Existing Trees

Are the trees invasive or noxious species in your area? If not, they might be considered adaptive (see credit language), and they could contribute to the credit. The fact that they're not native is not enough reason to give up yet!

Yes, I checked with a colleague and they noted that they have felt that the LEED definition of adapted vegetation is overly restrictive. "I’ve always thought of adapted as simply being non-invasive plants that have adjusted to the climate and need little maintenance" was her comment. I would suggest that getting a LEED point isn't worth cutting down some nice trees.

Geoff - I'm not an expert in this particular area, but I'm fairly confident in saying that you shouldn't cut down those trees. The intent of the credit is to provide habitat and biodiversity, and replacing an established healthy tree with some native shrubbery is, in my mind, a clear step backwards. I think you can safely measure the SF of vegetation based on the ground, not the canopy, and I'm hopeful that would accurately illustrate the habitat value of your landscaping. But I think Tristan was spot on in saying a LEED point isn't worth cutting down good trees.