Green Committee
Green Committee Mission statement:
Assist and work with the City Forester to implement strategies in the Climate Action Plan to increase the tree canopy in Bethlehem City, including inventorying of existing trees, planting projects and public education, as well as projects to increase pollinator habitat and promote green stormwater infrastructure.
committee ideas and tasks:
Develop a plan to increase the city tree canopy by a certain percentage or acreage.
Pursue and obtain an annual budget from the city for new tree plantings, green habitat spaces.
Review city plans and policies which contain matters relating to urban forestry.
Obtain a city-wide tree inventory report.
Assess and evaluate our current tree ordinances and provide recommendations to update ordinances.
Identify and mark culturally sensitive or notable trees with signage/placards.
Have regular scheduled meetings with the City Forester and Parks/Dept. of Public Works and other city officials as necessary.
Educate the public on city ordinances, regulations, and requirements and the importance of trees in the city.
Identify areas where plantings and additional green spaces and trees can be planted.
Work to find grants and other assistance for the preservation, addition, and maintenance of trees.
Assist in development of urban pollinator habitat programs.
Work with other city and regional environmental groups including Bethlehem Backyards for Wildlife on city green projects
Review all city zoning board projects and make recommendations for trees, green spaces and native plantings.
Bethlehem is a proud Bird Town member. Bird Town Pennsylvania works in partnership with local municipalities and like-minded organizations to promote community-based conservation actions to create a healthier, more sustainable environment for birds, wildlife, and people. View Bethlehem’s 2022 BirdTown Annual Report here.