Environment (Conservation)

This ceremonial resolution honors Liz Crafford for her volunteer leadership and advocacy in protecting the District of Columbia's natural environment. The bill recognizes her work leading the Shepherd Park Weed Warriors, a community group that removes invasive plants and restores native vegetation, as well as her role in drafting legislation to establish an Office of Natural Area Conservation. It also acknowledges her advocacy for improved park maintenance and solid waste collection oversight. The resolution formally cites the measure as the "Liz Crafford Recognition Resolution of 2026" and takes effect immediately.

The Tree Preservation Enhancement Amendment Act of 2025 updates Washington, D.C.'s tree protection rules by lowering the size threshold for protected trees and adjusting fees. It reduces the minimum trunk size for a "Special Tree" from 44 inches to 25 inches, expanding the number of trees requiring removal permits. The bill increases fees for removing Special Trees (to $55-$100 per inch of trunk size) and introduces new fees for Heritage Trees ($350 per inch or $250 per inch plus a conservation easement). Additionally, it limits the Tree Fund's use for public property plantings to 25% of the fund's average annual receipts.