Laserfiche WebLink
<br />Increasing levels of EAB infestation are becoming more apparent around the City. Rice <br />Creek Chain of Lakes Park has hundreds of ash trees and a growing number of <br />infestations, which will contribute to increased infestation rates in the surrounding area. <br />The recommended treatment interval for ash trees in heavily infested areas is once every <br />two years. Based on injection data from 2017 to today, we could use some supplemental <br />assistance to dependably hit our treatment goals for boulevard trees. Additionally, our <br />current EAB response program does not offer aid to residents beyond information and <br />advice. <br />One option to ensure that we can hit our treatment goals while also providing a clear <br />pathway for residents to get their trees treated at a discounted rate is to enter into an <br />agreement with a contractor that provides injections. There are existing programs that are <br />structured to include these and other benefits to the City. <br /> <br />Program Details/Benefits: <br />1. Discounted rate for injections of City and residents’ trees. <br />2. Distributes a postcard to all residents informing them about EAB, the <br />benefits of injections, and providing a clear option for injections with contact <br />information. <br />3. Establishes a website/landing page where residents can sign up for free <br />appointments/consultations and find more information about EAB. <br />4. Provides the City with mapping and data for all trees injected (public and <br />private) to assist in our EAB response planning. <br />5. Frees up our seasonal workers to work on other tasks, such as natural area <br />restoration. <br /> <br /> <br />Requested Council Direction <br /> <br />Staff is requesting City Council direction on whether to implement an ash tree injection <br />program and seek bids from companies to establish said program. <br /> <br />Attachments <br /> <br />1. None.