There’s a killer on the loose in the State College area, and it’s going after some of our most dignified and beautiful residents: ash trees.
The Emerald Ash Borer, an exotic beetle that kills ash trees, has infected 97 of the trees within Harris Township.
The township will be replacing most of its ash trees over the next two years. The majority of them are located inside the Springfield Commons Development. They’ll be planting new trees beginning on May 9 but Harris Township needs volunteers to help out.
“The Township is fortunate that we have residents who are always willing to help,” says Amy Farkas, township manager. “In 2011, we planted 29 trees with the help of 40 volunteers. We ask for volunteers to help keep our costs low.”
The trees will be replaced with a handful of species including Zelkova and Linden, which will be staggered so that entire blocks won’t be filled with the same type of tree. Eagle Scout Matt Lazorcik helped with research to figure out which species to use in the ash tree replacement project.
“The Township will place the trees in the holes. Volunteers will be asked to fill each hole with topsoil and to mulch the trees,” Farkas says. “We are asking volunteers to bring shovels if they have them, as we only have a limited amount.”
While it’s sad to see the ash trees go, the township is working to save a few specific trees that have deemed to hold historic value for the community. Farkas says that three trees are being treated, which costs about $1,000 a year. While helping to heal a few trees is financially feasible, it simply wouldn’t be possible for the township to spend that kind of money on all 97 infected ash trees.
Tom Songer, who owns Springfield Commons, has partnered with the township on the project. He’s paying half the cost of the trees that will be planted, which is upwards of $2,000. With Songer’s assistance and the volunteer work, the township is vastly reducing costs.
“We are excited to kick off our ash tree replacement program on May 9,” Farkas says. “We encourage as many people as possible to volunteer.”
In order to provide a helping hand, Farkas requests that you e-mail her to volunteer and to receive additional information.
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