Shade Tree Commission advances tree survey and pruning plans, coordinates on grant application

The Merchantville Shade Tree Commission used its Jan. 16 meeting to advance a planned tree survey and a grant application while scheduling targeted pruning and planting work.

Commission member John Feldan said he contacted ArborPro for a quote on a new tree survey and a community forest management plan (CFMP) and that he was coordinating timing with Sean Logan of Audubon DPW so Merchantville’s and Audubon’s surveys could be done together to reduce costs. Feldan said he will continue working on the NJUCF Green Communities grant application and will reach out to Rebecca Callaway to obtain missing information needed for the application.

Separately, a site inspection at 119 Glenwood Avenue with Paul Schmeltzer of Bartlett determined two trees should be pruned rather than removed because they are otherwise healthy and help with local flooding mitigation; Alice Diamond will follow up with Bartlett to request a pruning proposal. The commission also noted a tree planted by the Merchantville Green Team in front of Saint Peter Church needs trimming and agreed that Diamond would perform the trim.

Commission members discussed a citizen offer from James Barnshaw to fund planting a maple across from Blue Monkey; Lynn Geddes said the commission will advise on suitable maple species and that planting would occur in spring, with Triple Oaks engaged to source the tree.

Ray Woods told commissioners he will complete the annual accomplishment report and the Tree City USA application and will contact colleagues for any information he needs. The meeting adjourned at 8:02 p.m.