Hurricane Irene and the recent Snoctober storm devastated trees in Baristaville. If you live on a tree-depleted street in Glen Ridge, you may have noticed things looking leafier. The Glen Ridge Shade Tree Commission planted the first 41 street trees, purchased as part of the initial phase of the Commission’s “600 Tree Campaign,” on November 16th, 21st and 22nd. The trees, including oaks, lindens, disease-resistant elms, gingkoes, maackias and zelkovas, were planted by the New Jersey Tree Foundation of Jackson, NJ. The purchase and planting of the trees was financed through a combination of private donations and public funds.
The young trees were planted throughout the Borough, but several tree-depleted streets received multiple specimens. Homeowners who were the recipients of the new trees received letters detailing the types of trees planted, along with care requirements. All homeowners in Glen Ridge are required to water the street trees on their properties.
The Shade Tree Commission launched the “600 Tree Campaign” in early 2011 as an effort to reverse the loss of the Borough’s trees. Additional public funding is limited. To meet or exceed the original 600 tree goal, the Commission needs immediate help from all residents, local businesses and civic groups. To make a contribution, go to the Commission’s website at www.glenridgenj.org/600trees.htm. To make tree-related requests or report tree damage, e-mail town arborist and NJ Tree Expert Richard Wolowicz at trees@glenridgenj.org or call (973) 748-8400, ext. 202.
Meanwhile, in Montclair, Replant Montclair, a program to solicit donations to buy trees and replace those lost this October, is being initiated by Barry Jackson, Scott Kevelson, Dan Zimerman and Imke Oster, the Montclair Times reports. Kevelson tells Baristanet that the group will detail plans to the public at the Dec. 6 town council meeting at 8 p.m.
Do you live on a street in need of trees?
