In West Windsor we love our trees and environment. Disasters happen beyond our control from time to time, and our trees are damaged or destroyed.
In 2012 we got our share of the damage from Super Storm Sandy destroying hundreds of our trees. Thanks to the West Windsor leadership team, Public Works staff, and the residents who dealt with this disastrous event in an efficient and effective manner.
Now in 2015 the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) entered our township. (Details on EAB are available on the township website.) These insects will eventually destroy all of our ash trees. West Windsor has around 2,000 ash trees on public property. The Shade Tree Commission, the mayor, Council, and Girl Scouts (Adopt A Tree Project), and many volunteers are doing everything possible to save as many ash trees as possible. Some will be removed and replaced and some will be treated.
In spite of these disasters, West Windsor Township has achieved “Tree City USA” status every year for the last 37 years from the National Arbor Day Foundation. With your help we plan to maintain this designation of excellence for many more years to come.
Please come and celebrate Arbor Day with us on Saturday, April 30, at 10 a.m. at the Ronald R. Rogers Arboretum (corner of Clarksville & Princeton Hightstown roads, across from High School South). In case of rain the event will be held at the West Windsor Senior Center. Key events include:
• Arbor Day proclamation by Mayor Shing Fu-Hsueh.
• The Shade Tree Commission will discuss tree planting and care.
• Awards for WW-P student art competition.
• Learn to identify common trees and local insects.
• Participation by Girls Scouts, Boys Scouts, and music groups from the school district.
• Refreshments.
• Take home a free tree seedling!
Arbor Day is an excellent opportunity to take stock of the trees on your property and plan for the future. Note any broken branches or evidence of disease or insect infestation, including EAB. Think about how planting new trees might improve the look of your property or provide wind or heat protection or improve your property value. Walk around your neighborhood. Are there any public areas where tree planting or tree maintenance might make a real difference to your community? Talk with your neighbors. Find out what their opinions are. And, oh yes, plant a tree.
Ram Ramachandran, Ph.D.
WW Shade Tree Commission
