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1. Why is my tree being removed?

We are primarily removing ash trees confirmed to be infested by the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). Removal is recommended by the Illinois Department of Agriculture to slow the spread of EAB. Other unhealthy or weakened trees may be removed due to infestations, disease or damage other than EAB.

2. How many Ash trees does the Village own? What is the Village response plan to the EAB infestation?

Village-owned ash trees total approximately 2,400 with many in the public rights-of-way. The total tree inventory including ash trees is nearly 11,000 trees. Village response plan calls for immediate removal of trees confirmed to be infested by EAB. You can read more about our plan online.

3. Instead of removal can the Ash trees be treated? I have heard of new insecticidal treatments?

Even the latest insecticidal treatments have not been proven to be 100% effective to kill EAB. Current treatments require periodic applications for the remaining life of the tree.

Treatment effectiveness depends on the tree size, current health, and amount of any EAB infestation. Cost for the 2,400 village-owned ash trees would be significant without proven effectiveness.

The Village Forester continues to monitor the ‘evolving science' and effectiveness of new treatments.

4. There is an "X" painted on, or a ribbon wrapped around the village parkway tree adjacent to my property. What does that mean?

The "X" painted on, or ribbon wrapped around, the village parkway tree adjacent to your property indicates that the village Forester has positively confirmed the tree is infested or is diseased and thus weakened, requiring the tree's removal. Most likely the tree is an ash tree infested by the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). Village Forestry staff is removing the tree as recommended by the Illinois Department of Agriculture to slow the spread of EAB infestation.

5. When will the tree removed be replaced?

Trees removed will be replaced in either the fall or early spring following removal. Village has program established that calls for replacing the total inventory of ash trees removed over the next 10-15 years.

Village plans to continue replacing other trees removed from the inventory due to mortality as well as plant vacant tree spaces in the rights-of-way.

6. What species of replacement tree will the Village Forester plant?

No ash tree species will be planted because no variety is resistant to EAB. Trees selected from those listed in Appendix I - Acceptable Tree Species (PDF) published in the village Urban Forestry Guide.

Trees selected would be resistant to EAB or other known infestations or diseases. Trees selected will depend on the mature tree size, size of planting space and environmental factors. The selected tree species, variety and size will depend on availability and cost of nursery stock.

Plan to plant a diversity of tree species to minimize impacts to inventory caused by known and/or future infestations or diseases.

7. Where will the replacement tree be planted?

Village Forester will use the Village Urban Forestry Guide, consider the location and size of existing trees, desired tree spacing at maturity, utilities locations (street lights, fire hydrants, pipes, etc.) and other obstructions and environmental factors.

Replacement trees may or may not be planted in the exact same location of the original tree depending on the extent of existing roots and other factors identified by the Village Forester.

8. Who completes the inspection, removal and replanting work?

Village Forester is conducting the inspections to confirm EAB infestation. Village Forester or contractors will remove, stump grind, and chip branches and trunks. Stump sites will be restored with black dirt / seed by Forestry Staff after settling and as weather permits.

Replacement trees will be planted by either contractors or Village Forester Staff.

9. Do I need to water or do other maintenance?

No. Village Forester or Village contractors water trees as necessary during the ‘establishment period'. This is usually about a year.

10. Will the Village charge me for the cost of village-owned parkway tree removal and replacement?

No. the cost to remove and replace village-owned trees are part of the annual operating Forestry budget.

11. What about the ash trees on my property?

The property owner is responsible for the care of all trees on private property; including ash trees. Removal and replacement of trees on private property are the owner's responsibility and expense. Removal of ash trees on private property must be completed by a certified arborist compliant with state requirements.

Please contact the Village Forester at 630-671-5800 to advise the staff of an ash tree removal due to EAB. Please do not plant ash tree species of any variety.

12. Who can I contact if I have additional questions?

Questions can be emailed to us or call Public Works Forestry at 630-671-5800. Please include your name, address and phone number. Village Forestry staff will make every effort to respond to your questions within 3 working days.