The City of Oshawa is replacing municipal street and park ash trees with trees of different species.
The City of Oshawa tree canopy has been heavily impacted by the Emerald Ash Borer infestation. As a result, the city is working to replace the remaining ash trees located on city owned boulevards with different species of tree, said a statement.
The City of Oshawa maintains approximately 41,500 trees throughout the community of which 6.5 per cent are Ash trees. The City of Oshawa has treated its ash trees since the bug was first spotted in 2011. Each city owned ash tree has been inspected bi-annually and either treated or marked for removal.
Throughout the coming months, community members may see forestry crews at work in their neighbourhoods as the tree canopy throughout Oshawa continues to be impacted by the invasive insect Emerald Ash Borer.
Although, the city has seen success in many areas such as Lakeview Park, many of the ash trees on streets, in green spaces and on the trail system have been impacted by the insect, resulting in the tree no longer being viable and potentially creating a risk to the public and/or the surrounding property.
Once a diseased tree is removed, it will be added to the Ash Replacement List, the stump will be grinded out and a new species of tree will be planted.
Since 2011, more than 1,200 ash trees have been replaced with tree species based on the previous tree function, the intended location and soil conditions. Another 1500 trees are anticipated to be planted on boulevards this spring.
Community members with ash trees on their property are responsible for managing their trees and if concerned should consider hiring a certified arborist to discuss options.