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Selectboard authorizes county forester to pursue ash-harvest grant for town forest
Summary
The Town of Orange Selectboard authorized County Forester AJ Follensbee to pursue a grant to manage ash-tree removal and improve town-forest stewardship, contingent on funding. The grant could cover up to $30,000; the town’s share is estimated at $5,000–$10,000.
The Town of Orange Selectboard voted April 27 to allow County Forester AJ Follensbee to pursue a grant to harvest ash trees and improve management of the town forest, with final project approval contingent on funding.
The forester presented grant details to the board: the opportunity may provide up to $30,000 and expires Nov. 30, 2026. The Selectboard recorded an estimated town contribution of $5,000–$10,000 and a project completion deadline of Sept. 30, 2026. Officials noted stumpage revenue could help offset local costs.
Discussion touched on access from Beard Road, the grant’s requirements and schedule, and coordination with local committees. Selectboard member Sheila Stone was asked to receive the grant information for the Recreation Committee. The board’s motion to permit Follensbee to proceed with grant assistance passed (motion by Carmella Tucker; second by Kristin Paya).
The action was expressly contingent on securing funding; the board did not commit town funds beyond the estimated contribution pending grant award and budgeting. The board did not set a separate timeline for final project approval beyond the grant’s completion deadline.
Next steps: the Town Clerk was directed to share the grant information with Sheila Stone and the Recreation Committee, and Follensbee will continue with grant-related work and coordination. The Selectboard will consider final approval if and when funding is secured.
