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Ardentown discusses tree removals, deer overpopulation, and public-works updates; Trustees apply for DFS grant
Summary
Volunteers planted state trees and removed hazardous ash trees; trustees applied for a Delaware Forest Service matching grant to help remove dying ash trees, and volunteers and staff reported vegetation mapping and public-works projects including rain-garden and Orchard Road regrading.
Several environmental and public-works items were discussed at the Feb. 10 meeting.
Paths & Restoration: Elaine Schmerling reported volunteer work on Sunnyside where 32 state-provided trees were planted and caged; Ron’s Trees removed 27 large ash trees that were hazardous and impassible sections were cleared. Elaine has applied for a grant to support additional ivy-clearing and tree-removal days and plans a spring walk-through for residents.
Vegetation mapping: Will Ryan updated the Three Ardens Vegetation Management and Mapping Project (ARPA-funded). All plant data have been collected and are being vetted; village representatives should receive the data possibly in March with a public presentation and tutorial later in the spring.
Deer overpopulation: Elaine raised concerns about deer overpopulation damaging understory and young trees. Scott Bowers of Ardencroft agreed to chair a three-Ardens ad-hoc committee to develop a plan; interested residents were invited to sign up.
Trustees and public works: Oliver Gutsche reported Orchard Road regrading is complete and will be monitored in rain events to verify runoff toward the rain garden; leftover Belgian blocks will be placed behind curbing in early spring; Henry George Green rain garden work is scheduled to begin in March. Trustees have applied for a Delaware Forest Service matching grant to help defray hazardous ash-tree removal on common land; award decision expected in April.
Playground: Cortney Hayflinger said the playground committee is assessing whether to repair swings or purchase new ones. Potential grants include DNREC, AARP and Lowe's; the approximate replacement cost is about $10,000.
The minutes record actions and grant applications but do not include detailed timelines for implementation or specific contractor agreements; residents were encouraged to contact committee chairs for volunteer opportunities and additional information.
