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Tree Board flags possible carpenter-ant damage to two park trees, seeks contractor quotes
Summary
Board members reported that visitors pointed out two park trees that appear damaged, possibly by carpenter ants; town staff was asked to obtain quotes from A+ Tree Landscaping and advise on safety and preservation measures.
Members of the Town of Sunset Beach Tree Board reported at the May 20 meeting that residents who visited the board’s Greenwave booth identified two park trees that appeared to be hollowed or ‘eaten from the inside out,’ a condition they said could indicate carpenter-ant infestation.
Becky Spock said attendees at Greenwave pointed to a large tree near the picnic shelter and another by the gazebo as areas of concern. "They pointed at two trees. It looks like these trees are being eaten from the inside out by carpenter ants," she said, describing what residents reported.
Board members said they contacted town staff. According to the meeting record, Vicky Todd is looking into the trees and is working with A+ Tree Landscaping to obtain a quote. Potential measures discussed included soil decompaction, mulching, targeted pruning to reduce canopy weight, fertilization and, if necessary, targeted insect treatment. Members emphasized public-safety precautions such as advising park users to stay on walkways until professionals inspect the trees.
The board asked staff to follow up with the contractor and report back. "They're going to give the recommendations back to Vicky," a member said.
Next steps: town staff will obtain written recommendations and quotes from the contractor; the board will review those measures at a future meeting before any removal decisions are made.
