Gist of the Ninth Meeting held on 18 June 2013

1. The Tree Support System for OVT LCSD YTM/2 and the proposed planter extension for OVT LCSD YTM/6, YTM/19 and YTM/29 at Park Lane
   • Members were briefed on the latest progress. A site inspection was being arranged.
2. Pruning of the stonewall trees at Bonham Road
   • Members expressed concerns about the pruning work of the two stonewall trees and requested for more detailed information.
3. Consultancy study on 'Wood strength assessment for common tree species in Hong Kong'
   • The Consultant presented interim progress to Members. The research findings would enhance the tree risk assessment work.
   • Members generally welcomed the consultancy study and considered that the research was a good start and the findings would be a baseline for future reference.
4. Management Guidelines on Stonewall Trees
   • The Tree Management Office introduced the Paper which outlined the proposed stonewall tree management and maintenance strategies. Members welcomed the proposed guidelines and considered that the guidelines would help enhance maintenance quality and promote better understanding on the growing habitat of stonewall trees.
5. Members agreed to the nomination of an Old and Valuable Tree which was a fused Ficus microcarpa (banyan trees) on Pokfulam Road.
6. Members agreed to the current treatment of the Brown Root Rot contaminated soil and planter of OVT YTM/8 to 11.
7. Members were briefed on the Brown Root Rot symptoms on OVT LCSD SSP/14. The health and structural conditions would continue to be monitored.
8. Members considered that new practices on trenching works such as micro-tunnelling technique or 'no-dig' technology could be developed in Hong Kong so that disturbances of the root system of street trees could be minimised during utility works.