Tree Replacement Policy
In an effort to preserve our ecosystem and support our climate action efforts, Brandeis University has developed a tree replacement policy.
Trees contribute to their environment by providing oxygen, removing carbon, provide cooling, conserving and filtering water, preserving soil and avoiding run off, and supporting wildlife. Trees will be removed as needed due to various reasons such as construction, disease, weather and age. For every tree removed on Brandeis University property, a new tree will be planted on Brandeis University Property. Where/when possible, Facilities Services will look to add additional trees to campus.
The Facilities Services Grounds Manager will maintain a list of all the trees removed on campus to include their location, reason for removal and type. After a new tree is planted, the planting location, type of tree and planting date will be listed in conjunction with the removed tree for tracking purposes. By keeping a log, we will ensure we accurately account for the trees removed and their locations. A log will help the grounds team be aware if certain trees need to be established in the environment or to avoid certain trees which are at risk for removal based on history.
Planting Times and Process
New trees will be planted in either the spring or early fall. Trees will not be planted in the summer months to ensure the tree’s health. All efforts will be made to plant trees with in house staff. Every effort will be made to plant the new tree within the same calendar year as the removed tree.
Tree Selection
Tree selection will be based upon the following factors. The Grounds Manager will have the final say/approval on the tree selection. Inputs from the community will be considered.
Species (native species will be used when/where possible)
- Planting location
- Environmental conditions (sun, shade, soil conditions)
- Desired growth characteristics (height, width)
- Carbon sequestration (plants’ ability to remove carbon from the air)
- Educational value
Trees on campus, and/or trees that may be added to the campus landscape, are classified as either functional trees or ornamental trees.
Functional trees are trees planted for a specific purpose. Examples of functional trees are Shade Trees and Privacy trees. Shade Trees grow to be large trees on campus whose primary role is to provide shade and cooling effects. Examples of shade trees are White Oak, Red Maple, Ash, Ginkgo, Beech, Elm and Willow.
Privacy trees are trees planted to block a view of other property, mechanical units, trash receptacles or other items. Examples of privacy trees are Arborvitae, Cypress, Holly and Junipers.
Ornamental trees are trees which are planted in regards to a landscape design for their aesthetical value. Examples of ornamental trees are Crabapples, Eastern Redbud, Dogwood, Japanese Maple.
Some trees on campus and planted can be both a functional tree and an ornamental tree.
Tree Location
The new tree and location will be selected by the Grounds Manager in conjunction with other departments as needed (Capital Projects, DCL, etc.). The new tree doesn’t need to be planted at the same location as the removed tree.
Memorial Trees
At times members of the Brandeis Community may want to honor a fellow community member with a memorial tree.
In order for a memorial tree to be approved, the memorial tree would need to be approved by the president’s council. Although the Facilities Services Grounds Manager can provide some guidance, the person requesting the memorial tree will need to present the request to the council. The following information is needed to present to the president’s council.
- Name of sponsoring party
- Type of Tree
- Cost/Funding
- Location
- Planting Timing
- Plaque or Signage
- Dedication plan if any
Once approval has been granted the Grounds Manager will assist in the purchasing of tree through a local nursery. Grounds team will plant, stake if needed and water the tree.
Cost
The financial cost of the new tree as well as the cost to plant the tree will be the responsibility of the entity which removed the tree. Department of Facilities can help with the purchase and planting of replacement trees with a service request.
Tree Maintenance
The financial cost of the new tree as well as the cost to plant the tree will be the responsibility of the entity which removed the tree. Department of Facilities can help with the purchase and planting of replacement trees with a service request.