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Uxbridge names new tree warden and eyes townwide shade‑tree inventory
Summary
The commission discussed appointment and certification of a new tree warden who will issue right‑of‑way tree permits, noted potential overlap with conservation jurisdiction, and proposed creating a public tree inventory using phone/GIS tools to track species, condition and pests.
Commission members on Sept. 15 said the town will soon have a certified tree warden and discussed how that office will interact with the conservation commission on trees within rights of way.
One member said they will complete the town‑funded certification coursework and serve as the new tree warden; commissioners congratulated the appointee and noted that tree‑warden duties include permitting tree work in the town right‑of‑way. Members observed there can be jurisdictional overlap when shade trees or right‑of‑way trees intersect conservation resource areas and agreed coordination will be needed.
Commissioners also proposed creating a public shade‑tree inventory using phone/GIS tools and interns to collect trunk circumference, species, condition and other metadata. The inventory would support maintenance planning, help detect invasive pests such as the spotted lanternfly and Dutch elm disease, and allow the town to prioritize removals and replacements. Members discussed engaging volunteers or a summer intern program to gather data and uploading results into the town GIS.
The commission did not set a firm implementation date but expressed support for developing a program and for cooperating with the new tree warden on jurisdictional guidance and permit coordination.
