Why tree canopy and urban forests matter in Wangaratta

Urban forests provide tree canopies that reduce the urban heat island effect, lower surface and air temperatures, improve air quality, and create more comfortable streets and public spaces. Trees also support biodiversity, enhance neighbourhood character, and encourage walking, cycling and community connection. The Rural City of Wangaratta recognise the value of tree canopy cover across the municipality through its Urban Tree Plan Strategy 2023-2043. This includes a target of 25pc canopy cover for 2030 increasing to 40pc by 2040. Wangaratta currently has a canopy cover of approximately 15.7pc, provided by trees on both private (9.2%) and council managed (6.5%) land. This assessment excluded vegetation growing in natural reserves and along creeks. The world standard is 3-30-300. From each home three substantial trees should be visible, with a neighbourhood tree canopy cover of 30pc and green space no more than 300m from a dwelling. For local planning purposes, a tree canopy has a height of 5m, a trunk circumference of 0.5m 1.4m above ground level, and a canopy diameter of at least 4m. A permit is required to remove, destroy or lop a canopy tree. This is aimed at preserving the existing tree cover but should we also be asking ourselves should we be increasing the dimensions of what we class as a canopy tree! Local governments can specify the tree canopy cover depending on the lot size to provide shade and shelter to reduce the “urban heat island effect” as we adapt to a changing climate with increased heat intensity. New subdivisions have small lot sizes, but this should not be a reason for not planting trees. There is a particularly good case to limit the building footprint to enable greater tree planting for dwelling protection from the intense sun. When I built a new house in Nunawading in 1996 the building footprint was limited to 30pc of the lot size, and the existing mature trees were protected. It proved to be a great advantage for neighbourhood amenity and house values. New subdivisions often lead to the loss of many older mature, habitat trees. Small lot sizes can impede tree planting or lead to trees such a crepe myrtle, tall thin varieties of oak and similar trees with narrow canopies being planted as street trees. These trees do nothing to contribute to developing or sustaining a decent urban tree canopy, they are too small to be considered of use to increase tree canopy. Plan for Victoria states that “it supports state planning policies which seek to protect and enhance tree canopy cover in urban areas to reduce the impacts of urban heat on human health and wellbeing.” Street trees support healthy urban communities through the provision of environmental, social, and economic benefits. They improve the liveability of towns and cities by providing shade and shelter tree canopies cool the surrounding air, and can reduce the temperature of surfaces they shade (e.g. buildings and roads) by 10-25°C. Studies find that residents consistently express a positive view of street trees and feel the benefits outweigh any detriments. So, are we looking for reasons why or why not? Wangaratta Landcare & Sustainability Inc is celebrating 40 years of Landcare with an exhibition at the Baines Gallery at Wangaratta Library throughout August with a presentation by Dr Greg Moore from Melbourne University on Saving Mature Trees on 26 August from 5pm to 7pm. Bookings are essential via https://events.humanitix.com/saving-mature-trees.

Why tree canopy and urban forests matter in Wangaratta

Mountain Men, Hawks advance in O&K senior finals

Magpies secure minor premiership

Two wineries best in business with fortified and sweet

Wangaratta Chronicle, Friday, August 21, 2026

Most popular stories

Mountain Men, Hawks advance in O&K senior finals

Magpies secure minor premiership

Two wineries best in business with fortified and sweet

Wangaratta Chronicle, Friday, August 21, 2026