Karen DiMaria, Key West urban forestry manager, will be the guest speaker at the Lower Keys League of Women Voters “Fifth Tuesday” social event on March 31 from 5 until 7 p.m., at the New York Pasta Garden in Duval Square, Key West.

DiMaria advises the Key West Tree Commission and is responsible for developing and implementing the complicated tree regulations that preserve Key West’s native and non-native canopy. She is no stranger to the complications and controversies interwoven with the regulations. Key West, like most cities, layers in dozens of rules and regulations about what can and can’t be planted where and when — and requires a permit for just about everything from planting to removal and replacement.

“That’s where DeMaria’s job gets dicey,” said Linda Grist Cuningham, event chair. “She’s the one who manages the often complicated task of implementing the Tree Commission’s rule book.     At the league social on March 31, DiMaria will explain what she and her staff do, outline the latest regulations and answer questions.”

The Fifth Tuesday event is free and open to the public. For additional information, contact Cunningham at (305) 294-3066.