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Highway manager outlines tree‑replacement approach after emerald ash borer losses
Summary
Highway operations manager Mitchell Smith reported on emerald ash borer‑related removals and introduced a replacement strategy with consultant Rachel (Pleasant Scapes) that emphasizes species diversity, right‑tree/right‑place choices, disease‑resistant hybrids for constrained strips and homeowner education; the committee accepted the report as informational.
Mitchell Smith, highway operations manager, updated the committee on Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) impacts observed in the city, noting the pest has been present in the state since 2013 and that past chemical treatment efforts did not prevent later removals. Smith said the department’s practice has been to remove infected ash trees and plan suitable replacements.
Rachel (owner, Pleasant Scapes) spoke about right‑tree/right‑place principles and recommended a diversity-first approach, with a 10‑20‑30 guideline to avoid planting the same species across a whole block. She recommended disease‑resistant hybrids and small‑mature canopy species for narrow planting strips, supplemented by native shrubs under the canopy to support pollinators. She also described outreach support — pamphlets and school programming — and said her firm supplies many municipal plantings.
Committee members noted homeowner concerns in affected neighborhoods and asked about options for property owners to obtain recommended species. Staff said resources and vendor lists are available and the city can supply planting guidance; the committee accepted the report as informational.
