Protecting Trees in Jericho Center

Ann Gnagey here, from TTJ Steering:

​It is probably safe to say that everyone who lives in or near Jericho Center enjoys the beauty of the trees at the Green and the more recently planted red maples at the Barber Farm/Browns Trace intersection.   They provide shade and colors, food for wildlife and people, nesting sites for birds, the sounds and aromas of fallen leaves, and a silent, unrelenting engine that removes CO2 to help mitigate effects of climate change.  Trees, if cared for, can live for many decades and be a legacy for our children and their children. 
 
The trees in Jericho Center need our help.  Over the years many of them have sustained some damage but can recover if certain steps are taken.  What is responsible for compromising the health of the trees?  Damage is largely caused by activities that compact the soil and injury to the bark at the tree’s base.  If the bark at the tree's base is compromised, root connections to the upper branches are destroyed, and eventually, the tree will die.  The effects of climate change are also compounding the problem. 
 
The Jericho Town Tree Warden, Don Tobi, is aware that town tree maintenance regulations are due for an update; but in the short term, immediate steps should be taken to restore tree health and survival. As first steps, compost and mulch have recently been placed around each tree and we are in the process of transplanting wildflowers to establish a buffer.  Adjacent neighbors have offered their water for care.

​Another step would be to change the town’s current policy of mowing to the tree’s base.  Invariably, no matter how careful the groundskeepers are, damage occurs.  
 
If you would like to ensure protection for the Jericho Center trees, please contact the Selectboard Members.  Let them know that you would like to change the current policy of mowing to the base of the trees.  A buffer for each tree would both improve tree health and make it easier for maintenance crews. Upcoming meetings are on July 2 and July 16.
                    
Selectboard Members:
Catherine.mcmains@gmail.com (Catherine McMains)
tim.nulty@gmail.com  (Tim Nulty)
beanman@gmail.com  (Wayne Howe)







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