by Kate Lehman
The Town of Bath has secured two grants totaling nearly $35,000 from the West Virginia Division of Forestry. These funds will support the efforts of the Town of Bath Tree Board to protect and maintain the town’s tree canopy, which is an important factor in helping the town to thrive.
To achieve this mission, the Tree Board is guided by four key goals:
- Enhance public safety and well-being.
- Preserve the town’s largest and oldest trees.
- Facilitate the health and growth of the town’s trees.
- Plant new trees to replace those that must be removed.
Annual decisions regarding tree care and maintenance are informed by the recommendations of Bartlett Tree Experts. In 2023, the company conducted a comprehensive survey of the town’s trees, resulting in a detailed tree inventory and management plan.
This plan led the Tree Board to establish a five-year work plan, which has been approved by the Town Council. The work being done now is outlined in year two of the 5-year plan.
In the past week, six trees were removed on North Washington Street. Among them were three silver maples that had reached the end of their lifespan and were beginning to drop limbs onto the library roof, sidewalks, and streets. Additionally, three unhealthy purple plum trees were removed. The stumps of all six trees were ground down to prevent tripping hazards.
This Wednesday, three Kwanzan cherry trees will be planted in front of the library, while three Japanese lilacs will be placed between Congress Street and Jail House Alley. In addition, six silhouette Sweetgum trees are set to be planted on Wilkes Street between Independence and Route 9. Two more Kwanzan cherry trees, along with three weeping cherry trees, will be planted on East Liberty Street.
Five invasive Bradford pears were cut down on Fairfax between Mercer and Green Streets. These trees had also reached the end of their lifespans and were dropping branches onto the sidewalk. In anticipation of this removal, in 2024 four native Linden trees were planted between the pear trees.
An urban forest not only beautifies a community but also plays a crucial role in enhancing local prosperity. Healthy trees can increase property values, attract businesses, and encourage tourism by creating appealing and inviting environments. They provide shade that cools urban areas, reducing energy costs for residents and businesses alike.
Trees improve air quality and stormwater management, which can lower municipal costs in these areas. This blend of economic and environmental benefits showcases how investing in urban forestry programs can yield significant returns, fostering a healthier, more vibrant community for current and future generations.
submitted photo
