a height of 10 centimetres, to act as a catch basin for any watering and in order to retain mulch. Existing sod removed from the planting hole may be used to create ridge at the edge of the planting hole. Sod must be placed with the above ground grass growth facing down.

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All excess fill removed from the planting holes and any other debris resulting

from the Contractors performance of the Work shall be removed and disposed of by the Contractor.


At the time of planting the Contractor shall establish a circular bed preparation area extending 35 centimetres from the edge of the planting hole for the entire circumference of the planting hole. Within the bed preparation area all grass shall be removed and the soil cultivated to a depth of a minimum of 15 centimetres to improve future root growth

Pruning The crown of the tree shall be pruned after transplanting to remove all dead and

damaged branches. All cuts shall be made flush with the branch collar leaving no stubs. Pruning shall be completed according to the ANSI A300 standard.

Staking

At the time of transplanting the Contractor shall support trees with two wooden

stakes driven outside the ball in line with the direction of the prevailing wind. The stakes must be driven at least 70 centimetres below grade line, leaving at least 5 centimetres between the top of the stakes and the first branch.


minimum tensile strength of 408 kg, or an approved equivalent. The ties shall be installed according to the manufactures instructions such that the tree is firmly, but not too tightly, supported, remaining in a vertical position (refer to Standard Drawings NHFS-01 and NHFS-02).

Mulching At the time of transplanting the Contractor shall apply a wood chip or shredded

bark mulch, to a depth of 15 centimetres after settling, over the entire planting hole and bed preparation area. A ring of mulch 30 centimetres in depth shall be shaped around the outer edge of the planting hole in order to capture rainfall. Mulch shall not be in contact with the stem of the tree. The mulch shall be free of non-organic debris and contaminants which could adversely affect the tree’s survival and growth.

Watering and Installation of Gator Bags

The Contractor shall surface water each tree immediately following transplanting with 40 litres of water. Water shall be free from any contaminants which could adversely affect the tree’s survival and growth. The Contractor shall not apply fertilizer to any tree without the prior written permission of the Region. The Contractor is responsible for obtaining its own source of water.

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At the time of transplanting the Contractor shall supply and install a new 75 litre TreeGator Watering Bag manufactured by Spectrum Products Inc. or an approved equivalent according the manufactures instructions on each deciduous tree planted. During the maintenance period the Contractor will be responsible for the maintenance of TreeGator watering bags or their approved equivalent. Damaged watering bags shall be replaced by the Contractor within 20 Working Days of written notification from the Region.

Tree Guards

The Contractor shall supply and install tree guards around all deciduous trees transplanted. Tree guards shall be ArborGard + AG9-4 Tree Trunk Protector or an approved equivalent. Tree guards shall be installed flush to the ground following the manufactures instructions.

Site Restoration

Upon transplanting the tree, the Contractor shall backfill the hole at the original tree location using soil that consists of a friable natural loam. The backfill shall be placed in layers approximately 15 centimetres in depth and firmly tamped in place to avoid settling. The backfilled hole shall be covered with new sod and watered until established.

Establishment Period Maintenance

Watering The Contractor shall water each transplanted tree once per week for the months of May to September inclusive for the first three years following transplanting. The Contractor shall apply 75 litres of water per tree through the filling of a TreeGator Watering Bag. The Contractor will be responsible to ensure that each TreeGator Watering Bag filled, empties within 24 hours of filling. For trees without a TreeGator Watering Bag the Contractor shall apply 75 litres of water through surface application. Water shall be free from any contaminants which could adversely affect tree survival and growth. The Contractor shall not apply fertilizer to any tree without the prior written permission of the Region.

The Contractor is responsible for obtaining its own source of water. Wrapping of Coniferous Trees The Contractor shall install and remove burlap on each coniferous tree transplanted for the first two winters following transplanting. The burlap shall protect all green foliage and be secured to prevent unwrapping. The burlap shall be installed in such a way as to minimize damage to the tree. The Contractor shall repair any damage to tree as a result of installation of burlap. If in the sole opinion of the Commissioner, the damage is repairable, the Contractor shall replace the tree at its own expense. Coniferous trees shall be wrapped during the

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months of December, January, February and March, or at such other times as the Region may deem appropriate in its sole discretion. Wrapping shall not be installed prior to November 15 and shall be removed by April 15. The Contractor will be responsible for the maintenance of tree wrapping. Deficient tree wrapping and tree damage shall be repaired or replaced by the contractor within ten (10) Working Days of written notification from the Region. Year One Maintenance In the first year after planting, the Contractor shall provide additional maintenance (as indicated in the following paragraph) to all trees transplanted.

Year one maintenance shall consist of the reapplication of mulch in accordance with the specifications noted above and the application of a granular slow release or water soluble complete fertilizer (N-P-K, 12-14-20) with micronutrients and a salt index of less than 50. Application of fertilizer shall be completed by September 1. Year Two Maintenance In the second year after planting, the Contractor shall provide additional maintenance (as indicated in the following paragraph) to all trees transplanted.

Year two maintenance shall consist of pruning in accordance with ANSI A300 standard to remove sucker growth and dead wood, the reapplication of mulch in accordance with the specifications noted above, the application of a granular slow release or water soluble complete fertilizer (N-P-K, 12-14-20) with micronutrients and a salt index of less than 50, the removal of the Tree Gator watering bag, and the removal and disposal of stakes and ties. Application of fertilizer shall be completed by September 1. Removed Tree Gator watering bags are to be returned to Region at 90 Bales Drive East, Town of East Gwillimbury. There is no separate item for the maintenance of transplanted trees during and at the end of the establishment period. This work shall be considered to be part of Work under this Contract and the Contract unit prices for transplanting trees shall include the costs for maintaining the trees and shrubs during and at the end of the establishment period.

Payment

Payment shall be made at the applicable unit price per tree transplanted and shall be full compensation for all labour, material and equipment required to complete the Work of these items.