Evanston's Tree Care Branches Out
In addiiton to being designated as a Tree City USA community for the 27th consecutive year, the City of Evanston has another reason to be proud of its stewardship of trees.
The City of Evanston’s Municipal Arborist, Mark Younger, manages the city’s forestry crews who care for Evanston’s public trees. However, this year he also is the president of the Illinois Arborist Association (IAA). In that role, he creates awareness of the need for Illinois’ residents and businesses to hire certified arborists -- professionals who utilize the best practices in the industry.
Younger recently took a “hands-on” approach to caring for some of our state’s most important trees. On March 29, Younger used a furlough day in order to perform a day of service in Springfield. He was part of a contingent of 15 arborists who donated their services to care for the grounds of the Executive Mansion. Although the mansion's staff includes a horticulturist, he does not have the staff or budget to care for the trees.
IAA members trimmed the majority of the large trees on the grounds, providing about $6,000 to $8,000 worth of work. Four Springfield-area companies donated the use of their equipment for the project. Trees damaged by the winter weather were removed and dead branches were removed that, if left untrimmed, could pose a safety hazard. Dead wood that is three inches in diameter or larger is a potential hazard, according to Younger. “If that falls, it could kill somebody,” Younger said.
In his role as IAA president, Younger also met with state representatives and senators to provide a voice for Illinois trees and to seek funding for urban forestry to help replace the tens of thousands of trees killed by the Emerald Ash Borer and other invasive species.
This weekend, Younger will participate in the City of Evanston’s Earth Day/Arbor Day celebration. He will reprise his role in the popular children’s game, “Stump the Arborist.” Children who ask Younger a tree-related question he can’t answer will win a small prize. The celebration will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 30 at the Evanston Ecology Center, 2024 McCormick Blvd., Evanston. The Garden Council of Evanston and City of Evanston staff will then discuss Evanston’s trees during a “Tea for Trees” from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. Admission is free for both events. For more info., call (847) 448-8256.