Agenda item

Member of the Heath Team to be heard.

Members received a verbal update from David Humphries, Tree Management Officer for Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen's Park, providing a front-line worker perspective of the issues experienced concerning trees management.

Members were advised that the pandemic had directly impacted the Trees team, and how they operate and navigate the Heath. The restrictions meant working in smaller groups and the dramatic increase in visitor numbers in all areas was slowing down on tree work and causing logistic challenges moving around the bases. Members were shown pictures of stock fencing around trees.

After 35 years working at the Heath, the Tree Management Officer highlighted that he had never seen the Heath used as heavily as it has been throughout the pandemic. There had also been a noticeable seasonal change in recent years and these issues were having a subsequent impact on the health of the soil and environments.  Compaction on soil was an ongoing issue and Officers did not yet fully understand the legacy of the impact.

It was noted that tree inspection surveys were now up to date and the team had worked on the backlog of emergency tree works. Following the 2002 survey of veteran trees, the new survey indicated an 11% loss in veteran trees from 530 to 470. There had also been an increase in tree failures which traditionally averaged 70 and was now 108. Factors included extreme weather, soil health, compaction and losing light.

On a personal note, the Officer was disappointed to advise that the pandemic had led to a staff loss from Madrid. The role would be replaced but the team had lost the outreach connection sharing knowledge and work across Europe.

A Member questioned if soil compaction and tree failure was a result of climate change or the recent pandemic impact. Members were informed that the pandemic had had a significant impact, but Officers were also carrying out more ecology work concerning urban heat from climate change and new Mediterranean tactics would be considered.

With respect to the protection of veteran trees, a Member recommended using dead hedging instead of fencing. Members were advised that dead hedging had been traditionally used around individual trees, but sadly public intervention and arson cases had led to more damage. Dead hedging was used as a short-term option and new options such as sweet chestnut fencing and semi-permanent stock fencing would be used.

Members were keen that all data and evidence be used to support climate action learning and Officers confirmed that upcoming imagery from drones showing the current condition of the Heath would be shared.