As part of our inspections of homes throughout the community, the HOA office has observed some owners modifying the natural habitats of protected tree-save areas. As such, I wanted to use this column as an opportunity to remind everyone about some basic guidelines to follow should your property be located near, or in some cases through, a protected tree-save area.
- No mowing or “weed-whacking” may occur in the tree-save area, as this would eliminate the establishment of natural plant regeneration.
- No pruning up (ground to lowest branches) of standing trees within a tree-save is allowed.
- No application of ground cover materials which would inhibit the natural forest floor growth and natural regeneration is permitted. This would include weed-preventing fabrics, wood chips/mulch, or stones.
- No herbicide is to be sprayed within a tree-save area. The exception is the “spot” treatment for poison ivy, oak, and sumac. “Spot” treatment is defined as herbicide sprayed at the root system of the undesired plant only. This process requires prior HOA approval, and would be performed by Toll Landscape to better ensure that all local environmental regulations are followed. Any tree-save which is desecrated with herbicide will be reported to Loudoun County for action.
- Removal of “hazard trees,” vines, invasive tree or plant species, or stand management in the tree-save is allowed provided a Loudoun County-approved forest management plan prepared by a Professional Forester or Certified Arborist is in place. Hazard trees are defined as any tree that threatens an adjoining property. Tree removal from private property requires consultation from the HOA to ensure the owner is aware of applicable laws. No owner may remove a tree from Association-owned property.
- Removal of fallen trees within the tree-save area is prohibited, as this is part of the natural ecology of the site. The exceptions would be unusual damage from high winds, or insect, disease, fire or drought mortality.
- Pruning back of any and all vegetation extending from a tree-save area into an adjoining property is allowed provided pruning does not extend back into the tree-save area. If your home receives landscaping service, Toll Landscape will provide this service for you, otherwise please consult with the HOA before addressing a similar situation on your own.
The protected tree-save areas located throughout the community help to create the natural beauty of Belmont. Thank you for your cooperation in preserving these natural habitats.
Mark Bailey
General Manager
3 comments:
"No mowing or “weed-whacking” may occur in the tree-save area, as this would eliminate the establishment of natural plant regeneration."
Mark, Toll Landscape has mowed multiple paths through the tree save area behind my tournament home in order to save time accessing mine and other homes.
That is a problem...you can send the details of this issue to the Toll Landscaping by filling out this form:
http://www.belmonthoa.org/forms/formDisplay.asp?frm_id=44112&assn_id=13821
(or going to BelmontHOA.org, My Garden->Contacts.
This form also contacts the Grounds Committee who can help as well.
-Katie (webmaster)
Dear "atp1whl"
Please contact the HOA office so that we may learn your address and view these mowed paths in the tree-save area behind your home firsthand.
Thank you!
M. Bailey
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