In the St. Louis Hills neighborhood, residents are facing a growing concern over aging trees causing damage and posing safety risks. Bob Jackson and Gary Carter expressed their worries about falling branches damaging homes and endangering lives. The St. Louis Forestry Division is aware of the issue, with Commissioner Alan Jankowski acknowledging the challenges of maintaining thousands of street trees.
Jankowski mentioned various factors contributing to the trees’ decline, including lightning strikes, disease, and old age. While efforts have been made to remove some hazardous trees, there is still a backlog of others needing attention. Residents like Jon Overmann highlighted the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the need for more resources and manpower to address the problem effectively.
To report tree-related concerns, residents can reach out to the Citizen’s Service Bureau (CSB) or consider applying for tree trimming positions available in the city. Alderman Tom Oldenburg emphasized the importance of addressing this issue not just as a quality-of-life matter but also as a safety concern for the community. He advocated for increased funding to hire third-party tree removal companies and develop an operational plan to prioritize areas with aging trees.
As the city works towards finding solutions to the fear of aging trees in residential communities, collaboration between residents, local authorities, and forestry experts will be crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone in the neighborhood. By raising awareness, reporting concerns, and supporting initiatives to address tree maintenance, the community can work together to mitigate the risks associated with aging trees and create a safer environment for all.
