Trees capture carbon dioxide, but the undergrowth provides an important habitat for bees and other insects as well as small birds.
This was the message Richmond Coun. Harold Steves had for city staff as council discussed saving a forested corner of land being developed by Polygon in Capstan.
Steves pointed out parks often become “manicured lawns” and this destroys the habitat of smaller animals that are part of the ecosystem.
“By just saving the trees, you’re not saving the birds or anything else,” he told council’s planning committee on Tuesday as they looked at the development application.
Polygon has rejigged its development plan and moved a planned park site to the southeast corner of the property, at the corner of Garden City and Cambie roads, in order to preserve a natural wooded area.
City staff confirmed they would look at the undergrowth issue, but they also pointed out the site needs to be safe for the public and workers, which might include taking down hazardous trees.
Furthermore, there are also invasive species on the site including Himalayan blackberries and Japanese knotweed.
Polygon, however, has developed an invasive species management plan, staff explained.
In its revised proposal, more than 100 trees will be saved on the property, a net gain of more than 50 trees.
The Polygon development will include about 1,300 homes including market and affordable rentals.
