FREEHOLD – Following two hurricanes, a Halloween snowstorm and a supercell that devastated Freehold Borough’s urban canopy, municipal officials will begin planting more than 200 replacement trees.
The trees will be planted with the aid of a Community Stewardship Incentive Program Grant from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Forestry Division, according to a press release from the Freehold Borough Shade Tree Commission.
Commission Chairwoman Cheryl Greenfield described the replacement trees as being the right tree in the right place. According to the press release, the commission used the expertise of certified forester Bill Brash to identify where trees should be placed and what tree is appropriate for that space.
According to the press release, residents will not have to worry about the trees interfering with utility lines, raising their sidewalks or falling onto their home. The commission no longer plants oak and ash trees that can grow to heights of 75 to 80 feet.
The trees planted this spring will be shorter, according to the press release, and many will be flowering trees that the commission believes will add beauty to a homeowner’s landscape. As noted by the commission, trees can help reduce heating and air conditioning bills, and they clean the air.
Homeowners who have been identified to receive trees have received a letter to tell them about the planting program. For any resident who has not received a letter and wants a tree, the commission may be able to provide one. Call 732-462-4200 for additional information.
