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Resident warns Butler County that invasive Tree of Heaven may require decade‑long control effort
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Summary
A David City resident briefed the board on the invasive Tree of Heaven, describing control difficulties and urging early action and possible incentive programs to encourage removal.
Resident Joe Peterson presented information to the Butler County Board on the invasive Tree of Heaven and urged early action to prevent widespread infestation.
Peterson described how the species resembles sumac but is a tree with smooth leaf edges and extensive regrowth that resists burning and mulching. He reviewed chemical treatment options and said he has been working on eradication on his own property for three years, and that the infestation can take “at least 10 years to get it back under control” if left unchecked.
Peterson suggested incentives for property upkeep or nuisance‑tree programs similar to initiatives he cited in Minnesota to encourage landowner removal. Supervisors and staff thanked him for the presentation and discussed awareness strategies; no formal county program or funding decision was made at the meeting.