Forestry

PUBLIC TREES

In 1998, the City of Alton created the Forestry Division to maintain Alton’s street trees and other dead and dangerous trees on City right of way. The Forestry Division is managed under the direction of Public Works Director, Mike Parsons. Forestry officials are currently establishing a six-year pruning cycle, which means that each year one-sixth of Alton’s trees are scheduled for pruning. If, however, you know of a street or boulevard tree that requires more immediate attention – either due to storm damage or simply a branch that presents a potential hazard – please call the Parks and Recreation Department at 618.463.3580 and report the problem. Please view our web updates in the spring for street names, trees, and bloom cycles.

NEVER ATTEMPT TO REMOVE FALLEN TREES AND LIMBS FROM POWER LINES.

Downed power lines can be energized and very DANGEROUS! Call 800.552.7583 and report the location of the downed power lines.  Information regarding right-of-way is available at Alton Township Assessor’s Office, 102 W. Broadway, 618.462.0671.

PRIVATE TREES

Generally speaking, tree pruning should be left to the professionals. It is difficult and sometimes even dangerous work. Contact the Illinois Arborist Association at 700.960.5922 to obtain referrals for certified arborists located in our area. Never be afraid to get a second quote if you think an estimate is too high!

SMALL JOBS

Armed with a good, sharp pair of pruning shears, most people can handle simple jobs such as trimming off suckers, raising low branches. Please stack brush with cut ends together and leaf tip according to the photos facing row also according to the photo.

Tree Fact: A well maintained mature tree can add as much as 10% to the value of a property.

HELPFUL LINKS

• USDA Forestry
• Tree City USA Program
• Emerald Ash Borer Fun Activity Book
• Emerald Ash Borer News
• Home, Yard & Garden Pest Newsletter
• Emerald Ash Borer Map of Illinois
• Emerald Ash Borer Map of the Midwest
• Morton Arboretum Urban Tree Selection Guide