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WEST SENECA COMMUNITY CENTER WEST SENECA ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION 1300 UNION ROAD MEETING MINUTES WEST SENECA, NY 14224 FEBRUARY 19, 2026 • Update on Tree Inventory Grant Chairperson Amadon reported that the Town is awaiting communication from Davey Resource Group regarding the Community Forest Management Plan. Chairperson Amadon stated that the decision has been made to begin the Community Forest Management Plan using remaining grant funds. Councilmember Robertson reported that the plan is to proceed with this management plan. Chairperson Amadon reported that the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) Regional Forester will review inventory data and perform sampling verification on selected streets. • Planning an Earth Day or Arbor Day Event Chairperson Amadon reported that the tree inventory grant requires public outreach and education on trees, tree care, and the purpose and benefits of the inventory and management plan, with a total of at least three public meetings by December 31, 2026. Chairperson Amadon noted that the November tree planting event counts as one such event. Ms. Lipiew reported that the Burchfield Nature and Art Center typically hosts activities for these occasions, but the indoor facility is closed on Saturdays and the Town generally does not program Arbor Day events at Burchfield. Ms. Lipiew suggested the Community Center as a higher-traffic venue. Councilmember Robertson proposed collaborating with Buildings and Grounds/Highway to build several bird/nesting boxes for parks and offered to consult with Highway Superintendent Brian Adams regarding materials and installation on suitable posts or structures. Ms. Geller suggested kid-focused, sensory activities to simulate planting trees and to highlight animals interacting with urban forests; Ms. Geller agreed to contact Earth Spirit Educational Services regarding participation in an event. Ms. Hernon reported that she contacted Wild Ones Western New York Chapter; the group may be busy but encouraged proposing a specific date and time. Ms. Hernon suggested an indoor event to avoid weather contingencies and noted possible summer programming such as a guided tree walk at a local park. Mr. Ismail proposed pairing this educational program with a trash pickup near the Community Center, Cazenovia Creek trails, or other town parks, with interpretive discussion of native trees and local wildlife. 2