On Monday, Feb. 22, 2021, Xtreme Tree Service began removing ash trees that have Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) or have not been treated for EAB in Green Meadows West, Green Meadows, and Greenwood Hills right-of-way. The right-of-way is the area between the street and the sidewalk.
A few trees will also be removed in the Green Meadows Greenbelt. All residents within the area where the trees will be removed have been notified.
EAB, is an invasive beetle discovered in southeastern Michigan near Detroit in 2002. However, it is believed to have been introduced to the area in the late 1990s. The larvae feed on Ash trees' inner bark, disrupting the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients. Unlike other trees, which remain relatively stable after they die, ash trees lose moisture very quickly internally and begin to fall apart soon after they die, creating public nuisance or hazard situations.
Since 2014, the City of Johnston has been removing ash trees in city parks, on city property, and in the right-of-way to lessen the impact of cost, infestation and minimize the need for a large-scale removal. We have been able to stay ahead of the infestation. However, there are areas in the City where the level of EAB infestation is higher than others. Many trees have been treated in the ROW and on city property, but it is considered too late to begin treatments at this point. On treatment is started, it must continue for the foreseeable future. With this, there is considerable cost involved and may not guarantee a tree's survival.
If residents within the City are planting new trees in the right-of-way, a permit is required. Please contact Johnston Public Works at 515-278-0822 to obtain a permit, or visit our website.
For more information about frequently asked questions about EAB, visit our website.