(a) The urban forest of the District of Columbia, growing on both public and private land, is one of the District's great natural resources.
(b) A healthy, vibrant urban forest provides numerous environmental benefits, including:
(1) Heat island effect mitigation and reduced energy use;
(2) Better air quality and reduced water pollution; and
(3) Quieter and more beautiful neighborhoods.
(c) The trees comprising the urban forest have significant aesthetic value, which enhances property values and the quality of life in neighborhoods throughout the District.
CREDIT(S)
(June 12, 2003, D.C. Law 14-309, § 101, 50 DCR 888.)
HISTORICAL AND STATUTORY NOTES
Legislative History of Laws
Law 14-309, the “Urban Forest Preservation Act of 2002”, was introduced in Council and assigned Bill No. 14-307, which was referred to the Committee on Public Works and the Environment. The Bill was adopted on first and second readings on December 3, 2002, and December 17, 2002, respectively. Signed by the Mayor on January 22, 2003, it was assigned Act No. 14-614 and transmitted to both Houses of Congress for its review. D.C. Law 14-309 became effective on June 12, 2003.
Delegation of Authority
Delegation of Authority to the Urban Forest Preservation Act of 2002 and the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Civil Infractions Act of 1985, see Mayor's Order 2003-173, December 1, 2003 (50 DCR 10619).