Save The Date For The 2015 Re-Tree Richland County Workshop May 16

Sidney Montana was once a forested community with homes and streets canopied by over 4,000 trees in the late 1970's, most of which were beautiful American Elm (Ulmus americana) trees flanking our public right of ways.

The results from the 2013 Tree Inventory included all of Sidney's public right of ways reported the following 2,125 total trees: 66% is comprised of only 2 genera, Ulmus and Fraxinus, nearly 22% is Ulmus americana (American Elm trees), roughly 30% is that of Fraxinus species (Ash trees), and 1,556 potential planting spots (primarily locations where trees once stood).

Why such a huge loss in only 35 years? This unfortunate reality Sidney is facing was caused by the lack of arboriculture knowledge and species diversity. However, this monoculture nightmare is slowly coming to an end with the help of some tree enthusiasts and the newly formed Richland County Tree Board.

The need to rejuvenate our urban forest is not just here in Sidney, which is why the 2015 Re-Tree program will not only include Sidney's community but all of Richland County. The 2015 Re-Tree Richland County Workshop will be held May 16th at the Sidney Country Club from 10 am till noon.

Re-Tree Richland County workshop will include: Proper tree planting demonstration, tree identification techniques, pruning demonstrations, tree care and maintenance techniques and guidelines, educational handouts, an insight on pests and diseases that are currently invading our canopy, a representative from Montana and Dakota Utility (MDU),

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) presentation, and CEU's for certified applicators.

A species diverse canopy composed of no more than 10% of one species is crucial in obtaining a sustainable urban forest for there will be less of an impact if ever devastation such as DED or the threat of (EAB) strikes our region.

To register for the workshop you can contact Sidney City Hall or email [email protected]. Applications for a free tree will be available on April 1st.

 

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