Tree Alert: Dutch Elm Disease

June, 2004. Falcon Heights has been hit hard by a regional outbreak of Dutch Elm Disease that is shaping up to be the worst since the 1970s. The whole Metro area is facing the Dutch Elm crisis. City Forester Anita Twaroski has already identified 30 trees on private property that are infected and at least 8 on public right of way. Residents with infected trees are being notified by letter. The State Fair and UM campus and golf course have also been affected.

Residents are responsible for removal of trees on their own property. State law requires the removal of an infected tree within 20 days. The expense can be significant, depending on the size and location of the tree. With the tree damage from the May storms and the expected incidents of Oak Wilt, the Dutch Elm outbreak will push the City's tree removal expense well over budget for this year, according to City Administrator Worthington, and require additional funding next year, as this outbreak is expected to continue at least into 2005.

Residents with infected trees are urged to get bids as soon as possible because all the tree services are very busy. Be sure to hire a reputable licensed contractor! Here is the list of tree service companies licensed to do work in the City of Falcon Heights. In order to do business here, a tree service business must be licensed by the City.