OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Oshkosh residents with diseased ash trees near city streets and sidewalks are asked to have them removed as soon as they can.
Property owners may receive a letter indicating that they must remove diseased and potentially hazardous trees that have the potential to affect the public right of way.
If the property owner does not comply and complete the removal of the tree, the city has the authority to have that tree removed at the property owner’s expense.
Once infested with the invasive emerald ash borer, ash trees start to die and dry out, changing the physiology and strength of the wood. The process increases the chances of tree failure and the potential for property damage.
Residents are encouraged to plan for removal sooner rather than later. The Wisconsin Arborist Association has resources for finding arborists and tree removal contractors. It can cost $1,500 or more to hire a contractor for removal of an ash tree. Currently, there are no financial assistance programs to help residents with the costs to remove ash trees on private property.
Residents can attempt to save their healthy ash trees by administering treatments if the tree is generally in good condition. More information about ash tree treatments and other related topics can be found here.
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