Trees & Mulching

Trees are essential infrastructure for a resilient and thriving community. Trees reduce urban heat, absorb and filter stormwater, improve air quality, store carbon, and provide vital habitat for local wildlife. Thoughtful investment in tree planting, preservation, and long-term canopy management strengthens public health, supports economic vitality, and enhances quality of life. As we advance our conservation and climate resilience goals, protecting and expanding our tree canopy is both a practical strategy and a lasting commitment to the well-being of current and future generations.

STREET TREES

The Conservation Commission also sits as the Tree Board for North Kingstown.  The Street Tree Ordinance, which includes the responsibilities of the tree board, can be accessed here:  Street Tree Ordinance. The ordinance defines a street tree as any tree or shrub in whole or in part within the limits of any road or grounds within the town. This term includes such limbs, roots or parts of trees that extend or overhang the limits or bounds of any town road or grounds from private property. Section 17-81 of the ordinance outlines the protection of trees within town rights-of-way and public parks.

Starting in Fall 2024, the Town of North Kingstown has been conducting an update to the Street Tree Inventory first completed in 2001.  The focus of the inventory is subdivisions and land development projects that have been constructed since 2001.  The Street Tree Board will be conducting the inventory in small groups in each neighborhood.  A notice will be posted at the entrance to each subdivision in advance of the inventory.  A notice will also be distributed to the homeowner's associations for each event. For more information, please feel free to contact the Planning Department at 401-268-1572. 

Please see the typical street right of way diagram for reference.

TREE MULCHING

Proper mulching is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support the health and longevity of the trees in our community. Organic mulch, such as hardwood bark mulch, serves as a natural protective layer that helps moderate soil temperatures, retain moisture, and reduce weed growth. In addition to these benefits, as the mulch breaks down, it enriches the soil and encourages beneficial organisms that improve soil structure and promote healthy root systems. When applied correctly, mulch enhances both the beauty and sustainability of our shared landscapes.

However, improper mulching practices—specifically piling mulch high against tree trunks, sometimes called “mulch volcanoes”—can cause serious harm. These mulch mounds can suffocate roots, create abnormal root growth, and restrict water and nutrient uptake, ultimately stressing the tree and increasing its vulnerability to pests and diseases. Trees affected by mulch volcanoes often suffer irreversible damage, which can lead to premature decline and costly removals. To protect our community’s trees, it’s important to apply mulch thoughtfully and responsibly.

For best results, apply organic mulch in a wide ring around the base of trees, but keep the depth to no more than 2 to 3 inches. Be sure to keep mulch pulled back from the tree trunk to allow proper airflow and prevent moisture buildup that can damage the bark. By following these simple guidelines, residents can help ensure our trees remain healthy, vibrant, and thriving for generations to come.

Learn more about proper tree mulching: Shining a Spotlight on "Mulch Volcanoes"  Authors - Joe Boggs Published on May 2, 2024

RESOURCES

The Arbor Day Foundation website provides great information on the importance of trees. 

The Rhode Island Tree Council has a mission to help improve Rhode Island’s tree resources, build healthy and vibrant urban forests, and educates citizens about urban forestry. Their web site has specific information for Rhode Island resources about being a tree steward, upcoming events, tree care and champion trees in our state.

The RIDEM has a Forest Environment division that manages 40,000 acres of state-owned rural forestland. Their web site provides information on forest-related businesses, stewardship, forest health and available grants such as the America the Beautiful program.  

The RI Tree Farm Program formed to promote the growing of renewable forest resources on private lands while protecting environmental benefits and increasing public understanding of all benefits of productive forestry.