Many of you may have already seen the large number of trees that have been cut down in Block B along the east side of Bruce County 13. The Band has taken them down because they were showing signs of Emerald Ash Borer infestation. To reduce spread of the insect, the wood is being provided to Band elders for firewood.
This serves as a reminder that on land lease lots removal of infested ash trees is the responsibility of the cottage owner. If infested trees that represent a danger have not been removed, the Band may mark the tree(s) and require the cottage owner to take action.
Please also keep in mind that leaving a tree standing too long may also have an impact on any insurance claims that arise from damage caused if part or all of the tree comes down. Cottage owners are also reminded that they need permission from the Land Management office to take a tree down. However this will not necessary if the tree has already been marked for removal.
Thank you for this thoughtful article as I’ve had questions from members about the ash tree cutting.
Beckett removed trees from two leased land cottages last week and did an excellent job including a thorough clean up.
Who is responsible for trees in the easement between cottages? We are in Block A and have a few dead trees in the easement.
Dave,
Thanks for your question. Kirk Roote, Lands Manager has indicated that trees in the right of ways between lots are the Band’s responsibility and that dead or infested trees on these lands should be reported to the Lands Office 519-797-3039. Kirk has been told about the dead trees in the right of way south of your property, so you do not need to notify him.
It’s only when a cottager receives his/her estimate from a local tree removal service that the financial impact of the Emerald Ash Borer invasion begins to sink in. Within the last 2 weeks, we and our neighbours have received our estimates from one of the three suggested tree removal services. A total of 63 trees will be removed at an approx cost of $10,000.00 + HST, that’s $11,300.00. We own our cottages but not the leased land. Apparently, we also own the trees, or at least the ash trees, since we have been told they are our responsibility. Surely there is some relief from someone somewhere in all this disaster! Some cottagers will have even larger bills than us.
Our lot’s damaged Ash trees were removed this week- all 31. Our neighbour has 32 and their neighbour has 36. The costs are in the thousands of dollars plus HST per lot. We are asking SCOI to look into sources for cost relief from government and / or the band, and to act on our behalf. Taking action to curb the spread of the Emerald Ash Borer helps to protect the environment (government financial support?). Perhaps a credit on lease fees of a fixed amount ($500?) per year could be given to the cottagers by the band, for the gradual reimbursement of all or a significant portion of the bill?
Band elections are on June 28th. Soon after that SCOI will be requesting a meeting with the Chief and senior staff. We have added this topic to our list of items to raise with the Chief. Soon after the meeting, SCOI president, Jim Grant will report on the meeting and we will post his report on this website.