Barton Springs Master Plan Tree Assessment Report

Our Commitment The City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department has great respect and love for one of Austin’s most treasured icons, Barton Springs Pool and its trees. The department is committed to maintaining Austin’s Quality of Life. Our Strategic Goal The Barton Springs Master Plan was initiated by

City Council in 2008 to improve Barton Springs Pool. As a component of the master plan, a tree assessment from an independent consultant was commissioned to determine their condition. First and foremost is the safety of our patrons.

What We Learned About Our Trees

Once the assessment was completed we discovered that it is necessary to remove trees that pose a danger to the pool, park patrons and the facilities. The consultant used the latest technology to assess the trees such as radar scanning. The goal in mind was to save trees. The radar scanning process used by the Davey Resource Group provided our Urban Forester with an internal picture of the trees which shows decay inside many trees. This tree decay poses a high risk to patrons at Barton Springs Pool because the trees can fail without warning. Our forester is also concerned about root damage to many of the trees. Like our homes, trees need a solid foundation to withstand the elements. Although many of trees appear healthy on the outside the internal damage and damaged root systems, create an unacceptable high risk for our patrons. This makes the removal of the trees a high priority to assure the safety of our park patrons and visitors.

Action Plan

• The Urban Forestry Program has reviewed the guidelines and recommendations proposed by the Davey Resource Group, from Atascadero, California. The City of Austin Urban Forester concurs with the findings and has recommended that 28 trees be removed.
• The Austin Parks and Recreation Department briefed the City Manager’s Office and subsequently notified the Mayor and Austin City Council by memorandum.
• A News Conference was held April 15, 2007 to inform the general public.
• The Austin Parks and Recreation Department will provide a detailed briefing at the upcoming meetings:
  1. Parks and Recreation Board, 6 p.m. April 28, Austin City Hall, 301 W. Second St.
  2. Urban Forestry Board, 6:30 p.m. May 19, Mexican American Cultural Center, 600 River St.
  3. Environmental Board, 6 p.m. May 20, Austin City Hall, 301 W. Second St.
• A Comprehensive Action Plan with specified timelines will be developed within 10 business days.

Additional information

Memo to Council and Planning Commission City of Austin Barton Springs Pool Trees Assessment Report Aerial map showing tree assessment (pdf)
	Aerial View of Barton Springs Pool Click for close-up view

For additional information visit our Web site at or view a copy of the report at the Parks and Recreation Department main office located at 200 South Lamar Blvd.