Legacy Tree Fund Program

Legacy Tree Fund Program (LTFP)

We will be having a meeting:
Ash Tree - EAB meeting at the Community Center; May 8th at 6:00PM

Ash trees are about to die if we do not protect them against the Emerald Ash Borer infestation.

Currently, the City of Oconomowoc is facing the decision to address the Emerald Ash Borer(EAB) situation.  It has marked dozens of trees to be removed in an effort to pre-emptively deal with the possibility of EAB tree destruction.  Many of these trees are 60-80 years old. Their canopy will not be replaced in our lifetime. It is imperative that we keep the charm and health of our community intact by treating the EAB situation rather than remove large portions of our neighborhood boulevards.  If you are interested in contributing to the Legacy Tree Fund please go to Greener Oconomowoc’s website to make a contribution. www.greeneroconomowoc.org

Make your voice heard by calling Brian Spencer or John Kelliher with the City Forestry Department to voice your concern.   262-569-2199 or [phone redacted]


Tree Facts:

For one thing, a tree is a good investment.  They increase property values, and they also reduce your energy bill.  Studies have shown trees have important health and social benefits as well.  These include reducing stress and tension, helping block harmful ultraviolet rays, increasing your ability to concentrate, and reducing crime.

Of course, planting trees is also great for the environment. Trees help take pollutants out of the air we breathe, as well as filtering the water that ends up in our rivers and lakes, along with reducing our reliance on air conditioners in the summer by moderating the climate with their shade.

Trees help reduce water runoff that can lead to sewer overflows because a tree can soak up a lot more water runoff than a patch of asphalt can. Trees harbor wildlife, providing a nesting place for birds and squirrels.  Last but not least, trees provide that much needed color that can help beautify your yard and neighborhood boulevards.

Statistics from the National Arbor Day Foundation:

The net cooling effect of a young, healthy tree is equivalent to ten room-size conditioners operating 20 hours/day.  -U.S.D.A
Landscaping, especially with trees, can increase property values as much as 20%. Management Information Services/ICMA
One acre of forest absorbs six tons of carbon dioxide and puts out four tons of Oxygen-enough to meet the annual need of 18 people. -U.S.D.A
Trees can be a stimulus to economic development, attracting new business and tourism.  Commercial retail areas are more attractive to shoppers, apartments rent more quickly, tenants stay longer, and space in a wooded setting is more valuable to sell or rent.  –The National Arbor Foundation
In laboratory research, visual exposure to settings with trees has produced significant recovery from stress within five minutes, as indicated by changes in blood pressure and muscle tension. –Dr. Roger S. Ulrich, Texas A & M

Other Possible financing options:

A monthly stipend could be attached to our utility bills to help fund the treatment program. LTFP

We could ask the City Council to explore what budgets might be able to fund the “investment” in saving our mature trees based on the facts above rather than addressing it as a cost.

Explore whether the City has a “Discreet Storm Water Management Fund” and re-direct some of its annual budget.

Here are some resources to help you know what to do about your personal Ash Trees:

Should I keep My Ash Tree - Decision Guide 

Signs and Symptoms of Emerald Ash Borer Attack

Homeowner Guide to EAB Treatments