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Dead/Dying Tree Removal Policy
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Why Does the City Leave Dead Trees
Unique relationships exist between plants and wildlife. If one type of plant, animal, or natural habitat is removed, it can cause the disappearance of many others. Dead or dying trees are used by hundreds of species of birds, mammals and amphibians for shelter or food. Many of these creatures would simply die out or leave the area without the existence of dead trees. Without a scattering of dead trees, the diversity of America's bird populations would be devastated. With the loss of birds that utilized decaying wood, we would also lose natural controls of insect population.
Dying trees are disappearing from Troy's urban forest. Many view these trees as dangerous or unsightly, or as a source for cheap firewood. It is unrealistic and unwise to leave all dead trees. However, if the tree or log presents no threat to safety or property, the City would prefer not to remove them, thereby allowing wildlife the opportunity to share our world.
Scientists believe a scattering of dead trees goes far beyond looks. Dead trees support birds that actually decrease populations of harmful insects. Studies by Cooperative Extension Service have demonstrated that a large population of forest birds appreciably reduces problems for tree owners caused by insects and small mammals. An example is the woodpecker. It can hold down bark beetles and can control as much as 65% of emerging pine beetles. All ash trees dying from emerald ash borer show aggressive signs of feeding woodpeckers.
Dead branches serve as necessary perches for hawks, owls and similar birds of prey. Birds that play and important role in the control of mice, gophers and rabbits that wreak havoc with our landscapes, lawns and gardens.
To that end, as the City goes through its parks and natural areas, removing dead trees, we will leave some standing. Additionally, in unobtrusive areas, we intended to leave piles of branches and the occasional log. All this in the hope that the diversity of wildlife in Troy's urban forest will flourish and, in so doing improve the quality of our lives as well.
