Marquette Aims to Plant Only Native Tree Species

MARQUETTE, Mich. (WLUC) - The city might consider alterations regarding which tree species will be allowed for planting in Marquette.

The Marquette City Planning Commission gave unanimous approval on Tuesday evening to eliminate the non-native and invasive species previously included in the suggested list for vegetation within the city’s landscaping guidelines. Under these revised regulations, developments subject to site plan review will be permitted to use only indigenous trees and shrubs.

These modifications won't impact what individual homeowners can choose to plant. However, Commissioner Jane Fitkin wishes that homeowners might also adhere to the changes she suggested.

"Even though the city isn't mandating non-native plantings for individual homeowners, I hope that updating the codes to show the city supports using natives will lead to shifts in nursery offerings and inspire more homeowners to choose native plants," stated Fitkin.

The Marquette City Commission needs to still okay the suggested alterations.

At thePlanning Commissionmeeting held onTuesday, they decided to shiftthe election datefrom Marchto Januaryinstead.