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Storm toppled dozens of trees at Eckman Cemetery; board to seek assessment and aid
Summary
Select Board members reported 20–30 trees down at Eckman Cemetery after recent storms; committee members noted some gravestones were knocked over or damaged, an insurance claim was filed and the Vermont Old Cemetery Association offered to assist after the town completes an assessment.
Townshend Select Board members reported substantial storm damage to Eckman Cemetery during the April 28 meeting and described next steps for assessment and repair.
Committee volunteers and staff who inspected the site estimated 20–30 trees down of varying sizes, said several headstones were pushed off foundations and described at least one pedestal stone with significant damage. A town representative confirmed an insurance claim has been filed and the Vermont Old Cemetery Association has offered to help assemble a crew to assist once the town documents damage.
Board members emphasized caution: because the cemetery is not surveyed, mechanical equipment risks driving over unmarked graves. The board said it will await guidance from the Vermont League of Cities and Towns and pursue any necessary assessments before authorizing removal or repairs.
Quotes and attribution: "There's 20 to 30 trees in the cemetery of various sizes," said a cemetery committee member. "We did more trees with the same amount of money last year," the committee member said about funding options and volunteer support.
Next steps: the town will document damage for the league's review, consider insurance and volunteer assistance for stone repairs, and develop an approach for safe removal of trees and restoration of gravestones.
