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Grants for homeowners to fell infested or declining ash trees

Felling period in the fight against the emerald ash borer

The City of Pointe-Claire would like to remind residents that the period for felling infected or declining ash trees is in progress and that homeowners can take advantage of a an assistance program covering 50% of the felling costs, up to a maximum of $200 per tree measuring 25 centimetres or more in diameter.

To prevent the spread of the insect, trees may be felled between October 1 and March 14. A permit is required and is delivered free of charge.

“This initiative is designed to help our residents financially in order to preserve our urban forest and its beneficial effects on the environment, as well as to ensure a safe environment for all,” stated Mayor Trudeau.

It is important to act quickly and fell ash trees of which over 30% of their branches are dead in order to protect healthy trees and keep people safe, because these trees become very brittle once they are dead.

It is also possible to treat ash trees that are still healthy. Preventive treatment with TreeAzin is another possible solution and offers relatively effective protection against the emerald ash borer. The insecticide is injected at the base of the trunk and is effective for two years. The treatment must be applied by professionals. A special rate will be offered in spring to all owners. Preventive treatment must be applied from mid-June to late August. Homeowners are eligible for a grant covering 50% of the treatment cost, up to a maximum of $1,500 over two years for each residential address.

There are over 4,500 ash trees on private properties in Pointe-Claire that are threatened by the emerald ash borer, an insect originating in Asia and present in North America since the early 2000s.

For more information and to make an appointment to have your ash trees inspected for felling or preventive treatment, contact the Public Works Department at 514-630-1230 or tp@pointe-claire.ca.