8- The Oakville Beaver Weekend, Saturday July 7, 2007 www.oakvillebeaver.com OAKVILLE - Celebrating 150 years! Tree Protection Survey The Town of Oakville is conducting an on-line survey to collect opinions from Oakville residents about the protection of trees on private property. Right now, only trees on public property and trees on private woodlots over 0.5 hectares are protected in Oakville. Available on-line from June 22 until August 15, 2007 Go to: www.oakville.ca and click on Tree Protection Survey. Public Internet access is available at Oakville Public Library branches and Town Hall kiosks. Why protect trees? · Trees clean our air and help reduce smog-related health risks to residents. In 2005, Oakville's urban forest removed 172 tonnes of criteria pollutants from the air. · They create "curb appeal" and increase property value. On average, property values are 6% greater in areas with more trees. · Trees provide a natural habitat for wildlife, add privacy and reduce noise. · Urban forests help cool the air temperature, provide shade and offer energy savings. Oakville residents save an estimated $812,000 in energy costs annually as a result of our tree canopy. The Town of Oakville was designated as the 2007 Forestry Capital of Canada by the Canadian Forestry Association for its commitment to the strategic management of its urban forest, demonstrating stewardship and sound practices toward sustainable forest development, management and conservation. IF YOU PROTECT YOUR POOL, YOU PROTECT YOUR FAMILY The Town of Oakville would like to remind residents that before they install their new pool this summer to learn about the Town's Pool Enclosure By-law including fencing requirements and permit regulations. Did you know that a permit is required for any pool depth that exceeds 2 feet? According to the Lifesaving Society of Canada, drowning is the third leading cause of accidental death in Canada for people 60 years of age and under. In fact, year after year the data shows that the majority of people who drown had no intention of going into the water -- their immersion was sudden and unexpected. To reduce the risk of a potential drowning, all pools must be enclosed by a fence, restricted by a lockable gate, if the depth capacity exceeds 60 cm (2 ft), and adhere to the appropriate setbacks from the property line. Pool Enclosure By-Law In March 2006, Council approved a Pool Enclosure By-law and fee structure for all forms of pools, including inflatable pools, landscape pond features, and hot tubs. The Town's Pool Enclosure By-law 2006-071 states that residents are required to apply for a permit for all forms of pools and that pools must be enclosed by a fence, restricted by a lockable gate if the depth capacity exceeds 60 cm (2 ft) and adhere to the appropriate setbacks from the property line. These enforced regulations apply to all types of bodies of water, including above-ground, in-ground and inflatable pools, as well as backyard landscaping ponds and hot tubs - often overlooked as potential safety threats. Residents who have enclosures do not need to renew their permit, however, a new permit is required if they are altering or replacing their enclosure. The one time only permit fees are $50 for inflatable pools, and range from $100 to $315 for other types of pools. The Town would also like to remind existing pool owners that per By-law 1977-15 they are not to discharge the water from their pools in their yard but to let it drain into the storm sewers. For a full list of fees please visit www.oakville.ca Residents can also call Development Services at 905-845-6601 ext. 3033. For your convenience, please visit www.oakville.ca to download a Permit Application Form YOUR TOWN. YOUR SUMMER CAMPS. Enjoy a fun-filled summer right in your own neighbourhood. Summer Sizzlers day camps offer a variety of outdoor play that emphasizes fun, participation and friendship. Other summer camps include: Sport-A-cular, camps at Oakville Museum, Leader in Training, Special Needs Programs, Teen Adventure Program, Badminton, Art of Acting, Canoe Kids, Golf and much more! Registration for Summer Camps is now open! Online: www.oakville.ca and click on iris. Telephone: 905-815-2000 In Person Registration: at Recreation & Culture Department, Town Hall If you do not have an iris card, please call 905-845-6601 ext. 4747.