§ 53-0103. General functions of the department.

The department may:

1. Act in an advisory capacity to state agencies in matters relating
to neighborhood improvement and to advise such agencies in regard to
developing organized tree and other planting programs to promote urban
neighborhood improvement and to enhance and conserve existing tree and
green space resources particularly where state action results in a
substantial destruction of trees or related vegetation.

2. Advise, encourage and assist local governments in the development
and coordination of policies, programs and activities, and in the full
utilization of powers vested in local governments by the constitution
and laws of the state, to organize such tree and other planting
programs, to promote urban neighborhood improvement and to promote tree
and green space protection and maintenance.

3. Act as a clearinghouse for information on urban neighborhood
improvement programs and organized tree and other planting programs in
accordance with this article.

4. Prepare and circulate model ordinances, relating to trees,
appropriate to be used in implementation of section ninety-six-b of the
general municipal law or other applicable municipal authority, including
but not limited to ordinances or local laws for designation by
municipalities of historic or specimen trees, stands and groves, or
old-growth forests, and to provide for the recognition and protection
thereof.

5. Take such other steps as are necessary to carry out the purpose of
this article, including the appointment of advisory committees, boards
and task forces.