A Message From The Tree Warden

The stewardship of trees within the public way, defined under M.G.L. Chapter 87 as public shade trees, is the responsibility of the Tree Warden.  Generally, the width of the public way is 50 feet for highways (Sterling Road, Hubbardston Road, Worcester Road, etc) and two rods (33 feet) for lesser roads (most of our local roads).

While the care of public shade trees is defined to include all tree care (planting, pruning, maintenance, removal, etc), the most pressing issue in Princeton is dead trees, mostly White Ash trees. Many residents have contacted me directly or through Ben Metcalf (highway dept) or Chris Courville (PMLD) about dead or dying trees along roads near their homes. I check on all of these reported trees and take action when needed. Ash trees are dying from a number of causes. The most significant recent impact is due to the Emerald Ash Borer. See link for information on this deadly pest:  https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/planthealth/plant-pest-and-dis...

I recently completed a drive and walk survey of Princeton’s main highways – identifying the “worst of the worst” dead or dying trees with major limbs that overhang the public way. Twenty-one trees were marked for removal – they have a large red number or X painted on them facing the road. Most are on Sterling Road east of Thomas Prince School and East Princeton Road.

Most residents are generally aware that removal of Town shade trees requires the posting of the tree and a Public Hearing.  A Public Hearing is not required when trees are deemed a hazard by the Tree Warden. All of the trees marked for removal are hazard trees.

Working with the Town Administrator we completed a bid process and the Select Board recently awarded a contract for the tree removal work. Trees marked to date are only the beginning of what will need to be done.

Please contact me if you have any questions. See Town website for contact information.

Tom Sullivan
Tree Warden