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Town conservation agent identifies emerald ash borer on multiple Templeton roads; advises reporting and removal steps
Summary
Templeton’s conservation agent told the commission that emerald ash borer infestation has been identified on several roads; residents were advised to contact the Department of Public Works or Templeton Light Company depending on tree jurisdiction and to contact the conservation office about wetland trees.
Templeton’s conservation agent updated the Conservation Commission on July 21 that ash trees infested with the emerald ash borer have been identified along multiple town roads and advised residents on reporting and removal procedures.
Locations and jurisdiction: Trees with signs of infestation were identified on Baldwinville Road, Dudley Road, Old Winchinton Road, Farnsworth Road, Maple Street, South Main Street, State Road, Wellington Road, South Road, and Depot Road. The agent said town-owned trees fall under the Department of Public Works’ jurisdiction; trees adjacent to power lines should be reported to Templeton Light Company. Wetland trees of concern should be reported to the conservation office.
Recommended process: The conservation agent said she has been in contact with the DPW director and with MassDEP and that the advisement for removal is to use a professional company and retain the stump when the tree is in the buffer zone to avoid disturbance of the soil and wetland substrate.
Why it matters: Emerald ash borer is an invasive beetle that kills ash trees and may require pruning or removal of affected trees; removal in or near wetland resource areas requires care to minimize disturbance and appropriate notification to town staff.
