An inventory of all trees on public streets and right-of-way’s will be performed during the week of September 19-23.
The inventory will be led by SD Dept of Agriculture and Natural Resources' John Hartland and Garretson Tree Dept supervisor Colleen Collier.
The inventory will give the city an idea of how many trees may be impacted when the discovery of the Emerald Ash Borer occurs and to help diversity Garretson's tree inventory.
All trees will be entered into a GIS system for future referencing purposes. One stated goal is to reduce the number of maple trees being planted, as an invasive species is estimated to impact those next.
The emerald ash borer was discovered in Crooks and Brandon earlier this summer, and is expected to be found in Garretson within the next 1-2 years the insect can fly up to 15 miles from its home nest or is transported in firewood.
If any trees on your property are ash, they will need to be removed either before the beetle is discovered or within 3-5 years, or treated immediately upon discovery. Ash trees on private property (including boulevards) will be the responsibility of the homeowner.
