Champion the Woodlands
Wake Forest’s growth is not a bad thing, as it’s a sign of economic prosperity, but the growth should not come at the cost of our beautiful namesake woodlands, which is currently between 40-50% canopy coverage.
Additionally, according to studies, the more trees you have, the more carbon dioxide is removed from the atmosphere, giving us cleaner, fresher air. Trees also cut down electricity costs in regulating building temperatures by casting shade, give shade for pedestrians in hot weather, and boost psychological health.
Carbon Storage by Urban Forests, National Park Service
Resilient tree-planting strategies for carbon dioxide removal under compounding climate and economic uncertainties, National Institute of Health
Understanding Northwest Forest Carbon, United States Department of Agriculture
Air Temperature Reductions at the Base of Tree Canopies, Environmental Protection Agency
Effect of roadside trees on pedestrians’ psychological evaluation of traffic noise, National Institute of Health
Maximizing the pedestrian radiative cooling benefit per street tree, Arizona State University
Abby’s Solution:
1. Update the UDO
a. Amend Section 12.6.D regarding watershed zoning WS-IV from 70% maximum High Density Development Option with municipal utilities to 50% maximum.
b. Amend Section 8.5.2.A.1 so that SF Detached Residential, Duplex Proposed/Existing have a Type C buffer, an increase from Type X/zero buffer.
2. Establish Urban Orchards – fruit and nut tree groves scattered around Wake Forest. This will not only supplement the canopy but also provide healthy public food sources.