Tree Board approves removal of damaged pine while preserving healthy neighbor

The Tree Protection Board convened on May 12, 2025, at 9 AM in Summerville, Dorchester County, to address various concerns regarding tree removals and maintenance in the community. The meeting featured discussions centered on the safety of trees in residential areas, particularly in light of past storm damage.

The first agenda item involved a resident's request for the removal of two pine trees and a Tupelo tree from her property. The resident expressed significant concern about the potential danger posed by the trees, particularly given her husband’s health issues and their previous experience with tree damage during a hurricane in 2015. She noted that two pine trees had snapped during that storm, coming dangerously close to her home.

Board members reviewed the condition of the trees in question. An arborist present at the meeting confirmed that one of the pine trees had a wound and irregular trunk formation, indicating it was a risk for failure. The second pine tree was deemed healthy but had some branches that required pruning to ensure safety. The Tupelo tree, while showing slight signs of decline, was not considered a threat and could benefit from treatment rather than removal.

After thorough discussion, the board reached a consensus. A motion was made to approve the removal of the damaged pine tree, recommend treatment for the Tupelo, and suggest pruning for the healthy pine tree to mitigate any risks. The motion passed unanimously.

The meeting then transitioned to the next agenda item concerning another property at 136 Boone Drive, where two of three pine trees had already been approved for removal at the staff level. The board continued to deliberate on the remaining tree, which had a marginally included bark area, indicating potential structural issues.

In conclusion, the Tree Protection Board emphasized its commitment to balancing community safety with tree preservation. The decisions made during the meeting reflect ongoing efforts to manage tree health and safety in Summerville, particularly in light of the challenges posed by severe weather events. Further discussions and follow-up actions are anticipated as the board continues to address tree-related concerns in the community.