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Two gazebo trees flagged for pruning/removal; board considers community mulch day to reduce compaction
Summary
The Treeboard reviewed arborist reports for two swamp laurel oaks by the park gazebo (one with interior decay and one with a dead branch over the shelter) and discussed contractor quotes, pruning/removal of decayed sections and root/treatment options. Members proposed a volunteer mulch day to address compaction in high‑traffic areas.
The Town of Sunset Beach Treeboard reviewed contractor assessments for two park trees identified as high‑risk and discussed mitigation and community volunteer options.
Michelle reported that she and town staff met with two tree contractors and with Vicki from town operations to inspect two swamp laurel oaks beside the gazebo. One tree has a significant decayed section from the union up through the canopy; contractors recommended removing the decayed section and removing deadwood. The second tree has a dead branch extending over the gazebo that should be removed. Contractors suggested shortening some branches by roughly 4–5 feet to reduce weight and risk over the shelter and recommended health treatments (fertilization and other vigor-improving measures). No evidence of carpenter ants was found.
The board said the work is focused on risk mitigation and that the town will evaluate quotes and select a vendor. Michelle will meet further with Vicki and Mick (town contacts) to finalize which contractor will perform the pruning and any treatments.
Members also proposed a community 'mulch day' to address soil compaction in high‑traffic areas near the picnic shelter and bandshell. Suggestions included obtaining free wood chips through local tree services or county resources and recruiting volunteers through Sunset Vision, garden clubs and town events. Public works staff will need to be involved for logistics and maintenance.
Next steps: the board will review contractor quotes and authorize the town to proceed with pruning and corrective work as appropriate; the board’s outreach plan will include exploring a volunteer mulch day if logistics and maintenance by public works are feasible.
