BANFF – A single tree has many environmental benefits, but it can also provide a lasting legacy for those wanting to celebrate the life of a loved one, or honour an individual, group or special event.
During a review of municipal services and budgets last week, council gave its approval for the municipality to offer a commemorative tree program, provided the full costs are recovered.
Under the program, a tree with a dedication plaque would cost $2,200, while a tree alone would come with a $1,800 price tag. This compares to $4,000 for a memorial bench for a 10-year period.
Nadine Setzer, the Town of Banff’s manager of municipal parks, said this program not only provides residents and visitors with an option to celebrate a significant life event or person, but also contributes to Banff’s urban forest.
“Having a living legacy is the intent rather than having a hard piece of infrastructure,” said Nadine Setzer, the Town of Banff’s manager of municipal parks. “Should we be successful with the tree planting, this could be for a lifetime.”
Costs include the tree purchase, fence if required, dedication certificate, and/or stone with a plaque near the treed area. The fee includes annual maintenance costs for three years for things like fence repair and pruning.
“This is a full cost recovery model with operating expenses covered completely by donations,” said Setzer.
Ownership of the tree will stay with the municipality, which will offer replacement of a tree only once should it die.
Setzer said one of the big challenges in Banff is damage to trees, from elk and deer, as well as people.
“The two-legged species and four-legged species continue to be a challenge for us, whether it’s the active nightlife, or the browsing animals,” she said.
Councillors agreed the program provides a lovely opportunity to commemorate a life, organization or event.
“It meets three of my criteria – it’s cost recovery, it’s a cheaper alternative to the memorial bench program and it meets our goal of increasing our urban forest,” said Councillor Brian Standish.
