Coral Springs struggles with overpopulation of two tree species
Coral Springs, Florida – Coral Springs is dealing with an unexpected challenge in its urban forest: too many of the same tree species. A recent study revealed that live oaks and cabbage palms are overwhelmingly dominant on public property, creating an ecological imbalance that city officials are now working to correct.
According to a recent tree data analysis, live oaks alone make up over 21 percent of the city’s total tree population, while cabbage palms account for an equal percentage of the palm trees in the area. Although most of these trees are in good condition, having such a high concentration of two species makes Coral Springs’ urban forest more vulnerable to diseases and pests that specifically target those trees.
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To better understand the issue, city leaders secured a $49,700 U.S. Forest Service grant to conduct a comprehensive tree inventory throughout 2023 and 2024. The study included an assessment of 23,548 trees across the city, giving officials critical information to develop an urban forest management and tree master plan. The goal is to correct the species imbalance and ensure the long-term health of the city’s tree population.
The work is already underway, according to Claudia Alzate, an environmental program manager with Coral Springs. She noted that the city, which is only 62 years old, was once farmland with very few mature trees. As Coral Springs developed, roads were widened, and older trees were often removed to accommodate infrastructure growth.
The prevalence of live oaks and cabbage palms stems from their ability to thrive in South Florida’s climate. Developers and property owners favor these trees because they grow quickly and are generally resistant to common pests and diseases. However, this reliance on just a couple of species presents a risk.
Broward County has already encountered a disease affecting palm trees, Alzate explained. When an infection occurs, affected trees are removed, and surrounding trees must be tested and treated to prevent further spread.
With live oak, there’s really nothing that we’ve seen that can kill those trees,” she added, highlighting their resilience.
Alzate first noticed the overabundance of live oaks years ago when she started working for the city. Since then, she has been advocating for greater tree diversity, recommending that new plantings incorporate a wider variety of species. The recent inventory confirmed her observations and provided data to support a long-term solution.
Addressing the imbalance won’t happen overnight. According to Alzate, it will take at least 10 to 15 years to establish a more balanced urban forest. The master plan will serve as a guide for diversifying the city’s tree population, ensuring that multiple species are planted each year.
“We want to have a resilient urban forest, and that master plan is going to tell us, okay, so you should be installing at least two or three new species every year just to diversify,” Alzate said.
By taking proactive measures now, Coral Springs is working to build a stronger, healthier urban forest for future generations. City officials hope that by increasing diversity in tree plantings, they can better protect the local environment while maintaining the beauty and shade that residents enjoy.
