Press Release
December 04, 2011
Peter Brancato
Dan Keefe
518-486-1868
Removal of Infested Ash Trees Planned to Ensure Safety of the Genesee Greenway
New York State Parks is launching a project Monday to remove Ash trees that have suffered, or are susceptible to, infestation by the Emerald Ash Borer, an invasive beetle species. The project is intended to protect the safety of trail users and slow the spread of the destructive Emerald Ash Borer.
"While this project will have an unfortunate negative impact on the natural appearance of the Greenway, it's important that the public understands our goal is to protect patron safety and support the long-term health of the region's forests," said Tom Alworth, State Parks Deputy Commissioner for Natural Resources. "It's expected that all Ash trees along the section of the Greenway will be dead within a year, and removing dead trees and tree limbs will avoid a significant hazard to trail users. Removing as many endangered Ash trees as possible now will also help slow the spread of the Emerald Ash Borer."
The plan is consistent with the state Department of Environmental Conservation's Emerald Ash Borer Management Response Plan and SLAM (SLow Ash Mortality) protocols. For more information on the Emerald Ash Borer, visit http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7253.html
D&D Logging has been contracted to remove and chip the trees along a roughly 4.5 mile portion of the Greenway between the New York State Thruway and Ballantyne Road in Chili. The project is expected to take between one and two weeks. Sections of the Greenway in this area may be closed while the project work is taking place.