Ash tree infestation increases exponentially in Lake Forest

This summer has seen an exponential growth in ash trees infested by the emerald ash borer on both public and private property in Lake Forest, according to City Forester Peter Gordon.

Since June 9, part-time forestry section staff have identified 1,780 ash trees on public property, with 1,172 tagged for removal on side streets, 573 tagged for removal on main roads, 145 in West Park and Northcroft Park, and 35 tagged in parking lots.

Another 142 ash trees were identified along Waukegan Road and five along Townline Road, both state roads owned by the Illinois Department of Transportation. Their removal is the responsibility of the state, Gordon said.

On private property, city crews have tagged another 3,702 ash trees.

These trees pose a threat to the public health or safety or public properties, Gordon said in his report to the City Council at its meeting on Sept. 2.

Figures show the city budgeted $200,000 in fiscal year 2015 for removal of damaged ash trees, with nearly 1,500 to be removed in all by a contractor, which is doing the bulk of the work, and city crews.

Removals are less than half completed and are far outpacing money available, Gordon said.

Removing trees that are hazardous and dead will continue to be the main focus, followed by removing trees on main roads and then side streets, he said.

To reduce contractual costs, the forestry section is attempting to remove 600 infested ash trees a year.

At the same time as the ash-tree removal is taking place, the city like other municipalities has to deal with diseased and dying trees of other species.

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Ash tree infestation increases exponentially in Lake Forest