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The City of Decorah is taking steps to remove trees affected by Emerald Ash Borer

Posted: Wed, Feb 1, 2017 12:07 PM

Decorah City Forester Robin Sailor reports her recent survey revealed the prevalence of emerald ash borer (EAB) in many of Decorah's boulevard trees.

The City is working on a long-term plan to address the EAB, but Sailor says their first and foremost concern is the public's safety. Trees affected by EAB can quickly become brittle and unsafe in public areas. Homeowners with affected boulevard trees were recently issued a notice from the City Forester, along with information on the city's responsibility to remove the trees.

The notification reads, "As stated in the Decorah City Ordinance, if trees are deemed hazardous to other trees, vehicles, pedestrians or other property, the City of Decorah is responsible for tree removal at no cost to the homeowner." The notification also states the City of Decorah pledges to, "Safely remove affected trees, grind the tree stump as soon as possible, and backfill with soil and grass seed."

The City of Decorah along with the Tree Board offer homeowners a partial reimbursement for purchasing and planting new pest and disease resistant boulevard trees (up to two per household/business).

For more information contact City Forester Robin Sailor at 563-277-5153 ot www.decorahia.org