CHARLOTTE, N.C. — For the first time in 45 years, Charlotte is preparing a citywide comprehensive, expansion plan for growth - - and it has a special component dedicated to saving Charlotte's iconic tree canopy.
The Charlotte Future 2040 comprehensive plan is paired with the Tree Canopy Action plan. This incentive hopes to revise Charlottes trees ordinances while implementing preservation and planting requirements.
Charlotte has had the nickname "Tree City USA" for a reason and the city wants to keep it that way - - but the numbers show we're losing tress.
Charlotte's current Tree Canopy is at 45%, which is down from 49% in 2012.
But an unbelievable 65% of that loss occurred in single family residential areas. Where there is currently no regulation on the trees on private property like there is in Atlanta or Washington DC.
The greatest tree canopy decline is in South Charlotte, which also has one of the greatest coverage areas for trees in the city.
Charlotte city officials say they value your private property rights and are looking for the right balance to solve this issue.
The city is also working on a plan to make saving trees more cost effective for all neighborhoods.
This new plan is in the early stages, so the city wants to hear your voice and feedback! They're hoping you will complete a 8 question survey to voice what Charlotte's tree canopy means to you.