In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Dover's Facilities and Grounds Superintendent Mark Colonna, Planning Department intern John DesRoches, and Dover's Resilience Manager Jackson Kaspari about Dover's street tree replacement program. They discuss the multiple benefits of street trees, including aesthetics, drainage, reducing heat island effects, and improving public health. The conversation covers the origins of the project, the process of replacing trees, funding sources, and the importance of species diversity in urban forestry.
The team explains how they're addressing the issue of ash trees infested with emerald ash borer through a phased removal and replacement approach. They also touch on the logistics of planting and maintaining new trees, including watering practices and the option for residents to donate trees. The discussion highlights the city's effort to create a resilient and diverse urban canopy by planting various species.
Later, Parker and Kaspari discuss Dover's Community Power program, explaining the new electricity rates effective from August 2024 to January 2025. They outline the different renewable energy options available to residents, ranging from 24.3% to 100% renewable content, and how customers can easily switch between tiers. The conversation emphasizes the program's flexibility and its role in promoting clean energy adoption in New Hampshire.
