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Shade Tree Commission advances invasive‑species ordinance draft and plans control event requiring licensed applicator
Summary
Commissioners reviewed a draft invasive‑species ordinance to be circulated before the April meeting and discussed a proposed control event at Prophecy Creek Park; members noted Pennsylvania pesticide rules require a registered technician with an applicator license and insurance for treatment on public property.
Commissioners discussed a preliminary invasive‑species ordinance and a proposed control event during the March 4 Shade Tree Commission meeting.
Alternate member Allison Pearce and commission member Edgar David presented a draft outline of an invasive‑species ordinance and said they will revise and distribute the draft to commission members before the April meeting. The commission plans to vote to share the draft with the Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) and the Parks and Open Space Board (POSB) before forwarding it to the Board of Supervisors.
Pearce reported she has reached out to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Forestry to provide a tailored educational presentation; the presentation would include a short talk followed by Q&A and informal mingling. The commission discussed venue options (library for a small fee or the township meeting room) and Mr. Smith noted budget space is available to cover the library fee.
Chair Mark Eberle proposed holding an invasive‑species control event at Prophecy Creek Park to cut Callery pear trees and apply pesticide to stumps. Vince Marrocco cautioned that, under Pennsylvania pesticide rules, a registered technician with an applicator license and insurance is required for pesticide application on public property; he also emphasized the need to notify residents with sensitivities and to post signage. Marrocco said he will email Chair Eberle with the necessary steps. Township liaison Malcolm Smith will check whether the township holds any required licenses and will consult Public Works for availability.
The commission agreed to continue coordination with the EAC and will address legal, insurance and notification requirements before scheduling any treatment activities.
