Tree Advisory Board

We are getting into some fine firepit weather; therefore, it is time to go over, and possibly introduce, some important fire safety issues. Fire pits should not be closer than 10 feet to any buildings or structures. Ensure there are no overhanging branches, or other items that can easily catch fire. Have a bucket of water handy and avoid using flammable liquids. To ensure the safety of pets and children, avoid flammable clothing. Don’t burn on particularly dry or windy days, use only seasoned or heat-treated firewood, and get your firewood locally. Transporting firewood is the fastest way to spread invasive forest pests and diseases. Microscopic organisms and other little critters hidden under bark can be carried long distances on firewood and introduce severe harm to new forest environments. To prevent this, buy local, and burn local. Local really does mean local, too. Some of these destructive hitchhikers can take years to go 10 miles on their own, but if you drive your firewood from one town to another, you could easily have given aid to their destructive cause. Extinguish fires properly – it’s surprising how fast things can get out of control.

 

Submitted by the Ludlow Tree Advisory Board, www.ludlow.vt.us/trees.

 

 

 

LUDLOW, Vt. – The potential damage caused by mowers and weed whackers to our cherished trees can be severe. These wounds serve as entry points for infections and disease, sapwood injury, and may lead to girdling, all of which jeopardize the health of, and may even cause the demise of, trees. If you do accidentally damage your tree, you may immediately help by wrapping the bark close to the wound and stapling it closed.

 

Approach landscaping with care, by opting for hand trimming in these sensitive areas, and applying mulch to deter encroaching weeds and grass. Let’s commit to nurturing our landscape with mindfulness and respect, ensuring that our trees continue to flourish for future generations to enjoy.