City Times Staff

Parks Department crews are out in force this time of year pruning trees throughout the city, keeping Stevens Point at a level deserving of Tree City USA status.

The city is responsible for maintaining all trees in the right-of-way, and trees are pruned every four years.

City Forester Todd Ernster said trees are pruned for a number of reasons, to include removing dead or diseased branches, as well as insect infestation or rubbing limbs.

“Winter is an excellent time to prune trees,” Ernster said. “With the leaves off, it is easy to examine the branching structure of the tree.”

Ernster also said some species of tree, to include oak, should only be pruned during winter dormancy- and pruning should cease between April and July.

“Oaks are susceptible to a disease called ‘oak wilt’ which is nearly always fatal and difficult to control once established,” he said. “If a property owner is thinking of pruning oak trees, or removing oak trees for a new home, now is when it should be done.”

Residents who own property in the city are also asked to inspect their own private trees, and see if they are maintaining proper clearance above the sidewalk and street. If a street signs appears obstructed by bare branches, homeowners should prune the trees on their own property.

If homeowners notice problems with trees in their right-of-way, they should call the Forestry Dept. at (715) 346–1532.