Public Works Director Talks Ash Trees, Solutions

The following was submitted as a letter to the editor, by Public Works Director Ralph Pukula

Lemont residents,

The Village of Lemont's ash tree population has been devastated in 2014 due to the emerald ash borer infestation. This infestation has been identified in 22 states as well as Canada, with ash tree losses well over 110 million.

In 2010, the infestation was identified in the Village of Lemont. Chemical treatments were not guaranteed to be effective, and currently are still not proven to work over time.

In order to be cost effective with the mass density of affected trees within the Village of Lemont  a decision was made by the Village Board based on the recommendations of two certified arborists and myself not to treat the affected ash trees. A decision that might not be popular, but I believe is the correct one when it comes to this natural disaster.

The Village is currently working towards mass removals in the hardest impacted areas such as Glenys, Sara, Alpine, McCarthy Point and Old Derby subdivisions. The Village is also in the process of securing the best prices for residents that have private property removals and replanting options. This information will be posted on the Village of Lemont's website soon. Please call the Public Works department with any of your questions. 630-257-2532.

Ralph Pukula
Village of Lemont
Public works director