Public Service Announcement

To: The Editor

Contact: Gary Robinson, Chairman

Phone:

Date: April 2, 2010

Re: Recent Storm Damage to Trees

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tree Cleanup After the Storm

The West Amwell Township Community Forestry Committee would like to offer some advice to homeowners after recent torrential rains and high winds have reeked havoc on our local trees.

Many yards in our area are populated with large trees and while this is a wonderful thing for the environment it can mean major cleanup after storms.

An appraisal of any damage to your trees should be your first step. Many times the most danger is long after the storm, when large damaged limbs finally break loose.

In the current economic environment many homeowners may feel compelled to forgo the professional tree company and try the do-it-yourself route. Please be aware of your own limitations when tackling any tree trimming yourself. Even jobs that appear simple can turn tragic if a freed limb or a healthy intact limb “kicks back” in an unexpected direction. ANY doubt, CALL A PROFESSIONAL! There are many reputable tree trimming companies in our area These trained professional can get the job done safely and often for less money than one would think.

Even if your damage is limited to picking up what is already on the ground, when cleaning up downed limbs and branches, please keep an eye on the canopy if your trees are large. There is always the chance that the situation overhead has changed since you initial appraisal.

The West Amwell Township Community Forestry Committee is a local volunteer group organized to promote the conservation and cultivation of the community’s woodlands.