Mark Smith, Village of Montpelier Forester, and Carlton Gray, representing the Montpelier Tree Commission, were guest speakers at the monthly meeting of CHWC-Montpelier Hospital Auxiliary Monday, May 12th in the hospital conference room.
Established in 1979, the Tree Commission currently has 15 members, residents of Montpelier, appointed by the mayor and approved by the village council. Each member has an unlimited term of office and receives no compensation. Purpose of the commission is to develop and implement a tree planting and maintenance program for the village. The commission’s motto is “Plant a tree today, and enjoy it for a lifetime”.
Regulations governing planting, cutting and removal of trees on terraces and public locations including the parks are covered in Village Tree Ordinance Chapter 905. Montpelier has been designated as a Tree City USA for the past 23 years.
Tree Commission members participate during the year in demonstrations during Maple Syrup Day at the county fairgrounds, organize removal of trees and stumps, new tree plantings, are involved in community service with Adopt-A-Highway program roadway cleanup on Co. Rd. 13 and St. Rt.15, and man a booth at the county fair.
Discussion centered on watching for signs of diseased trees and those affected by infestation of parasites including emerald ash borer, pine bark beetle, and fungal diseases, chlorosis and nutrient deficiencies.
Mr. Smith reported the commission utilizes an Arborjet tree injection system to combat infestations such as emerald ash borer with successful results if treated in time. This type of treatment is applied to a tree every two years and costs approximately $1200 to treat 60 trees on village property. The commission will also treat privately-owned trees at an estimated cost of $40 for a tree with a 4” diameter. Maple trees can be affected by sun scald and the longhorn beetle is attacking oak trees. The public should watch for signs of disease and affected trees and notify the Tree Commission or Mr. Smith.
Advantages of having trees include reducing sound by as much as 60%, increased property value, natural cooling effect through transpiration, supplying oxygen to the environment, and reducing airborne dust by 75% to 90%.
The commission also provides detail information regarding tree planting and watering to anyone within the village. Trimming of terrace trees is the responsibility of the commission with the exception of trees trimmed to protect water, electric and sewer lines. Those interested in planting memorial trees in public parks or similar locations must contact Village Forester Smith or a member of the Tree Commission in advance for approval and assistance.
Funding for tree plantings by the commission come from donations from organizations and individuals and each year planting of about 30 trees in autumn is funded by a grant from the Montpelier Area Foundation.
For more information, please contact Village Forester Mark Smith at 419-485-5543 ext. 223 or email msmith@montpelieroh.org. Anyone willing to volunteer to serve on the Tree Commission should also contact him.
Following the speaker, President Deanna Gipe conducted the auxiliary’s regular meeting opening with the auxiliary prayer. A moment of silence was observed for Louise Starr, a very active auxiliary member for many years, who passed away this week.
Roll call was answered by members sharing their plans for Memorial Day. Following the secretary’s report by Jean Young and treasurer’s report by Barb Dietsch, various committee reports were given. The auxiliary voted favorably to donate funds to purchase three paintings by local artist Cindy King and a quilted basket wall hanging by Barb Fisher to be displayed at the CHWC-Montpelier hospital and rehabilitation center.
Volunteers who assisted at the book fair held April 21st and the hospital staff appreciation tea May 5th were thanked. Discussion was held regarding the status of the local flower shop. Patient favors for May of fresh carnations in vases were delivered by the auxiliary’s executive board. Doris Dilworth and Dorothy Briner are in charge of patient favors for June.
Election of officers was held with the following selected to serve two-year terms beginning July 1st—Joyce Schelling, president; Armeda Sawmiller, vice president; Barb Dietsch, treasurer; and Connie Dunseth, secretary. Installation of officers will be held Monday, June 9th at the Thaman Building at the fairgrounds beginning at with luncheon at 12 noon. Guest speaker will be Liz Grimes, CHWC-Bryan, pain management specialist. Roll call will be “Where would you like to travel this summer?”. Serving on the decorating committee will be Deanna Gipe, Katherine Schroder, Armeda Sawmiller, and Joyce Schelling. Barb Dietsch will be in charge of the candlelight memorial service. Members and guests are asked to contact Barb Dietsch at 419-485-3229 to sign up for the luncheon.