September 20, 1999
To:Toronto Community Council
From:Joe Halstead, Commissioner Economic Development, Culture and Tourism
Subject:8 Bin-Scarth Road - Removal of Private Tree, Ward 23 - Midtown
Purpose:
An application for a permit to remove one tree on private property has been filed by Ms. Ina Elias, Elias & Associates,
Landscape Architects, 247 Davenport Road, Toronto, M5R 1J9, agent for the owner, Ms. Helene Rhind, 8 Bin-Scarth
Road, Toronto, M4W 1Y1. The applicant would like to re-landscape the portion of the property where the tree is located.
Financial Implications:
N/A
Recommendations:
Either 1, or 2 below
- refuse to issue a permit for tree removal; or
- issue a permit for tree removal conditional on the applicant agreeing to plant a replacement tree to the satisfaction of the
Commissioner Economic Development, Culture and Tourism.
Comments:
The tree in question is a 40 centimetre diameter black walnut in fair condition. The tree is located near a swimming pool
and the applicant is concerned about the mess from the falling walnuts. The applicant has also been approached by
neighbours who have stated their interests in having the tree removed. The neighbours have stated to the applicant that the
allelotoxin, juglone, produced by the walnut has poisoned their trees and shrubs. There is a substantial list of plant material
that is compatible with walnut trees, and careful selection of trees and shrubs will eliminate conflicts with adjacent plant
material. Walnut fruit is quite large and a fairly regular schedule of cleanup is required in the late summer months to
minimize the dilemma associated with falling fruit. The inconvenience of the fruit is minor when compared to the
environmental and aesthetic benefits of this majestic shade tree species. The tree in question is an offspring of a much
larger walnut tree, also on the applicants' property that will remain as a featured tree in the contemplated landscape.
A notice of application sign was posted on the property for the required 14 day posting period, in order to notify the
neighbourhood and provide an opportunity for objection to the application. No written objections were received in
response to the application to remove the tree in question.
Contact Name:
Andrew Pickett
392-6644
Joe Halstead
Commissioner Economic Development, Culture and Tourism
