A row of large trees was removed this week from Muench Street, near Front Street.
When Harrisburg Forester Cody Legge heard concerns this week about a row of large trees coming down on Muench Street, near Front, he was actually encouraged by the engagement.
“It reminds me that there are at least a handful of residents in the city that still like having those large street trees,” he said. “I can respect that concern there.”
A row of large maple and oak trees was cut down this week alongside Tracy Mansion, which is being renovated by WebFX for use as additional office space for the tech company. Some residents took to social media to share concerns, while a few contacted Legge directly.
Ultimately, Legge said that the project received the proper permits and that most of the trees were invasive and showed signs of root rot and decline and interfered with power lines and sidewalks. The property owners agreed to plant new, native trees, he said.
So what is the proper process when it comes to tree removal and new plantings?
According to Legge, any work on trees located on the city’s right of way, mainly between the street and sidewalk, is subject to city approval. That work can include pruning, removing or planting trees, all of which require permits.
However, while city approvals are needed, the responsibility for the work ultimately falls to the property owner, who has to pay for and coordinate the work. The city does offer assistance to low-income and elderly property owners.
Residents who are interested in finding out if their tree, or any public tree in the city, is healthy can request a free inspection from the city forester, who will issue a report noting things like disease, pruning needs, etc.
There are good reasons to take a tree down, Legge said. If the tree is dying, sometimes recognizable by a lack of foliage and limbs breaking off, it should come down. Trees may also need to be removed if there are cavities in the trunk, fungal bodies, root rot and more.
The biggest problem causing trees in Harrisburg tend to be large invasive Bradford pears and Norway maples.
Non-permissible reasons to take a tree down include not wanting to rake leaves or being frustrated with squirrels getting on your roof.
“They’re still going to get up there,” Legge said.
To plant a tree, you also need permission. Legge usually recommends trees like redbuds or serviceberries. The city conducts two tree plantings each year, focusing on one neighborhood in the city at a time, at which time residents can request one at their property.
“My motto is native and then diversify,” he said.
Legge feels confident that new trees will be planted along Muench Street to replace the ones removed.
“I know doing them all at once was very jarring, but sometimes that’s what needs to happen,” he said. “It’s a sobering reminder that caring for young trees now is really important.”
To request a tree inspection, fill out the city’s online form, here. To contact the city forester, email [email protected].
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